New website; New blog

Hello! If you’re reading this post, you’ve stumbled upon the old Marquette University Student Government blog. With the launch of its new website, MUSG will now post all updates and blogs posts on musg.mu.edu. Thanks for stopping by and we hope you’ll connect with us on our new site.

Gov Love,

The MUSG Communications Department

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Concerned students address Senate, FVP Ciccone presents on MUSG Budget, Senator Zach Wallace elected as LVP

At its meeting on Thursday, April 10, 2014, Marquette University Student Government Senate heard from two concerned students. Marguerite Biagi, a junior in the College of Arts & Sciences and president of Alpha Phi fraternity, advocated for MUSG’s support of Recommendation #11 Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act. Recommendation #11 would allow donations for collegiate housing to be tax deductible. Senior Ahlam Ayesh brought to Senate’s attention Marquette’s lack of policy to accommodate for religious holidays. Ayesh urged MUSG to pursue a policy that would allow students to be excused from class in order to observe religious holidays.

Financial Vice President Nick Ciccone then presented on the budget for fiscal year 2015. Revenue for the MUSG budget comes from the Student Activity Fee collected from all undergraduate students, program board excursions, senior week, and interest from the reserve fund. The budget is used for administrative expenses, programs and services, program board and Student Organization Funding. FVP Ciccone and the budget committee will go to each of the four Senate standing committees for opinions on the budget. Senate will vote on the budget at its April 24 meeting.

Senate then considered Resolution #6 Veto Override. Former MUSG President Sam Schultz vetoed legislation proposed by Program Vice President Ryan Twaddle to provide buses for students to Target next semester. This program would be funded by the MUSG reserve fund, which comes from unused student activity fees. Former President Schultz originally vetoed this legislation, seeing this program as unnecessary due to student’s possession of U-PASSes. Former President Schultz did not see the legislation as in line with Marquette’s Jesuit identity, which call us to live in community with others. After deliberation the Senate did not override the veto with the vote of 5-19-1.

The Senate deliberated on Recommendation #11 Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure act, presented on by concerned student Marguerite Biagi. Senate passed Recommendation #11 unanimously.

Senate accepted nominations for Legislative Vice President. Off-Campus Senator Nathan Craft nominated College of Arts & Sciences Senator Zack Wallace, who ran unopposed.

“Instead of sitting an office that seems exclusive, let’s go out to students and show them that we care,” Wallace said when asked about his ideas for improving Senate’s communication with students. The Senate approved Wallace unanimously.

Next, Senate moved to fill its two open academic seats on the SOF committee. Senate elected College of Engineering Senator Ricky Krajewski and College of Education Senator Amanda Stolz unanimously.

Additionally, the SOF committee had an open residential seat. Schroder Hall Senator Alexander Lech and McCormick Hall Senator Murphy Quill both ran for this position. After debate, Senate voted and, because four senators abstained, there was no majority achieved to elect a candidate. A second round of voting produced the same results. A third round of voting resulted in a tie 12-12-1. A fourth round of voting resulted in the election of Senator Lech to the SOF committee.

Moving to the consideration of Amendment #10 SOF Changes. Former MUSG Executive Vice President Zach Bowman presented the proposals in the amendment. This amendment would allow organization for funding in more then one period for different expenses examines MUSG policy on capital goods, clarifies allocations off-campus expenses in addition to other initiatives to improve the SOF process. After extensive deliberation,  the authors of the legislation withdrew the legislation from consideration. MUSG will keep students informed on future action taken to improve the SOF process.

Senate adjourned at 11:35 p.m.


Experience a Night of Marquette Magic with Derek Hughes

On Saturday, April 12, Marquette University Student Government will welcome magician Derek Hughes for a night of comic conjuring in the AMU Ballrooms.

Derek Hughes is a stand-up magician born and raised in Minnesota. After earning a degree in acting from the University of Minnesota, the comedian pursued a career in magic. Hughes specializes in live deceptive acts, which he frequently performs at the Magic Castle in Hollywood.

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In addition to his presence on the stage, Hughes has emerged on TV screens across the nation with appearances in VH1’s reality series Celebracadabra as a celebrity magic coach and on Comedy Central’s Gong Show. In addition to his television appearances, the magician also created original acts of wizardry for MTV’s Room 401 and Michaelarbonaro’s hilarious role as the Magic Clerk on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

Aside from his career in magic, Derek used his acting abilities in Hollywood films Grown Ups and Mr. Deeds.

Currently the stand-up comedian holds residency at Hotel Casa Del Mar in Santa Monica for his new show titled, “Insomina,” which combines magic and comedy to explore the lines and mysteries between waking and dreaming.

His 9 p.m. performance at the Weasler Auditorium is free and open to all students in the Marquette community interested in attending this spellbinding show. Doors open at 8:30 p.m.

