The Associated Students of Wyoming (ASUW) swore in their newly elected 111th administration in an inauguration ceremony on May 1.
The event took place just 16 days after they were selected to serve in office and allowed the new president, vice president, senators, chief justices, and associate justices to take an oath showing their faithfulness to The University of Wyoming’s student government.
“I’m confident that the new administration will rise to the challenges ahead and make a positive impact on our school,” associate director Lucas Hansen said. “They come from diverse backgrounds and have different perspectives, but they’re all united in their commitment to making our school a better place.”
“I’m very excited for the members of the new student government administration. I’ve already had the privilege of working with many of our new representatives, and I can already tell you that they are passionate, dedicated, and full of ideas of how we can improve our campus community.”
President Saber Smith was sworn in first, with ex-Chief Justice Friday C. Otuya reciting the oath that all incoming officers read: “I (state your full name) do affirm before these assembled witnesses that, to the best of my ability, I will faithfully perform the duties of my office, and that I will support and uphold the Constitution and By-Laws of the ASUW.”
Smith then took time to address his new administration, voicing his hopes for the upcoming year.
“Just looking around, we have such an amazing crew, and I genuinely mean that. You all are so awesome, and I’m so excited to work with you all,” Smith said. “Ever since I was a first-year senator, I’ve always wanted to be the president. And I’ve always wanted to serve my fellow students in the best manner possible. And now I get to do that with you all, and I’m just incredibly excited.”
“I hope we can stay unified, have a great community, and despite disagreements, which will happen, I just hope we can stay a unit and be happy.”
Next, Vice President Jessica Petri, who was on Zoom, was sworn in by Otuya. Petri went on to swear in the 21 senators, 12 who are returning and nine who are new to the legislative branch of ASUW.
Joshua Rodgers was also sworn in as the new Chief Justice by Otuya, with Aaron Swaney III sworn in as an associate Justice.
The next step in the new administration’s term is their first senate meeting, which will take place on May 2, and the people who could not attend the May 1 ceremony will have the chance to get sworn in.
It will be the last meeting ASUW holds this semester.
