The new executive branch and senators serving in the 2001 Student Government Association officially took office Tuesday at the SGA inauguration.
The ceremony served the dual purpose of commending the exiting executives and senators as well as recognizing next year’s representatives of the student body.
SGA advisor Dr. Sally Lee honored the departing executive branch that consisted of President Derreck Whitson, Vice President Jonathan Fields and Secretary/Treasurer Ashley Peake.
“It is a distinct honor to recognize this executive branch,” Lee said. “They have done a tremendous job working on behalf of the students, faculty and staff here at ETSU.”
Whitson was applauded for his work as a representative for the student body.
“He’s really done a good job,” Lee said.
She recalled Whitson’s “courageous effort” this winter when he wrote to all faculty members informing them of the rampant illnesses from which many students were suffering and urging professors to take this into consideration in regard to their attendance policies.
“This is indicative of the kind of thought Derreck brought to the job,” Lee said.
In his farewell address, Whitson said that he, Fields and Peake were not sad.
“We’re excited,” he said. “Excited to be moving on and excited to see new, fresh ideas coming in.”
Whitson spoke of the adversity he and the other executives dealt with this year such as low numbers of senators, lack of cabinet members and the student discount card dilemma.
In addition, he also highlighted some of the improvements the university experienced, such as refining of the 606 allocation process, the increased participation in Homecoming and sporting events, and the creation of an SGA website as a means of better communication between the students and the government.
The new executives and many senators expressed their eagerness to begin work for next year. “I’m really looking forward to working with the senate and with students,” President Chad Reed said. “I’m going to do the best I can.”
New Senators Jennifer Smith of the College of Business and Shelley Brown of the College of Education also expressed the desire to get started.
“I just think this is a really good chance to get involved,” Brown said.
“I’m looking forward to finding out what goes on in SGA and exactly how student government works,” Smith said.
In addition to the swearing in of the new body, awards were given to students who, in some way, had done an outstanding job while serving their term in the SGA.
Adam Moore was named Associate Justice of the Year, and Natasha Adams received recognition as Senator of the Year. Cabinet Member of the Year went to Attorney General Chad Greene. Also, Sen. Chris Ziegler received the Dr. Dorman G. Stout Excellence in Service Award for his work with 606 allocations.
Lee said she is anticipating seeing “the growth in leadership and learning” the new SGA will undergo. “I’m eager to get started,” she said. “I think we’re going to have a positive transition for next year.

Author