For more information on MUSG’s news and events, visit musg.mu.edu or the MUSG office, AMU 133. For additional updates, like MUSG on Facebook and follow MUSG on Twitter.

 


Food, music and fun at Rockin’ Rollerskating

It’s time to rock and roll, Marquette! MUSG will host a rollerskating excursion on Saturday, April 5that is open to all students. Transportation will be provided leaving from SHAMU, the area between Schroeder Hall and the Alumni Memorial Union, beginning at 10 p.m. and running all night until the end of the event at 12:30 a.m. roller_dgsq-01

Students can look forward to enjoying free food, music and, of course, skating at Incrediroll in West Allis. With the semester winding down, and schoolwork hitting students at full force, there’s no better way to de-stress than hanging out with friends while skating the night away. Be sure not to miss out on this great event.

This excursion is completely free, but requires students to pick up a wristband in the CLSI (AMU 137). Wristbands will be available beginning on Tuesday, April 1. Don’t wait another minute to ensure a spot at this rockin’ event.


Tall Heights musical group to perform on campus

MILWAUKEE (March 31, 2014) – Emerging band Tall Heights will perform at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 3 in the AMU first floor lobby.

The Boston-based band produces a unique musical tone by playing just an acoustic guitar and a cello. Their acoustic, folk-influenced harmonies have garnered praise from major outlets including Boston Magazine, NPR and Performer Magazine. tallheights_tabloid-01

Tall Heights has performed across the nation, including at the South by Southwest Music Festival in Austin, Texas following the release of their first full-length album, “Man of Stone,” in May 2013. Their musical style has been compared to Bon Iver, Arcade Fire and Blind Pilot.

“Tall Heights also performed on campus last year when Unplugged was known as the Coffeehouse Series,” MU Unplugged Commissioner Chrystal Mattappillil said. “MxMU was about a month ago and we’re excited to have music back on campus. Tall Heights is going to be a definite hit!”

Their appearance at Marquette is free to students. Refreshments will be provided.

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For more information on MUSG’s news and events, visit musg.mu.edu or the MUSG office, AMU 133. For additional updates, like MUSG on Facebook and follow MUSG on Twitter.


Senate Passes Reserve Fund Allocation for a Free Shuttle Program to Target

Marquette University Student Government Senate assembled on Thursday, March 27 to engage in the approval process on legislation to implement a transportation program to Target and to address the recommendation for a risk management officers in student organizations.

Incoming Program Vice President Ryan Twaddle presented Resolution #6 Reserve Fund Allocation for Target Transportation Programs, which aims to serve as a solution to the lack of affordable necessities on campus; giving students access to school supplies, groceries, health supplies and other convenience store items.

MUSG will allocate a total of $3,700 from the Reserve Fund to finance the program with $500 that will be strictly put toward publicity. The allocation will provide for a free shuttle to Target on the first and third Friday of every month, giving students access to groceries and other personal items they may need.

With a vote of 25-4-0, the Senate passed the Target shuttle program.

PVP Twaddle hopes to begin the shuttle program in September of 2014.

Senate moved forward with Recommendation #10 A Recommendation for Risk Management Office in Student Organizations, which suggest that the Office of Student Development require that student organizations include a Risk Management Officer on their executive boards to ensure the safety and conduct of the organization, similar to the risk management roles of Greek Life councils, the Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Association.

With a vote of 27-0-2 Senate approved the recommendation to require a risk management officer in student organizations.

Senate adjourned at 8:43 p.m.

For more information on MUSG’s news and events, visit musg.mu.edu or the MUSG office, AMU 133. For additional updates, like MUSG on Facebook and follow MUSG on Twitter.


Final guest in MUSG Speaker Series: Comedian and Mental Health Advocate, Sara Benincasa

On Wednesday, April 2, MUSG will welcome the award-winning writer and comedian Sara Benincasa to campus in the AMU Ballrooms at 7 p.m.

As the final guest in the 2013-14 Speaker Series, Benincasa will share her remarkable story on her journey overcoming the challenges of mental illness to become an award-winning writer and comedian. Through a provoking and hilarious dialogue, Benincasa will engage students in a conversation about college, campus life and mental health. benincasa_dgsq-01

Benincasa will speak about her experience with panic attacks and agoraphobia that inspired her debut memoir, Agrofabulous! Dispatches From My Bedroom. In addition to releasing her book, from 2008 – 2010 Sara hosted and produced “Get in Bed,” a humorous radio show on Cosmo Radio. Prior to self-initiated ventures, Benincasa was a citizen journalist in the 2008 MTV Choose or Lose Street Team, which was a part in the Emmy award-winning “Think” campaign.

The comedian has made appearances on NBC’s Today Show, the CBS Early Show, CNN’s Situation Room and MTV News. The Huffington Post referred to her as one of “ Our Favorite Female Comedians,” and TIME says she is “adorably…hilarious.”

