The Other New President

CARINA ENGST: The junior from Bloomington, Illinois, is the new president of Scots Student Senate. MONMOUTH, Ill. – Carina Engst ’26, the new president of Scots Student Senate, says she’s thrilled to embark on a journey with her dedicated team to make a lasting impact on Monmouth College. Their vision for the 2024-25 academic year is centered on fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where every student’s voice is heard and valued.

“At the start of my term, our immediate focus is on building strong relationships with the faculty and administration,” said Engst, who came to Monmouth from Bloomington, Illinois. “Establishing a solid connection with President (Patricia) Draves is a top priority to ensure that she fully understands the diverse needs of our student body.”

In the early days of the fall semester, Scot Student Senate has actively engaged students through the involvement fair and plans to continue to gather valuable feedback on the reopening of the Stockdale Center to address pressing concerns and opportunities.

“As we move forward, I am excited about the possibilities for the coming year. Our goal is to enhance student collaboration, emphasize inclusivity, and create a supportive community where every individual feels at home at Monmouth College.” – Carina Engst

Engst believes that creating a cohesive and empowered executive board team is crucial for Scots Student Senate’s success.

“Our board, which was elected by the student body, is already showing great synergy and commitment,” she said. “We will continue to define roles and responsibilities as per our constitution and hold weekly meetings to discuss and address any questions or concerns.”

When asked about the senate’s communication strategy, Engst replied, “Our public relations officer, Maya Dickerson ’26, will leverage social media and newsletters to keep students informed and involved. We will also implement feedback mechanisms to gauge the effectiveness of our initiatives and encourage participation through engaging events and incentive-based activities.”

Relationship with administration

Scot Student Senate has a tradition of maintaining an understanding relationship with the administration, particularly through their adviser, Dean of Students Karen Ogorzalek. Engst said that relationship will be instrumental in the body’s decision-making processes.

“We will invite faculty to our full-body meetings and ensure their input is considered,” she said. “Additionally, our senate will present pertinent student concerns and suggestions at faculty meetings, keeping the administration informed and engaged with student life.”

Another top priority is representing the student body’s diverse interests and concerns.

“Our team includes members with a range of backgrounds and experiences, enhancing our ability to address various concerns,” she said. “Our diversity, equity and Inclusion officer, Payton Crims ’27, will work to ensure that all students feel welcomed and included. We will host DEI-focused meetings and consider implementing representation for international students to support their transition to Monmouth College.”

“Our team includes members with a range of backgrounds and experiences, enhancing our ability to address various concerns.” – Carina Engst

The Scots Care fund, started by the senate during the COVID pandemic, is also crucial for supporting student initiatives and organizations. It has allocated funds for campus improvements, such as the Scots Cruiser bikes and Adirondack chairs, and it provides financial support to registered clubs.

THE PRESIDENT PRESENTS: Engst spent much of her summer on campus as a participant in the Doc Kieft Summer Research Program.To boost student engagement with the senate, Engst and her team are discussing various outreach strategies. In addition to the involvement fair, they plan to create engaging content and host informative sessions on diverse topics.

“Collaborating with other organizations and offering networking opportunities will further enhance our visibility and appeal,” said Engst. “We will also consider creating a second involvement fair in the spring to engage transfer students and remind current students of the opportunities available.”

Looking ahead

“As we move forward, I am excited about the possibilities for the coming year,” said Engst. “Our goal is to enhance student collaboration, emphasize inclusivity, and create a supportive community where every individual feels at home at Monmouth College. Together, we will work toward making our senate a vital and dynamic part of campus life.”

The first full meeting of Scots Student Senate is at 6 p.m. Sept. 5 in the Whiteman-McMillan Highlander Room on the upper level of the Stockdale Center.

“We will be addressing initial student concerns and new ideas for student organizations on campus,” said Engst. “We’re trying the new Highlander Room for our first meeting.”