In the first episode of this season’s It’s Academic, Dr. Bobby Fleischman, Vice President for Academic Affairs at FSU, is joined by Cale Herzenstiel, Director of Internal Assessment at SGA; Christopher Fidell, Director of Finance at SGA; and Lina Blair, Dean of Student Life and Co-Advisor for Student Government.
Written by Bryce Dysard and Jess Miller | Producer/Featured Image by Brody Sara
Student Government Association
The Student Government Association (SGA) at Ferris State University is a student-led organization dedicated to supporting Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) in hosting events that enhance campus life for students. SGA’s mission is to represent the interests of Ferris State University students in all aspects of campus life while fostering open communication between students, faculty, staff, administration, and the Big Rapids community.
One notable initiative led by SGA is The Big Event, which involves students coming together to pick up leaves and garbage around town to help keep the community clean. This event is particularly meaningful for elderly residents who may no longer be able to maintain their yards on their own.
The Student Government Association (SGA) is addressing the issue of loneliness on campus with a new initiative called Dine Together. This program provides an opportunity for students who may not have someone to join them for lunch or dinner—or those simply looking for connection—to share a meal and engage in conversation with members of the Student Government or the Executive Board. Dine Together aims to foster a sense of community and belonging among students at Ferris State University.
When asked what are some issues that the internal affairs are working on addressing, Cale Herzenstiel mentioned combating hunger. In the Fall of 2024, they approved a budget of $10,000 to support The Bulldog Pantry. He has heard personal account of how the food pantry is benefiting students on campus and happy they are contributing to the pantry’s success.
Lina Blair went on to say, “having student input on these initiatives has made all the difference in how they shape the work for not only the semester, but for the next 3, 4, 5 years of the strategic plan.” This allows them to know what the students need rather than guessing.
Retention is another issue the Student Government is working on improving. Herzenstiel mentions working to address the concerns of the students and helping them feel supported. This could help prosper a better environment for current students as well as appeal to students from other campuses.
Together they discuss about how these leadership positions will benefit their career after their time at Ferris. Chris Fidell has already been engaging in prospective job interviews saying, “Student Government has given me more responsibility and it proves that I can do what I set out to do.”
If you’re interested in joining Student Government, all you need to do is follow these steps:
- Complete the application.
- Attend two consecutive SGA Meetings. Meetings are every Tuesday at 6:30 pm in the Founders Room in the DEC.
- Maintain a 2.5 GPA.
If you’re not interested in joining but want your voice heard, all students can attend a meeting, also known as Hearing of the Publics.
If you have any questions about student government, email StudentGovernment@ferris.edu or give them a call at (231)-519-2611.