With only about 20 percent of the student body consistently participating in campus-wide elections, legislative student organizations have a widespread perception of being unable to create useful change for students. However, Student Government and academic councils have the unique opportunity to produce legislation and convey student concerns to administrators, who can then help improve the student experience in meaningful ways. 

This week, we spotlight newly elected leaders from Student Government and the Senate of College Councils, each of whom present their visions and make the case that students do have the power to enact initiatives that positively impact campus life. 

Benjamin Solder, speaker of the Student Government Assembly, speaks about the Assembly’s goals in the upcoming year. Solder hopes students begin to see SG as a means to change campus, and encourages interested students to apply for internal positions, speak at the beginning of Assembly meetings, or even contact him directly with questions.

David Jenkins, president of the Senate of College Councils, explains how the organization functions in coordination with the 21 college councils, and lists some goals for the upcoming year. Jenkins emphasizes a commitment to receiving student feedback, communicating with organizations outside of the traditional legislative spheres and staying persistent to ensure that student voices are heard.

As always, if you have thoughts about this subject or any other, please reach out to us at thedailytexanforum@gmail.com.

Nemawarkar is a Plan II and government junior from Austin. Shirvaikar is a math and economics junior from Frisco. Anderson is a Plan II and history sophomore from Houston.