The presence of North Park鈥檚 student government is everywhere. From Holmgren Athletic Complex to Wilson Hall, students at the university鈥檚 governing body span nearly all ages and majors. Student Government Association (SGA) leaders say a reason for the organization鈥檚 large member- ship is the symbiotic relationship with the city of Chicago.
SGA President Maryam Chaudhary said Chicago is in an ideal location for SGA officials to host trainings, facilitate partnerships with its many local organizations, and strive toward advocacy goals. In return, SGA hosts community-wide events, patronizes local businesses, and beautifies the surrounding area.
鈥淲e want to act as a funnel to get students involved in the city,鈥� Chaudhary, a third-year business management student on the pre-law track, said. 鈥淣orth Park truly is Chicago鈥檚 best-kept secret. We鈥檙e in an incredible, diverse pocket of the city while also being extremely accessible to downtown. It鈥檚 our goal to encourage students to appreciate and take advantage of our unique placement.鈥�
Among the most notable of SGA鈥檚 events are hosting Illinois Vintage Fest, bringing students to Forest Pre- serves of Cook County for a cleanup, and building and stocking the Little Free Libraries around the neighborhood. Chaudhary said the group is also starting the process of bringing a Love Fridge鈥攁 free food space鈥攖o Albany Park.
According to SGA Vice President Aaron Gonzalez, Chicago also influences SGA rules and procedures.
鈥淢any of our peers are from different areas of the city,鈥� said the third-year politics and government major on the pre-law track. 鈥淪o, we work hard to implement reforms through SGA in order to increase participation in our community and have those student voices heard.鈥�
The group passed the Fair Elections Amendment last year, which made it easier for students鈥攅specially commuters and first-years鈥攖o run for office.
In the spring semester, SGA wants to prioritize building community on campus through physical spaces and events. Picnic benches and student festivals are part of the vision to make the campus more welcoming for the Chicago and North Park communities.