George Mason University’s Student Government is a permanent standing entity that is representative of the entire student body. We advocate for the interests of our fellow peers, meet with the Administration on a regular basis to address students’ issues and concerns, educate the student body with regard to the state of the institution, and represent the interests of each student. Our mission is to serve as a liaison to the administration, faculty, and community.
Student Government has undergone many changes throughout its history, but our mission and goal have remained focused on advocating for every student. We have three main branches that help accomplish that goal.
The Undergraduate Representative Body Leadership
The leadership of the Undergraduate Representative Body includes two elected positions, the Undergraduate Student Body President and Executive Vice President, who are elected as a ticket by the undergraduate student body. Appointed leadership positions include the Vice President for Outreach, the Vice President for Marketing, and the Vice President for Membership Development and Training, who are selected through an interview and appointment process by the Student Body President and Executive Vice President. The Chairs of each committee and Clerk also serve as members of URB leadership and are voted on by URB members.
The Undergraduate Representative Body
The Undergraduate Representative Body (formerly known as the Student Senate) is elected by the undergraduate student body. There are 50 total seats, including 20 academic college seats (2 per college) and 30 at-large seats. Committee chairs and liaisons are appointed out of the membership of the representative body. Representatives are required to sit on two committees:
- Administrative and Financial Affairs, which deals with Student Government’s budget, governing documents, and Senate appointments.
- Services, which focuses on initiatives related to dining, IT infrastructure, facilities, housing, parking & transportation sustainability, and more.
- Diversity and Multicultural Affairs, which focuses on initiatives related to multi-cultural RSOs, as well as University diversity and inclusion on campus.
- University Life, which focuses on initiatives related to student well-being, student involvements, and the atmosphere on campus.
- Government and Community Relations, which focuses on liaising with community members, local governmental organizations, as well as state and federal groups.
- Academics, which focuses on academic based initiatives such as Scholarship of the Week.
Spring elections are held in the months of March or April for Student Body President and Vice President, as well as Representatives.
The Elections and Disputes Commission
The Elections and Disputes Commission (EDC) are tasked with hosting the fall and spring election process, resolving disputes between branches or candidates, and upholding our governing documents. EDC commissioners are appointed to “lifetime” terms (until graduation). If you are interested in joining learning more, please contact the EDC at [email protected].