PVCC’s Student Government Association Goes to Richmond

In January, the Student Government Association (SGA) traveled with a contingent from PVCC to the General Assembly in Richmond. In addition to SGA representatives, the group included PVCC President Jean Runyon, Vice President of Finance & Administrative Services Scott Jeffries, Vice President of Student Affairs Andrew Renshaw, Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Development Harry Stillerman, Coordinator for Student Life & Campus Engagement Mary-Evelyn Sellars, and additional outstanding students from PVCC. 

While at the state capitol, the group began in the General Assembly Building where they met with Virginia Community College System (VCCS) Chancellor Dr. David Doré. Doré appeared personable and down-to-earth as he addressed the group, allowing each student representative to introduce themselves and explain what brought them to the capitol that day. By the end of the meeting, each student had shared a little of their story and how PVCC was aiding in their journey.

After their interaction with Doré, the group broke into two parties and met with delegates who had been carefully chosen to represent the districts of the student representatives. These representatives included Amy Laufer, Hyland “Buddy” Fowler, Katrina Callsen, and many more. Several hours and one mad vending machine dash later, the group reconvened to meet with Senator Creigh Deeds. Deeds addressed the group for only a few minutes, briefly explaining the history and functions of the General Assembly system in Virginia.

Following Deeds’ departure, the group quickly traveled through the underground tunnel connecting the General Assembly and Capitol buildings in hopes of witnessing Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears call the General Assembly to order. Unfortunately, the Senate Gallery was full by that time, and the group was directed to an antechamber until it was time to depart.

Overall, this was a valuable and unique experience that was appreciated by all of the students who were in attendance. It also served to form associations for delegates who may be faced with making decisions affecting PVCC in the future. After all, perhaps it will be PVCC students on the senate floor one day.