By By Brian Bohl
In a cameo appearance at the first Student Government Association meeting, President Stuart Rabinowitz discussed impending improvements and changes set to take place at the University.
The projects Rabinowitz introduced Tuesday night included a potential third unispan for the Netherlands complex, a progress update on the construction of the new building on the south side of campus and the University’s application to host a Presidential debate for the 2008 election.
Due to the distance between the Netherlands and the student center, many students choose to cross the highly trafficked Hempstead Turnpike – something Rabinowitz hopes will no longer be a problem
“We hope to have a new pedestrian bridge that will cross from the Netherlands to the south side of campus,” he said. “I hope students will use it instead of risking life and limb crossing the turnpike.”
While still in the preliminary stages, the University has applied to host one of the presidential debates for 2008. Should the request be granted, it would be a momentous occasion, as the school has never been granted such an honor in its 70 year history.
“Having this debate would get national attention and enhance the University’s stature,” said Rabinowitz.
Other changes mentioned included the opening of a branch of Commerce Bank next month in the Student Center.
Also, a new bus will replace the Blue Beetle shuttle that currently serves as the main mode of on-campus public transportation.
Rabinowitz also said the building under construction in front of Adams Hall will host an orchestra rehearsal room, among other functions upon its completion.
After administrators made their presentations, the meeting focused on upcoming events, such as October’s blood drive and a benefit for the victims of Hurricane Katrina set to be held at Hofstra USA on Sept.15.
“Senator Lisa Giunta has worked really hard on it and has involved a lot of people from around the University,” said Grant Parker, vice president of the SGA. “She deserves most of the credit, because she’s done a great job.”
The attendance in the gallery, the area behind the senate floor, was filled with many students who have aspirations of joining the SGA.
“I was really encouraged because we had such a good turnout,” said Pete DiSilvio, an SGA Senator. “All the committees had a great attendance. It is great to see that so many people want to get involved.”
“We couldn’t have been more excited about the high turnout,” added Parker. “Our number one goal this year is to increase the membership in student government so that we’re even more representative of the student body. By the end of the year, we hope to have the maximum amount of senators.”
In addition to the fundraiser, the Pride’s first home football game, set for Saturday, will also be used as an outlet to solicit donations for the disaster relief.
“There is also talk of giving students the opportunity to contribute by using their meal points, but nothing is set right now,” said DiSilvio.