Fort Schuyler Magazine Spring 2023

F E A T U R E

Student Government Associatio LIAM REDDAN Envisions a Brilliant Future for Maritime College

BY ODALIS MINO

L iam Reddan came to Maritime College in 2019. His choice was bigger than himself. “I knew I wanted to do something more. I was a hard worker and could handle the course load. Although I was nervous about INDOC, I fit right in with a great group of students who wanted to be better,” recalls Reddan. The Long Island native, who was exposed to the waters of the Long Island Sound and traveled on boats, was committed to pursuing a career in the maritime industry. As a newly minted cadet with the Regiment of Cadets, Reddan could not have imagined at that time he would one day lead the College student body as its Student Government Association (SGA) President. based on the premise of wanting to be a part of a purpose; something

believed it was important to encourage and increase student involvement. Like many colleges whose students were negatively impacted by the pandemic and its social distance restrictions, Reddan sought to bring students together through simple activities on campus. “One sunny day, I suggested that the Maritime Events Planning Club bring out camp chairs and hammocks. It was great to see students hanging out and enjoying time together,” he said. His efforts in engaging students have significantly increased student involvement with clubs, sports and campus activities during the 2022-2023 academic semester. Once the remainder of the SGA leadership positions were filled, supporting the clubs and repurposing rooms for student use was their next area of focus. “I have a great

“When I first began at Maritime, I wasn’t too sure where I was headed, but over the years, I began getting involved with clubs, the soccer team, the ROTC unit and Student Government,” he said. “I never thought I would become Student Government President.” But when approached by one of his friends in SGA to suggest an activity for students, Reddan proposed three activities and managed them all. He was immediately invited to attend the upcoming SGA meeting. “I like finding solutions to problems and I found this was a chance to help formulate a plan and help find solutions.” Among his top priorities after being elected SGA President was to reestablish student government by filling the other leadership roles with students who were equally committed to enacting change. Reddan

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