For immediate release: Sept. 12, 2012

BLOOMSBURG — Recently elected Community Government Association (CGA) president Ashley Wallace strives to serve as a student advocate and improve communication at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. In addition to addressing students’ concerns, CGA oversees numerous facilities used by BU students, including Honeysuckle Apartments, the Student Recreation Center and the University Store.

Wallace, of Hawley, is a junior early childhood and special education major, minoring in audiology and speech-language pathology. She was elected freshmen class president and joined the CGA executive board during her second semester at BU. She also served as secretary during her sophomore year.

As president, Wallace hopes to “connect the dots” between departments on campus, students and student-run organizations. She says many available resources aren’t used to their full potential and believes that the campus community would benefit from positive communication and sharing ideas. “For example, student clubs could team up to do fundraising, or academic departments could give presentations together,” she explained.

She hopes more students will discuss their concerns with CGA members, stating that the organization is available to help students address issues around the BU community.

“As a future teacher, I understand the importance of all individuals having a voice, no matter who they are or what they have to say,” Wallace said. “I value helping students express their thoughts, ideas, suggestions, concerns, and opinions regarding their education and their home here at BU.”

She encourages students to participate in some of the more than 200 clubs and organizations on campus, but also reminds students to take a break to relax. “It is crucial to make this personal time in order to be effective academically, and to understand why you enjoy your involvement and dedication to additional activities,” she explained.

Outside of her involvement with CGA, Wallace serves as historian for the Student Council of Exceptional Children (SCEC). She is also an orientation workshop leader (OWL) and a Board of Governors student.

Bloomsburg University is one of 14 universities in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. The university serves approximately 10,000 students, offering comprehensive programs of study in the colleges of Education, Business, Liberal Arts and Science and Technology.