New year, new semester, and exciting changes you won’t want to miss!

After a refreshing break filled with the joys of the holiday season, it’s time to return to campus and start the 2025 Spring semester! The IUGB Student Government Association is thrilled to welcome new and returning students. This semester brings many exciting changes including a brand-new SGA website (as you can see!). Despite the changes, we’re still holding to our core values of student engagement, support and progress. Whether you’re settling into your routine or making new resolutions, we hope you will all accompany us into this new year, ready to give it your all

What’s Ahead for Spring 2025?

Driven by our university’s ongoing pursuit of accreditation by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), this semester marks the beginning of a transformative period for IUGB, NECHE is recognized as an institutional accreditor by the U.S. Department of Education and dedicated to promoting excellence and quality assurance in higher education. Accreditation means IUGB will be held accountable to a set of high standards, with NECHE outlining nine key areas, including academics, recruitment, and finances. As Ms. Mattox, UPP Senior Lecturer and SGA Faculty Advisor, explains, “One of the key areas is academics. It ensures that all departments, including UPP, provide high quality, relevant curriculum.” Other benefits include easier credit transfers, access to scholarships, and improved facilities and resources for students. Ms. Mattox further added “Students will play an active role at every stage. Particularly relating to SGA and Assemblies policies.” Taking an active role starts now, as students are encouraged to show their support by joining for a meeting on January 14^th at 14:00, with Dr. Lawrence Schall, President of NECHE.

As the SGA plays an important role in representing students’ interests during this transformative era, it has been actively preparing for the challenges ahead. A meeting held on December 18th, assessed the outcomes of the past semester and discussed the direction for the new semester. Throughout the break, various SGA departments collectively produced a report that highlights the biggest challenges faced on campus and proposes solutions on how to address them. Paul-Imrane N’Djoré, the SGA president elaborated: “The focus has been on key areas such as food, internet, and transportation. Plans are underway to meet with respective directors to discuss improvements for these services. The month of January will be dedicated to reorganization and continuous discussions seeking compromises that can satisfy everyone’s needs.”

He further reiterated the need for clear communication between students and the administration: “This semester, we are determined to improve the communication between students and administration.” N’Djoré believes it is essential to create effective communication with the administration as it ensures their awareness of student challenges. In developing clear and consistent dialogue, the SGA aims to bridge the gap between students and the administration. This would be crucial in making the campus environment more supportive and responsive for everyone.

The SGA is ready to embrace more than just challenges this semester; it is also committed to advocate for student initiatives as well. A showcase of “Artistic Talents” organized by Grace Kadje highlights the celebration of student initiatives and speaks to the importance of self-expression and student leadership on campus.

A new semester brings opportunities for growth, discovery, and fresh ideas—and it certainly looks like this Spring 2025 will be no different. With exciting developments on the horizon, there’s much to look forward to. The IUGB SGA is ready to make this semester one to remember! Together, we will push for positive change, improve campus life, and ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Welcome back, and here’s to a fantastic Spring 2025 semester!