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Student Government Association Newsletter

Raina Wallwilliams - Wednesday, December 10, 2025
 Events 

Student Government Association's November Newsletter

Welcome to the Student Government Association Newsletter!

NOTE: We had some technical difficulties with our previous edition, so we are resending it to all recipients. 

As the semester moves into its final stretch, the Student Government Association presents the November edition of the newsletter. November proved to be one of the most vibrant months yet for the Student Government Association and the greater West Chester University community.

Inside this month’s edition, you’ll find highlights of events such as cozy craft nights and powerful conversations with university leadership to meaningful celebrations of identity, service, and student success. This month was filled with opportunities for students to connect, create, and make their voices heard.

Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to get involved, share your perspective, and help shape the future of student life at WCU.

Cozy Craft Night Recap

The Cozy Craft Night, held on Thursday, November 6th, 2025, was a warm and highly successful event, transforming the Sykes 2nd Floor - CSI into a relaxed hub of creativity from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. The atmosphere was intentionally casual and welcoming, with many attendees arriving in their comfiest pajamas, eager to swap academic stress for chill vibes and crafting supplies. The event, led by WCU Student Engagement and supported by a fantastic group of campus organizations, including the Student Government, Pakistani Student Association, Stitched Together, Joyful Journal, and offered a refreshing break from the usual routine.

The evening featured an impressive selection of DIY stations, ensuring everyone had a creative outlet, regardless of skill level. One popular station focused on making DIY Junk Journals, where students used various papers and fabrics to craft personalized scrapbooks. Another engaging activity involved customizing DIY Keychains, allowing attendees to leave with a unique and practical keepsake. For those interested in fashion and personalization, the DIY Trucker Hats station was a hit, offering different patches and decorations to create a statement piece. Reflecting the season, crafters could also participate in making DIY Crochet Mini Pumpkins, adding a soft, autumnal feel to their dorm décor. Finally, the Henna Designs booth provided beautiful, temporary body art, offering a culturally rich and personal form of expression.

 This event exemplified how campus collaboration can build community. The sponsors not only supplied materials and support but also fostered an inclusive environment where students could connect outside of formal meetings or classes. The evening was more than just a craft session; it was a thoughtfully curated experience aimed at boosting student well-being and promoting meaningful interactions. From the lively energy at the design tables to the quiet focus of those learning a new crochet stitch, the Cozy Craft Night successfully offered an evening of genuine fun, creativity, and good company, leaving participants with tangible creations and fond memories to cherish.

 

Point of Contact Mixer 

On November 12th, the Student Government Association hosted the annual Point of Contact Mixer, and it served as an important moment of connection between SGA Senators and university leadership. Held mid-afternoon, the event created a welcoming space for conversation, collaboration, and professional growth.
The mixer was an opportunity for networking and building meaningful relationships. Senators engaged directly with their Points of Contact, discussing current initiatives, sharing student concerns, and learning more about the departments and leaders they will work with throughout the year. The atmosphere was energetic and productive, with conversations flowing easily as Senators introduced themselves and strengthened the partnerships that help drive SGA’s mission forward. Thank you to all Senators and university leaders who attended and made this event a success.
 

A Surprise Sweet Treat From Student Government Association!


On November 6th, the Student Government Association hosted the Auntie Anne’s Appreciation Event, and it was a huge success! Students gathered in the heart of campus to enjoy warm, freshly baked pretzels as a way to celebrate community and thank everyone for their continued involvement. This event was an opportunity for connection between SGA and the campus community. SGA members handed out flyers when letting students know about the appreciation pretzels, upcoming events, and giveaways. SGA’s senators were on hand to chat with students, answer questions, and share details about upcoming initiatives and events, such as SGA’s December Town Hall. The atmosphere was lively, with students stopping between classes to grab a free pretzel. This event highlighted the importance of engagement and how small gestures- like a free pretzel- can spark meaningful conversations. 

Highlighting Resources on Campus!

The Student Government Association is excited to introduce our "Resource of the Week" initiative, where we highlight both small and large resources available on campus that can support your academic and personal success.

On November 14, SGA shared an Instagram reel showcasing the Career Closet, located in the Career Development Center. The Career Closet offers students free, professional clothing tailored for various occasions—from virtual job interviews to in-person meetings at the Empire State Building! No matter what challenges you face in college and beyond, you can be sure you're prepared with the right attire.

