By: Lindsay Powley

An established organization received a new name this past summer, when the Associated Student Government officially changed its moniker to Undergraduate Student Government.

The name change is already reflected across the group’s web presence, including a new Facebook page, where students are encouraged to interact with their representatives.

Along with the new name, USG is working through its usual start-of-the-year process of electing first-year senators. While it is too late to submit an application to be on the ballot, students can still get involved with the process. Those who are interested can follow the campaigns, which will be going on through next week. Online voting will start on Sept. 14 and end Sept. 19 at noon, with results being announced later that day.

While the name has changed, the mission of the organization remains essentially the same; to act as an advocate on behalf of the undergraduate student body, and as an intermediary between students and the administration.

This year, the group will be “working harder than ever for undergraduate students,” according to their website. Voting for a new constitution, which included the name change, closed last week.

The government is organized into three distinct branches which handle the various needs of students. The executive branch, currently headed by President Mary Beth Clemons, is responsible for communication with students and the campus community, assisting in the planning of campus events and organizing voter registration drives, among many other tasks related to the running of  USG.

The unicameral legislature’s senate includes committees that regularly meet to discuss issues pertaining to academics, student finances and financial aid and student facilities.

The judicial branch manages parking appeals and other disputes; any undergraduate student is able to file a grievance with the judiciary.

Wednesday, ASG will be hosting Zipnic, an event meant to bring together students and members of the surrounding community. Sponsored by departments of the University, campus organizations and local businesses, the event will include free food, games and music, as well as safety information provided by law enforcement representatives. Community organizations will also be present. The event will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Buchtel Field, on the corner of Brown and Wheeler Streets.

More information on USG, upcoming programs and how to get involved with government on campus is available at uakron.edu/sg/asg, and at USG’s Facebook page, USG Akron.