From: Student Government Association
Date: October 31, 2025
Subject: Student Government Association Newsletter



Student Government Association's October Newsletter

Welcome to the Student Government Association’s Newsletter

The Student Government Association is excited to present the second edition of our campus newsletter! Building on the success of our first release, this edition continues our commitment to keeping the student body informed and engaged with campus life at West Chester University.

Inside, you’ll find updates on recent initiatives of our At-Large senators, highlights from President Bernotsky’s Fall Address and homecoming events, and a closer look at the ongoing work of your SGA representatives. We’re proud to showcase the voices, achievements, and collaborations that make our Golden Ram community thrive.

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

Homecoming 2025: A Celebration of Ram Pride

Homecoming week brought the WCU community together to celebrate school spirit and Golden Ram pride. Events included Meet the Greeks, the WCU Student Purple Pit, and the WCU vs. East Stroudsburg University Football Game.

A big thank-you to all students, organizations, and staff who helped make Homecoming 2025 a success!

Homecoming Spotlight: Meet the Greeks

As part of Homecoming Week, West Chester University hosted Meet the Greeks on October 3, an exciting celebration of community, culture, and pride within Greek Life. The event brought together the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) organizations for a night of energy and unity. Students, alumni, and families enjoyed strolls and step performances, engaging chapter introductions, and opportunities to connect with members. The event beautifully celebrated the leadership, service, and rich cultural contributions of WCU’s Greek organizations, highlighting the strength and diversity that truly make our campus community vibrant and special.

Homecoming Spotlight: WCU Student Purple Pit

WCU students enjoyed their very own pre-game section on October 4 at the Purple Pit, a high-energy gathering to kick off Homecoming celebrations. The event featured a live performance by EchoZone, food trucks with free treats, games, and complimentary WCU swag. Presented by Saloon 151 and Station 142, and sponsored by SGA, the Purple Pit provided students with a fun and spirited way to connect before the big game while showcasing their Ram pride.

 

SGA Town Hall: Campus Health & Wellness

On October 7, the Student Government Association in partnership with the Office of Student Engagement hosted a Campus Health & Wellness Town Hall to promote student well-being and highlight the resources available on campus. The event provided an open forum for students to share their perspectives and engage in a discussion on how WCU can continue to support a healthy, thriving campus environment.

The panel featured Jayme Trogus, D.H.Sc., MPH, Director of Wellness Promotion, and Dr. Lisa Montgomery, Director of Student Advocacy and Resources, who offered insights, answered questions, and guided students through the variety of wellness programs available. The Town Hall exemplified SGA’s commitment to fostering dialogue, awareness, and accessible resources that enhance student life.

 

President Bernotsky’s 2025 Fall Address

On Friday, October 25, President Laurie Bernotsky delivered her 2025 Fall Address to the West Chester University community. Hosted in  Asplundh Concert Hall. During her address, President Bernotsky reflected on her first 14 months as president, emphasizing the importance of student-centered decision-making, community collaboration, and innovation in higher education. She discussed the university’s current challenges and opportunities, from housing expansion and financial stability to enhancing experiential learning and sustainability.

President Bernotsky encouraged the community to “be better, think bigger, and foster moments,” outlining a forward-looking vision that moves West Chester from “almost awesome to awesome.”

Several members of the Student Government Association, including SGA senators, attended the address to represent the student body and engage with university leadership on future initiatives.

Meet Your At-Large Senators: Advocating for All Students

The Student Government Association is proud to introduce the At-Large Senators, who represent the collective voice of the entire student body. These senators work across colleges, organizations, and communities to ensure that every student’s perspective is heard and valued.


Alex Kline

Noor Huda, At-Large Senator, is dedicated to making the Student Government Association more visible, approachable, and connected to the campus community. This semester, Noor has focused on strengthening student engagement through events that highlight SGA’s work, encourage open dialogue, and create opportunities for students to get involved. Collaborating with student clubs and organizations, Noor has worked to amplify student voices and foster stronger partnerships across campus. She is also developing new ways to gather and share student feedback to ensure every voice is heard. Among her accomplishments, Noor is proud to have been elected as an At-Large Senator and contributed to SGA committees.


