Dear Rutgers University Newark students,
We recognize that we are in unprecedented times and that COVID-19 has had an immense impact on members of our community in one way or another. It is imperative that now more than ever we come together to help one another in these trying times. The Student Governing Association has been working tirelessly alongside our administration to make sure we provide relief for our students, and think of sensible and rapid solutions. With that being said, the Student Governing Association is working on a variety of initiatives to meet the needs of our student body.
We have been able to set up an SGA Emergency Relief Fund to support students who may be facing hardships during this time. The fund is open to ALL currently enrolled undergraduate students. Decisions will be made on a first come, first served basis until funds are depleted. To maximize the available funds, awards will be limited to $500-$1,000 based on the determined need. For information about other financial resources, visit: https://myrun.newark.rutgers.edu/covid-financial-resources or email the CARE Team: careteam@rutgers.edu.
The Student Governing Association has also been constantly advocating on behalf of students. We have been looking at ways we can maximize refunds for our students, and we are attempting to address students concerns as best we can. We have been able to hold virtual meetings during our Monday Free Period meeting time at 11:30 AM. The meetings can be accessed live on the Rutgers Newark SGA youtube account. Our senators and executive board are also holding virtual office hours. The information for office hour timings and live updates on initiatives the Student Governing Association is working on can be accessed @run_sga on instagram and @Rutgers University-Newark Student Governing Association on Facebook.
In addition to our efforts, we would like to make sure students are aware of the university resources that are available to help alleviate the stress that has been brought on by the transition to remote instruction. The food pantry is still available for students who are in need of it, and we have attached additional information on how to access the pantry below. The counseling center is also available for virtual counseling and can be accessed by emailing counseling@newark.rutgers.edu. The Career Development Center will be holding a virtual career fair today (information attached below). A list of additional university resources can be accessed here.
We want to stress the importance of staying safe during these times and abiding by our Governor's order of staying home, self-isolating, and social distancing. Should anyone have any additional concerns for the Student Governing Association, feel free to reach out to us at runsga@gmail.com.
Best Regards,
Sabrina Ahmed
Student Governing Association President