Although few students attended the Student Government Association’s March Roundtable meeting because of a scheduling conflict with VCU’s final men’s basketball game, the students there heard words of encouragement from a top VCU administrator and SGA leaders.
Henry G. Rhone, the vice provost for student affairs and enrollment services, discussed VCU’s future and its focus on students and housing issues.
“VCU has come a very long way, if you will, over the past few years,” Rhone told the student organization representatives. “This environment has changed dramatically over the past few years.”
The vice provost talked about the “tremendous change” in attitude about Greek life at VCU, saying the university plans to add Greek housing on Grace Street. The townhouse-style housing, he said, would be grouped together with courtyards in the rear for Greek activities.
“We want students not just to come to VCU but to graduate from VCU,” Rhone said, explaining the administration’s stronger focus on student retention. “A lot of what we do is predicated on what we think you want. We like to hear from you.”
As Rhone reminded students he wants to hear from them, he emphasized they can find his office at 901 Floyd Ave. in the Sitterding House.
“I’ll be happy to see you anytime. Feel free to come over and share you thoughts.”
Following Rhone’s address to the roundtable, the SGA’s Appropriations Committee representatives offered advice to organizations on their budget requests:
“Plan ahead and do your budget request on time. We have been trying to promote fiscal responsibility. We are trying to do everything possible not to waste students’ money.”
The next item on the agenda concerned the need for student volunteers at the upcoming intercultural festival scheduled April 3. The committee overseeing the festival wants students to volunteer. Volunteers are to be awarded with food tickets for the international event, a T-shirt and a banquet.
Kelly Carnes, the SGA executive director, concluded the meeting by reminding students the roundable will meet April 4 for its last meeting, which includes a reception.