With this spring’s transition to online coursework, student leaders in the Undergraduate Studies Council (UGSC) had to adapt existing plans for the socials, meetings, and elections that support the student body. During the university’s closure, these virtual gatherings have become an important outlet for students who need a break and want to stay connected with their peers. UGSC has hosted virtual Netflix parties, study sessions, town halls, and casual gatherings for current and former School of Undergraduate Studies (UGS) students. Recently, Council held Hawaiian Pizza with the Dean—a virtual twist on their regular in-person Pizza with the Dean series. Dean Iverson and the students donned their best Hawaiian shirts and tropical virtual backgrounds, dreaming of island vacations and discussing university business, too.

During the many difficulties presented by this remote semester, Council has continued to successfully advocate for UGS students. UGSC wrote and presented legislation that supports university-wide, uniform internal transfer requirements and due dates. During Thursday night’s meeting, Senate of College Councils unanimously passed this legislation. UGSC President Ishi Tripathi and UGSC Senate Representative Wesley Brewer led the committee that drafted the legislation.

“Despite the recent turn of events, this academic year will be one of UGS Council’s proudest and most memorable. This year, we passed legislation to modify the university’s internal transfer application process and we enhanced our constitution with a clear commitment to diversity and inclusion,” Tripathi said, “Additionally, the UGS Council community is more tight-knit than ever. Our members support and appreciate one another. I am sure that together, we will get through this and emerge stronger than ever.”

Interested in joining UGSC? Check out UGSC on Hornslink and join the UGSC GroupMe to learn about upcoming socials and meetings.