RESIDENCE HALL STUDENT ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATE COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 2, 2016SUB MPR

CALL TO ORDER 8:06 PM

MYSTERY ACTIVITY 8:08 PMWe had dinner and watched Hallywood videos for Bliss, Bevier, Capen, Scudder, and RHSA!

ROLL CALL/HALL REPORTS 9:04 PMHALL

NAMENUMBER PRESENT

RHSA SHIRTS

HALLREPORT

BEVIER 8 1 bonding, banquet

BLISS 9 0 programming

BOUTON 11 0 BBQ, programming

CAPEN 9 0 bonding, banquet

COLLANGO 7 0 bonding

CRISPELL 10 0 swag

DEYO ? ? ?????

DUBOIS 12 0 apparel

ESOPUS 10 0 bonding, banquet

GAGE 10 0 programming

LEFEVRE 7 1 reminisced on a great year

LENAPE 8 0 bonding, fun programs of the year

RIDGEVIEW 10 0 said our goodbyes

SCUDDER 13 0 said goodbye and love you, scudder auction

NRHH 9:08 PMMaria had a great year as NCC, and she took a moment to recognize her co-NCC, Mike. She got him a gift with 2 parts- one part will make him cry so she won’t ruin the surprise, and the other part is Play Doh.

NRHH also gave out some awards yesterday!For Recognition of Growth (FROG): Brandon KnowlesInspiring Professor Award (IPA): Denise Oliver VelezMaking a Difference Everyday (MADE): Meredith and Chris from Dance MarathonOutstanding NRHH Alumni: Christina AlchBreakfast of Champions: The Black Studies Department

WOW Award: Ariana Carbonaro

There were also some new inductees! Alicia McGowan, Tsering Wangmo, Tshering Namgay, Kristen Kelley, Elee Wolf-Sonkin, and Marcelle Katri. Amanda Maldon-ado was inducted as our Honorary Member!

The e-board for next year will be:Service Chair: Alana SlatkyPublic Relations: Dayamara CruzNCC: Audrey TerwilligerSecretary: Alicia McGowanTreasurer: Diana SuarezVice President: Megan BaileyPresident: Meryl Stromberg

Outstanding Leadership and Service Pins were awarded to Dayamara Cruz and Maria Gillin, and Bronze Pins were awarded to Brandon Knowles, Megan Bailey, and Alana Slatky!

SENATE 9:12 PMElections are over! Check your email to see who won!

OLD BUSINESS 9:13 PMMotion to Open: LeFevreSecond: Crispell

NCCI’m sad because I don’t have a lot to talk about in my last NCC report ever, so sad. But, it’s 52 days until NACURH! Our delegation is registered and good to go, so that’s exciting.When I ran for NCC last year, one of my big goals was to put New Paltz on the map regionally and make a name for ourselves, and this year, we did that! I could not be happier. I just wanna give a shoutout to my fantastic co-NCC Maria; she is liter-ally the most amazing co-NCC a guy could ask for. I also wanna say thanks to all of you, because we could not have done this without the amazing spirit and passion that all of you guys have, so thank you for being awesome.Look out for Marty Potter and the Order of NEACURH at SUNY Oneonta next year, and try to find people and ask them how to get involved in Marty Like a Rock Star here next year! And with that, I yield.

HistorianI would like to take a moment to thank everyone who was on the yearbook commit-tee. If you were on the committee, please stand up. Everyone who was on the committee and everyone who bought a yearbook, come get your yearbook! Love you all.

Motion to Close: BoutonSecond: DuBois

NEW BUSINESS: 9:16 PM

Motion to Open: BevierSecond: Esopus

BBQIt was supposed to be yesterday but it rained, so now it’s tomorrow from 5-8! Be there, it’s gonna be great. There’s only a 15% chance of rain, which is practically 0, so it’s fine.

General RecognitionAlejandro

Ridgeview Hall for being RhinocerawesomeCollango Hall for being… something (SO SORRY I DIDN’T HEAR WHAT HE

SAID L-O-V-E LOVE U LOVE U

AngeliqueBevier Hall for being the mon-KEY to my heartEsopus Hall for getting into Formation

MikeDeyo Hall for Frolicking in the Autumn Mist in the Land of Honali

RuiCrispell Hall for Finding NemoLenape Hall for Being Incredible

CatherineCapen Hall for Capen Up With the KardashiansScudder Hall for being Dad-tastic

AlanaBouton Hall for Clawing Your Way Through The SemesterBliss Hall for Slithering Your Way to Success

SammiLeFevre Hall for bee-ing able to soarGage Hall Checking me Out (??????)

ArianaDuBois Hall for Quacking RHSA Up!NRHH for being a Diamond in the Rough

Alejandro:Choosing someone out of a group of so many diverse and spirited people is never easy. In order to choose someone for my e-board choice award I decided to pick someone who has allowed themselves to stand out and they have done so by being very active in hall government and showing her interest in RHSA by always being an involved participant in the associate council. At the spring AC retreat my deci-sion had only solidified by seeing how friendly and kind she can be outside of the

campus setting. I believe that Corinne has stood out and I’m very happy to present to her this award.

Angelique:This person I actually live in the same building as but had no idea they existed last semester. Well i did because there an AC rep but their presence was as noticed.. I first noticed this person during Dance Marathon, they were dancing like no one was looking. I am gonna refresh y’all minds because it was an 8 hr events and I don't believe that this man stopped dancing ever. He stayed the whole time and rocked the FTK shirt and the fanny pack so well, I was impressed. He danced with the e-boards the whole time and helped hype other people up even though he was not on morale team. I started to notice this person more during this semester be-cause of his presence during AC Meetings. He spoke up more during elections and with motioning throughout the meetings. He was always prepared with his laptop ready to take notes and always had a smile on his face. I was glad to learn he was going to AC Retreat because I had wanted to know him more. And I actually ended rooming in the same room as him. Room 3 was where the party was at this year. Throughout retreat I had learned more about him since I had to introduce him at the “interview game” and got to talk with him more. Throughout the retreat he showed his support for his peers and never thought twice about it. I am happy that he is getting the ability to go on conference this year, because I really REALLY want you to stay involved. You have a wonderful personality, and you fit perfectly into RHSA. I hope it's evident by how many people grew to love over the course of this semester. So I want to give my eboard choice award to none other than Troy V. Moody.

