PVCC SGA Focuses on Campus Enhancements and Celebrating Student Success

The PVCC Student Government Association (SGA) meeting on Feb. 16 outlined upcoming initiatives aimed at fostering student engagement, improving campus facilities, and celebrating graduating students. The meeting reflected the SGA’s ongoing commitment to serving as the voice of the student body and promoting a vibrant campus community.

The SGA operates as the student-led programming branch of the Office of Student Life, funded by student activities fees. Its purpose is to engage students in planning and implementing educational and social events that promote inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. As Lance Shelton, vice president of major events, emphasized, “To me, the SGA exists for a sole purpose, to help advocate for students and provide them with a platform that helps them grow and feel represented across PVCC.” The organization’s overarching goal is to foster a stronger sense of belonging and support academic, social, and vocational development among students.

Membership in the SGA is open to all PVCC students in good standing, with roles ranging from executive officers to general volunteers. The organization encourages student participation through various programs, including campus events, community service projects, and initiatives aimed at campus improvements.

The meeting began with plans for the upcoming trip to the Richmond General Assembly, including guidelines on appropriate attire and logistical details. The SGA also approved a new campus improvement survey, designed to gather student input on enhancements to PVCC’s facilities. These surveys will be distributed via mass email after final approval from PVCC leadership. To maximize student participation, the SGA brainstormed outreach strategies such as setting up informational tables in common areas, offering raffle prizes or pizza incentives, and hosting events where students can complete surveys in exchange for rewards.

SGA also discussed launching a “Legacy Project” that would allow future SGA officers to continue efforts to enhance campus facilities, including ideas like creating a quiet study area, adding a food vendor, or improving outdoor patio spaces, particularly in the Main Campus Building.

The SGA emphasizes collaboration with student organizations and adherence to college policies. Guided by faculty advisors and the Coordinator of Student Life, the organization’s leadership structure includes an executive board with designated roles such as President, Vice Presidents, and Directors of Major Events, Community Engagement, Finance, and Marketing & Communications. All members are expected to attend regular meetings, participate in retreats, and support campus activities.

In the meeting, Vice President of Finance Jonathan Cazares highlighted the importance of engaging all student voices, encouraging ideas like advertising through the campus Forum Paper and hosting evening events to include non-traditional students working during the day.

A highlight of the meeting was the planning of a special graduation celebration, designed to honor PVCC’s graduating students with activities like photo booths, a silent dance, cap decorating stations, and giveaways. The SGA hopes to coordinate this event carefully to complement existing graduation ceremonies and ensure a memorable send-off for the Class of 2026. 

The SGA’s efforts exemplify its mission to promote a more inclusive, engaged, and supportive campus environment. With ongoing projects and new initiatives, the organization aims to enhance student life and ensure that every student’s voice is heard. As part of its strategic goals, the SGA continues to seek input from students and collaborate with college administration to implement meaningful improvements across PVCC.

For suggestions or to get involved, students are encouraged to contact the SGA at sga@pvcc.edu.