For those who could use a helping hand...

In the fall of 2010, the average age of students attending Governors State University was 34. Though we can assume that the average age at the university will drop once we accept freshmen on our campus in 2014, we still currently have a large number of adult students enrolled in classes at GSU.   Our university is known for its diversity in a variety of categories, including age, race, cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Even though we are all fortunate to receive quality education at the most affordable public institution of higher education in Illinois, sometimes being a college student can be daunting, stressful, and financially challenging - especially in today's economy.

That is why GSU's Student Senate and Student Life established the GSU Food Pantry, which is available to all GSU students. The 1^st and 3^rd Monday of each month, students need only to show their student ID to receive a bag of groceries to help reduce stress and financial burdens. The Food Pantry is located in A2141, and operates from 12 Noon to 2 pm, and 4 to 6 pm. If you are not in need of food assistance, please feel free to donate non-perishable items to help us accomplish our mission of taking a stand against hunger, and helping students excel in college. Donations can be dropped off in the food bin outside the Food Pantry, or in the Office of Student Life, located in A2100.

Would you like to do more to support the missions of the Student Senate? Why not become a senator yourself? Time is running out to submit election packets to run in the Senator elections.Stop by Student Life on the second floor of the A building (A2100) to pick up a packet. You can also download the packet on the Student Senate website at www.govst.edu/studentsenate. Completed packets are due on February 21^st!

Would you like to know more about the Student Senate goals and accomplishments? Visit us on our Facebook page to find out more information about current Senate events and activities.

Kayla Randolph-Clark

Illinois Board of Higher Educatio

GSU Student Representative

On Behalf of the GSU Student Senate