By coming together amidst struggle and adversity communities to thrive and better support their members. Bemidji State University actively works to create an enriching environment for the community. A key player in this work is the Student Senate organization.
A student-lead coalition, the Student Senate advocates for students and work to solve issues collectively. During weekly meetings, members and non-members address student issues and generate ideas to improve life on campus.
This year, student body president Kendra Draeger, a junior biology major from Waseca, Minnesota, and vice president Caleb Travis, a senior social studies education major from Pine River, Minnesota, hope that returning to campus this fall will lead to more in-person activities for BSU students and ultimately an increase in student involvement.
“The Senate initiates the changes the student body wants to see on campus,” Kendra Draeger said. “That’s why it’s so important, even for students who might not be directly involved.”
Draeger took an interest in serving on the senate after attending the annual Beaver Organization Bash when she was a freshman. She knew she wanted to get involved with university life and found inspiration from the senate’s values. She also had an inside look into what being a university senator meant.
“My cousin was a Student Senate president back in 2011,” she said. “Being a part of the Student Senate has made me more involved with other clubs and organizations on campus. It has brought me even closer to understanding the needs and problems my peers are facing.”
Similarly, Travis felt an obligation to help other students and joined the Student Senate as a freshman. Both Draeger and Travis have appreciated taking the steps toward student leadership, and were voted into their position by fellow members during the Spring 2021.
“As a student-driven government we deal with big and small issues, and work to resolve them by creating bills or having a conversation with administration,” he said. “Most importantly, we like talking to students and understanding their point of view. What motivates me the most is the students and what they want to accomplish.”
With the fall semester underway, Draeger and Travis are planning to increase their student outreach. Their goals include promoting a campus that is diverse, accessible and safe for all students, staff and faculty. They hope for other students to be inspired and be supportive of each other.
The student leaders plan on meeting these goals through a collaborative effort between faculty and students. Through open discussions, support of other student organizations and clubs on campus, they are aiming to create a greater connection between individuals on campus and a greater sense of harmony.
“Student senate is a great opportunity to get to know your student community and make a positive impact on our campus,” Draeger said.
Contact:
- Travis Greene, vice president of student life and success, travis.greene@bemidjistate.edu
Link:
2022-B-037