The 17th Assembly of the University Park Undergraduate Association gathered Wednesday night to discuss four pieces of legislation.

The assembly began with guest speakers Hunter Smith and Jessica Markovich from Penn State’s Student Programming Association (SPA). They talked about their organization, how UPUA can help SPA’s cause, and the power of programming with the community. SPA’s events are offered free to students and are funded by their student-initiated fee.

The judicial board also spoke to the assembly to discuss matters about the structure of its board and the role expected of seatholders.

New Business

The first proposal was Resolution #11-17, which referenced the establishment of the Penn State Grant Awareness Campaign. This resolution sought to better promote the various grant opportunities across campus, especially for students who may suffer from financial boundaries that make it harder to participate in out-of-class activities. According to the proposal, UPUA “plans on continuing its efforts in raising awareness to grant opportunities to promote expanding academic experience beyond the classroom.” Resolution #11-17 passed unanimously.

The second topic discussed was funding for WeCare Week 2022, Bill #22-17. WeCare Week is directed toward students who may need outside help in gathering financial resources to help throughout their time at Penn State. During WeCare week, “student packs” are provided with basic school necessities for free. Educational pamphlets are also handed out to provide students with knowledge of scholarships, grants, and offices to help with the burden of finances. Bill #22-17 passed unanimously.

Next was Bill #23-17, which focused on funding for Mental Health and Wellness Week events. Being one of the biggest outreach programs that UPUA hosts, the Mental Health and Wellness Week creation was implemented to highlight mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression among students. In total, the bill calls for $1,600 to fund this year’s event, which includes food, craft activities, and flyers. Bill #23-17 passed unanimously.

To conclude the legislation portion of the assembly, Bill #24-17 was proposed for the funding of fall and winter break Lyft rides. In order to mitigate the cost of travel for many out-of-state students, UPUA will help to provide Lyft subsidy codes that will grant students $15 off their ride to the University Park Airport. In total, UPUA is expected to fund $3,750 of the Lyft subsidies. Bill #24-17 passed unanimously.