Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

Wednesday, Mar. 26, the Student Government Association convened for their last Senate meeting. As of now, the 61st administration ceases to exist. 

SGA needed to pass their new constitution with the student body in order to continue operating as an organization. However, despite holding two student referendums, the constitution failed to pass.

“No constitution, no organization,” said former Speaker of the Senate Tav Cockrell. “March 31, the executive offices will be locked. We’re starting the process of clearing our offices out.”

The total student population of the University as of Fall 2024 is 52,516, according to Forbes. 

However, in the final vote, only 457 students participated which constitutes for a low percentage of just 0.87. Out of this, only 188 students voted for passing the constitution. 

What led to the end of 61st Administration

The SGA was put under a mandate by Student Affairs on Nov. 6, 2024, upon receiving a letter authored by Vice President for Student Affairs Paul Kittle. 

This mandate required the organization to create and pass a new set of bylaws and constitution in order to operate as an organization.

The mandate was a result of weakened checks and balances in SGA bylaws and the failure to fill vacant positions in a timely manner.

SGA lifted their mandate on Feb. 12, after 98 days of deliberation, by passing the new bylaws and constitution. However, despite this, the organization still required the student body to approve the constitution.

Since the student body did not pass the constitution, the 61st administration no longer exists.

“I feel beaten, battered and bruised,” said former Vice President Austin Craig. “I hope the organization can continue to grow, and will get where it needs to be in providing for the student body.”

New future of SGA moving forward

SGA’s Executive branch and Senate will remain vacant for the rest of the spring semester and the upcoming summer.

“This is what you would say is f—- around and finding out. We f—- around, and now we’re finding out,” Cockrell said. “There’s nothing any of us up here or any of you out there can do about it.”

Elections for the 62nd administration will take place in fall 2025, which will then fill the vacant positions.

Ten external consultants from similar SGAs of other public colleges will be brought in to give recommendations and advise UH’s SGA on how best to move forward.

“We are looking for advisors at similar types of public sized schools that have a similar SGA structure,” said Legislative branch advisor and Student Center Executive Director Eve Esch. “They’ll review all previous documents, meetings and things like that so we can get everything started back up again in the fall.”

Not all SGA members will be leaving the organization as Judicial branch members and SGA committee representatives will continue to serve.

Because of this, former SGA President Diego Arriaga will continue to serve in the SGA as the student representative on the President’s Task Force.

Student Ambassadors will be selected by administration and be present at orientations to encourage involvement in the fall when the organization resumes normal operations.

Final legislation, bills, decisions

The SGA passed four bills in their last two meetings before the dissolution.

“We had a good run, let’s wrap it up and hope for the best,” Cockrell said at a previous meeting on Mar. 19. “We can lay down and die, or try again.”

The Improving Visibility and Lighting of Emergency Poles on Campus Act was passed. The University will re-wrap the poles in a red color which will turn pink in order to increase visibility of emergency poles on campus. 

The UHPD Transparency and Accountability Act was passed as well, which requires a UHPD report in the first 3 months of every semester regarding crime and how the department plans to address it.

The third bill was The SGA Sexual Emergency Preparedness Act, which would make emergency contraception such as Plan B and condoms available in the SGA offices. 

The SGA would maintain a discreet and accessible system for students to obtain these resources.

The fourth bill passed was the SGA Unlocked Podcast. This will enable the organization to create video podcasts to provide an accessible platform for all members to communicate directly with students.

The bill was passed to provide transparency, insights into ongoing SGA projects and discuss key on-campus issues.

“It’s been a great run. It’s truly been an honor to serve and represent, and I mean that, even if things got cloudy,” Cockrell said. “Maybe more like a thunderstorm.”

Final reports

At the meeting, executive branch members gave their farewell speeches during the final reports.

“I’ve had great times, I’ve had horrible times, but I’m here at the end of it which is something I’m proud of,” Craig said. “At the end of the day, I was here for the students. I wish I could have done ten times more things despite those obstacles.”

Cockrell addressed the senate at the end of the meeting, congratulating SGA members who stayed throughout the administration.

“Everybody hears a plethora of things about SGA, some good, some bad,” Cockrell said. “I want you all to leave this administration and really think that no matter what hardships we faced, you were still here and you were able to represent.”

news@thedailycougar.com

—
““Beaten, battered, bruised”: SGA officially shuts down” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

Wednesday, Mar. 26, the Student Government Association convened for their last Senate meeting. As of now, the 61st administration ceases to exist. 

SGA needed to pass their new constitution with the student body in order to continue operating as an organization. However, despite holding two student referendums, the constitution failed to pass.

“No constitution, no organization,” said former Speaker of the Senate Tav Cockrell. “March 31, the executive offices will be locked. We’re starting the process of clearing our offices out.”

The total student population of the University as of Fall 2024 is 52,516, according to Forbes. 

However, in the final vote, only 457 students participated which constitutes for a low percentage of just 0.87. Out of this, only 188 students voted for passing the constitution. 

