Cassidy Engels
Student Government Association President Cassidy Engels, a Ferris State University junior in Medical Laboratory Science from Otsego, said there is much to do during the Spring 2023 semester. Among her to-do list items are welcoming new members and building interest for their signature activity, The BIG Event.
Engels assumed the duties as president after MaeLynn Huhn graduated in December 2022. She advanced to the presidency from her previous role as vice president.
“I have been involved with Student Government since my freshman year,” Engels said. “It is my privilege to continue efforts to build interest in Student Government, which means having more representatives from registered student organizations and students with Panhellenic, Black Greek Council and Interfraternity Council groups.”
This call to take part is succeeding, Engels said.
“We have initiated more members to this point than at any time in my Student Government experience,” Cassidy said. “It is very encouraging for myself and my peers on the executive board.”
Student Government has hosted The Big Event for over a decade, a one-day springtime community service project across Big Rapids. However, the organization has faced obstacles such as COVID-19 and inclement weather. Engels said Student Government has a positive outlook, including fundraising for a local nonprofit.
“We are hoping for the most successful Big Event in the last five years this spring,” Engels said. “That includes scheduling a kickoff event soon, which we believe will put this opportunity and emphasis on participation before more of our student body and campus groups. We hope this cookout on the North Quad serves as a fun way to get involved and brings in some support for the Hope House Free Medical Clinic in Big Rapids.”
Another initiative and point of pride for Engels and the Student Government Association is the Student Activity Fund Allocation Committee’s support distribution for on-campus events, presentations, and entertainment.
“We are excited by the level of activity our RSOs and other groups have brought, seeking assistance from the Student Activity Fund,” Engels said. “Student Government made a point of reaching out to identify and encourage access to this opportunity and the response has surpassed our expectations.”
Student Government Association meetings are Tuesday nights in the ballrooms of the David L. Eisler Center, at 6:30 p.m.