Noor Huda

Noor Huda, At-Large Senator, is dedicated to making the Student Government Association more visible, approachable, and connected to the campus community. This semester, Noor has focused on strengthening student engagement through events that highlight SGA’s work, encourage open dialogue, and create opportunities for students to get involved. Collaborating with student clubs and organizations, Noor has worked to amplify student voices and foster stronger partnerships across campus. She is also developing new ways to gather and share student feedback to ensure every voice is heard. Among her accomplishments, Noor is proud to have been elected as an At-Large Senator and contributed to SGA committees.


Sarah Zeuke

Sarah Zeuke, At-Large Senator, is passionate about building stronger connections between students and the Student Government Association through engagement and school spirit. A dedicated member of both the Bylaw Committee and Spirit Ad-Hoc Committee, Sarah aims to plan fun, community-centered events that help students feel more involved on campus. Through her role, Sarah aims to make SGA more approachable and connected by creating events that not only foster fun and school pride but also provide meaningful opportunities for students to meet their representatives, share feedback, and learn more about how SGA serves them. She believes that participation in campus life is one of the best ways for students to find their place at WCU and hopes to make that process easier and more inviting for everyone.



Mia Rosica

Mia Rosica, At-Large Senator, is committed to promoting inclusivity and student engagement across campus. Her main initiative focuses on creating more welcoming environments for all students, particularly by exploring ways to make spirited events like Purple Pit more accessible. Mia plans to collaborate with event organizers to establish a quiet space for students who are noise-sensitive, ensuring everyone can enjoy campus traditions comfortably and confidently. Beyond this initiative, Mia serves as the Senate representative in the Library Ambassador Program, where she works to increase awareness and participation in the library’s inclusive and engaging activities, such as crafternoons and development seminars. Together with the program team, she is helping to develop a new website and a student-run Instagram page featuring videos that highlight library staff, events, and amenities, along with tutorials on campus resources.


Allison Thompson

Allison Thompson is an At-Large senator with a goal for the 2025-2026 school year is to increase the visibility of the Student Government Association on campus. Instead of focusing only on the needs she sees, she wants to listen to the students. Where are the issues? What ideas do students have to solve them? And how can SGA support them in creating change? Allison wants to emphasize the fact that senators are advocates who work with students, not just for them. Along with the Spirit and Marketing and Communications committees, she will focus on engaging with students on campus to hear their concerns, build connections, and ultimately raise awareness of SGA.


Sakina Zaidi

Sakina Zaidi, At-Large Senator, is focused on advancing Experiential Learning and AI Policy at West Chester University. As a member of the Experiential Learning & AI Committee, Sakina has met with the Teaching and Learning Center to better understand the impact of artificial intelligence on education. She and her committee plan to gather student input through tabling events and feedback sessions to help shape AI-related policies that reflect the needs and experiences of the student body. In addition to her work on AI initiatives, Sakina also serves as the Sustainability Senator, collaborating with the WCU Sustainability Council to strengthen environmental efforts across campus. She actively promotes opportunities offered by the Office of Sustainability, including experiences in the Gordon Natural Area, campus gardens, sustainable commuting, and peer education programs


Nathan Schallack

Nathan Schallack, At-Large Senator, is dedicated to expanding late-night dining options for West Chester University students. Acknowledging that many students study, work, or return from activities after traditional dining hours, Nathan’s initiative focuses on improving food accessibility and convenience across campus. He is exploring several potential solutions, including extending the hours of existing dining locations, providing microwaveable meal options at residence hall desks, and developing other creative approaches. Nathan’s goal is to ensure that all students have affordable, convenient, and safe access to meals, no matter the time of day.



Lizzie Guidici

Lizzie Guidici, At-Large Senator, is using her position to highlight underrepresented majors across campus. She is passionate about ensuring that all programs, especially smaller or niche ones, receive the visibility they deserve. Her initiative aims to help incoming and current students discover communities and academic paths where they feel connected and supported. One major Lizzie is particularly passionate about is Social Work, which currently has fewer graduates compared to larger departments. By collaborating with Social Work faculty, she plans to speak with first-year students in FYE courses about the range of opportunities in the field. Through these conversations, Lizzie hopes to inspire students who may be unsure about their major to explore Social Work or other smaller programs.