What led to the end of 61st Administration

The SGA was put under a mandate by Student Affairs on Nov. 6, 2024, upon receiving a letter authored by Vice President for Student Affairs Paul Kittle. 

This mandate required the organization to create and pass a new set of bylaws and constitution in order to operate as an organization.

The mandate was a result of weakened checks and balances in SGA bylaws and the failure to fill vacant positions in a timely manner.

SGA lifted their mandate on Feb. 12, after 98 days of deliberation, by passing the new bylaws and constitution. However, despite this, the organization still required the student body to approve the constitution.

Since the student body did not pass the constitution, the 61st administration no longer exists.

“I feel beaten, battered and bruised,” said former Vice President Austin Craig. “I hope the organization can continue to grow, and will get where it needs to be in providing for the student body.”

New future of SGA moving forward

SGA’s Executive branch and Senate will remain vacant for the rest of the spring semester and the upcoming summer.

“This is what you would say is f—- around and finding out. We f—- around, and now we’re finding out,” Cockrell said. “There’s nothing any of us up here or any of you out there can do about it.”

Elections for the 62nd administration will take place in fall 2025, which will then fill the vacant positions.

Ten external consultants from similar SGAs of other public colleges will be brought in to give recommendations and advise UH’s SGA on how best to move forward.

“We are looking for advisors at similar types of public sized schools that have a similar SGA structure,” said Legislative branch advisor and Student Center Executive Director Eve Esch. “They’ll review all previous documents, meetings and things like that so we can get everything started back up again in the fall.”

Not all SGA members will be leaving the organization as Judicial branch members and SGA committee representatives will continue to serve.

Because of this, former SGA President Diego Arriaga will continue to serve in the SGA as the student representative on the President’s Task Force.

Student Ambassadors will be selected by administration and be present at orientations to encourage involvement in the fall when the organization resumes normal operations.

Final legislation, bills, decisions

The SGA passed four bills in their last two meetings before the dissolution.

“We had a good run, let’s wrap it up and hope for the best,” Cockrell said at a previous meeting on Mar. 19. “We can lay down and die, or try again.”

The Improving Visibility and Lighting of Emergency Poles on Campus Act was passed. The University will re-wrap the poles in a red color which will turn pink in order to increase visibility of emergency poles on campus. 

The UHPD Transparency and Accountability Act was passed as well, which requires a UHPD report in the first 3 months of every semester regarding crime and how the department plans to address it.

The third bill was The SGA Sexual Emergency Preparedness Act, which would make emergency contraception such as Plan B and condoms available in the SGA offices. 

The SGA would maintain a discreet and accessible system for students to obtain these resources.

The fourth bill passed was the SGA Unlocked Podcast. This will enable the organization to create video podcasts to provide an accessible platform for all members to communicate directly with students.

The bill was passed to provide transparency, insights into ongoing SGA projects and discuss key on-campus issues.

“It’s been a great run. It’s truly been an honor to serve and represent, and I mean that, even if things got cloudy,” Cockrell said. “Maybe more like a thunderstorm.”

Final reports

At the meeting, executive branch members gave their farewell speeches during the final reports.

“I’ve had great times, I’ve had horrible times, but I’m here at the end of it which is something I’m proud of,” Craig said. “At the end of the day, I was here for the students. I wish I could have done ten times more things despite those obstacles.”

Cockrell addressed the senate at the end of the meeting, congratulating SGA members who stayed throughout the administration.

“Everybody hears a plethora of things about SGA, some good, some bad,” Cockrell said. “I want you all to leave this administration and really think that no matter what hardships we faced, you were still here and you were able to represent.”

news@thedailycougar.com

—
““Beaten, battered, bruised”: SGA officially shuts down” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

Wednesday, Mar. 26, the Student Government Association convened for their last Senate meeting. As of now, the 61st administration ceases to exist. 

SGA needed to pass their new constitution with the student body in order to continue operating as an organization. However, despite holding two student referendums, the constitution failed to pass.

“No constitution, no organization,” said former Speaker of the Senate Tav Cockrell. “March 31, the executive offices will be locked. We’re starting the process of clearing our offices out.”

The total student population of the University as of Fall 2024 is 52,516, according to Forbes. 

However, in the final vote, only 457 students participated which constitutes for a low percentage of just 0.87. Out of this, only 188 students voted for passing the constitution. 

What led to the end of 61st Administration

The SGA was put under a mandate by Student Affairs on Nov. 6, 2024, upon receiving a letter authored by Vice President for Student Affairs Paul Kittle. 

This mandate required the organization to create and pass a new set of bylaws and constitution in order to operate as an organization.

The mandate was a result of weakened checks and balances in SGA bylaws and the failure to fill vacant positions in a timely manner.

SGA lifted their mandate on Feb. 12, after 98 days of deliberation, by passing the new bylaws and constitution. However, despite this, the organization still required the student body to approve the constitution.

