SGA holds final meeting of semester, welcomes new association
Illinois State University’s Student Government Association (SGA) held its last meeting of the semester on Wednesday. It was the first meeting of the new association.New leadership positions were elected internally within the legislative branch. They also appointed three secretaries, four senators and confirmed five ex officio.Off-Campus Senator, Emma Susami, ran for speaker of the assembly, a position which was formerly known as president of the assembly. “I’m passionate about making a difference both within and outside of [SGA] meetings,” Susami said. “I see the position of the speaker of the assembly to be one that focuses on the efficiency and teamwork of the association. I also would like to hold all of you accountable for the work that you have signed yourself up for.” Susami elaborated that she would perform random check-ins to ensure that association members are actively involved. Pride Representative Vincent Smock spoke about their experiences with Susami. “Emma was one of the first SGA members that I met in the fall…she is absolutely a ball of energy,” Smock said. “She knows exactly what she is doing. Emma is one of the most organized and competent people I’ve ever met.” Susami was elected to be the secretary of the assembly with 99% of the vote. Student Life Senator, Abhijith Jannu, ran for vice speaker of the assembly. “As vice speaker, I want to focus on our contact with constituents, trying to make it less robotic and more real. Too often, we see these types of constituents like check boxes, and I want us to start having more person-to-person conversations, getting to know what students care about and not just sending them forms or surveys which they more often ignore,” Jannu said. Cardinal Court Senator, Edgar Chavez, praised Jannu. “I worked very closely with Senator Jannu in the days leading up to diversity week,” Chavez said. “He’s a very hard worker. I spoke to him early on when he talked about running for vice president of the assembly and it is something that he is very passionate about.” Jannu was elected to be vice president of the assembly with 99% of the vote. College of Business Senator Joshua Sweedler ran for secretary of the assembly. “I believe my experience, preparation and dedication make me a strong fit for this role,” Sweedler said. “To prepare for this position, I’ve met with former secretary [Ella Sharp] multiple times where she generously walked me through the expectations of the role and shared the strategies that contributed to her success. Thanks to those conversations, I feel well equipped to take on [the] responsibilities and serve the assembly.” College of Fine Arts and College of Nursing Senator Angel Trader commended Sweedler’s organizational habits. “[Josh and I] came into the association together, and let me tell you, he’s a very organized person. I always joke about stealing his notes and stuff; he literally sits here and takes notes about everything,” Trader said. Sweedler was elected as secretary of the assembly with 100% of the vote. Ross Vancil was appointed as the secretary of college affordability. “He really taught me a lot about student government, and he was able to answer all my questions,” said Watterson senator Lennon Stoner. “He’s really nice [and] he would always ask me about his events and things that I think [could] be better. He always cared about hearing another opinion, even if it was something he thought was already perfect.” Evan Nelson was appointed as the secretary of information technology. “He’s quick, efficient and he’s doing a lot of good work with the messy website he was handed,” said Off-Campus Senator Matthew Rickey. Jovana Emerick was appointed as the secretary of public relations. “She has been a phenomenal PR secretary,” said Sweedler. “Every single event—especially the SGA ones—she shows up, takes as many pictures as possible and she gets those posts out as soon as possible. She does a great job speaking to people on campus.” Student Body President Noah Montoya also briefly spoke about a shooting at ISU last Sunday during his executive report. “I want to start this off by taking a moment to acknowledge a recent act of violence that occurred on campus Sunday evening,” Montoya said. Although the incident was isolated, its impact has been deeply felt across our student body. Some members of our student body were nearby, witnessed the aftermath or are feeling shaken.” Four senators were also appointed: Off-Campus Senator Matthew Rickey, Off-Campus Senator Miguel Figueroa-Fragoso, Off-Campus Senator Mikalya Blum and Education Senator Ella Pettit. Additionally, five ex officio were confirmed with Emily Cardinal representing the Association of Residence Halls, Anthony Tamayo representing the Association of Latin American Students, Vincent Smock representing Pride, Chrissy Abobon representing the Asian Pacific American Coalition and Isabella Tornabene representing Students Ending Rape Culture.
