Worcester Student Government Association To Hold First Annual Conference

On April 12, 2014, the Worcester Student Government Association (WSGA) will hold its first annual conference. The aim of the conference is  to challenge students to develop a deeper insight into Worcester, share best practices among student governments, and elect officers for the 2014-2015 year of the WSGA. The conference will take place at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute Campus Center from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., with 10 colleges and universities in the Worcester area registered.

The conference will open with a general assembly where WPI staff will welcome attendees, followed by an update from WSGA President Neema Hakim, a senior at the College of the Holy Cross, regarding the state of the association. Students will then hear from State Rep. Daniel Donahue, D-Worcester,  and a 2009 graduate of Holy Cross, who will deliver the keynote address. The general assembly will close with speeches from all candidates pursuing an officer position within the WSGA. Candidates are competing for the positions of WSGA President, Vice President, and Clerk. There are currently three students running for President, three students running for Vice President, and one student running for Clerk.

Following speeches, students will divide up to participate in “Worcester 101” workshops where local leaders, including Mayor Joe Petty and Worcester Regional Research Bureau Executive Director Tim McGourthy, will present on the history, culture, and future outlook of Worcester. After the first round of workshops, students will attend sessions which focus on topics relating to student government. Between workshops there will be 30 minutes for each delegation of students to gather and vote for next year’s officers. Following the second workshop, all attendees will reconvene and the winners of the WSGA election will be announced.

The WSGA is an intercollegiate organization which brings student leaders from colleges in the Worcester area together to advocate for collective student interests. The WSGA has worked with the Chamber and the City to survey college campuses to identify retailers that would draw students downtown. The organization has also been meeting with the Worcester Regional Transit Authority to promote more accessible public transportation for students. The organization is partnered with the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce. The conference is sponsored by the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce.

by Neema Hakim '14