Temple Student Government (TSG) aims to represent student interests but faces challenges in making a real impact. Current and former members shared insights about the organization’s limitations and evolving structure.
Malcolm Kenyatta, a 2012 Temple alum and Pennsylvania State Representative, noted that TSG operates more as an advocacy group than a governing body. During his tenure, TSG shifted from a simple model to a senate structure that allowed for more voices. Kenyatta attempted to introduce legislation for LGBTQ+ classes to count as diversity credits but found TSG lacked the authority to implement such changes.
Kenyatta expressed frustration about the missed opportunities for collective student voices. “I felt like that was a missed opportunity,” he said, highlighting a disconnect between students and TSG’s capabilities.
In recent years, the organization has restructured again. In 2022, TSG dissolved its parliament in favor of an audit committee. The current setup includes an executive branch and committees focused on allocations and elections.
Ray Epstein, a former TSG president, faced difficulties in pushing initiatives during her time. She proposed creating a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion officer role for student organizations but couldn’t see it through. “Departmental priorities and limited resources often hampered our efforts,” she explained.
Current TSG President, Lourdes Cardamone, highlighted the vastness of Temple and the coordination required across many departments to make change happen. She initiated a feedback form to encourage students to share their concerns, reinforcing that TSG is not just a faceless institution.
This approach aims to strengthen TSG’s connection to the student body. In collaboration with various departments, TSG recently addressed issues at the new One Stop Student Services Center, which opened in January 2025. Student feedback prompted adjustments to appointment scheduling, improving access to essential services.
Being part of TSG has been personally rewarding for Cardamone, shaping her leadership skills and career aspirations. Similarly, Epstein found growth in navigating conflict through her role, preparing her for a future in law. “I learned how to express my concerns effectively and lead discussions on tough issues,” she said.
Recent statistics from a survey by the American Student Government Association reveal that 78% of student government leaders feel their organizations struggle with visibility on campus. This echoes the sentiments shared by Kenyatta, Epstein, and Cardamone, emphasizing the ongoing challenge of engaging the broader student community.
The evolution of TSG reflects the ever-changing dynamics of student needs, highlighting yet again the balancing act between advocacy and action.
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