Since the student body did not pass the constitution, the 61st administration no longer exists.

“I feel beaten, battered and bruised,” said former Vice President Austin Craig. “I hope the organization can continue to grow, and will get where it needs to be in providing for the student body.”

New future of SGA moving forward

SGA’s Executive branch and Senate will remain vacant for the rest of the spring semester and the upcoming summer.

“This is what you would say is f—- around and finding out. We f—- around, and now we’re finding out,” Cockrell said. “There’s nothing any of us up here or any of you out there can do about it.”

Elections for the 62nd administration will take place in fall 2025, which will then fill the vacant positions.

Ten external consultants from similar SGAs of other public colleges will be brought in to give recommendations and advise UH’s SGA on how best to move forward.

“We are looking for advisors at similar types of public sized schools that have a similar SGA structure,” said Legislative branch advisor and Student Center Executive Director Eve Esch. “They’ll review all previous documents, meetings and things like that so we can get everything started back up again in the fall.”

Not all SGA members will be leaving the organization as Judicial branch members and SGA committee representatives will continue to serve.

Because of this, former SGA President Diego Arriaga will continue to serve in the SGA as the student representative on the President’s Task Force.

Student Ambassadors will be selected by administration and be present at orientations to encourage involvement in the fall when the organization resumes normal operations.

Final legislation, bills, decisions

The SGA passed four bills in their last two meetings before the dissolution.

“We had a good run, let’s wrap it up and hope for the best,” Cockrell said at a previous meeting on Mar. 19. “We can lay down and die, or try again.”

The Improving Visibility and Lighting of Emergency Poles on Campus Act was passed. The University will re-wrap the poles in a red color which will turn pink in order to increase visibility of emergency poles on campus. 

The UHPD Transparency and Accountability Act was passed as well, which requires a UHPD report in the first 3 months of every semester regarding crime and how the department plans to address it.

The third bill was The SGA Sexual Emergency Preparedness Act, which would make emergency contraception such as Plan B and condoms available in the SGA offices. 

The SGA would maintain a discreet and accessible system for students to obtain these resources.

The fourth bill passed was the SGA Unlocked Podcast. This will enable the organization to create video podcasts to provide an accessible platform for all members to communicate directly with students.

The bill was passed to provide transparency, insights into ongoing SGA projects and discuss key on-campus issues.

“It’s been a great run. It’s truly been an honor to serve and represent, and I mean that, even if things got cloudy,” Cockrell said. “Maybe more like a thunderstorm.”

Final reports

At the meeting, executive branch members gave their farewell speeches during the final reports.

“I’ve had great times, I’ve had horrible times, but I’m here at the end of it which is something I’m proud of,” Craig said. “At the end of the day, I was here for the students. I wish I could have done ten times more things despite those obstacles.”

Cockrell addressed the senate at the end of the meeting, congratulating SGA members who stayed throughout the administration.

“Everybody hears a plethora of things about SGA, some good, some bad,” Cockrell said. “I want you all to leave this administration and really think that no matter what hardships we faced, you were still here and you were able to represent.”

news@thedailycougar.com

—
““Beaten, battered, bruised”: SGA officially shuts down” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

Wednesday, Mar. 26, the Student Government Association convened for their last Senate meeting. As of now, the 61st administration ceases to exist. 

SGA needed to pass their new constitution with the student body in order to continue operating as an organization. However, despite holding two student referendums, the constitution failed to pass.

“No constitution, no organization,” said former Speaker of the Senate Tav Cockrell. “March 31, the executive offices will be locked. We’re starting the process of clearing our offices out.”

The total student population of the University as of Fall 2024 is 52,516, according to Forbes. 

However, in the final vote, only 457 students participated which constitutes for a low percentage of just 0.87. Out of this, only 188 students voted for passing the constitution. 

What led to the end of 61st Administration

The SGA was put under a mandate by Student Affairs on Nov. 6, 2024, upon receiving a letter authored by Vice President for Student Affairs Paul Kittle. 

This mandate required the organization to create and pass a new set of bylaws and constitution in order to operate as an organization.

The mandate was a result of weakened checks and balances in SGA bylaws and the failure to fill vacant positions in a timely manner.

SGA lifted their mandate on Feb. 12, after 98 days of deliberation, by passing the new bylaws and constitution. However, despite this, the organization still required the student body to approve the constitution.

Since the student body did not pass the constitution, the 61st administration no longer exists.

“I feel beaten, battered and bruised,” said former Vice President Austin Craig. “I hope the organization can continue to grow, and will get where it needs to be in providing for the student body.”

New future of SGA moving forward

SGA’s Executive branch and Senate will remain vacant for the rest of the spring semester and the upcoming summer.

“This is what you would say is f—- around and finding out. We f—- around, and now we’re finding out,” Cockrell said. “There’s nothing any of us up here or any of you out there can do about it.”

Elections for the 62nd administration will take place in fall 2025, which will then fill the vacant positions.

