The presence of North Park’s student government is everywhere. From Holmgren Athletic Complex to Wilson Hall, students at the university’s governing body span nearly all ages and majors. Student Government Association (SGA) leaders say a reason for the organization’s large member- ship is the symbiotic relationship with the city of Chicago.
SGA President Maryam Chaudhary said Chicago is in an ideal location for SGA officials to host trainings, facilitate partnerships with its many local organizations, and strive toward advocacy goals. In return, SGA hosts community-wide events, patronizes local businesses, and beautifies the surrounding area.
“We want to act as a funnel to get students involved in the city,” Chaudhary, a third-year business management student on the pre-law track, said. “North Park truly is Chicago’s best-kept secret. We’re in an incredible, diverse pocket of the city while also being extremely accessible to downtown. It’s our goal to encourage students to appreciate and take advantage of our unique placement.”
Among the most notable of SGA’s events are hosting Illinois Vintage Fest, bringing students to Forest Pre- serves of Cook County for a cleanup, and building and stocking the Little Free Libraries around the neighborhood. Chaudhary said the group is also starting the process of bringing a Love Fridge—a free food space—to Albany Park.
According to SGA Vice President Aaron Gonzalez, Chicago also influences SGA rules and procedures.
“Many of our peers are from different areas of the city,” said the third-year politics and government major on the pre-law track. “So, we work hard to implement reforms through SGA in order to increase participation in our community and have those student voices heard.”
The group passed the Fair Elections Amendment last year, which made it easier for students—especially commuters and first-years—to run for office.
In the spring semester, SGA wants to prioritize building community on campus through physical spaces and events. Picnic benches and student festivals are part of the vision to make the campus more welcoming for the Chicago and North Park communities.