Kathi Jabe has recently been elected as the Student Government Association President for the upcoming academic year. She has previously held positions such as senator and treasurer while being an e-board member in different clubs on campus. She recently spoke to The Tangerine to provide insight into her plans and initiatives for next year, including her commitment to creating a truly inclusive and representative student government.

Jabe plans on working collaboratively with Utica University administration and faculty and utilizing her leadership skills to bring tangible outcomes to the campus community. She also possesses effective interpersonal skills, which will be useful in achieving her goals as SGA President.

Q: What inspired you to run for this position?

A: As a previous senator, treasurer and e-board member of different clubs, I have had the opportunity to experience the full extent of student leadership. It was almost a natural progression for me to run for this position, as I knew it was the right time for me to step up and use my leadership skills to bring into fruition the vision I have for our campus.

Q: How do you plan on engaging with and representing the diverse student body at the university?

A: I am committed to formulating a diversity committee that will encompass all the diverse organizations on campus and provide them with a voice and a vote in Senate to make direct changes while representing the diverse student body. This will ensure that we have a truly inclusive and representative student government that addresses the needs of all students, regardless of their background.

Q: Can you discuss any specific initiatives or projects that you are excited to work on during your term as SGA President?

A: I am excited to work on bringing back Freebie Fridays, creating a prayer space closer to the lecture halls, making funding clear and accessible to all clubs, creating a rest and rejuvenation area for students to restore energy and focus and formulating a commuter union/committee.

Q: How do you plan on working collaboratively with the university administration and faculty to achieve your goals as SGA President?

A: I plan on working collaboratively with the administration and faculty, keeping them informed of our initiatives and projects while also seeking their input and support.

Q: How will you measure the success of your tenure as SGA President?

A: The quality of student life will be the measure of success of my tenure as SGA President. If students are having fun and feel like their needs are being met, then I will consider my tenure as SGA President to be a success.

Q: Can you tell us about any skills or strengths that you possess that you believe will help you excel in this role?

A: Effective communication, active listening, collaboration, humility and empathy are crucial traits that any leader should possess. As the SGA president, my role is to listen to the needs and concerns of the student body and work collaboratively to create tangible outcomes. Together, we can create an inclusive and supportive campus community that fosters growth and learning.