Student Government: Overview

What is Student Government?

Founded in 1921, the Student Government is a student-run organization that serves as the official voice of the student body and attempts to better the student experience at the University. Both a governing body and an advocacy group, Student Government is involved in policy-making, adjudication, programming, lobbying, community service, and countless other activities. The organization is a clearinghouse for concerns from students and answers from administrators.

How does Student Government work?

Student Government operates with a three-branch divided powers system. Legislative authority rests with the Student Senate, a 64-member body that adopts formal stances on issues of concern, allocates the student government budget, investigates complex matters, and oversees operation of the other branches. Executive authority is granted to the Student Body President and his or her branch of departments, agencies, boards, and commissions. The Executive Branch does everything from advocating policies adopted by the Senate to programming and conducting studies. The third branch is the Judicial Board, which adjudicates alleged violations of the Code of Student Conduct, including academic integrity violations.

How do I get involved?

Student Government positions are filled by either appointment or election, depending on the position. Appointed positions become available throughout the year, while filing for elected positions occurs in February. More information is available in the Getting Involved section.

Where do I find Student Government?

Student Government Officials are your classmates and neighbors. SG encourages its officials to be conspicuous as they go about their day-to-day activities. As many as one in every hundred students is involved in Student Government.

Student Government can also be found in the SG offices—307 Witherspoon Student Center, or at any number of events and organizations. Agencies within Student Government often solicit student input on the Brickyard or in other well-trafficked areas. Student Senators are encouraged to become involved in the several College Councils and occasionally hold public forums and open desks for their constituents.

Your representatives are committed to using modern technology to better gather your opinions. Feedback opportunities are frequently offered on the SG website, students.ncsu.edu, and SG officials often participate in private online discussion forums.