Facing ongoing enrollment challenges, UNC Asheville trustees discussed strategies to retain students and shape the university’s future at their meeting last week, Student Body President Obianko Osaro said.
“There was a lot that was talked about. This school has some big visions for the future,” Osaro said. “Enrollment has been a huge challenge at UNC Asheville. They are looking into how the school can support students who are already here and retaining students was a big topic. Save the Woods was not discussed much.”
According to Osaro, the Board of Trustees are also considering creating designated free expression areas where students can chalk and express themselves artistically.
Morgan Kim said the University Planning Committee is working to expand academic programs. The committee plans to open new degree pathways using existing resources, expand Term I and Term II course offerings and introduce two new programs annually.
The SGA meeting marked the organization’s first gathering since the start of the semester, as winter storms delayed its regular schedule.
During the meeting, senators discussed issues raised by students, including the addition of more lounge spaces, updating classroom whiteboards and improving conditions in Brown Hall. Senators mentioned the need for more gluten-free options, improved food labeling and stronger cross-contamination controls.
Vice President Victor Cabral said he wants to explore what actions SGA can take to speak out against Immigration and Customs Enforcement and advocate for students.
The SGA also plans to recognize staff members who remained on campus during the winter storm to ensure students were fed and supported, Osaro said.
Osaro, who will graduate this semester, said he intends to spend his remaining time continuing to advocate for students. He is currently working to overcome the delays to SGA posed by the storms.
“I want students to understand that I am representative of their needs and wants on campus,” he said. “There is only so much power I have, but I will continue to represent the students’ interests.”
Newly elected Sophomore Senator Joey Frangione and Transfer Senator Breanna Hoese were in attendance.
Frangione, originally from Tampa Bay, Florida, graduated from Central High School in Brooksville in 2015. He joined the Florida Army National Guard the day before his 19th birthday and served at Fort Benning. He moved to Shelby, North Carolina, in 2022 before enrolling at UNC Asheville this semester.
Frangione said he plans to remain at UNC Asheville for one semester and hopes to leave an impact before returning to the USO in Florida.
“While I’m here, I want to make some difference and positive change,” Frangione said.
SGA meetings are held every Monday at 6:45 p.m. in Highsmith 225/226 and are open to the public. The organization will hold an interest meeting the first week of March. Elections and voting will take place after spring break, with exact dates still under review.