Mike:I have had the pleasure of working with this individual for quite some time now, and during that time I have watched them grow and contribute to RHSA and new Paltz in incredible ways. I had seen this person at a number of RHSA events throughout the semester, but it wasn't until I was preparing a conference staff for Mini's 2017 that their true passion for residence life shone through.Now, I actually cannot recall how or why they had initially approached me about conference staff, but I could tell from the beginning how much she wanted to be a part of it. After coming to my office hours to learn the ins and outs of the position I was considering her for, she turned beet red and enthusiastically accepted the of-fer. Her position has changed since that meeting, but she has proven to be an ex-ceptional security and transportation chair, and with her help we will put on an amazing conference.But conference staff barely scratches the surface of why she deserves this award. Each week she brings her positivity and spirit to AC meetings, and is always mak-ing amazing discussion points during business. I am thrilled to work with her and am so excited to see what she does next. With that, I am incredibly proud to present my eboard choice award to Nicole Santa Maria.

Rui:The person I am giving my eboard award today is someone that has been on our radar since Spirit Weekend. So full of her spirit for her hall it was her to believe it was her spirit weekend here at New Paltz. We would then meet again last semester at their hall during an AC meeting last semester. She would stay behind after the

meeting to even talk to the eboard and even teach some of us how to dance. I would not interact with this person again till Halloween in the Halls where she was active in playing with the kids. This semester however I'm happy to have been able to talk to this person more and get to better know her. I would first interact with her again at the STARS Conference where she would help set up an amazing pro-gram about the walls that surround some of us. Then getting to know her even more at AC retreat, I got just how amazing talented and smart she was. We spent the dinner at AC retreat talking about science such as how people couldn't see the color blue because they didn't have a word for it or about life in the universe. We would then talk about late in the night about countries in Africa and how much his-tory there is and how many people should get to know more. I ask her what her plans are for next semester and she said she hopes to be president again or even be an AC rep. Whichever path she chooses I know she'll do great and I'll support her every step of the way. That is why I'm happy to present my award to Clarissa Hernandez.

Catherine:Usually, the first conversation you have with a person you don’t know is an awk-ward “getting-to-know-you” kinda thing, where you find out each others’ names, ma-jor, where they’re from, and all that stuff. My first conversation with this person was about the most recent time I had peed my pants, and I really think that that set the tone for the rest of our interactions. I’ve known who this person was for a long time; I’ve seen his dank impression of Bernie Sanders, and I’ve jammed out to his hit song “Ballad of the Booty Bandit”, but I never actually spoke to him until AC retreat. Before then, whenever I saw him out and about, I’d wave hi to him and he’d avoid eye contact. At retreat, we were doing an activity outside, and he walked over to me and leaned his head on my shoulder, and I was like “Hey, do you need something from me?” and he very quietly answered, “Affection”.You can catch him every Monday at 9pm motioning and seconding away, and you can also catch his album on SoundCloud. He loves memes, he loves to whip, and he’s always down to clown. Rob Hofmann with 1 f and 2 n’s; I’m glad we finally talk to each other and no longer avoid eye contact when we pass each other around campus. I’m so happy to be giving you my e-board choice award.

Alana:This person is one that always stood out to me this semester. Every AC meeting, I always see you with a smile on your face, excited to be there, and ready to take on the long meetings we had. I got the pleasure of being your hall buddy this semes-ter and I watched you with your hall gov in Bliss, being an amazing AC rep. There was never something you missed saying during your updates and never failed to bring any hall or student concerns up at the next AC meeting. I’m glad I got to see the hall gov side of you instead of just the AC rep side. That gave me an even greater picture of how amazing and dedicated you are. Your extra energy and en-thusiasm to put on programs with your hall gov is admirable. I’m so glad I got the chance to talk to you at retreat and get to know you a lot more. I still find it funny that our mom’s grew up in the same town and might know each other, what a small world. Whenever I see you, you always make my days a lot brighter! I can’t wait to get to know you more and to watch you grow as you blossom on this campus. So with that being said, I’m giving my e-board choice award to Melinda Campo.

Sammi:As first year student, it is extremely hard to bring yourself out of your shell and try to get involved in something you’ve never been a part of. This individual joined hall government and has met a group of amazing friends and she has dedicated so much of her time to RHSA. When we were over at their hall for our weekly AC meeting, she showed so much enthusiasm and tried to teach us how to dance. It was actually really hard and I tried, and failed, but she was very eager to teach Ariana and I how to do it over and over again. We have always had small conversations here and there, but it wasn’t until retreat where I learned so much more about her.I felt like I was able to connect with her on so many different levels. Things that she has been through, and the accomplishments that she has achieved, she’s like a little sister to me. She is such a strong indi-vidual, and I can’t wait to see what other things she will accomplish here at New Paltz. She has left a mark in my heart, and I can’t be more proud to present this award to the one and only, Martha de la Cruz.