Currently, Benicasa is working on her newest venture titled GREAT , a novel inspired by The Great Gatsby but with a modern twist.

MUSG strongly encourages students to see Sara Benincasa wrap-up the 2013-14 Speaker Series, as well as participate in an insightful discussion about mental health and college life.

The event is free and open to all Marquette students. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

For more information on MUSG’s news and events, visit musg.mu.edu or the MUSG office, AMU 133. For additional updates, like MUSG on Facebook and follow MUSG on Twitter.


Lemonade bar, cake decorating and more this Friday at MU Unwrapped

On Friday, March 28, Marquette University Student Government will host an evening of free food and fun. MU Unwrapped will take place this Friday from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. in the Alumni Memorial Union.

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Hungry students can look forward to hummus and mac & cheese chef demonstrations. Of course, the most important aspect of the demonstration will be the student taste test. To wash down the chefs’ delicious creations, students can head over to the lemonade bar. Featuring Marquette’s famous beverage and flavorings, a tall glass of strawberry or raspberry lemonade will complement any dish.

After eating a hearty bowl of mac & cheese, students can compete to win in a 10-inch cake decorating competition. However, as with the chef demonstrations, the real winning test will be the student’s taste buds.

Attendees can also spend time decorating mason jars to take home hummus samples or playing to win food items to take home in grocery bingo.

No matter the activity, MU Unwrapped is sure to bring tasty fun to any student. The event is free and open to all Marquette students.
Stop by the AMU this Friday, March 28 for a deliciously good time.

For more information on MUSG’s news and events, visit musg.mu.edu or the MUSG office, AMU 133. For additional updates, like MUSG on Facebook and follow MUSG on Twitter.


Alderman Robert Bauman presents on student safety concerns and traffic lights

Marquette University Student Government Senate convened at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2014 in the Alumni Memorial Union. Alderman Robert Bauman presented to Senate, both giving updates on past and present issues affecting the Marquette and Milwaukee communities and fielding questions and concerns from the Senate.

Alderman Bauman represents downtown Milwaukee, including the Marquette campus and off-campus residences and has a history of working with MUSG on students concerns. A notable collaboration between the City of Milwaukee and MUSG was the implementation of the landscaped islands on Wells between 14th and 15th streets to make the street safer for students.

Another solution for student safety concerns will come to fruition with the installation of a traffic light at 16th and Kilbourn. Alderman Bauman informed Senate that the traffic light is reported to be going in this summer, with the goal of it being ready for the fall 2014 semester.

Students for an Environmentally Aware Campus presented to Senate to advocate on behalf of Resolution #5 Reserve Fund Allocation for Water Bottle Fillers. They shared information about the success of water bottle fillers at other colleges and universities around the country. SEAC urged the Senate to pass the resolution and encourage permanent infrastructure and sustainability on campus.

After periods of question and debate, Senate passed Resolution #5 to fund campus water bottle fillers with the MUSG Reserve Fund in a vote of 27-4-0.

A motion was then made to override the veto of MUSG President Sam Schultz on Amendment #8 The Implementation of a Reserve Fund Cap. Before voting, President Schultz clarified that he did not disagree with the end goal of the amendment, but believed it deserved more discussion in Senate. After much deliberation, Senate voted 28-2-0 to override the veto. The amendment will  now be sent to Dr. L. Christopher Miller, vice president for students affairs, for consideration.

Senate adjourned at 10:17 p.m.

For more information on MUSG’s news and events, visit musg.mu.edu or the MUSG office, AMU 133. For additional updates, like MUSG on Facebook and follow MUSG on Twitter.


Business & Administration Committee Update – March 17

After spring break, times flies! Just as things are surely busy in your lives with classes, work, and your involvement, Business & Administration committee has been extremely hard at work this semester and our projects are beginning to come to fruition.  We have made strides reaching out the nearest campus grocery location, Sav-On Foods at 20th St and W Clybourn Ave, and in reaching out to university administrators and local groups invested in this initiative. Furthermore, we are continuing to investigate bystander intervention practices and policies, as well as looking into greater sexual assault prevention on campus.

This is just a snapshot of what we have accomplished in the last two months, but the real focus of this post is YOU, the student.

You have elected us to represent your concerns, and that is a responsibility that we take extremely seriously.  We encourage you to speak your mind and talk to your friends about the projects that MUSG is exploring and what you would like us to be working on.  Come to a Senate meeting any Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. in AMU 227.  We also encourage you to come to a Business & Administration meeting on Monday nights at 8 p.m. in the MUSG office (AMU 133). Send your senator or myself an email for more information.

We want to hear your voice and represent it.  No question, comment, or concern is “too big” or “too small.”

Best regards,

Thomas Schick
Business & Administration Committee Chair
Off-Campus Senator
thomas.schick@marquette.edu