Unlocking Wellness: CSG’s Expert Insights on Resolutions and Health Resources

The University of Michigan’s Central Student Government (CSG) gathered in the Wolverine Room of the Michigan Union to talk about health counseling resources on North Campus and the school’s bereavement leave policy.

The meeting kicked off with the appointment of Engineering senior Alaa Assi and Medical School student Arden Parrish as new representatives. Then, LSA junior Jayden Engelhardt brought up an important issue: Tuesday marked two years since the tragic Hamas attack on Israel. Engelhardt shared how the impact of that day still resonates deeply, with over 1,200 lives lost and many more affected.

“Oct. 7 is not just a date; it’s a wound that has not healed,” Engelhardt expressed. He highlighted the personal connections many students have to the tragedy, emphasizing that they still see faces of peers who have suffered immense losses.

Tyler Fioritto, a Rackham student, voiced his frustration with the university’s bereavement policy. Currently, the policy only covers employees, leaving students without guaranteed time off after losing a loved one. Fioritto, who knows a friend struggling with this lack, remarked, “It’s re-traumatizing to think that someone’s pain is tied to their academic performance.”

CSG representative Riley Kina mentioned her work with Wolverine Wellness to push for a resolution on bereavement leave. The group had previously proposed allowing students up to five excused absences after a death in the family. However, progress was paused after former University President Santa Ono resigned.

Another CSG member, Eric Veal Jr., shared that they are looking to create specific guidelines for each program regarding bereavement leave. “Every school has different needs. Standardizing across the entire university may not work, but guidelines could help,” he said.

The assembly also confirmed several new roles within CSG, including Stephen Asante as deputy treasurer and Junha Park as secretary.

Next, budget amendments were discussed. A proposal to free up funds for the Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Disability Empowerment Commissions was referred to the finance committee. Another resolution, the North Campus University Health Service and Counseling Expansion Act, aimed to establish a permanent health service location on North Campus. Chanhee Park, a junior in Music, Theatre & Dance, stressed the importance of this resource, noting that it would serve many students living there.

Two additional proposals aimed at developing pilot clinic stations and ensuring housing expansion were discussed but have been tabled for more information on logistics and timelines.

Beyond the immediate concerns, these discussions reflect a broader trend in universities striving to enhance student support services. A recent report indicated that over 63% of college students experience overwhelming anxiety. This prompts the question of how institutions can adapt their policies to better support their students’ mental health needs.

To stay updated on the ongoing developments in health resources and student support, you can refer to the Central Student Government’s website.

Daily Staff Reporter Sarah Palushi can be reached at sarpal@umich.edu.

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