From: Student Government Association Date: September 30, 2025 Subject: Student Government Association Newsletter
Welcome to the Student Government Association’s Newsletter!
The Student Government Association is pleased to announce the first edition of our campus newsletter! This publication is designed to keep the student body informed about campus initiatives, upcoming events, and the work SGA is doing to represent and advocate for students at West Chester University.
In this issue, you will find highlights from Welcome Week, the University’s inaugural Convocation, Senate elections, and other events that showcase the energy and pride of our campus community. Each edition will also share opportunities for students to get involved, engage with peers, and contribute to a vibrant WCU experience.
Welcome Week Recap!
This year, West Chester University put a new spin on Welcome Week and SGA was so excited to be to be part of it! Our executive board joined in on the fun at several events, including Min Org Island, the Glow Party, and many more. It was a great opportunity to connect with new students, whether it was just answering questions, explaining SGA’s initiatives, or connecting students with organizations that would fit best for them. It was the perfect way to jump start the semester with a kick!
Mini Org Island
The Student Government Association was excited to be a part of the new event that would give first year and transfer students a glimpse of what Involvement Fair would be like. SGA had a chance to introduce ourselves, explain our role as a student government on campus, and share with students the opportunity of joining the 38th Assembly to advocate for students across the university with their voices and continue the efforts of SGA to make the university great.
Golden Hour & Glow Party
The excitement didn’t stop there. SGA was invited to keep the festivities going by participating in the in the Golden Hour & Glow Party. The music, energy, and atmosphere had students dancing well past sunset, creating one of the most memorable moments of the week. More than just a fun night, the social gave students a chance to relax, bond, and feel at home as the semester began. For SGA, the events were very meaningful and an amazing opportunity to connect and build a foundational relationship with students.
Convocation
This year was the beginning of something special. West Chester University held the very first convocation ceremony- a ceremony welcoming in first-year and transfer students to the university. SGA was honored to take place in this newly founded tradition. Derrick, the Student Government President was asked to represent the university alongside Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. Jazz. Together, they welcomed the incoming class. The ceremony was filled with excitement and school pride. SGA continued to celebrate new students by surprising five randomly selected students at convocation with $15 Starbucks gift cards. We also had the privilege of introducing University President Dr. Bernotsky, who delivered a powerful welcoming speech to the Class of 2029. Convocation concluded with a spirited class photo, where SGA proudly joined in leading the University’s signature chant, “Rams Up!”, helping students kick off their WCU journey with pride and community.
Elections
On September 9th, Student Government Association held elections for the 38th Assembly. We would like to formally introduce the 38th Assembly of the Student Government Association.
Executive Board
President
Derrick Addison Jr.
Vice President
Caleb Winters
Executive Director
Abigail Hart
Director of Organizational Relations
Emma Holston
Director of Communications
Raina Wall-Williams
Director of Allocations
Sydney Culhane
Student Trustee
Chris Needham
Academic Seats
College of Arts & Humanities Senator
Geoffrey Martin
College of Business & Public Management Senator
Madeline Barbella
College of Education & Social Work Senator
Aaliyah Wood
College of Health Sciences Senator
Noor Huda
College of Science & Mathematics Senator
Lylah Shotto
Honors College Senator
Olivia McClain
University College Senator
Teah Mendez
Student Life
West Chester Community Senator
Lukas Williamson
Access, Compliance, & Engagement Senators
Tomi Osobu & Jeremy Ruspantine
Connection & Belonging Senators
Luke Jackson & Isabelle Brumbaugh
On-Campus Housing & Dining Senator
Anthony Forgacic
Health & Wellness Senator
Gina Crandall
Student Experience Senator
Marcella Tate
First Gen
Myasija Rivera
At- Large
At-Large Senator
Allison Thompson
At-Large Senator
Elizabeth Guidici
At-Large Senator
Nathan Schallack
At-Large Senator
Sarah Zeuke
At-Large Senator
Mia Rosica
At-Large Senator
Kassidy Benton
At-Large Senator
Alex Kline
At-Large Senator
Sakina Zaidi
At-Large Senator
Marcus Schundler
At-Large Senator
Lauren Marsh
38th Student Government Association Assembly Initiatives
This year, SGA is committed to advancing initiatives that strengthen the student experience at WCU. Our focus includes:
Expanding Experiential Learning: Creating more hands-on opportunities to prepare students for future careers.
Enhancing Transportation: Exploring a partnership with Uber to sponsor rides for students in the West Chester Borough.
Reducing Textbook Costs: Advocating for a donation and swap program to make required course materials more affordable.
WCU Student Purple Pit – Saturday, October 4
WCU students are invited to the Student Purple Pit, a special pre-game section designed to celebrate Ram Pride before kickoff.
The event will feature live music from EchoZone, food trucks with free food, games, and plenty of WCU giveaways. Students can also enjoy a fun atmosphere with friends and family as they gear up for the game.
McCoy House at Farrell Stadium 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Free with WCU Student Ram Card
Student Government Association will be gifting SGA embroidered baseball hats to 85 students that attend the purple pit.