Ben Garbacz/Daily Mining Gazette Undergraduate Student Government (USG) President Ford Schoonover is the new head of leadership in the USG. He thanked the board for the approval of revising Board Policy 8.8 Student Activity Fee, which will increase the price from $60 to $80. The price has not changed since 2012.

The Michigan Tech Board of Trustees met Friay for their formal session. The board approved a revision to the undergraduate student activity fee, oversaw the appointment of a new treasurer and approved faculty tenure and promotions.

The meeting opened with comments from Board Chair Jon Jipping and University President Rick Koubek. Both congratulated this weekends graduates and expressed pride in their accomplishments. “This session holds particular significance as it precedes two of our most cherished and pivotal events in our academic year,” Jipping said. “The conferral of degrees upon our graduation and recognition of our esteemed faculty through the awarding of tenure and promotions. This weekend we will take the opportunity to celebrate our graduating seniors and masters and doctoral students. It’s time to pause and celebrate the years of hard work, determination and just grit that went into their remarkable achievements.”

After the opening remarks four individuals spoke up during the public comment portion. The first speaker and student, Gabriel Ahrendt, requested the university consider divesting from fossil fuel companies and to be transparent in its investments. The three following speakers requested the board and university stand up to what they believe is overreach by the federal government.

The board approved tenure and promotion for several faculty and acknowledged those who were awarded emeritus recognition. After these recognitions and promotions, the board approved a revision of Board Policy 8.8 — the Student Activity Fee. The fee for undergraduate student activity will be increased from $60 to $80 per semester. The action followed a request from the Undergraduate Student Government (USG). The fee provides funds for many student services including registered student organizations, Tech celebratory events, and campus improvement projects such as free menstrual product dispensers on campus. The fee has not been increased since 2012. The Graduate Student Government will not change prices for their students’ fees.

USG President Ford Schoonover explained the request came from the overall increase in cost for all items. Schoonover thanked the board for approving the revision, saying over 70 student organizations will receive their requested budgets.

The board officially appointed Carlos Rodriguez to the position of treasurer. Rodriguez was named the chief financial officer and vice president of administration in March with those roles becoming effective May 1. He has a background with Pennsylvania State University before he came to Tech as the Associate Vice President for Finance and Business Services.