Latest Vidette
- Comedian Ryan Hamilton humors the crowd at Illinois State UniversityComedian Ryan Hamilton performed Saturday evening at Illinois State University. The live performance began at 7:30 p.m. in the Braden Auditorium at the Bone Student Center. In addition to the performance, Chicago comedian Nate Armbruster opened before Hamilton took the stage. Hamilton, known for his clean, observational humor, has often appeared on Netflix and late-night television. Hamilton opened for Jerry Seinfeld and starred in the Netflix stand-up special “Happy Face.” His performance at ISU was one of many planned events for this year’s Family Weekend. “It was so refreshing to have a comedian like Ryan Hamilton on campus. He really got the crowd going, his humor felt relatable, and it had everyone laughing,” junior Reilly Schneider said. “I really liked when he talked with the audience,” sophomore Bradley Torry said. “The event made my friends and I feel very lighthearted and energetic. The vibe in the room was incredibly upbeat, and everyone seemed to have a great time.” Community members also attended. “My family and I sometimes have to drive as far as Chicago to see comedians like Ryan. Having him perform here at ISU was such a treat for the community,” Normal resident Ronald Perez said. Hamilton closed his show by asking the audience questions, a move that caught some attendees by surprise. Questions ranged from favorite ice cream flavors to any advice Hamilton had for college students and their families. “I was not expecting him to ask some questions,” junior Val Garcia said. “I’ve seen shows in Chicago where big stars don’t really have audience engagement, so him doing that made the whole experience feel more personal and memorable.” This performance comes a few weeks before Hamilton is set to record a new stand-up special coming to Netflix. Taping for the special will take place Saturday, Oct. 4, in Seattle, Washington.
- ISU Planetarium dazzles families with laser fantasy showsThe Illinois State University Planetarium welcomed families for Family Weekend by presenting its “Laser Fantasy” shows that featured the music of iconic artists throughout the decades. Beginning on Sept. 19, the ISU Planetarium showcased its first show at 6 p.m. and featured music from the well-known rock band, The Beatles. The shows began every hour and a half, featuring music from artists such as Taylor Swift, Elton John, Queen, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and Garth Brooks. The show, created to be an immersive experience, showcased light-up images that followed the beats of the songs played. Attendees were able to lean back and watch the lasers in the planetarium's reclined seats. Shows lasted approximately thirty minutes. ISU Freshman Veronika Lyman commented on the dazzling light display and getting to experience the show with her family, who visited for Family Weekend. “I went to see the Taylor Swift show and really loved how they showcased a song from almost every album in her discography,” Lyman said. The ticket prices began at $10 for children 12 and under and for adults over 60. All other tickets were sold for $15. “I thought that the light show was really cool and the artwork was done very well. I wish they had played ‘Yellow Submarine' for The Beatles show, but overall I thought it was a great show,” Raquel Torres, freshman attendee, said. The ISU Planetarium will host the “Laser Fantasy” show again from Sept. 26 to Sept. 28, with times announced soon. More information about the show and times can be found on the website.
- Pride offers free and confidential STD testing available on campusFrom 3-6 p.m. Wednesday, students will be able to receive free confidential STD testing. Testing provided by Central Illinois Friends will take place in the parking lot of the Multicultural Center on campus. This is a part of Sex-Ed Night hosted by Pride at Illinois State University, an event to inform students on safe sex practices. Vice president of Pride and junior piano performance student Ezra Tarcak commented on the importance of having these resources available. “We want to normalize getting tested; it’s something everyone can and should do. Our goal is to spread awareness about something people should pay attention to, and partnering with Central Illinois Friends is a great way to do so. Testing is confidential and easy; you can walk in and out and receive your results in 15 minutes,” said Tarcak. Additional information can be found on Redbird Life.
- Normal Public Library welcomes the community back after major renovationAfter closing its main branch for renovation in 2024, the Normal Public Library reopened to the public on July 25. The library hosted its grand reopening celebration from 3-5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16. Normal Public Library Director John Fischer explained the library’s history and what the renovations have to offer. “The library is in a building that was built in the ‘70s, and there was an addition made in the ‘90s,” Fischer said. “This is a renovation of that new building. So, what we have to offer are updated spaces, improved lighting, updated furnishing, more open areas, a bright collection [of books], and then a few new spaces including a tinker studio, which is the maker space, a preteen lounge area and a teen area.” Before the ribbon cutting ceremony, numerous activities were available for attendees to enjoy, including giveaways, a photo booth and tours of the newly renovated library. Giveaways included bookmarks, stickers, pens, keychains and more. Snacks and light refreshments were also available. Katherine Lester, a retired food service worker at Illinois State University and Normal resident of 13 years shared what it was like for her to come back to the library after it reopened in July. “It’s really amazing because I usually came to this library a lot and I really missed it. The other one was kind of tiny, and now this one is so open and spacious,” Lester said. “It’s just really beautiful. And the open space helps the people, you know. It really does something for your spirit.” Lester expressed that her favorite part of the newly renovated library is the study rooms. “You know, you could just get a pod by yourself. It has outlets and everything for your devices, it cuts off the noise and it’s like you’re in a room by yourself,” Lester said. “It has two seats in each one, so it’s not too big, but it’s just right.” The ceremony continued with a presentation at 4 p.m. led by the McLean County Chamber of Commerce. Membership Director Brooke Fenske took a moment to recognize everyone who made it possible for the renovation to occur. The presentation continued with five guest speakers, all of whom expressed gratitude and reflected upon their memories associated with the Normal Public Library. Guest speakers included President of Normal Public Library Board of Trustees Beth Robb, Mayor Chris Koos, state Rep. Sharon Chung, state Rep. Chris Welch and state Sen. Dave Koehler. Library foundation members, library trustees, the Town of Normal Council and state representatives took an opportunity to take pictures after the presentation. The ribbon cutting took place immediately after. Bloomington Public Library retired librarian Carol Torrens expressed satisfaction with the Normal Public Library’s new appearance. “It’s so much brighter with the carpeting, the pink colors, and the lighting. The previous library was darker, and built in the 1970s. At that time, it was a concrete block building, had smaller windows, and had more darker colors,” Torrens said. “Even visually, it’s just much more exciting beyond the services they can offer now with the teen space and the makers’ space.” For residents like Torrens, the Normal Public Library may hold many fond memories. Torrens, who has lived in Normal for over 26 years, recalled bringing her children to the library. “I brought my kids here when they were younger, and they had fun playing upstairs because they’ve always had a nice little play area,” Torrens said. “So, even at that time, it was more than just books. You can come here and do activities, and of course, there’s all those programs [to] continue learning and continue your education.” Attendees and guest speakers alike recognized how the Normal Public Library is a staple of the Normal community. Fischer expressed the importance of libraries and how they serve the community. “Our top priority is to ensure that our community has an excellent experience when they visit the library. Whether they’re coming in for a book or meeting a friend, or just using the space to read and study,” Fischer said.