Ariana:My eboard choice award is going to someone who has become an extremely dedi-cated, passionate and supportive person on their hall government, and has truly gotten involved in RHSA this semester. I met this person in Collango Hall last year, and even though they weren't involved in Hall Government then, they always man-aged to show off their bubbly personality at hall programs and as a night host. This year, when they moved to bouton, they got involved in their hall gov as a floor rep, but still came to almost every RHSA program, even without an eboard position. They then became historian second semester, as well as getting involved in Year-book committee, and going to AC retreat where we all got to see how awesome they are. Alyssa DeBenedetto, my e-board choice award is going to you, even if you sneezed for a whole 3 minutes nonstop during one of our ac meetings. You are truly a wonderful part of RHSA, and I think you're an amazing person. Please come up to the podium to recieve your award!

Color WarsThird place…Capen, Ridgeview, Lenape, and Scudder!Second place…Gage, Esopus, Crispell, and Bliss!First place…DuBois, LeFevre, and Collango!

HallywoodThird place viewer’s choice…DuBois Hall!Second place viewer’s choice…Bevier Hall!First place viewer’s choice…Lenape Hall!

Third place E-board choice…Lenape Hall!Second place E-board choice…Bouton Hall!First place E-board choice…Crispell Hall!

RA Liaison of the SemesterHall Government Liaisons are an integral part of any hall gov. They are there to guide and advise a hall to it’s fullest potential, and I am happy to say our Hall Gov Liaison of the Semester is this kind of person. But above that, this RA not only makes sure that their hall knows what they are supposed to be doing, but is always

there to join in on the fun. This RA is always present at AC meetings, doing walkovers to RHSA events, all the while supporting her hall government and mak-ing them the best they can be. More So, they are incredibly involved, as treasurer of NRHH, while doing fieldwork, putting in their own programs in Scudder Hall, and working as a part the Minis 2017 conference staff as housing chair. I have got the pleasure of getting to work closely with this RA, from when she was an ac rep, to being a part of her committee in NRHH. And she is amazing. She has managed to be a friend, leader and supporter to so many people in RHSA, and has done amazingly while facing the challenges that come with being a transfer student to a mid year hire as an RA. Meryl Stomberg, you are an amazing Hall Gov Liaison, and RHSA is so happy to award you with RA Liaison of the Semester! Please come up to the podium to receive your award!

Hall of the SemesterThird place with 336 GFP’s…Crispell Hall!Second place with 397 GFP’s…Bevier Hall!First place with 635 GFP’s…DuBois Hall!

Senior CordsIn recognition of their service and commitment to RHSA, we would like to present all those who served on the RHSA E-board in the past who are graduating this year with cords. RHSA thanks you for all you’ve done for our organization, and the posi-tions you served in. If I call your name, please come up to the podium to receive your graduation cords.

-Kristina Virgil: NCC Spring 2014 President 2014-2015

-Christina Boland: Vice President 2014-2015

-Dan Brogan: Treasurer 2014-2015

-Ariana Carbonaro CCC 2014-2015President 2015-2016

Bronze PinsThe Bronze Pin is the highest honor achievable to a student living on a college campus. Bronze pins are awarded to students by either the NRHH or RHSA presi-dent, in NACURH affiliated schools and cannot exceed the number 8, representa-tive of the 8 NACURH regions. To be one of the eight students chosen for a Bronze Pin is not only an honor on your college campus, but internationally. Bronze pin re-cipients are the students that go above and beyond what they are required to and are truly amazing individuals. Recipients of a Bronze Pin are leaders who are dedi-cated to their organizations and their causes, scholars who aim to achieve in all their endeavors, and those committed to creating an inclusive and respectful at-mosphere for their peers. These people have truly worked their hardest and dedi-cated their time and effort to making their campuses a better place for all, and it shows. They are leaders, mentors, role models, and some of the best people our school has to offer. If you have ever been awarded a bronze pin, please stand now.

The first person I am giving a bronze pin out to may seem like an unconventional choice, not because this person isn’t deserving, but maybe because it seems this person has transcended what you need to do to get a bronze pin, and is is higher category all by themselves. This person has been recognized on the regional level countless times this year, and that may seem like a higher honor than an award on the campus level, but to me this Bronze Pin is a reminder that this person has not only changed the region, but has impacted every person they have come in contact with here at New Paltz. Mike Hebert, in the three years that I have known you, you have completely grown into yourself with NEACURH and with RHSA. You went from the man I wanted to hate, but couldn't, because you were running against me, to my friend, to a fellow e-board member, to now surpassing us all as a member of the RBD and Conference Chair. You are, to me, what makes a leader incredible. Your passion is unwavering and your values are never compromised. You put your all into what you love, as we can all see by being one of the greatest NCCs New Paltz has ever seen, and you are going to rock it as conference chair. You may have a silver pin, which recognizes your commitment to the region, but I am giving you this bronze pin as a reminder that even though it may sometimes not feel like it, New Paltz and RHSA appreciates how much time, energy and dedication you put into everything you do, and not a day goes by where I don't think that you single handedly have brought this school to the next level. I am so happy that I can call you my friend, and that you are always here to teach us a cheer and go way-o way-o way-o overboard with jokes about milk and dabbing. Mike Hebert, thank you so so much, and please come to the podium to receive your bronze pin.

