With the year rapidly coming to a close, the SMU Student Senate has begun preparations for summer as they welcome in the 101st Student Senate class at one of their last meetings of the year.

Executive Director of Student Affairs Jennifer Jones asked the graduating seniors to give their words of wisdom to the newly elected members in the Hughes-Trigg Forum this Tuesday.

Dedman Senator Zane Cavender was the first to speak, fondly offering his lighthearted take take on his past four years as a Senate representative.

“Remember who you work for,” he said. “We’re here to service the students that elected us, but don’t fall short of laughing and having a good time.”

For many of the seniors, this is a bittersweet goodbye to the organization that works tirelessly to improve SMU student’s lives at our university. Pulling representatives from academic department, the SMU Student Senate aims to make the voices of all students heard.

Each representative has a personal statement of at least three points that they wish to change during their term as senator. Thus far this year, they have tackled everything from challenging the new curriculum, to promoting respect among one another around campus. Senate meetings are open to anyone who wishes to propose a bill and make a difference.

“You are the voice of your peers, and you have the power to make a difference in their lives,” Jones said.

This is something the Student Senate clearly prides themselves on. Another graduating representative Caleb Pool said, “Take advantage of the energy, evaluate the concerns of your constituents. They depend on you.”

Senate members closed the meeting by singing “The Varsity” together, a traditional farewell to the seniors. New senate members will begin group bonding at the end of this month, and elections for the parliamentarian, speaker and chief of staff are soon to come.