Ten external consultants from similar SGAs of other public colleges will be brought in to give recommendations and advise UH’s SGA on how best to move forward.

“We are looking for advisors at similar types of public sized schools that have a similar SGA structure,” said Legislative branch advisor and Student Center Executive Director Eve Esch. “They’ll review all previous documents, meetings and things like that so we can get everything started back up again in the fall.”

Not all SGA members will be leaving the organization as Judicial branch members and SGA committee representatives will continue to serve.

Because of this, former SGA President Diego Arriaga will continue to serve in the SGA as the student representative on the President’s Task Force.

Student Ambassadors will be selected by administration and be present at orientations to encourage involvement in the fall when the organization resumes normal operations.

Final legislation, bills, decisions

The SGA passed four bills in their last two meetings before the dissolution.

“We had a good run, let’s wrap it up and hope for the best,” Cockrell said at a previous meeting on Mar. 19. “We can lay down and die, or try again.”

The Improving Visibility and Lighting of Emergency Poles on Campus Act was passed. The University will re-wrap the poles in a red color which will turn pink in order to increase visibility of emergency poles on campus. 

The UHPD Transparency and Accountability Act was passed as well, which requires a UHPD report in the first 3 months of every semester regarding crime and how the department plans to address it.

The third bill was The SGA Sexual Emergency Preparedness Act, which would make emergency contraception such as Plan B and condoms available in the SGA offices. 

The SGA would maintain a discreet and accessible system for students to obtain these resources.

The fourth bill passed was the SGA Unlocked Podcast. This will enable the organization to create video podcasts to provide an accessible platform for all members to communicate directly with students.

The bill was passed to provide transparency, insights into ongoing SGA projects and discuss key on-campus issues.

“It’s been a great run. It’s truly been an honor to serve and represent, and I mean that, even if things got cloudy,” Cockrell said. “Maybe more like a thunderstorm.”

Final reports

At the meeting, executive branch members gave their farewell speeches during the final reports.

“I’ve had great times, I’ve had horrible times, but I’m here at the end of it which is something I’m proud of,” Craig said. “At the end of the day, I was here for the students. I wish I could have done ten times more things despite those obstacles.”

Cockrell addressed the senate at the end of the meeting, congratulating SGA members who stayed throughout the administration.

“Everybody hears a plethora of things about SGA, some good, some bad,” Cockrell said. “I want you all to leave this administration and really think that no matter what hardships we faced, you were still here and you were able to represent.”

news@thedailycougar.com

—
““Beaten, battered, bruised”: SGA officially shuts down” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

Wednesday, Mar. 26, the Student Government Association convened for their last Senate meeting. As of now, the 61st administration ceases to exist. 

SGA needed to pass their new constitution with the student body in order to continue operating as an organization. However, despite holding two student referendums, the constitution failed to pass.

“No constitution, no organization,” said former Speaker of the Senate Tav Cockrell. “March 31, the executive offices will be locked. We’re starting the process of clearing our offices out.”

The total student population of the University as of Fall 2024 is 52,516, according to Forbes. 

However, in the final vote, only 457 students participated which constitutes for a low percentage of just 0.87. Out of this, only 188 students voted for passing the constitution. 

What led to the end of 61st Administration

The SGA was put under a mandate by Student Affairs on Nov. 6, 2024, upon receiving a letter authored by Vice President for Student Affairs Paul Kittle. 

This mandate required the organization to create and pass a new set of bylaws and constitution in order to operate as an organization.

The mandate was a result of weakened checks and balances in SGA bylaws and the failure to fill vacant positions in a timely manner.

SGA lifted their mandate on Feb. 12, after 98 days of deliberation, by passing the new bylaws and constitution. However, despite this, the organization still required the student body to approve the constitution.

Since the student body did not pass the constitution, the 61st administration no longer exists.

“I feel beaten, battered and bruised,” said former Vice President Austin Craig. “I hope the organization can continue to grow, and will get where it needs to be in providing for the student body.”

New future of SGA moving forward

SGA’s Executive branch and Senate will remain vacant for the rest of the spring semester and the upcoming summer.

“This is what you would say is f—- around and finding out. We f—- around, and now we’re finding out,” Cockrell said. “There’s nothing any of us up here or any of you out there can do about it.”

Elections for the 62nd administration will take place in fall 2025, which will then fill the vacant positions.

Ten external consultants from similar SGAs of other public colleges will be brought in to give recommendations and advise UH’s SGA on how best to move forward.

“We are looking for advisors at similar types of public sized schools that have a similar SGA structure,” said Legislative branch advisor and Student Center Executive Director Eve Esch. “They’ll review all previous documents, meetings and things like that so we can get everything started back up again in the fall.”

Not all SGA members will be leaving the organization as Judicial branch members and SGA committee representatives will continue to serve.

Because of this, former SGA President Diego Arriaga will continue to serve in the SGA as the student representative on the President’s Task Force.

Student Ambassadors will be selected by administration and be present at orientations to encourage involvement in the fall when the organization resumes normal operations.

