ETSU’s Student Government Association has been hard at work since the election last spring. With a passion for renovation, expansion and inclusion of all members of the Buccaneer family, they have set their fall semester plans in motion.

“First and foremost, serving our students…whether I can help one individual get more financial aid or help all 15,000 students, I will fight to better the lives of all Bucs,” said SGA President Mason Mosier about what he is most looking forward to this semester.

He also expressed excitement for turning on the Christmas lights this December and preparing to speak at graduation.

SGA is planning to implement internships and the opportunity for independent studies in every major. This is intended to pave paths for students going into career fields where prior job experience is required, despite being a new graduate.

Mental health is a core focus this year, with a push to create an area designated for positive debriefing. To accomplish this, SGA is striving to build a dog park on campus. The goal is to create healthy bonding experiences between students and their furry friends.

One of the larger hopes for campus is what Mosier describes as “a first-of-its-kind parking garage”. By partnering with the city, SGA is hoping to create a parking garage that can take students and community members downtown through a system of trams.

This would be the first time that access to downtown Johnson City would be attainable 24/7 for students using the public transportation system. Access during set times is currently provided for free with a fixed route through Johnson City Transit.

The new semester will also come with a few setbacks. Due to staffing issues, alcohol will not be immediately available at football games, but this is set to change before the end of the season.

Taco Bell has also been delayed as a result of a supply chain shortage, and Buccaneer Burgers is temporarily holding its place. SGA has been actively working to resolve these concerns, and continuing to listen to the feedback of students.

“The best is yet to come. No matter what, our best days are ahead of us,” said Mosier. “Without you, the student, this campus would not be here. Never forget that. What you want to see happen is the responsibility of all future SGA’s, University faculty and staff, and University executives…you have more power than you will ever know as one individual student.”

Author