The United Student Government (USG) at Fordham University convened for its first meeting of the spring semester on January 15, 2026. The session was marked by the presentation of awards and the discussion of several key initiatives aimed at enhancing student life and engagement on campus.
Executive President Lucas Hjertberg, a member of the class of 2026, and Executive Vice President Andrew McDonald, also from the class of 2026, recognized Vice Presidents Madeleine Ando and Jenny Hong, for their contributions during the fall semester. As part of the agenda, Vice President of Fordham College at Rose Hill (FCRH) Mary Hawthorn proposed a budget request for a partnership with Chick-fil-A, aimed at enhancing dining options for students.
Hong also presented a budget request for a hot chocolate event scheduled for February 4, 2026, which was approved alongside a request from the absent Vice President of Student Experience Luc Angus for an art show organized by his committee.
In a significant update, Hjertberg indicated that the USG is planning an overhaul of its delegate selection process. He encouraged participation from various student organizations, including the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and the Campus Activities Board (CAB), to ensure diverse representation in decision-making. Additionally, Hjertberg announced that the Jesuit Student Government Alliance is hosting a summit at the College of the Holy Cross and is seeking three members to attend.
The meeting on January 22, 2026, will feature special elections to fill two open senate seats for the FCRH class of 2027 and one seat for the Gabelli School of Business (GSB) class of 2027, as announced by Hjertberg.
A major topic of discussion was the Contraception Policy Commission, led by Vice President of Health and Security Aidan Costella and Senator Henry Carstens. They reported that a Town Hall regarding contraception distribution policy, originally planned for December 2025, has been postponed. They are actively seeking ideas to improve support for students on this issue, with Ando suggesting a potential collaboration with Catholics for Choice, a reproductive justice organization. Carstens noted that while external influences increase pressure on the university, they have been gaining support from faculty members.
Looking ahead, McDonald collected suggestions for USG’s upcoming semester retreat, tentatively scheduled for February 7, 2026. Proposed activities included visiting Skyzone, enjoying a meal at Texas Roadhouse, attending Medieval Times, visiting an escape room, or going to a Brooklyn Nets game. No concrete plans were established during this meeting.
In an operational update, Hjertberg highlighted that approximately $1,500 worth of food, leftover from their Day of Service, is currently stored in the USG office suite. Due to delays in delivery, Hjertberg called for volunteer USG members to help distribute the excess food to Part of the Solution, a local community organization.
The meeting laid the groundwork for an active semester focused on enhancing student engagement and addressing critical issues within the Fordham community.