The next two bronze pins I am giving out, are being handed out together. There are some things in this world you can’t separate and work better in pairs, like peanut butter and jelly, the title, not the characters in, Romeo and Juliet, Rui and his love for energy, as well as these two recipients and their undeniably adorable friendship. However, although these two are known for bringing out the best in each other, their separate accomplishments are truly amazing. The first part of this duo seems to have done it all. They were a member of their hall government, an RA, a community mentor, an orientation leader, a senior orientation leader, and practically one of the friendliest people I have ever met. This person, along with being a stellar leader, is one of the most caring people, and has been there for me on some of my toughest days, always asking what he can do to help. Similarly, ev-eryone knows him as a friend and his bright personality and smile is enough to warm up any room. The second half of this perfect pair is no stranger to a diversity of leadership roles as well. They started as an AC rep, became the historian of RHSA, the founder of the yearbook committee, an RA, an Orientation Leader, and along the way, became one of my best friends. Their ability to be open and honest, while somehow still being empathetic and caring is something that makes them an amazing individual, and the fact that you are always there to help me out when I’m stressing out over the little things, or to sing the wrong lyrics to practically any song is something I truly value in you. Jordan Pappas and Nick Barrett, you two are probably two of the most well known people on this campus, and it is because of your compassion for others, love for what you do, ability to see the bright side in any situation and the fact that you openly accept and care about everyone you meet. I feel that without know you two, I would be a less happy person, and you have both truly made an impact on my life here at new paltz. I don't think it’s cracked of me to say that through your leadership roles here you’ve have made

names for yourselves and truly have personified and immortalized the phrase: lookin' good! Jordan and Nick, thank you for all you've done, and please come to the podium to receive your bronze pins!

HALL CONCERNS 9:56 PMNone.

STUDENT CONCERNS 9:56 PMNone.

OPEN FLOOR 9:56 PMBevier: Wednesday, from 12-1 in VH112 is the final ToastMasters meeting of the year! I’m giving a speech, it’ll be cool, come watch.Bouton: Here is my final mail room update: We are open during finals for pick up, but we will return your packages to the sender starting May 16th. Also today, someone came to the window and asked where the RHSA office was, and then asked how to spell RHSA, and it was funny.Collango: Many of you may have heard about DuBois’ walkover to the RHSA BBQ tomorrow, but Collango’s having our own walkover to the DuBois walkover.Esopus: This Wednesday, May 4th, from 2pm-7pm the BSU is having their annual Unity BBQ at Old Main Quad.Esopus: Hi, I don’t actually live in Esopus, but I’m Rookie. The Student Associa-tion is actually gonna have boxes in every residence hall to collect donations to help Ecuador with what they’re going through. Anything at all would be so helpful.LeFevre: If you’re low on dining dollars, come to the MPR on Thursday at 8pm for a Study Break Breakfast!Lenape: If you’re not low on dining dollars, go to Oscar’s tomorrow from 5pm-10pm and donate to the Food Drive!Rui: It’s been another semester, please take your placards home! You’re earned them.LeFevre: Thanks for all you do for us.LeFevre: If you like arts and crafts and are stressed, come destress on Thursday from 12-3 in SUB 100N.Bevier: Thanks to everyone in this room for playing such a big role in Hall Gov, and thank you to the e-board.

PASSING OF MOLLY THE MOOSE 10:01 PMDeyo forgot her at home, but they put a paper bag over her head to hide their shame.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK 10:02 PM“Sometimes life is like this dark tunnel; you can’t always see the light at the end, but if you keep moving, you’ll come to a better place.” - Uncle Iroh

SPECIAL RECOGNITION:The first people I would like to recognize and thank for all their work is our three advisors, Brandon, KC, and Sarah. Without all your dedication, RHSA would fail to run as smoothly as it does. You somehow manage to keep our 8 incredibly passion-ate and eccentric attitudes on task and motivated, and help us be the best e-board we can be. Brandon, thank you for being the man behind the scenes and for dedi-

cating so much of your time at New Paltz to RHSA. We have truly appreciated all your advice and mediation, and we surely miss you next year. KC, thank you for managing to keep us on task while still providing laughs. I hope you enjoyed your time as an advisor and I hope we provided you with a love for RHSA. Sarah, thank you for being one of the most involved advisors RHSA has seen, even if you always photobomb my selfies. We truly appreciate how committed you are to our organiza-tion. To all three of you, thank you for providing us with a year we will never for-get. As a token of our gratitude, we got you some gifts!

At the end of last year, after the historian was elected, I was ecstatic to finally have my whole executive board picked. I remember us standing awkwardly in a circle, exchanging phone numbers and creating a group me and hardly talking and acting nervously but still being excited for what was to come. Then in May, the e-board met up again to spend 3 days together for the Pre-summer meeting, and once more we were awkward, quiet and unsure of how to connect with one another. I remem-ber the night where the rest of the board was returning home, I went to my best friend and told her how afraid I was that we wouldn't get along, that we’d have nothing to talk about, and wouldn't be as close as the e-board the previous year was. I’m so thankful that I couldn't have been more wrong. Alejandro, Angelique, Mike, Rui, Catherine, Alana and Sammi- my e-board- I cannot say how grateful I am that I have had the pleasure of working with the 7 of you this past year. With people like you, I knew our e-board would be great, but I would have never guessed that I by the end of this year I would have seven amazing friends who I feel extremely close to, and how hard it would it be to stand up here and say good-bye to this experience we have shared together.

Alejandro: I remember meeting you in Collango’s hall gov last year. At first, you seemed to me like you were the quiet, sort of shy PR who wanted to like to stay out of the spotlight, get your job done, and call it a day. You were always hanging out in the RA office, and at first I thought it was because you were just bored, but you were always good company so I never said anything. And then, you went on the AC retreat spring semester. In that moment, what I thought of you had changed. Your quiet nature wasn't a sign of shyness, but of the incredible thoughtfulness you put into every situation. The reason why you spent time with people wasn't be-cause you were bored, but genuinely interested in what we had to say, and the fact that you’re amazing at connecting with people you don't know. And then, I got to see your sense of humor, and how incredibly funny you are and how your humor makes light out of even the hardest of situations. Alejandro, you always say that you feel like you did nothing on this e-board, because your biggest job was to take pictures. But, I want you to know, you did so much more than that. You created a space where everyone felt comfortable and open. You got to know so many people in the AC and on this e-board and you made us laugh more than I could ever think possible. You’re amazing at what you do, and I’m extremely honored to see you grow from your start at New Paltz. Thank you for being an amazing historian, and an amazing friend.

