UPUA will host a town hall on Thursday, February 25, to answer students’ questions relating to the coronavirus pandemic, Penn State’s return to campus, and more.

Those who have a question that they would like UPUA President Zach McKay to answer can fill out this form. More information about the event’s exact time should be provided “soon” on UPUA’s social media platforms.

On the question form, two of the topics that are options for selection are COVID-19-related regulations and coming back to State College. Both have been discussed at length during UPUA meetings, including when McKay went on CNN to criticize Penn State’s decision to let students return in the fall.

McKay spoke about the town hall, administration changes, and his plans for the final few weeks of his term in his first-ever virtual press conference Tuesday afternoon.

“This is something that Lexy [Pathickal] and I felt was important to continue our commitment to, which is interacting with students,” McKay said. “The idea is to really open the books. Bring students in and have them interact with their student government and ask any questions that they might like.”

In addition to trying to increase transparency through the town halls, McKay announced plans to sign an executive order to increase financial transparency within the organization. Under the order, UPUA’s budget of more than $100,000 will be restructured to make it more accessible. The updated accounts will soon permanently have a spot on UPUA’s website and receive regular updates.

McKay also offered a brief statement responding to Penn State President Eric Barron’s planned retirement in June 2022.

“I first want to offer my sincere appreciation for all that President Barron has done over the last eight years,” McKay said. “He really has helped the university grow in tremendous ways. And although we might not have always agreed on things, we’ve certainly found a way to lead Penn State forward in a way which emphasizes collaboration, community, and a better Penn State for all.”