The 17th assembly of the University Park Undergraduate Association met on Wednesday to vote on new members and pass the week’s legislation. Carter Gangl will serve as the assembly’s new vice president, filling the spot vacated by current President Sydney Gibbard.

The assembly began with a special presentation from Michael Garza, the president of the Latino Caucus, who encouraged members to attend ongoing Hispanic Heritage Month events.

Garza was followed by Aarathi Kallur of the Asian Pacific Desi Islander American Caucus, who also advertised her organization’s upcoming events.

Gibbard then delivered her presidential report, which included her efforts to lower tuition.

New Business

The 17th assembly began its new business with its ongoing effort to select a vice president. After Sarabeth Bowmaster was denied three weeks ago following accusations of her participation in the secret society Parmi Nous, the steering committee unanimously nominated Carter Gangl. Gangl delivered a brief speech that touched on the importance of the vice president role, before fielding questions from the representatives.

Gibbard justified her nomination by reiterating Gangl’s qualifications as a longtime member of the assembly as opposed to an outsider.

“I don’t think of Carter as a second choice. I think of Carter as taking us in a new direction,” she said.

Gangl was confirmed by an overwhelming vote.

Following a brief recess, the assembly moved on to the nominations of First-Year Representatives Litzy Sandoval and Mike Fowler, who were both confirmed.

The assembly then voted to approve two bills. Bill #09-17 provided funds for the QuenchBuggy, a refillable water tank that will be used during the THON 5K. Bill #10-17 provided funding for the Indian Culture and Language Club’s Diwali Celebration.

The assembly finished by passing Resolution #4-17, supporting Penn State’s appropriations request from 2023-2024.