Angelique: Angelique, I’m so happy that I got to play a huge part of your RHSA journey, and want you to know how big a part you’ve played of mine. The first RHSA meeting you went to was my election as CCC, and now my last as president is watching you transition from CCC to Vice President. To me, you’re exactly what

RHSA tries to encapsulate. You have this bubbly personality which is amazing for programs, but I can always trust you to get down to work. But apart from that, you are amazing. I don’t know if you see it in yourself, although so many of us in this room do, but you have this ability to make everyone feel at ease, to feel a part of something bigger, and to feel noticed and cared about. And that’s an incredibly hard skill to have. Like Alejandro, the first time I met you was at a spring retreat, and within the first few hours of us knowing each other, we were staying up until 4 am, dancing bachata with Betsy, crying over Nick’s smelly feet, and having a cud-dle puddle. It’s hard to feel comfortable with someone you just met, but you were able to make me, and so many others in RHSA, feel like they were at home, and this was just your beginning. I look at you now, and I can’t believe how much you have grown. Angelique, I’m so happy that you are a part of RHSA, because I got to see you flourish. It may be stupid, but whenever I see you change your Facebook picture to something from RHSA, which is often, I get really happy because you look so in your element and so enthusiastic. I know you’re going to continue that next year as VP, on conference staff, and as an RA. I’m honored at getting to see you grow, and I know I’m going to cherish our moments on Deyo staff together next year. You’re amazing now, but you’re going to be even more amazing next year.

Mike: Mike, I don't know how to talk about you without crying (again). The first time I truly talked to you was as we were both awaiting the results of our CCC election, and you turned to me and asked if you wanted to hold hands going in. I thought it was to be cute, but you said it was to show up Christina Boland and Sam Han who did the same at their VP elections. I knew then we would be great friends. I said it at last banquet, and people thought it was a sly dig, but I have to say it again. I’m so happy you didn't get CCC when we ran against each other, be-cause you were made to literally be the most outstanding NCC this campus has ever seen (sorry Brenden Wright but this guy takes the cake). Mike, having you on my e-board was amazing, because I’ve never met someone so incredibly passionate about what they love. Whether you’re screaming spirit or screaming the lyrics to Electric Avenue, it’s impossible not to be happy when you're around, because you exude optimism and love for all you do. And everyone sees it. I want you to know everyone in this room appreciates and sees how hard you work at everything you do, please never forget that. You have so much in store for you next year: from stu-dent teaching, as a member of the RBD, and the chair of Minis, and all of this was possible because of the genuine care and amount of energy you put into all you do. I am so incredibly proud of you, and I am so excited to see what you have in store for next year. Always remember why you're doing these things: because you love it and you deserve these things and that you've worked so hard for them. Make sure you always have fun in what you do, because that's the reason we love you so much.

Rui: Rui, where to start. I say your name and I literally smile because everything about you makes me happy. You are probably one of the most prolific people on this campus, and that is because your personality is like sunshine personified. When I met you as your liaison for Deyo last year, the president of Deyo told me that I should watch out for you, because you were a star. And she was right. Some-how, no matter how much your doing, you manage to complete your tasks with a smile on your face and complete care in everything you do. I admire everything

about you, from your energy to the way you have somehow made friends with ev-eryone on this campus, to the fact that you have done so much in such a short time here. Having you on the e-board this year made me only smile. Rui, I want you to know that PR is one of the hardest jobs on E-board, because if you make a mistake, everyone will notice it. But, you managed to take everything in stride, take our crit-icism and become an amazing PR. But you are more than that - you are an amazing friend. I am so happy that I am going to work with you again as an RA next year, and I want you to know that you should be nothing but proud of your accomplish-ments, because your personality and work ethic is the reason you got them. You’re going to be on e-board again as treasurer, an RA, an OL and a part of every single other club on this campus, as well as in possibly one of the hardest majors. But, I want you to always remember, you're amazing, and you truly are a shining star.

Catherine: Catherine Callan, I know I’m going to have to speak about you again so right now I’m going to focus on how much I love you. There are people who come into your life so quickly and change everything for the better and make the biggest impacts in the smallest amount of time. Catherine, I want you to know you are one of these people. I am so happy that you I can call you my friend, and that I got to know you as well as I did this year. I don't think I have met anyone more hilarious in my entire life, and I am constantly thankful that you are around to say yikes at the right moment or remind us of your obsession with One Direction songs in span-ish or corn. You mean so much to me, which is probably why I fought Betsy in a public venue so I could be your mentor for NRHH. I know I always joke about how even though I met you in September of last year, I didn't know who you were until you were elected, but I want you to know that I could never forget the memories we shared. From watching Hamilton and crying, to e-board sleepovers, to every-thing in between, I am so happy I got to spend this year with you, and know that you will make a better president than I could have ever been.

Alana: Alana, I don’t think I’ve ever met a more empathetic or caring person than you, and I am so thankful that I got to have you on my e-board. When I think about you, the first thing that always pops into my mind is how you always go out of your way to make sure people feel recognized. The amount of times I have smiled or laughed at a text or email from you is exponential, because you always make sure to have it end with you proclaiming your love for me, reminding me that I am doing a good job as president, and making sure I feel loved. You always seem to know when I am having a bad day, and you always go out of your way to try to make it a little better, and I want you to know that you do, every time. I also want you to un-derstand that with your dedication you took RHSA to a new level this year. I am so happy that you got to be the founding RHSA chair for Dance Marathon, because I know people have a perfect person to look up in years to come. Your ability to be empathetic, mixed with your level headedness made for one of the biggest and best new programs we have ever thrown. You always stayed grounded, especially when I was running around like a chicken without a head, not understanding anything you were talking about, from what a morale dance was to why we needed fanny packs. You always reassured me, even when I asked you to explain the budget to me for the 824th time, and never seemed anything but willing to help. Every e-board needs a person like you, someone who can manage to stay grounded but still be so dedicated to the things they do. Alana, you are amazing, and I am so happy

that we got to work together, and after knowing you in RHSA for years, I can call you a friend.