- Career Readiness Week offers students with a week full of career resourcesIllinois State University is hosting its annual Career Readiness Week from Monday, Sept. 22, to Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. Each day, career services will highlight an important aspect of networking and thriving in your future career. Program Coordinator for Career Services Tamanna Tasmin shared what students can expect from the in-person and virtual sessions. “Each session is designed to be interactive, informative and immediately applicable to students’ career goals,” Tasmin said. “It bridges the gap between academic learning and professional success.” “In today’s competitive job market, students need to demonstrate leadership, adaptability and strategic thinking. This week provides opportunities to build those competencies in a supportive environment, while also connecting students with alumni and industry professionals who can offer real-world insights and mentorship,” Tasmin continued. This week is about providing students with the tools they need to help them prepare for internships, exploring career options, getting ready to graduate and building a career with confidence and resilience. The schedule for Career Week 2025 is as follows. 4-5:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22, Fast Track Networking This is a virtual “speed dating” way to network and connect with Redbird alumni. Students can view the link to join here. 5-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, Leveling Up Your Career Game Students are invited to come learn more about how to take their career to the next level. Three-time author and founder of Ideal Candidate, Kevin Davenport, will be speaking. More information can be found here. 4-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, Everyday Influence: Leadership Without a Title Held by the Leadership Education Development (LEAD) and the College of Business, students can learn more about showing initiative and demonstrating leadership qualities. More information can be found here. 3-4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, AI Hacks for Career Development This virtual session will assist students with looking for a job while using AI as an innovative tool. Students can view the link to join the session here. 11-12:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, Interviewing with Confidence. In collaboration with the College of Applied Science and Technology (CAST) success center, CAST Connections, this virtual session will allow students to learn more about having an effective job interview. Students can view the link to join the session here.
- SGA proposes first bill of the semester, discusses student safetyThe first bill of the year was proposed at Illinois State University’s Student Government Association (SGA) meeting this past Wednesday. The bill will likely be voted on at the next meeting. If approved, it would provide funding for the School Street Food Pantry to buy canvas bags. Watterson Senator Lennon Stoner introduced it. “The School Street Food Pantry has reached out to us this year to help purchase some canvas bags for students to use during Friday pickup … the food pantry provides food and supplies to college students and trade students in the Bloomington-Normal area who are experiencing food insecurity,” Stoner said. “They are a great campus partner that we have worked with in the past.” Two Safe Redbirds representatives attended the meeting to give a presentation on how to stay safe with drugs, alcohol and social events. “One thing that [students] really have to think about is that when their parents were in high school and college, they were doing this kind of stuff … it was a lot different than it is now,” junior criminal justice major Jake Glynn said. Glynn further explained that five out of 10 pills with fentanyl contained a lethal dose, and fentanyl overdose deaths have been increasing dramatically in the past 10 years. He also discussed the dangers of alcohol poisoning and the importance of staying aware and planning. “If [students] take every single thing that we’ve talked about today, it is possible to have fun while also being safe and smart,” Glynn said. Off-Campus Senator Mikayla Blum also announced a field day event, which will allow sport and athletic registered student organizations (RSOs) to connect to potential new members. “It is going to be an opportunity for underrepresented RSOs, specifically like sports and athletics, and like gym-based RSOs … to come out on the Quad and have a little setup of what their sport is,” Blum said. The next SGA meeting will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1 in the Old Main Room at the Bone Student Center.
