SGA brings officials together to answer student questions

BY ALLIE FALK / VN STAFF WRITER

Student Government Association hosted a Town Hall event on Nov. 18.

Although SGA has weekly meetings, this was the first time that the university had a meeting with so many administrators in one room actively hearing and addressing student concerns and questions.

Many changes have occurred in the past two years at Detroit Mercy and other universities since the pandemic.

Not only have the changes already taken place, but new ones arise daily.

These changes (or desired changes) were discussed to help the community better maintain a safe university.

“The event was intended as a way for students to voice their opinions and concerns directly with administration and faculty,” said SGA President Matt Hutnick, a senior.

Many student concerns were related to internet reliability on campus, food policies, parking issues and library questions.

The panel consisted of university President Antoine Garibaldi, Provost Pam Zarkowski and representatives from facilities, public safety, IT, the library, resident life, university services and dining.

“It was a huge success,” said Hutnick, who will be stepping down in December.

Using the SGA online form, participants collected questions and concerns from students ahead of time.

SGA submitted the questions in proper order to the panel, in order to flow nicely.

“The panel was very open to answering questions, and did the best they could,” said Hutnick. “It was very informative, and everyone was super involved which was nice.”

The meeting lasted for about an hour and fifteen minutes.

Below are only questions that were addressed.

To see all of the Q&As, visit@detoritmrcy_sga on Instagram and check out the “Town Hall” highlight.

Information technology

Q: The internet on campus has been unreliable. Is this something that is being addressed?

A: All the fiber cords around campus are being upgraded and installed. The issue was caused from outside service since April 2021.

Facility operations

Q: When are Fisher and Reno buildings being knocked down?

A: Fisher: 2023. Reno: 2024.

Library

Q: Can more charging ports be added to allow students to charge their devices in the library?

A: Yes, they will explore further options for doing so in a safe manner.