Student Bar Association - Current State of the Union!

October has not even begun, and the Cleveland State University College of Law Student Bar Association is already hitting the ground running! At the time of this article’s creation, the campaign season for 1L Senators is underway. This incoming class of 2028 is already exhibiting incredible leadership and initiative. As a 1L senator turned secretary, I don’t even remember showing out as frequently and as passionately as this incoming class has. It was so amazing to see so many curious first-year law students frequently attending our SBA general body meetings. I am excited to work with and get to know all of you! Whether you’re elected to an officer position or if you’re a regular student, we are all part of the Student Bar Association, and your voices matter!  

  One of SBA’s biggest objectives right now is figuring out how to address sensitive, relevant issues in our country and determining how, if at all, they may affect the CSU Law student body. The most significant example of this to date is the presence of JAG Corps officers at our on-campus events such as career fairs and informational sessions. In a heavily debated decision, the majority of SBA voted to send a letter to the Deans’ Suite asking them to ban the JAG Corps from such on-campus events, namely due to the recent order from the Department of Justice to train up to 600 JAG officers to act as immigration judges, which could potentially be a constitutional violation. This decision amongst the Student Bar Association was met with both strong support and vehement opposition, from students and faculty alike. As of this time, there are no new developments with this matter, but we are always hard at work to ensure everyone’s voices are heard and validated. 

  Another issue the Student Bar Association has recently contended with is the lack of suitable feminine products in womens’ restrooms. When the bathrooms throughout the law building are stocked with products (which is rare), the products are not acceptable for those who need them due to frequent reports of physical discomfort. SBA officers have heard these complaints, and have banded together to implore the administration to provide better personal products in the bathrooms that are actually suitable for use. Finally, SBA has been brainstorming different, more engaging ways to reach the student body with current events – both within and outside of the law school – that go beyond the biweekly emails to the student body.  

  Thinking about these matters as a law student and future attorney, the interactions between the student body, the SBA officers, and the administration have reminded me about the purpose of holding this office – to foster meaningful, open dialogue and use our legal training and ideological strengths to meet everyone’s needs and create lasting change for all, despite any internal disagreements. If you share these same values, then participation in the Student Bar Association would be an amazing opportunity for you! Please do not hesitate to reach out to myself (m.a.malone33@vikes.csuohio.edu) or any of the other officers if you have any questions, comments, concerns, or feedback!