SGA meeting recap: Chris King discusses RMU athletics
September 28, 2019
MOON TOWNSHIP – Robert Morris’ Student Government Association held a meeting on Tuesday. The meeting featured vice president and director of athletics Chris King as well as chief marketing officer Chelsea Blakely.
Chris King discussed his plans for the future of RMU athletics and emphasized the importance of engaging with the student body. After his first hundred days as athletic director, King shared his vision with students.
“We want to line with the culture, mission, and vision of the institution,” said King.
He plans on teaming up with student leaders and organizations on campus to host various events, helping the athletics department stay connected with students. King also wants to focus on the overall success of all sports.
A sports management internship program was implemented for students in order to provide more opportunities. Strengthening relationships with the student-faculty body is one of the key goals for Chris King and Chelsea Blakely.
“Athletics wants to win campus, win the community, and win game day,” said King.
When questions were opened up to the students at the meeting, one student asked about seating at the upcoming basketball game against Pitt. There are 459 seats available for RMU students. For people who are unable to get seats to the game, there will be a video board in the Nicholson Lawn.
As chief marketing officer, Chelsea Blakely oversees Title IX and gender equity efforts. She is also focused on boosting the school spirit at RMU.
“I think we have a unique opportunity with the UPMC Events Center to kick off the school pride,” said Blakely.
For Blakely, game day is a great opportunity to create an enthusiastic environment that brings people together. To get everyone involved, the athletics department is working on communication with the students to have as many students as possible at the games.
Athletics has plans to improve communication for upcoming games to let students know more about certain services provided, including shuttle services to select hockey games.
The Student Government Association also plans to be more involved with campus. SGA President Zaithwa Gwaza told students at the meeting that he wants to improve the organization’s brand.
“I want us to be more involved on campus and partner with more events and organizations,” explained Gwaza.
On Oct. 3, SGA will be hosting a cookout in place of their typical meetings. This meeting will be followed by The Murder Mystery party, held on Oct. 31 in there PNC Cafe, along with the Winter Wonderland event on Dec. 3.
According to SGA treasurer Jake McKee, the budget for fall 2019 is $69,750. Fifty thousand will go to clubs, and $10,000 will be used for professional development activities. The leftover money is for savings and other SGA events.
SGA officers are encouraging students to help out with upcoming events. The director of communications position is currently open for anyone who is interested, and students can apply on the Revolution page.
