On Friday, Nov. 15, the Associated Student Government (ASG) interviewed and appointed a commissioner of accessibility, establishing a full board for the rest of the 2024-25 school year.

The role of the commissioner of accessibility would be to ensure that the needs of disabled students at City College are heard and met. In his interview, Sam Gustafson, a second-year philosophy major, emphasized the importance of inclusion and the necessity of hearing a variety of opinions. He also stressed that accessibility stretches beyond just students with disabilities.

“I think people think that the commissioner of accessibility is either all for those who aren’t neurotypical or for those who are physically disabled,” Gustafson said. “I think the role should be for everyone.”

Coming from a high school where accessibility wasn’t viewed as a priority, Gustafson recalled his work with the special education department and how he helped those with disabilities there firsthand. When his fellow students would have difficulty getting to their classes because of a lack of resources, he would step in and help.

“There were classrooms that didn’t have an elevator too, so people wouldn’t be able to go to class or had to be lifted up the stairs,” Gustafson said. “Once or twice I was one of the people who carried people upstairs and made sure they could get to class.”

In discussing specific goals he has as commissioner of accessibility, Gustafson ensured that all events put on by the ASG are as accessible as possible in accordance with the Brown Act and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) rules and regulations. He also aims to make the prayer and meditation space accessible for students.

“SBCC should be welcome and available to all,” Gustafson said. “I think accessibility is the core of that.”

In addition to the newly appointed commissioner, ASG discussed a possible fundraising event to help alleviate the debt they have amassed and to fund leadership conferences for ASG members to attend in the spring. 

Commissioner of Fundraising Marco Bonometti proposed a 4-day-long vendor fair located on the West Campus lawn. The event would bring an assortment of vendors, both student-run and local, to rent a space on the lawn and sell products during the day. The date and logistics of the event are still in progress but are expected to take place sometime early next semester. 

Until then, ASG is planning other smaller fundraising events for the remainder of the fall semester. 

The next ASG meeting will be held on Nov 22.