The 18th Assembly of the University Park Undergraduate Association (UPUA) met Wednesday night for a short meeting. The assembly passed one bill that provided funding for the “Energize with Ezra” program, which provides opportunities for undergraduates to interact with State College Mayor Ezra Nanes.

The meeting opened with a special presentation from the Penn State Latino Caucus’s Samantha Escobar, who advertised Penn State’s Hispanic Heritage Month events. From Lion’s Pantry, Nick DiPierro spoke about the prevalence of food insecurity on campus and noted that based on recent data, approximately one-third of students have self-reported struggling with food insecurity.

DiPierro touched on basic information about Lion’s Pantry, including the importance of anonymity to the organization. He also explained how students can get involved in volunteer work with the organization, whether on a one-time basis or regularly.

Before moving into new business, the assembly swore in Bassel Saad and Mariam Suliman, representatives from the MENA (Middle East and North African) Caucus, and Grace Ryan, who will serve as a representative for the Rose and Carol Nese College of Nursing.

New Business

Only one piece of legislation was on the agenda which was Bill #09-18: Funding for “Energize with Ezra” (Mayoral Office Hours). The bill proposed $115.96 of funding to provide light snacks and beverages for the Energize with Ezra program, which serves as a chance for the undergraduate population to interact with State College Mayor Ezra Nanes and discuss community matters. The office hours will be held at 9 a.m. on September 28, and again at 9 a.m. on November 8, in HUB 134 on both dates.

The bill passed unanimously.