By Marta Vallejo, Staff Writer 

This past Wednesday, the Student Government Association (SGA) hosted the first ever State of the Semester event, featuring a panel of university leaders coming together to answer student questions and concerns about Xavier’s future. 

The panel of leaders featured Xavier President Dr. Colleen Hanycz, Vice President of Student Affairs and Chief of Student Success Dr. Kimberly Moore and Vice President of Mission and Ministry Fr. Eric Sundrup, vice president of mission and ministry. Also included were Vice President of Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer Kevan Buck and Provost and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Rachel Chrastil.

Many of the questions centered around the student experience, particularly in regard to housing and campus life. The panelists addressed the recently implemented three year living requirement, explaining that the policy is intended to enhance student success and strengthen the campus community. A housing study is currently being conducted, with a focus on pricing and accessibility, allowing Xavier to make adjustments based on student needs. 

The event followed a simple structure: SGA President Tyrae Walker and Vice President Ivan Colmenares would bring up a topic and ask the panelists one question at a time. The panelists would then take turns answering the questions addressed to them or chime in to add any necessary details. These questions were submitted by students prior to the event. Some of the categories included student experience and campus life, improvements and resources and bigger concerns like costs and values.

Campus life was also a major focus of discussion, with the panelists highlighting the role of student feedback in shaping recent changes. Through multiple surveys conducted over the past 18 months, Xavier has worked to address more than 30 student concerns and requests. 

Panelists also discussed ongoing improvements to campus facilities and resources. Dining services were identified as an area of continued evaluation, alongside concerns regarding dorm conditions and campus cleanliness. While some issues remain, the panelists emphasized that these areas are actively being reviewed and addressed. 

Academic support was another key topic, specifically with the introduction of professional advisors for all first-year students. This initiative aims to provide more structured guidance and increase student success early in their college experience. New core curriculum has been introduced, though it currently applies only to incoming students. 

The discussion extended beyond campus operations to broader institutional values and priorities. The panelists addressed the role of Ignatian values in shaping Xavier’s approach to community and belonging, especially in what was described as a “polarizing moment” in the United States. They emphasized the importance of engaging in difficult conversations while maintaining an environment where students feel safe, even if those conversations might be uncomfortable. 

Financial concerns were also addressed, with the panelists noting ongoing efforts to support students through financial aid. Approximately $112 million of Xavier’s budget is allocated toward financial assistance, and tuition increases have remained lower than those of many peer institutions, rising at a rate of about 3.6% compared to a national average closer to 5.5%. 

Overall, the event highlighted a continued effort by university leadership to remain transparent and engaged with the student body. Through open dialogue and direct responses to student concerns, the State of the Semester event created a space for communication and reflection, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between students and administration.