Sammi: Sammi, I want you to know that at the exact moment I started writing this speech I started tearing up in the very crowded library. Sammi, I cannot imagine my RHSA journey without you by my side, because you absolutely mean the world to me. From the fact that you are literally energy and sass mixed into one, to your ability to always be supportive, level headed and on top of your game, I couldn't think of anyone else I would have wanted to be my right hand man this year. But more than that, Sammi you are one of my closest friends. I cherish everything about you, from the fact that when I invited everyone over my room after we got elected our first year on e-board, you just decided to fall asleep in my bed while we were all screaming, to spending the day in the city with you over spring break searching for free macaroons and having an impromptu photoshoot in central park. Sammi, you mean the world to me. I think you were one of the people who truly re-alized how hard this year was on me, and you were always there to ask me what you needed to do to make things easier on me. I feel like we’ve truly grown to-gether, from changing our hair to changing as people, and I don't know how I’m going to survive without you by my side next year. I’m so proud of everything you’ve done, from NCC to VP, and I feel honored that when you got RA, I was the first person you called. I know you’re going to be an amazing RA, and I can’t wait to shout across the quad to you to ask if you want to get dinner. Sammi Liu, I love you so much, and I am so happy we got to go on this journey together.

My goal as a president was to set my e-board up to be the best leaders they could be. Now that we’re done with this experience, I look at you all and only see more amazing things in your future- these seven people are going on to do things like host a national conference, be RA’s, orientation leaders, represent us regionally, and continue the legacy of RHSA. And, even though it was my goal to make you the best leaders, and you truly have become the best leaders, I cannot take the credit. You are all amazing, because you are you. Thank you for letting me watch you grow and succeed and never back down for what you believe in. I love you all so much, and I know I truly wouldn't have gotten through this year without you. Thank you for being the most open people I could have ever met, making me feel supported, for supporting each other and making our associate council always feel included. Thank you for being there for me when I was going through one of the toughest years of my life, and for reminding me everyday why we put on programs and run meetings and do what we do - to make other people happy. You all have truly made everyone in this room happy. I don't think I can ever express how much you all mean to me, but just know that I love you all so much.

As a small gesture of my gratitude, I got you all gifts. On the inside there’s a card that explains the meaning behind all the gifts I got you, and I would like to take a minute to share with everyone what they are: A picture frame, so you’ll never for-get the wonderful memories we made. A pair of socks, to always remember to keep your feet on the ground no matter how far your leadership positions in life take you. A gift card for Starbucks coffee, to remember to always keep your energy up, and a custom Ellie Badge from the movie UP that isn’t here yet because it's still shipping, to go with our banquet theme, and in the wards of Carl from up “the highest honor I can bestow.” I hope these gifts portray how much I truly appreciate

all you’ve done, and I can never thank you enough for impacting my life the way you have.

Angelique: There was a post that you put on Instagram that said “my perfect e-board’ and I wanna say to you: “my perfect president”. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be up here at this podium talking to you like this. I've waited for this day where I can tell you what I thought about you. But it might be too long, so I won't babble on forever. In my two years of knowing you I have grown closer to you, and in this semester we have grown much closer than we used to be. If you didn't get accepted in grad school, it would a mess. You shaped my experience in RHSA, and you pushed me and told me things about myself that nobody has gone out of there way to say. You even made me cry in a self program during STARS conference, and you have those bragging rights. I met you during Spring AC retreat of my first year. And I was beyond lost, I was in your room by sheer luck or AKA Nick. I remember at the end of retreat you were running from person to person taking selfies, and ours was very blurry. But it was our first selfie ever. You have an energy that's unparalleled. I attended my first AC meeting and it was your CCC election, where you won, sorry Mike. I sat with you during that meeting and the energy you brought to that speech was well you. A year later and I was running for CCC. Week after week I was at your office hours. At first I tagged along with other people, and then it became a part of my weekly routine. After my elections and everything came to an end, we arrived at Banquet and behold you made me cry. Only a little bit though. It was because I realized that you knew me as a person, while some people do, it was the little jokes you made, and the snaps that followed that made me realized people actually knew me. And not as the weird kid who decided to run for RHSA. That's the day I realized RHSA was home. Throughout this year, week after week I'm with you, and never getting sick of it. I am usually at your office hours or having a random sleepover in your room. You have helped me this past year and I hope I have given you some substantial advice as well. This year has been the absolute best, even though the e-board sometimes had its problems I've never seen you give up on us. Ariana, you are fabulous and flawless. There are more words but there are too long to list. I'm so excited to be working with you on the same staff next year in Deyo and being able to work with you again for conference. I love you with all my heart, and thank you for being the best and making me love myself a little bit more everyday. And making me remem-ber why I do what I do.

