SGA discusses funding requests, LMS systems, new program to aid students with learning disabilities

__SGA reviews funding requests__

SGA approved funding requests from the National Student Speech-Language and Hearing Association (NSSLHA), Environmental Science Association, SEMO Sundancers and SEMO cheerleading team at its meeting Monday, Feb. 17.

SGA members shared their thoughts on requests from SEMO Sundancers and the SEMO Cheerleading team during a time of discussion.

Combined, these groups requested $3,540 to assist in covering hotel costs.

“These groups are a recruitment tool that is definitely worth funding,” College of Business and Computing senator Layla Bouzihay said.

Senators reached a general consensus that the two student organizations deserved a higher amount of funding than usual organizations.

“We give them more funding than other organizations because of how well they fundraise and place at events,” College of Humanities and Social Sciences senator Xander Goffinet said.

All funding requests from student organizations were passed unanimously.

__SGA welcomes two guest speakers__

Associate Vice President for Student Life Bruce Skinner and Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success Deborah Below gave presentations to Student Government.

Associate Vice President for Student Life Bruce Skinner encouraged senators to make sure they correctly fill out the 2020 Census.

Skinner stressed students living on campus April 1 should count themselves as a resident of their dormitory address.

He encouraged all students to participate in the 2020 Census, as the results drive state and federal funding for education.

Below proposed an upcoming Fall 2021 program: Redhawks Discover. Below said the program will assist students with intellectual disabilities who are working toward earning a degree at Southeast.

“The goal is to help the students earn a certificate of career readiness and promote individuality and independence,” Below said.

Below said students will work toward the certificate by taking four semesters of classes that will include modifications to assist them.

She said although this certificate is a non-degree credential, it will help ensure future employers an individual is ready to work.

Below said students who participate in Redhawks Discover will have more opportunities to become integrated in the Southeast community.

“We are working with local programs and school districts on this but, we have a lot more work to do,” Below said.

__SGA discusses new Learning Management Systems__

Southeast is searching for a new Learning Management System (LMS) to potentially replace Moodle.

SGA advisor Michele Irby said the vendors were on campus last week and this week for open forums and demonstrations.

First-year senator Sophia Machen encouraged other senators to be open to feedback regarding the possible LMS switch.

“I see a lot of complaints about Moodle on Living at Southeast,” Machen said. “I try to comment on those posts to share that we are looking for input to decide on a solution.”

SGA President Matt Rolwing said student input regarding the possible discontinuation of Moodle at Southeast was important to weigh as new LMS options are considered.

“It is important to get feedback from our constituents,” Rolwing said. “Our voices matter.”

SGA holds weekly open meetings at 8 p.m. in the University Center.