Final legislation, bills, decisions

The SGA passed four bills in their last two meetings before the dissolution.

“We had a good run, let’s wrap it up and hope for the best,” Cockrell said at a previous meeting on Mar. 19. “We can lay down and die, or try again.”

The Improving Visibility and Lighting of Emergency Poles on Campus Act was passed. The University will re-wrap the poles in a red color which will turn pink in order to increase visibility of emergency poles on campus. 

The UHPD Transparency and Accountability Act was passed as well, which requires a UHPD report in the first 3 months of every semester regarding crime and how the department plans to address it.

The third bill was The SGA Sexual Emergency Preparedness Act, which would make emergency contraception such as Plan B and condoms available in the SGA offices. 

The SGA would maintain a discreet and accessible system for students to obtain these resources.

The fourth bill passed was the SGA Unlocked Podcast. This will enable the organization to create video podcasts to provide an accessible platform for all members to communicate directly with students.

The bill was passed to provide transparency, insights into ongoing SGA projects and discuss key on-campus issues.

“It’s been a great run. It’s truly been an honor to serve and represent, and I mean that, even if things got cloudy,” Cockrell said. “Maybe more like a thunderstorm.”

Final reports

At the meeting, executive branch members gave their farewell speeches during the final reports.

“I’ve had great times, I’ve had horrible times, but I’m here at the end of it which is something I’m proud of,” Craig said. “At the end of the day, I was here for the students. I wish I could have done ten times more things despite those obstacles.”

Cockrell addressed the senate at the end of the meeting, congratulating SGA members who stayed throughout the administration.

“Everybody hears a plethora of things about SGA, some good, some bad,” Cockrell said. “I want you all to leave this administration and really think that no matter what hardships we faced, you were still here and you were able to represent.”

news@thedailycougar.com

—
““Beaten, battered, bruised”: SGA officially shuts down” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

Wednesday, Mar. 26, the Student Government Association convened for their last Senate meeting. As of now, the 61st administration ceases to exist. 

SGA needed to pass their new constitution with the student body in order to continue operating as an organization. However, despite holding two student referendums, the constitution failed to pass.

“No constitution, no organization,” said former Speaker of the Senate Tav Cockrell. “March 31, the executive offices will be locked. We’re starting the process of clearing our offices out.”

The total student population of the University as of Fall 2024 is 52,516, according to Forbes. 

However, in the final vote, only 457 students participated which constitutes for a low percentage of just 0.87. Out of this, only 188 students voted for passing the constitution. 

What led to the end of 61st Administration

The SGA was put under a mandate by Student Affairs on Nov. 6, 2024, upon receiving a letter authored by Vice President for Student Affairs Paul Kittle. 

This mandate required the organization to create and pass a new set of bylaws and constitution in order to operate as an organization.

The mandate was a result of weakened checks and balances in SGA bylaws and the failure to fill vacant positions in a timely manner.

SGA lifted their mandate on Feb. 12, after 98 days of deliberation, by passing the new bylaws and constitution. However, despite this, the organization still required the student body to approve the constitution.

Since the student body did not pass the constitution, the 61st administration no longer exists.

“I feel beaten, battered and bruised,” said former Vice President Austin Craig. “I hope the organization can continue to grow, and will get where it needs to be in providing for the student body.”

New future of SGA moving forward

SGA’s Executive branch and Senate will remain vacant for the rest of the spring semester and the upcoming summer.

“This is what you would say is f—- around and finding out. We f—- around, and now we’re finding out,” Cockrell said. “There’s nothing any of us up here or any of you out there can do about it.”

Elections for the 62nd administration will take place in fall 2025, which will then fill the vacant positions.

Ten external consultants from similar SGAs of other public colleges will be brought in to give recommendations and advise UH’s SGA on how best to move forward.

“We are looking for advisors at similar types of public sized schools that have a similar SGA structure,” said Legislative branch advisor and Student Center Executive Director Eve Esch. “They’ll review all previous documents, meetings and things like that so we can get everything started back up again in the fall.”

Not all SGA members will be leaving the organization as Judicial branch members and SGA committee representatives will continue to serve.

Because of this, former SGA President Diego Arriaga will continue to serve in the SGA as the student representative on the President’s Task Force.

Student Ambassadors will be selected by administration and be present at orientations to encourage involvement in the fall when the organization resumes normal operations.

Final legislation, bills, decisions

The SGA passed four bills in their last two meetings before the dissolution.

“We had a good run, let’s wrap it up and hope for the best,” Cockrell said at a previous meeting on Mar. 19. “We can lay down and die, or try again.”

The Improving Visibility and Lighting of Emergency Poles on Campus Act was passed. The University will re-wrap the poles in a red color which will turn pink in order to increase visibility of emergency poles on campus. 

The UHPD Transparency and Accountability Act was passed as well, which requires a UHPD report in the first 3 months of every semester regarding crime and how the department plans to address it.

