The Office of Student Government is not necessarily all about politics. As paramount of a position in Student Organization, the full-time undergraduate student government is, there is room for fun when it comes to the Programming Board. Interested in becoming a member of the Programming Board? Applications are now due!

The ideal candidate for the programming board is someone who encompasses the enthusiasm and responsibility that radiates through all current and previous members. Strong organizational and communications skills are a must when applying for the position of coordinator or assistant coordinator. The application process is straight forward and will be up for review by members of Student Organization and Event Board directors.

The role of the Programming Board is crucial: they are responsible for putting the mission statement of Student Organization into action. The current mission reads, “Student Organization of Kean University strives to enhance the intellectual, cultural, and personal growth of those it represents, by acting as the voice of the full-time, undergraduate, student body. The organization is dedicated to maintaining an environment where the ideals of diversity and free expression can flourish through scholarly opinion, debate, and education.”

With that being said, the Programming Board strives to create engaging events and activities for Kean University that are not only exciting but encourage cultural development, humanitarian and civic engagement, social development, intellectual growth, and life skills and personal development.​ Junior, global business major and Coordinator of Cultural, Concerts and National Events; Julio Olivo has worn many hats within Student Organization and has finally found home in the Programming Board.

“I have always been very active and love to participate in events that bring the community together. It has been one of the best decisions I have made in my academic career,” said Olivo in regards to joining the Programming Board after serving as a student representative and treasurer.

The Programming Board has only been around two years but it has become a vital component to the Student Organization. The board acts as a liaison between the student body and student government, taking ideas and suggestions for events and bringing them to life. A main goal of programming board is to keep the Kean community satisfied and involved. Day to day, the programming staff are in contact with different entertainment companies and vendors in order to execute unique events for the student body.

“My favorite part of my job is seeing the smiles of students in the events hosted by the committee,” said Olivo. “To see that the student body and faculty enjoy the events planned by the committee is the cherry on an ice cream.”

Some of the best events of the last two years have come about because of this specialized board of creative thinkers. A prime example of successful student engagement is what is planned to become the annual Flavor Fest. This year’s Flavor Fest was crowded with excited students who were curious to taste flavors from around the world. With stations from countries such as China, Africa, Spain, Italy and others accompanied by decorations and appropriate music, the event has become one of the campus’ biggest successes.

For more information on the Programming Board, contact Student Organization atstuorg@kean.edu.