Our board has been personally impacted by the mental health crisis, and we remain committed to making a difference. We will continue to expand mental health initiatives in partnership with CAPS. During Phil's presidency, SIU joined every other Illinois school in backing new mental health legislation. Unfortunately, after elections, Springfield politicians abandoned the initiative. We will lobby to bring this issue back to the forefront.

This year, new restrictions were implemented that prevent most students from running for USG President, VP, or VP of Finance. These rules require candidates to receive "approval" from USG to run. When USG decides who can run, they also decide who can win. The campus—not a small board—should make that decision. The Undergraduate Student Government should be open for all students to run.

Saluki Success, also known as UNIV 101, is currently the easiest class imaginable—but it could be much more. With Morgan, a current USG senator, already leading efforts with a group of committed and passionate faculty members, we aim to assist in their efforts to transform UNIV 101 into an engaging and rewarding experience. Our vision includes getting students out of the classroom and into RSOs and campus programs, connecting them with the opportunities available at SIU.

Parking at SIU can be confusing. We will create an easy-to-understand "Parking Survival Guide" detailing where you can park, what permits are required, and how the ticketing and appeals system works. Additionally, we will advocate for specific student groups—such as on-campus athletes—who are currently barred from parking near their training facilities.

Phillip and Adam’s chapters have been fundraising for months to restore Greek Row, and we are at the forefront of this initiative. Our board is committed to working with local and national chapters, as well as the SIU Foundation, to bring back Greek Row. By sharing the most effective fundraising strategies, we will help other chapters get their efforts running efficiently. A thriving Greek Row benefits everyone—it enhances safety, strengthens community, and brings new life to campus.

SIU Farms operate on approximately 650 acres of tillable land, significantly less than UIUC’s 3,000+ acres. This disparity limits our opportunities in research, employment, and partnerships. We aim to secure a lease deal with the State of Illinois for land at the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds, which could more than double our acreage. This expansion would reduce grazing stress, lower research costs, generate industry interest, and provide more student employment—all while paying for itself over time.

Improving dining services is complex, requiring considerations of staffing, funding, and utilization. As we work within existing union contracts, we will explore solutions such as segmented shifts and alternative food sources to improve accessibility. Additionally, we

One of USG’s most crucial roles is allocating funding. Our VP of Finance, Allison Dilallo, has extensive experience managing budgets for the Dawg Pound as Chief Financial Officer. She will ensure that the funding process is clear, approachable, and equitable. Organizations will have a reliable set of expectations, and Allison is committed to being responsive and transparent.

We will collaborate with our safety committee and the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to keep campus well-lit and secure. This includes hosting student-DPS interaction events, such as a drunk goggles workshop. Additionally, we propose adding sharps disposal containers around campus to support students managing diabetes. Beyond campus, we will leverage connections with local businesses and bars to promote health and safety awareness initiatives.

Ambassador programs like Agbassadors and Science Ambassadors have been highly effective in recruitment efforts and should be expanded. As a CoECTM Ambassador, Phil will lead efforts to create a major-specific roadmap showcasing career pathways and involvement opportunities. We will also support RSOs such as BAC, college councils, and programs like the SMRC and Career Development Center.

Physical health directly impacts mental health, yet it is often overlooked. Our Health Director, Henry, will ensure mental health initiatives continue while also promoting the resources available at the Rec Center. A key focus will be collaborating with the Barbell Club to enhance awareness and engagement.

Each year, SIU sends BAC and USG members to Springfield for “Salukis in Springfield,” but these visits often lack clear objectives. We will work directly with the SIU system to set defined lobbying points and schedule meetings in advance with relevant legislators. Priorities will include mental health, higher education funding, and agricultural development. Additionally, we will explore making the event an overnight trip to maximize its impact.

Our board has firsthand experience in starting, leading, and maintaining some of SIU’s most impactful RSOs. We will serve as a resource for organizations, offering guidance on recruitment and retention strategies. Regular check-ins with umbrella organizations and an open-door policy will ensure that all RSOs have access to our expertise and support.

Our board members hold a wide range of political views, but we agree on these core principles: maintaining programs that support disadvantaged students, openly and honestly expressing political beliefs, separating personal political views from USG responsibilities, and ensuring continued collaboration with VC Frazier on DEI initiatives.

Our board has extensive campus experience. No matter what challenges arise, we either have the expertise to address them or know who to turn to for solutions. A vote for us is a vote for the most competent, experienced, and diverse leadership team on campus.

You will see a new class added to your D2L. Inside, there will be an assessment with two options. Our ticket—Hartke, Loker, and Dilallo—will be listed first.

USG alone cannot solve every issue; real progress requires collaboration with the administration and the Senate. We ask for your vote so we can work together to move SIU forward.