Motion to close: BoutonSecond: Bliss

TRANSITIONALS 10:25 PMHISTORIAN:Ever since I’ve met Andrea I’ve seen all the qualities that make her an amazing stu-dent leader. Through her involvement all across campus, I’ve seen that she is not afraid to put herself out there and make herself known. Her enthusiasm seems to meet no bounds and her smile is as bright as her personality that she shares with the rest of the world with graceful generosity. I feel secure knowing that as I pass on to her the torch that is the RHSA camera, it lies safe in her protection and I know for sure that she will do great things as Historian in ways that I never had

thought before. Andrea thank you for being an amazing human being and I can’t wait to see everything that you have in store for RHSA. :D

CCC:So this is the second speech I’m making to this girl, it shows how awesome she is. Like I said last semester, I met this girl during Collango’s Saturday Night Fever Program when Tim and Alejandro dragged me over after getting dinner. I had known of you but never talked to you directly, and I did that night, a little timidly at first though. Throughout this year you are a presence that is always present dur-ing AC meetings as well as all the events. You have a large amount of energy that you bring everywhere and an air of fun that follows you. Honestly, I am sure you whipped and nae’d nae'd into people's hearts this year. During AC Retreat you mentioned how you had become President of College-Shango Hall Government last year and it still makes me laugh. You felt confident enough in your ability to tell someone that they should resign, and then helped your Hall Gov get back on the map. You had cared for RHSA so much at that point that you made a decision be-cause you saw that the hall government was failing and you wanted to help it. I am happy that this is the position you chose, because you have to personable personal-ity that is needed during events. Your face is usually the first one people see during events because of sign in sheets. I know you can hype people up during meetings so they earn GFP’s. You have been a great addition to RHSA as a whole for the past two years and I am so happy that the next step you chose was the e-board. It will change you for the better and you will grow so much more. This e-board will be-come family and while that sounds cliche, it’s true.. I know I'll already love working with you, and I hope it's vise versa, so without further ado let me introduce next year's CCC AKA Cutie Cutie Casucci.

NCC:Being an NCC is no easy task. Between writing bids, prepping delegations, staying up until 1am in boardroom, and everything else conference related, it can take a lot out of someone. I am honestly so thankful that New Paltz has Co-NCCs because I don’t understand how some schools have one person do the whole job by them-selves. Naturally then, you all can imagine how scared I was that I didn’t know if I would have a successor early in the semester. However, I know you’re all in good hands next year.Brandon Knowles is a name that probably makes a lot of you smile and exclaim “I LOVE that guy!” Needless to say he has made his reputation known for the two years he’s been here. I had seen him around campus last year, always at RHSA events helping out with stuff and just generally being a pretty chill person. My first real experience working with Brandon, however, was during Color Wars last year. His positivity and enthusiasm helped propel the Blue Team to victory, and I couldn’t help but admire his energy and dedication. But he didn’t stop there.Let me tell you something about Brandon Knowles: he is the single most hardwork-ing, dedicated, and spirited individual I have ever met. Brandon is always willing to lend a hand, never lets his team down, and is easily the most positive person I have ever met. He’s always going above and beyond, whether it's already speaking up at NCC chats, taking diligent notes during office hours, and always stepping up when-ever needed. When I asked about why he didn’t apply to go to conference last Octo-ber, he said that his hall gov had a program that weekend and he didn’t want to

miss it. That kind of dedication melts my heart, and I can confidently say that we need more people like BKnowles in the world. Brandon, this next year is going to be a crazy one for you. It’ll be amazing, don’t get me wrong, but it’s going to result in a lot of late nights and a lot of hard work. But I am absolutely confident you can handle it. You have inspired me in ways I can’t explain, and I absolutely cannot wait to see what else you accomplish. Please reach out to me if you need anything at all, especially since you’ll be traveling SO far conference next year. You have a fantastic co-NCC, and I know you’ll do great things next year. That being said, I am honored to pass on to you the giant NCC clothespin, and officially transition you as the RHSA NCC. Good luck Dab God, you’re gonna be great.

Brandon: I just wanted to take a second to recognize my predecessor Mike Hebert, and Audrey’s predecessor Maria Gillin. Me and Audrey are so amazed by how sup-portive you guys are, and how much of an impact you have made in New Paltz and the region. It’s just amazing. We’re also created the “SUNY New Paltz AWESOME NCC Award”, and we’d like to present it to Michael Hebert and Maria Gillin.

PR:I have to admit I didn’t expect the year to have gone the way it has. I knew that I was going meet a lot of first year students, and I knew that I was going meet some new friends along the way. However, I never expected to meet a first year who would make such a big impact on me this year as Elee Wolf has. I will admit I was curious to meet the person to beat my best friend Brandon Knowles at the Lenape Hall elections for President. When I did finally meet her in the Fall Hall govern-ment mixer, it really surprises me now to say that my first impression of her was that she was a really shy but caring girl. As I got to know her more throughout the year it became imperative that I hit the mark when it came to her being caring but she was not shy at all. My next interaction would be at the farmers market when I learn she join the sustainability committee, the same one that I was a part of and where ENERGY!!!!! originated from. For Spirit Weekend it was really noticeable that she was full of spirit from her high energy spirit. She would then join the RHSA community service committee where I got to know her more and where I fi-nally get to call her my friend. As the year went on, we soon became closer as friends as we seem to be doing a lot of the same things. Together we were part of the first pledge class for the CO-ED service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega, we both ended up at the same hotel in Washington DC during Spring Break, we both ran for treasurer for RHSA, we both are a part of NRHH, we’ll both be here during the summer as OL and Summer SAM and we even have room-mates/suite-mates who are part of Glee Club. If I didn’t know better it seemed like she was stalking me. Elee, are you stalking me? Yet in all honesty, Elee I’m really happy to have met you this year, I feel like I can trust you with anything, tell you anything with confi-dentiality and if I have any problems I can go to you with them because I know you can help me and I hope you feel the same way. That is why I am not only honored but proud to see your growth this year and pass on the position of Public Relation Officer to my NRHH mentee, my brother, and one of my best friends Elee Wolf!!!!