Lauren Marsh

This year, Lauren Marsh is working to amplify the voices of students in the LGBTQIA+ community, gathering feedback to improve their campus experience. They also collaborate with the Center for Queer and Trans Advocacy and continue advocating for initiatives that ensure all students feel supported and heard by the university. Lauren’s goal is to strengthen inclusivity and equity on campus while creating meaningful opportunities for student engagement. Lauren brings experience from serving as the Gender Equity Senator last year and as a peer educator at the Center for Women and Gender Equity, where they facilitate programs on sex education, gender justice, and harm prevention.



Marcus Schundler

Marcus Schundler, an At-Large Senator, is dedicated to improving the student experience through practical and forward-thinking initiatives. His goals this year include expanding experiential learning opportunities to give students more hands-on experiences that prepare them for future careers. Through this initiative, Marcus aims to make campus life more accessible, affordable, and connected to real-world opportunities.

Senate Highlights

The Student Government Association has been hard at work turning their ideas into action. Each senator has taken on specific projects to improve the student experience, from highlighting and enhancing resources to promoting inclusivity and accessibility. This section highlights the great actions of our Senators and their ongoing progress they’ve made on campus.

The Experimental Learning and Artificial Intelligence Committee

The Experiential Learning and Artificial Intelligence Research committee has been diligently researching information about AI and its policies within the higher education sector, as well as Experiential Learning and its benefits to the new generation of students. Following a few of its members’ meeting with the Teacher Learning Center, the committee has been able to create foundations on how it will go about successfully achieving its goals. With the committee’s first meeting just happening recently, we have been able to split our approach into a multi-phased plan that includes gathering data from the campus community on AI and its impact, sourcing ways that AI can help students not only in regards to Chat GPT-like software, and sharing with the university administrators to encourage sound, thoughtful, productive dialogue around the subject.

On October 6, 2025, Senator G Martin, our College of Arts & Humanities senator, partnered with our At-Large senators, Sakina Zaidi and Lylah Shotto, in meeting with Teachers Learning Center (TLC) leaders Naomie Nyanungo and Tom Pantazes. The group introduced the Experiential Learning & AI Ad Hoc Committee and examined the absence of a formal university policy on AI. Discussions focused on ensuring that emerging technologies align with academic integrity standards, engaging faculty through professional development, and encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration around AI in education.

A Fall Afternoon with the Student Veterans Group

On October 15, 2025, the WCU Veterans Center hosted its first Pumpkin Painting Event, organized by Senator Jeremy Ruspantine (ACE) in collaboration with the Student Veterans Group (SVG). The event brought together Student Veterans, Dependents, and supporters for an afternoon focused on creativity, wellness, and connection. Those who came to the event showcased their artistic skills in a pumpkin-painting contest, with the winning design earning a $50 WCU Campus Store gift card. The Therapy Dogs from the WCU Counseling Center added comfort and joy to the afternoon, emphasizing the importance of emotional wellness and community support.

A Healthcare Career Panel

As President of Minorities in Medicine and an At-Large Senator, Sakina Zaidi organized the White Coat Wisdom: A Healthcare Career Panel alongside her executive board on October 24th in the Phillips Autograph Library. The event brought together a distinguished group of healthcare professionals, including Dr. Mohammed Farooq (Internist, DO), Dr. Rocio Pasion (Optometrist, OD), Dr. Tamara Rausa Donatelli (Emergency Medicine, DO), Dr. Mian Jan (Cardiologist, MD), Dr. Samera Mumtaz (Dentist, DMD), and Karrine Tucker (PA-S). The panel provided an invaluable opportunity for WCU students interested in healthcare to network with established professionals, explore diverse career paths, and gain practical insight into the medical field. Two of the panelists, both WCU alumni, shared personal experiences that deeply resonated with the audience and inspired current students pursuing similar goals.

