What’s new NIC? ASNIC government officers announce projects

ASNIC officers announced the projects they will be working on this semester at a routine ASNIC board meeting last Tuesday afternoon. 

Senator Brynna Sumey said that she is working on starting a student mentorship program.  Students who have attended NIC for at least two semesters can volunteer for the mentorship program.  The program will lead them through training, preparing them to assist new students through their first week of college.  Sumey said studies have shown that students who are plugged into the social aspect of campus life are less likely to drop out in the first four weeks. 

Senator Eryn Pierce wants to promote recycling around campus.  She proposed increasing the number of recycling bins around the campus, as well as hanging informational signs that teach students about recyclables. 

Senator Nicholas Espinoza wishes to create a bi-weekly newsletter for students, written by students.  He wants it to encompass the school as a whole, including the outreach centers and regional locations such as the Parker Technical Education Center. 

Senator Hayden Blanks is reviewing the tobacco-free campus policy and hopes to add a no smoking policy, making the school a no-smoking facility, including vaping.  

Senator Jestine Lackner said she would like to see more art on NIC campus.  She suggested possibly adding a mural on the wall in the basement of the Student Union Building near the ping pong tables.  She said she wants students to contribute to the mural and may hold a contest as to the content of the artwork.  

The dual-enrollment representative Abbey Rode wants to look into getting a new water bottle refill station in the SUB and possibly other locations around campus, similar to the ones that are already installed at the Student Wellness and Recreation Center.  

In other business, the ASNIC officers selected three new senators – Hayden Blanks, Jestine Lackner, and Ken Gedde – who were sworn in at the meeting.  There are currently two open senator positions.