Graham will complete Stephens’ term for spring semester

By Edward Jennings, Staff Writer

Published in print Jan 14, 2015.

As members of UNC-Greensboro’s Student Government Association (SGA) prepare to begin legislation for the second-half of the academic year, the association is in for a few changes as it welcomes new president, Joseph Graham, to lead it through the months ahead. 

Graham, who was vice-president under President Simone Stephens last semester, was sworn in Tuesday due to Stephens’ decision to leave office, citing personal reasons as the cause of her departure.

Per the SGA Constitution, during circumstances in which the president is unwilling or unable to complete his or her term, the vice-president is obligated to finish the academic year, acting in the capacity of president.

Graham does not have to run for the position; however, should he wish to continue next year as president he will be required to run for office.

Brittany Hudson will act as interim vice-president until special elections, which will take place this month, help select the official vice-president.

As Graham prepares to take on his new position, he spoke with The Carolinian about some of last semester’s achievements and this semester’s plans.

Last semester, Graham says the SGA was working on connecting with UNCG’S student body.

One of the ways SGA tried to achieve this was by going into the cafeteria and serving food to the students.

SGA members passed out surveys during the cafeteria visit in an attempt to see what changes students want.

Graham says the thoughts and suggestions that were submitted by the students are going to be viewed and acted upon this spring semester.

Additionally, a forum on transportation was held to assist students with questions about the HEAT Bus, GTA, Spartan Chariot, walking, biking and even skateboarding. 

“Parking was the biggest issue discussed,” Graham explained. 

A financial literacy forum was also held to prepare students for finances while in college, as well as after college.

“There were a couple of things that we did last semester that I felt were good, as far as going out and publicly acknowledging students and presenting information that people need to know, such as finances, which I think people kind of forget about, unfortunately,” Graham said.

“I know I take out loans,” he continued, “I’m just like any other student.”

With the new semester here, SGA is looking to showcase UNCG’s motto, “Do something bigger altogether.”

There are plans for a SGA week in order to introduce the association and make students more aware of it as a whole.

In response to the spike in the number of sexual assault cases on campus, the association is also considering hosting self-defense classes.

Graham also touched on how he felt the cafeteria needed more school spirit. 

“Instead of the plain white walls, why not a mural,” he said.

Graham is considering a mural competition for UNCG students to determine the creator of the possible cafeteria mural.

Graham isn’t just taking on responsibilities as the new SGA president, is also the representative of undergraduate students on the chancellor search committee.

Though some issues are confidential, Graham was able to say that he, himself, is looking for a candidate that is relatable and will be more involved with the students.

“Overall, I just want someone who is going to help us grow, expand as a campus and expand as a university,” Graham said.

Graham also welcomes the idea of students telling him what they would like in a new chancellor.

Students will have the chance to voice their opinions formally at a student forum Jan. 20 at 5:00 p.m. in Cone Ballroom A of the Elliot University Center.