On November 21, SGA featured another valuable resource in a reel: The Resource Pantry, located in the Lower Level of Commonwealth Hall. The Resource Pantry is stocked with essential household items, including toiletries, kitchen supplies, and food—ranging from meal ingredients to snacks, both refrigerated and shelf-stable. Best of all, these items are available at no cost to you!

Don't forget to follow SGA on Instagram @sgawcupa to learn more about these resources and be the first to hear about additional support available on campus!


Vetsgiving

VetsGiving

This year’s VetsGiving at the Veterans Center was a deeply meaningful celebration that brought together veterans, dependents, families, staff, community partners, and the Student Veterans Group for an afternoon of gratitude and connection. As the SGA Senator for Access, Compliance, and Engagement, Jeremy was proud to see how strongly the event reflected the university’s commitment to inclusion and support.

The gathering welcomed veterans from multiple branches, students balancing family life, and several families with children, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Representatives from the Disabled American Veterans and Chester County Veterans Affairs provided guidance on benefits and resources, ensuring the event offered both community and practical support.

A generous holiday meal, complete with turkey, ham, vegetables, and homemade dishes, brought everyone together at the table. The Student Veterans Group contributed desserts and drinks, adding to the sense of community and care. Afterward, students relaxed with card games and conversations, sharing stories and building camaraderie. Laughter filled the space as veterans connected over shared experiences and took time to unwind.

VetsGiving is more than a meal. It is a reminder that no veteran or dependent is alone on this campus. This year’s celebration reaffirmed the strength of our community and our collective commitment to supporting one another.

Student Government Association Presents...

Major of the Month

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Major Spotlight: Music Education — Featuring Michael Antonacci (he/him)

This month, we are excited to highlight Music Education through the experiences of Michael Antonacci, a dedicated student within the Wells School of Music.

Why Music Education?

For Michael, music has been a lifelong companion—present from his earliest memories and shaping both his education and personal growth. His passion stems from the lessons music teaches: accountability, teamwork, empathy, leadership, and positivity. His goal is to pass these values on to future students through high-quality music instruction.

What Michael Loves About His Major

Michael’s favorite part of the program is working closely with the compassionate and highly skilled faculty who make up the music education department. He values the strong sense of community at Swope, where peers and professors alike support one another. Though the degree can be challenging, he shares that he truly enjoys every aspect of it.

Course Structure & Class Sizes

Class sizes vary widely across the program:
Private lessons are one-on-one with applied faculty.
Methods, conducting, and elective courses often have 5–10 students.
Core classes like music theory, aural skills, and music history typically range from 10–20 students.

Career Outlook

Michael plans to become a music teacher dedicated to helping students grow into empathetic, proactive leaders. While each future educator brings their own philosophy to the classroom, he emphasizes that music teachers share a common mission: improving lives through meaningful musical experiences.

Why Highlight Music Education?

Michael believes the Wells School of Music deserves recognition for its outstanding students and exceptional faculty. The program fosters a supportive, tight-knit community driven by excellence, creativity, and compassion—qualities that set it apart on campus.

Final Thoughts

Michael encourages everyone to experience the Wells School of Music firsthand. Attend a concert, talk with a music major, or explore the many events hosted throughout the year—you’ll quickly see why the School of Music is such a special part of West Chester University.

Senator Update: Academic Initiatives & Campus Engagement

Senator Martin met with Dean Jennifer Bacon (CAH) to review fall updates, including the Council of Deans’ plan to add annual course scheduling to Ellucian Banner and the recurring odor issue on Anderson Hall’s third floor, which the Dean is now monitoring.

Career Development & Humanities Initiative

To advance the Combating Humanities Discouragement Initiative, Martin met with Kate Shellaway from the Career Development Center and received comprehensive data on career outcomes for humanities majors. These materials will support spring programming and resource development.

SURF Grant Award

Martin received a $500 SURF Grant to support his humanities initiative and has begun planning the project with his faculty mentor, Professor Paul Harris.

AI & Experiential Learning Committee Work

During meetings with the Teachers Learning Center, Martin gathered feedback from Tom Pantazes and Naomie Nyanungo on the committee’s upcoming faculty survey, discussed AI-related policy considerations, and received guidance on pursuing IRB approval to publish committee findings.

Faculty Conversations

Recent meetings with Dr. Daniel Forbes and Dr. Adebayo Oluwayomi focused on how AI is reshaping learning assessment and how it may disproportionately impact minority groups on campus.