The third bill was The SGA Sexual Emergency Preparedness Act, which would make emergency contraception such as Plan B and condoms available in the SGA offices. 

The SGA would maintain a discreet and accessible system for students to obtain these resources.

The fourth bill passed was the SGA Unlocked Podcast. This will enable the organization to create video podcasts to provide an accessible platform for all members to communicate directly with students.

The bill was passed to provide transparency, insights into ongoing SGA projects and discuss key on-campus issues.

“It’s been a great run. It’s truly been an honor to serve and represent, and I mean that, even if things got cloudy,” Cockrell said. “Maybe more like a thunderstorm.”

Final reports

At the meeting, executive branch members gave their farewell speeches during the final reports.

“I’ve had great times, I’ve had horrible times, but I’m here at the end of it which is something I’m proud of,” Craig said. “At the end of the day, I was here for the students. I wish I could have done ten times more things despite those obstacles.”

Cockrell addressed the senate at the end of the meeting, congratulating SGA members who stayed throughout the administration.

“Everybody hears a plethora of things about SGA, some good, some bad,” Cockrell said. “I want you all to leave this administration and really think that no matter what hardships we faced, you were still here and you were able to represent.”

news@thedailycougar.com

—
““Beaten, battered, bruised”: SGA officially shuts down” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

On Feb. 19, the Student Government Association convened for a special session. This is the first meeting since SGA fulfilled the requirements to lift their mandate.

At the meeting, SGA discussed a frustrating meeting with the police chief that Chief of Staff Daniela Gonzales was removed from, and new UHPD security measures including drones and senator removals.

Additionally, SGA’s new constitution will be presented to the student body on Feb. 25 and end on Feb. 27.

Meeting with Police Chief Ceaser Moore

Recently, the SGA’s safety and security committee met with Moore in order to discuss security proposals and recent crimes on campus.

SGA had several complaints regarding the meeting, including repeated questioning over their pepper spray contract, the removal of Gonzales from the meeting and perceived disrespect.

“I’m quite frustrated. Not the kind of meeting I was expecting,” said SGA President Diego Arriaga. “We got to talk for all of 15 minutes.”

SGA has recently secured a contract in order to provide 1,500 pepper sprays for students. The funding comes from a recent $63,235 donation from Harris County DA, of which approximately $40,000 of the funds are to go towards prevention items, including pepper spray.

Upon discussion with Moore, SGA was repeatedly questioned about the contract, said Arriaga and Vice President Austin Craig.

“I have never seen them give a thing to help the students on this campus in terms of self-defense, and when we do it, we get questioned for about ten minutes,” Craig said. “It was ridiculous.”

Instead of recognizing SGA’s efforts in providing a self-defense tool, Moore immediately questioned if the contract was cleared, said Arriaga.

“Some of those questions I understand. Distribution, I understand. Maybe asking the legality as well,” Arriaga said. “But when Daniela clarified the process, that was when Chief Moore kicked Daniela out of the meeting.”

However, Arriaga mentioned that Moore stated the meeting was closed-door, meaning only the president and vice president were allowed inside the meeting, even though Gonzales and Speaker of the Senate Tav Cockrell were invited. 

Gonzales and Cockrell were listed on the Microsoft Teams calendar invite, and Gonzales continued receiving messages from the meeting’s chat even after her removal from the in-person meeting.

“I think it’s silly, the amount of arrogance he possesses to say ‘bring issues to me’ and decide not to listen to people,” Craig said. 

This senate meeting follows a previous meeting on Feb. 12 where SGA voiced concerns about being unable to secure a meeting with Moore.

While suggesting ideas, Arriaga and Craig perceived that he was not listening to them. When they asked for improved security, Moore felt offended and counter-attacked them.

“He said don’t you ever say you want to improve because that means their security is not good. Say to increase it.” Craig said. “Our first meeting ever, those were his words.”

New UHPD security measures

UHPD has recently hired two drone pilots and UHPD will be able to use manually piloted drones on campus. The drones are a permanent new security measure implemented by UHPD, said Arriaga.

The drones will be equipped with cameras.

“Now they have overwatch capability and pursuit capabilities on staff,” Arriaga said.

UHPD is also implementing a virtual escort through the UHGO app, where UHPD will track your phone and escort you virtually. The app will feature a panic button that will trigger a UHPD response.

Additionally, UHPD has increased its number of patrols, hired more officers and rented additional golf carts for officer transportation.

Senator removals

SGA has removed five senators since the lifting of their mandate. All removals were related to eligibility, said Cockrell.

While under their mandate, the SGA was unable to address any SGA affairs including removing and adding new senators until they had passed a new constitution and bylaws.

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“SGA holds first Senate meeting after lifting mandate: Discuss Moore, security drones” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

On Feb. 19, the Student Government Association convened for a special session. This is the first meeting since SGA fulfilled the requirements to lift their mandate.

At the meeting, SGA discussed a frustrating meeting with the police chief that Chief of Staff Daniela Gonzales was removed from, and new UHPD security measures including drones and senator removals.