 

College of Arts & Humanities Update

On October 22, 2025, G Martin, the College of Arts & Humanities senator, met with Dean Bacon and the Humanities Ambassadors to discuss departmental initiatives, AI challenges, and the accuracy of major requirements in RamPortal. The meeting led to the proposal of the Combating Humanities Discouragement” campaign, a collaboration with the Career Center to boost student confidence in humanities majors and showcase post-graduation success. Earlier, on September 29, he met with Dean Bacon to improve communication with department heads, increase visibility for the new Experiential Learning & AI Committee, and address campus concerns like course scheduling and student engagement in the humanities.

Senator Spotlight: Aaliyah Wood

On Wednesday, October 15th, Senator Aaliyah Wood, the College of Education & Social Work senator, was recognized at the College of Education and Social Work’s (CESW) 2025–2026 Scholarship Award Ceremony for her dedication and academic excellence. She received the Shirley Isabel Simon Grant Early Grades Education Scholarship, awarded to outstanding juniors and seniors in Early Grades Education who demonstrate fairness, hard work, and strong academic performance.

Congratulations, Aaliyah Wood!

Announcements

Senator of The Month- Jeremery Ruspantine

This month, we celebrate Access, Compliance & Engagement Senator Jeremy Ruspantine (ACE) for his dedication to student engagement, accessibility, and community support. Jeremy recently helped bring the WCU Veterans Center to life during “Pumpkins, Paws, and Peer Support: A Fall Afternoon with the Student Veterans Group” on October 15, 2025. He champions student‑voice initiatives aimed at improving accessibility, ensuring policy compliance, and deepening engagement across campus. Jeremy’s dedication stands out: he’s actively working behind the scenes to connect the SGA with student needs, especially in the WCU’s veteran community.

WCU Student Purple Pit – Saturday, 11/1 & Saturday, 11/15

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

Catered by Saloon 151

WCU Student Purple Pit – Saturday, 11/1 & Saturday, 11/15

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

Catered by Saloon 151

COZY CRAFT NIGHT

Get comfy, get creative, and join us for the coziest craft night of the year!  From junk journals to henna designs, DIY trucker hats to crochet pumpkins. There’s something for everyone.

Thursday, November 6th, 2025

5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Sykes 2nd Floor – CSI

CALLING ALL STUDENT ORG LEADERS – FALL 2025 Pack the Pantry Challenge!

The WCU Resource Pantry needs your help! The Office of Student Engagement, LEAD, and CCESI are sponsoring the third annual Pack the Pantry Resource Pantry Challenge, and your student organization can compete to make a difference.

How it works:

  • Dates: Saturday, Nov. 8 – Friday, Dec. 5
  • Collect items for the Resource Pantry in a friendly competition. Points are awarded as follows:
    • Resource Pantry Essentials – 30 points each
    • Personal Care – 20 points each
    • Shelf-Stable Food – 10 points each
  • Drop-off: Friday, Dec. 5 by 4 PM at CCESI, Commonwealth Hall, Lower Level

Prizes for top organizations:
1st Place – $250 SSI Transfer
2nd Place – $150 SSI Transfer
3rd Place – $100 SSI Transfer

Winners will also be recognized on social media and in newsletters.

Sign up: Complete the form in the Engagement Editorial Newsletter to participate. Only organizations that sign up are eligible for prizes. Detailed instructions and item breakdowns will be provided to participating groups.

Help your organization give back, compete, and make a real impact on campus!

Reminder for Student Organizations – Funding Requests

The last day to submit requests for additional funding for this semester is Friday, November 14, 2025. All requests must be submitted by the end of the day to be considered. Don’t miss this deadline!

Are YOU Ready to Lead? – Student Trustee Info Sessions

Interested in serving as WCU’s next Student Trustee? Attend these info sessions to learn about the role, ask questions, and get guidance on the application process. Register on RamConnect or drop in!

Session Schedule:

Applications for the next Student Trustee open soon—don’t miss your chance to make an impact!

The 38th Assembly is wishing everyone a happy Halloween!