SECRETARY:The first time I had ever seen Katie Herman was last year at Kanye West BUZZ Karaoke. She walked in wearing a bright yellow jacket, neon pink hoop earrings,

and a huge smile on her face. Just for reference, here’s a picture of her and An-gelique dancing from that day. From that moment on, whenever I heard the name “Katie Herman”, this image of her is the first thing that came to mind. If I was ever asked to describe Katie in one picture, it would be this one.Katie Herman is someone who is in a constant state of happiness and positivity. Her energy and spirit is brighter than the neon jacket she’s wearing in this picture. It’s impossible to be in a bad mood when you’re around her. She has an infectious personality, and she’s going to be an amazing addition to this e-board.Katie; I love you to the moon and back, and everything you’ve accomplished so far at New Paltz is nothing short of amazing. You’ve grown from a Floor Rep to Hall Gov president to RHSA secretary as well as an RA. New Paltz is lucky to have you, and I’m so glad you found your way onto this e-board. You’re going to be a fantas-tic secretary, and I can’t wait to see everything you accomplish next year.I also have some presents for you, and they all kinda need an explanation. Earlier this semester, I started making a secretary binder because a lot of other positions have a binder and I wanted to feel included, but I quickly realized that a secretary doesn’t really need a binder...so instead of doing something useful with my time, I made a binder literally just full of pictures of different secretaries; it seemed funny at the time. After realizing the binder wouldn’t be helpful, I made you this flash-drive with agenda templates and things like that that will actually be useful to you. Third, I made you a playlist full of songs to listen to when you’re editing minutes: it’s literally just 5 hours of the song “Scream” from High School Musical 3. In case anyone doesn’t believe me, it’s a public playlist on Spotify called “wow minutes are fun”. I also got you a neon yellow mug to match your neon yellow jacket that says “Look on the Bright Side”, and I filled it with some goodies, including a bunch of laptop stickers that I think really reflect your personality. And the last present I have for you isn’t an actual, physical thing. The last present I have for you is a promise: a promise that when you’re editing minutes...from a 2½ hour long election meeting….and it’s 2am and you feel like you’ve lost all control of your life...and you’re doing this for nothing and no one in the world is reading your minutes….I am. My last present for you is a promise that I will always read your minutes. Even if I am the only one, which I might be, I promise I will always them.I’m excited for you to start this amazing journey, and I’m so happy I get to do it by your side. Congratulations Katie, you deserve this 100%.

TREASURER:Rui, I don't even know where to start. I am so lucky to have worked with you for an entire year on this lovely e-board. It would not have been the same without you making jokes and being weird all the time. You are one of the funniest people I have ever met. You have never failed to make me laugh every single day this year. Whenever I was sad, you would always take the time out of your busy schedule to talk to me and instantly make me feel a lot better. I don't know how many times you listened to me rant this year, but you never failed to make me trust you. I don't know what I'm going to do without seeing you almost everyday next year. You have honestly become an integral part of my life and I hope it stays that way. Your ambi-tion towards everything is admirable and ambitious. Not many people would take on 90% of the positions on campus at one time, but you did. You never stop striving for more, for better, and to help everyone out. I honestly can't wait to watch you succeed in all your positions, your life, and of course as my successor. I have no doubt in my mind that you will be a great treasurer. You were dedicated to learn-

ing during training and I know that dedication will carry out into the position. I can't wait to come to all the events and all your office hours to bother you every-day. Rui, I love you so much, more than I can even put into words. Come up to get a little gift I got you. Oh, and be careful next year, you don’t want to keep the trea-surer hand thing going do you?

VP:My dearest Angelique, I remember meeting you freshman year, but I have no recollection of what our first meeting was like. You always say that you met me in Shango, with Kelley. I was screaming down the halls… But I think about it for a little bit, I am still like that. However, I feel like our first time actually spending time together was during retreat last year, and then after that, I asked you to be my room-mate.Throughout the year, I have gotten to know you so much more, and I have no doubt about you being the next vice president of this amazing organization. With Catherine by your side, you two can conquer the world.You have been there for me whenever I needed you, as well as everyone on this e-board. Remember when Rui was locked out of the art building and he called you at 8 in the morning saying, “Come save meeeeeeee.” You ran over there to rescue him. The times I got locked out of the room, you were there to rescue me. When RHSA needed something, you always stepped forward and is willing to help anyone – that’s what I love most about you. You’re selfless and you’re always there whenever someone needs you.We have come so far since freshman year, and I am beyond excited to see what you’re going to do as the vice president of RHSA, and so without further ado, Angelique Burgos, please come join me up here and be the next vice president of RHSA.

PRESIDENT:Last year, when Kristina gave my transitional speech for president, she opened by saying at the first e-board meeting she looked around the room and tried to figure out who was going to be the next president, and she couldn’t figure it out at first. When I looked around the room this year at our first meeting, I was betting money on my successor being either Mike or Angelique. And while I know both of them could do an amazing job, I am so happy I was wrong. Catherine, when I first met you, I underestimated you. And then I got to know you, and you managed to be the most amazing secretary, a truly irreplaceable e-board member, and an amazing friend. When I look at you, I see exactly the kind of person RHSA deserves and is lucky to have as a president- someone who is committed, genuine, passionate, and above all- someone who loves this organization and the people in it. Through my years on E-board, I have seen you grow so much, from the AC rep whose name I couldn’t remember, to my successor, whose name no one is going to forget. Cather-ine, you are beautiful inside and out, and I know that your compassion, under-standing and ability to connect with others is going to make everyone involved in RHSA next year feel included and cared about. Your e-board is lucky to have you guiding them, and I know this from experience because you have truly helped me to grow as a person this year. Your ability to stay on task while still being the fun-niest person in the room is commendable and I cannot wait to see what you do next year. Although leaving my term is hard and saddens me, I know that with you at the helm, RHSA is in the best possible hands it could be in. I love you and your downtown/one direction singing ways, and every moment I spend with you is a corny one that are filled with laughs and the word yikes in various degrees of

severity. Please never change, because you’re perfect the way you are. I would now like to take this moment to welcome your new president of RHSA, Catherine Callan, up to the podium to finish our last AC meeting of the semester.

ADJOURNMENT 10:52 PM