New SGA members prepare for fall semester

The SGA represents all graduate and undergraduate students andstrives to bring each student's interests to the forefront of TheUniversity of Memphis.

For the fall semester, the new officers are gearing up and readyfor action.

Andrew McGarrity, SGA president elect, said his job will be achallenge, but he's ready.

"This is going to be a huge task, but I am prepared forit," McGarrity said.

He said one of his main goals is to provide support to thestudent body.

"I encourage students to talk to me or any of the SGAofficers or members about any problem or situation they arehaving," said McGarrity, the current president of the CollegeRepublicans. "SGA is here for a reason, and the reason is tobe here for The U of M student body."

Lindsey Gardner, SGA vice-president elect, expressed excitementabout her new position.

"I am thrilled for the opportunity to be part of anorganization that is focused on people, and U of M students need tobe heard," she said.

Omari White, one of the new senators-at-large, said the studentbody has a voice and needs to be heard.

"We are here to listen to the student body with anycomplaints or concerns to improve student life andprivileges," she said.

Gardner agreed. "One of our accomplishments will be gettingthe students more involved because their voices are more powerfulthan they think."

SGA representatives have new ideas about getting studentsinvolved.

"By having walking and online surveys and e-mail polls, itshould help students be aware that we are listening to them,"McGarrity said.

McGarrity said students shouldn't be afraid to talk to SGAmembers.

"Students should not hesitate to contact a SGArepresentative at anytime by phone, meeting or electronic mail, ifthey need to talk about a situation or concern," McGarritysaid. "Because as a team (SGA and the student body), we willhave a better university."