SGA Engagement

Martin attended the SGA Point of Contact Mixer, connecting with SGA President Derrick Anderson and college deans to discuss ongoing academic initiatives and future collaboration.

National First-Generation Week

Each year on November 8th, campuses across the country celebrate National First-Generation Day, and this year, West Chester University elevated the tradition with its first-ever National First Gen Week, hosted by WCUFirst and First Gen Rams (FGR). From November 3rd to 7th, students enjoyed social events, giveaways, and professional development opportunities aimed at strengthening the first-gen community and building both social and professional confidence.

One of the week’s signature events was the First Gen Forum on November 6th, hosted by FGR. The forum featured a powerful student panel of past and present FGR leaders who shared their experiences navigating WCU as first-generation students. Panelists included SGA President and former FGR President Derrick Addison Jr., current FGR President Salea Lawson, First Gen Senator and current FGR Vice President Myasija Rivera, former FGR Vice President Rylee Goerig, and former Treasurer Angel Flowers, with SGA College of Education & Social Work Senator Aaliyah Wood moderating. Panelists discussed challenges, growth, leadership, and the pride that comes with being first-generation, offering encouragement and insight to peers in attendance.

Through events like National First Gen Week and the First Gen Forum, WCU continues to build a strong, supportive environment where first-generation students can learn, lead, and thrive.

Announcements

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Senator of The Month- Geoffrey A. Martin

This month, we are celebrating our senator of the College Arts and Humanities, Geoffrey A. Martin, for his dedication to ensuring that all departments within the College are heard and represented. If you are in any of the Arts and Humanities buildings, you may have seen a flyer that G made so students have someone to talk to regarding the school. He regularly meets with Dean Bacon and has many ideas for new initiatives, such as creating panels and working to reorganize future class schedules and major requirements.  G is dedicated to making sure all departments within the College of Arts and Humanities are heard.

December Town Hall on Engagement 

The December Town Hall is designed to bring the WCU student body together for an exciting night of engagement, student voice, and holiday giving. Hosted by the Student Government Association and Student Engagement, this event invites students to share their ideas for new campus events, weekend programming, and activities they want to see at WCU. The Town Hall will be held on December 2nd, 2025, at 7:15 PM in the Sykes Theater, with a Social Hour at 6 PM in Sykes 115.

Students will also have three different opportunities to earn raffle entries for one of three free Apple Watches: by engaging with SGA Senators who will be tabling inside residential hall lobbies throughout the week, attending the Social Hour for an extra ticket, and, most importantly, attending the Town Hall. The Residence Hall Challenge adds even more excitement, and you don’t want to miss out. Whichever hall brings the most attendees to the Town Hall will win a fully catered Hot Cocoa Bar the very next day.

Alongside these incentives, SGA and Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce (GWCC) are launching a Holiday Toy Drive to support four local nonprofits that serve children in need. Donations will be collected at both the Social Hour and Town Hall, and the student organizations that contribute the most toys will receive a super fun prize! Altogether, the December Town Hall is to help create change on campus one day at a time!


social hour

Social Hour Before The Town Hall

Students are invited to join us for a Social Hour at 6 PM in Sykes 115 before the December Town Hall on December 2nd! This is a great opportunity to build connections, network with peers and campus leaders, and discuss ideas around student engagement.

Plus — if you attend the Social Hour and stay for the Town Hall, you’ll earn an extra raffle ticket for a chance to win a FREE Apple Watch! 

Come for the conversation, stay for the community!


toy drive

SGA and Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce: Holiday Toy & Supply Drive 

The Student Government Association is proud to partner with the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce for a campus-wide Holiday Toy & Supply Drive this December. Together, we aim to support four local nonprofits that provide essential resources to children and families in our community:

  • New Directions Childcare Center

  • West Chester Area Day Care Center

  • Chester County Intermediate Unit — Chester County Head Start

  • Holy Family Christmas Giving Program

How to Participate

  • Student organizations may collect items from their members now through Tuesday, December 2.

  • Donations can be dropped off at the December Town Hall, held at 7:15 PM in Sykes Theater.

  • The top three organizations with the highest number of donations will receive $500, $250, or $125 deposited into their SSI account.

(Please note: Student organizations may NOT use their SSI funds to purchase donations.)

For a full list of approved donation items and point values, please visit the link here.

 

Let’s show our community how Golden Rams give back — start collecting today!

The 38th Assembly wishes everyone a restful Thanksgiving Break!