Claire Herquet, Editor-In-Chief
La Salle’s Student Government Association (SGA) welcomed a new group of student leaders this week following senate elections held on Friday, September 25. Students cast their votes for class senators and representative senate positions, with results announced Saturday.
The elections filled a variety of positions within SGA. Each class year is represented by three class senators. There are also senators for each school including School of Arts and Sciences Senators, School of Business Senator, and School of Nursing and Health Sciences Senator. Additional representative senate positions include those representing commuter students, athletics, honors, multicultural affairs and diversity, equity and inclusion.
Candidates shared their goals and priorities during the organization’s final meeting before the election.
Among those seeking a sophomore class senate seat was Claire Sweeney, who emphasized building a stronger sense of community on campus through increased student engagement and programming.
“I want to help create a campus environment where every student feels welcome and connected,” Sweeney said. “By supporting more events throughout the year and encouraging greater participation, we can strengthen our community and make La Salle a place where every student feels they belong.”
Fellow sophomore senate candidate Tyler Book focused his campaign on increasing student involvement in university decision-making and improving communication between students and university leadership.
“I want students to know their voices matter,” Book said. “One of my goals is to create semesterly reports so students can see how their feedback is being heard and applied. Building a stronger connection with students and university leadership can help create a better campus experience for everyone.”
Candidates for representative senate positions also discussed issues affecting specific student groups. Lucas Smit, who ran for athletics senator and is a member of the men’s Swimming and Diving team, stated that his mission is to become a stronger advocate for student-athletes.
“I want to be more involved in representing student-athletes and ensuring their concerns are heard,” Smit said. “There is always more that can be done to support the welfare and success of student-athletes, and I want to help make that happen.”
Honors senator candidate Sweeney De Castro spoke about servant leadership and representing the interests of fellow students.
“I believe leadership is about service,” De Castro said. “I want to be a voice for my peers and take action on the issues that matter to students. The Honors Program has had a significant impact on my experience at La Salle, and I want to help ensure students continue to benefit from the opportunities and community it provides.”
The newly elected senators will work alongside the rest of the SGA team throughout the academic year, led by President Michael Gedraitis. SGA aims to represent student concerns, advocate for campus improvements and help organize initiatives aimed at enhancing student life at La Salle.
As the new senate begins its term, members say increasing student engagement and ensuring student voices are heard will remain key priorities. Students interested in learning more about SGA initiatives, upcoming events and opportunities to get involved can follow La Salle University’s Student Government Association on Instagram at @lasallesga.