Additionally, SGA’s new constitution will be presented to the student body on Feb. 25 and end on Feb. 27.

Meeting with Police Chief Ceaser Moore

Recently, the SGA’s safety and security committee met with Moore in order to discuss security proposals and recent crimes on campus.

SGA had several complaints regarding the meeting, including repeated questioning over their pepper spray contract, the removal of Gonzales from the meeting and perceived disrespect.

“I’m quite frustrated. Not the kind of meeting I was expecting,” said SGA President Diego Arriaga. “We got to talk for all of 15 minutes.”

SGA has recently secured a contract in order to provide 1,500 pepper sprays for students. The funding comes from a recent $63,235 donation from Harris County DA, of which approximately $40,000 of the funds are to go towards prevention items, including pepper spray.

Upon discussion with Moore, SGA was repeatedly questioned about the contract, said Arriaga and Vice President Austin Craig.

“I have never seen them give a thing to help the students on this campus in terms of self-defense, and when we do it, we get questioned for about ten minutes,” Craig said. “It was ridiculous.”

Instead of recognizing SGA’s efforts in providing a self-defense tool, Moore immediately questioned if the contract was cleared, said Arriaga.

“Some of those questions I understand. Distribution, I understand. Maybe asking the legality as well,” Arriaga said. “But when Daniela clarified the process, that was when Chief Moore kicked Daniela out of the meeting.”

However, Arriaga mentioned that Moore stated the meeting was closed-door, meaning only the president and vice president were allowed inside the meeting, even though Gonzales and Speaker of the Senate Tav Cockrell were invited. 

Gonzales and Cockrell were listed on the Microsoft Teams calendar invite, and Gonzales continued receiving messages from the meeting’s chat even after her removal from the in-person meeting.

“I think it’s silly, the amount of arrogance he possesses to say ‘bring issues to me’ and decide not to listen to people,” Craig said. 

This senate meeting follows a previous meeting on Feb. 12 where SGA voiced concerns about being unable to secure a meeting with Moore.

While suggesting ideas, Arriaga and Craig perceived that he was not listening to them. When they asked for improved security, Moore felt offended and counter-attacked them.

“He said don’t you ever say you want to improve because that means their security is not good. Say to increase it.” Craig said. “Our first meeting ever, those were his words.”

New UHPD security measures

UHPD has recently hired two drone pilots and UHPD will be able to use manually piloted drones on campus. The drones are a permanent new security measure implemented by UHPD, said Arriaga.

The drones will be equipped with cameras.

“Now they have overwatch capability and pursuit capabilities on staff,” Arriaga said.

UHPD is also implementing a virtual escort through the UHGO app, where UHPD will track your phone and escort you virtually. The app will feature a panic button that will trigger a UHPD response.

Additionally, UHPD has increased its number of patrols, hired more officers and rented additional golf carts for officer transportation.

Senator removals

SGA has removed five senators since the lifting of their mandate. All removals were related to eligibility, said Cockrell.

While under their mandate, the SGA was unable to address any SGA affairs including removing and adding new senators until they had passed a new constitution and bylaws.

news@thedailycougar.com

—
“SGA holds first Senate meeting after lifting mandate: Discuss Moore, security drones” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

On Feb. 12, the Student Government Association convened for a student forum and the regularly scheduled bi-weekly Senate meeting.

The Senate passed their new constitution, successfully lifting a mandate the organization had been under since Nov. 6, 2024. They also addressed several changes from their new bylaws.

Additionally, SGA members addressed student security concerns through an open forum and suggested several security proposals.

SGA passes constitution

Previously, the organization had successfully passed their bylaws at a previous meeting on Feb. 5. However, their constitution did not pass with an 18-24 vote.

Several speeches were given by Senators and executive branch members stressing the importance of lifting their mandate in order to write legislation to improve campus safety.

“Let us help our University, let us make a safe campus for the students that we represent,” said Sen. Lauren Wiliford. “If we pass the constitution today, we can do that by continuing to write important legislation.”

At the meeting on Feb. 14, they passed the constitution in an almost unanimous 21-2 vote.

By passing their new constitution, SGA ended the 98 day long mandate, and is now able to address other affairs. Immediately following passing the constitution, SGA put up a bill for a first read.

Security proposals

At the meeting, SGA members suggested several security proposals in order to improve campus safety.

Chief of Staff Daniela Gonzales proposed increased security cameras, especially in the garages. They recommended painting emergency call boxes blue, which are currently red and blend in with UH’s surroundings. 

Additionally, a proposal of placing cameras on the poles of the call boxes was also made. These cameras would start recording as soon as the emergency button is pressed. 

Texas Southern University, University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University have all implemented a camera system on their call boxes, Gonzales said.

Gonzales also proposed to have a UHPD officer patrolling in the Student Centers during late hours, as several organizations may be in the buildings as late as midnight, including SGA Senate meetings that can last until 11:00 p.m. 

