The Associated Student Government (ASG) at a prominent university recently embraced the Halloween spirit during their weekly meeting, showcasing a lively display of costumes, candy, and the appointment of members to the Board of Financial Review (BOFR). This event, known as "Hallosenate," highlighted the creativity and enthusiasm of the student government, as they balanced their official duties with a touch of seasonal fun.

Unleashing Creativity and Celebrating Diversity

Costume Contests and Camaraderie

The Hallosenate meeting kicked off with a spirited costume contest, where senators donned an array of creative and imaginative outfits. From beloved cartoon characters like Alvin and the Chipmunks to historical figures such as Alexander Hamilton, the senators showcased their Halloween spirit with enthusiasm. The competition was fierce, with senators vying for the top prizes of Barnes & Noble gift cards: $75 for first place, $50 for second, and $25 for third.Weinberg freshman Maddie Vartanian emerged victorious, dazzling the crowd with her spot-on portrayal of Hamilton. Vartanian, a self-proclaimed "Hamilton fan to [her] root," was thrilled to don the costume and eagerly anticipates using her gift card to browse the shelves of Barnes & Noble. Alongside Vartanian, SESP sophomore Britney Perez and McCormick sophomore Diego Oliva secured second place as the dynamic duo of Dora the Explorer and Diego, while Weinberg freshman Rayan Lahlou-Nabil claimed third place as a banana.

Fostering Inclusivity and Representation

The Hallosenate event not only showcased the senators' creativity but also highlighted the diversity within the student government. Weinberg freshman and senator Nonso Onwaeze accepted a position on the BOFR, expressing his desire to ensure that every student organization on campus feels heard and represented. Onwaeze emphasized his commitment to ensuring "equality for all student organizations" and working closely with his BOFR colleagues to allocate funds in a fair and impactful manner.

Strengthening the Funding Process

Alongside the festive costume contest, the ASG Senate also tackled the important task of appointing members to the BOFR. This board plays a crucial role in the funding process, meeting with student organizations to help them prepare their funding pitches and making recommendations to the Student Activities Finance Committee (SAFC) about allocations.Weinberg junior and Speaker of the Senate, Grace Houren, highlighted the changes implemented this year to streamline the funding process. Previously, funding applications opened just a day or two before the Funding Senate, leaving little time for review. This year, the applications will close a week earlier, allowing the Senate more time to thoroughly assess the requests and ensure a fair allocation of funds.Houren emphasized the importance of this process, noting that "for a while, funding Senate was a really scary thing for everyone involved." By introducing more accountability and a more thoughtful approach, the ASG aims to create a smoother and more transparent funding experience for student organizations.

Prioritizing Sustainability and Impact

According to Houren, the ASG's funding allocation process is guided by a focus on impact and sustainability. The BOFR and the Senate carefully evaluate how the requested funds will influence student activities and whether the purchases will be environmentally friendly. This holistic approach ensures that the allocated resources are not only meeting the immediate needs of student organizations but also contributing to the long-term success and sustainability of campus initiatives.

Empowering Student Voices

The Hallosenate event and the subsequent BOFR appointments demonstrate the ASG's commitment to empowering student voices and fostering a collaborative environment. By providing opportunities for senators to showcase their creativity and engage in the funding process, the ASG is cultivating a sense of ownership and investment among the student body.Nonso Onwaeze's appointment to the BOFR exemplifies this ethos, as he expressed his desire to ensure that all student organizations feel heard and represented. This emphasis on inclusivity and equal access to resources reflects the ASG's broader mission to serve the diverse needs of the campus community.As the academic year progresses, the ASG's efforts to streamline the funding process and prioritize sustainability and impact will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the student experience. The Hallosenate event, with its blend of festive fun and serious business, serves as a testament to the ASG's ability to balance tradition, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of the student body.