SGA Fights for Student Voting Rights on Board of Governors
The Student Government Association (SGA) is advocating for enhanced student voting rights on the Marshall Board of Governors (BOG). A new resolution aims to address the effects of West Virginia House Bill 3279, which has stripped voting rights from faculty, staff, and students on the board.
Background on Voting Rights
In April 2025, a crucial vote was removed, leading to student representatives losing their ability to influence administrative decisions directly. SGA President Connor Waller expressed concern about the lack of student perspectives in discussions that matter to West Virginia lawmakers.
The New Resolution
The recently passed resolution signifies a push for legislative change that reinstates student voting rights. It also aims to ensure that students maintain a prominent voice alongside state officials. “Marshall is committed to the shared governance model,” Waller noted, highlighting the need to safeguard this approach against potential future administrative shifts.
The Importance of Student Input
- Student advocacy shapes policies affecting daily student lives.
- Direct input from students is essential for effective governance.
- Institutional support cannot replace the need for guaranteed representation.
Waller emphasized that students are best positioned to represent their interests. “Their perspectives should be integral during policy development,” he remarked.
Next Steps for SGA
With the resolution passed, SGA is now preparing for the spring legislative session. This session will allow for discussions with lawmakers on student representation issues. While university leaders already value student voices, SGA insists that guaranteed representation is crucial for genuine involvement in governance.
The resolution serves as the beginning of a larger initiative. SGA officials aim to ensure that student voices are not only considered but also play a pivotal role in shaping university policies for their peers.