Security changes currently in effect spurred by SGA include the acceleration of the Campus Lighting Project, marketed self defense classes that will be temporarily free for students and the ordering of pepper spray and personal alarm kits for students.

Student forum

SGA hosted a student forum before their senate meeting, encouraging students and SGA members to voice their concerns.

Several students expressed concerns about a perceived lack of UHPD presence, recent crimes on campus and poor campus lighting.

“Serious security measures should’ve happened back then [Referring to the Moody Robbery incident], why does something tragic have to happen for them to be implemented?” said Sen. Ivan Leonard. “I hope we can utilize what was shared today to advocate for change.”

TSU collaboration, UHPD communication issues

The organization has met with Texas Southern University’s SGA, Student Regent, Judicial Advisor and are scheduled to meet their police chief this week. 

SGA members toured TSU’s campus, noting important safety features that UH lacks and unifying the two campuses, both located in Houston’s Third Ward.

“TSU is being really supportive. We got to tour their campus, see the things they’ve done for their safety and we want to bring it to our campus,” Gonzales said. “So those are the things we proposed today in a meeting with the Vice President of Student Affairs and Vice president of Administration and Finance.”

The SGA has been attempting to meet with UHPD Chief Ceasar Moore for several days, and have instead been redirected to Assistant Chief Chandra Johnson and Senior Vice President for Administration and Finance Raymond Bartlett, according to Vice President Austin Craig.

“Why must another man speak for him?” Craig said. “We were able to establish communication with the TSU chief ten times easier, and I want to ask: Where the hell is Chief Moore?”

Bylaws changes

Working under their new bylaws, the SGA faces several changes. Speaker of the Senate Tav Cockrell addressed several new changes in the meeting.

The SGA has now implemented a warning system for offenses by SGA members, preventing sudden firings. 

This was because of an earlier incident in the year involving the termination of former Director of Outreach Bryanna Nimmons which resulted in impeachment recommendations for President Diego Arriaga and Craig.

“Everybody remembers Termination Gate, earlier in the year,” Cockrell said. “It is coded now that there has to be an offense system in place so nobody’s getting fired without warnings moving forward.”

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“SGA ends mandate, proposes campus safety upgrades” was originally posted on The Cougar

Jose Gonzalez-Campelo/The Cougar

On Feb. 5, the Student Government Association convened for a special session to vote on new bylaws and constitution. 

The Senate passed their new bylaws in a 20-10 vote. However, they failed to pass their constitution in an 18-24 vote.

As a result, the organization still remains under a mandate and will be unable to address any other SGA affairs until they pass their new constitution.

Election postponed

Since the SGA still remains under a mandate, the organization’s 2025 SGA elections are postponed.

At this time, the organization is unable to schedule an election date or make appointments, including appointing an election commissioner, until they agree to pass the new constitution.

If the Senate fails to pass the new constitution by the end of 61st administration’s term, the Director of the Center for Student Involvement will oversee SGA’s 2025 elections.

Senate passes bylaws, fails to pass constitution

The Senate passed their new bylaws successfully in a 20-10 vote, meeting the minimum threshold of 20 votes needed to pass the bylaws.

“We are a University sponsored organization. We have to do what the University tells us to do,” said Sen. Lauren Williford. “If we don’t pass this, we don’t continue.”

The Senate failed to agree on the updated constitution, falling 5 votes short of the required 3/4th Senate majority.

During the Jan. 29 meeting, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Paul Kittle clarified that the Senate can write a new constitution and bylaws; however, it would require his approval.

“The executive branch is representative of the student body. It was my decision that instead of meeting with just the president, we’d meet with the three branches’ leaders,” Kittle said during the meeting on Jan. 29. “The thought was to have it drafted, give it to the Senate and then let them edit.”

Attorney General’s appointment considered void

At the meeting, Karla Landa shared with the Senate that their appointment as Attorney General on Nov. 25 is considered void.

“Any nominations made prior to the drafting and ratification of a Constitution and Bylaws that establish a multi-branch governing body with appropriate checks and balances will need to be voided,” said Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Keith Kowalka in an email sent to Landa on Jan. 30.

Landa had been giving the Attorney Generals’s reports since the Senate voted to appoint her.

“They’re telling me I’m not Attorney General anymore, which is weird,” Landa said. “I was here three weeks ago, the advisors knew I was here. I gave a report as the Attorney General as well.”

Earlier, SGA had been given a deadline to fill their vacant Attorney General position by Jan. 31, 2025 in a letter delivered to the organization on Nov. 6, 2024.

However, since the Senate did not pass a new constitution and bylaws before then, they have been unable to fill positions, including the Attorney General position.

“I went through three different processes to get where I am. I had an interview, gave a speech and 75% of the Senate had to vote me in,” Landa said. “I did all of that to be told I am no longer Attorney General.”

news@thedailycougar.com

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“SGA to postpone 2025 elections as organization remains under mandate” was originally posted on The Cougar