MSA creates online student database

Last night's meeting marked a new era for the Michigan Student Assembly - again. The meeting consisted of tearful goodbyes from outgoing members and a fresh start for new representatives.

The assembly passed a resolution to create a student database to allow student groups to register online when they sign up for Festifall.

Ryan Friedrichs, who chairs the assembly's Communications Committee, said registering online will avoid a lot of red tape for MSA. Friedrichs said the database will be an information center for students to access all year-round.

"Students will be able to access anywhere on campus," Friedrichs said. "This is an old idea to finally create a central student database."

MSA Vice President Olga Savic said the student database will provide useful information about how to contact and get involved with student groups. Savic said the new project will foster student groups and allow them to grow. Savic said the system "makes the bureaucracy easier."

MSA also passed a resolution creating a committee to work with the M-Card office.

Engineering Rep. Mark Dub said he wants MSA to work with the M-Card office since they plan to make substantial changes to the services the card provides to students.

"The M-Card office is looking into making significant improvements in the services to students provided by the M-Card," Dub said.

Dub resigned last night after completing nearly two semesters on the assembly because he plans to work in a co-op program with NASA. Dub said he was leaving the assembly with mixed emotions.

"I want to be the first MSA member on the moon," Dub said. "I am sad to leave but I'm glad I had the chance to work in a student government. I hope I made a difference."

Savic said the new members are full of enthusiasm and ideas and want to be a part of "a student organization that makes a difference."

"It's sad to see the old representatives leave," Savic said. "A lot of new people are going to serve the students very well."

MSA President Mike Nagrant advised the new assembly that Tuesday nights are not the only time to work on projects. Nagrant encouraged the new representatives to work hard for the student body and to revamp student attitudes about the assembly.

"The most significant importance is the other six days in the week," Nagrant said. "Keep showing the student body that we are doing something."

Outgoing member and Campus Safety commission Chair Jennifer Genovese said she has enjoyed her time on the assembly and has faith the new assembly will continue to meet success in the future.

"I am happy. I feel I did enough in my year on the assembly. I have no regrets of leaving," Genovese said.

Outgoing Rep. Doug Yatter, who chairs the Academic Affairs Committee, said MSA proved to be a great learning experience.

"I was a lot of fun," Yatter said. "I'm glad I had the opportunity to serve. I wish luck to the new assembly."

Incoming LSA Rep. Bill Briggs said he was impressed with the issues discussed at the meeting.

"It was a good start," Briggs said. "I am eager to get started."

12-10-97