The United Students Government
The United Students Government at Buffalo State College provides Activities, Representation, and Services for students at the college.

• Students interested in extracurricular activities can join one of the many student organizations that USG sponsors and funds.
• Students can get involved in the government itself by running in the annual spring elections, or applying for appointed positions.
• Services such as the NFTA Bus Pass, Dental Clinic, and Union Game Room are available to all undergraduate students.

USG Structure
The fundamental structure of USG was established with the first USG Constitution in April 1971. USG is headed by an Executive Branch consisting of students elected each spring by the undergraduate student body. A Senate elected at the same time serves as the Legislative body of USG. These elected officers also serve as the Board of Directors for the United Students Government Service Group, Inc. The Judicial Council is appointed to settle disputes or clarify issues that arise.

United Students Government Service Group, Inc.
The USGSG is the incorporated arm of USG. The Service Group handles the budgeting and disbursement of the money collected by the college (the student activity fee) and turned over to USG to fund the activities of the student government and its member organizations. USGSG has a professional staff to handle financial management, bookkeeping, and other duties better handled by employees than by individual students. USGSG was incorporated in 1977.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does my activity fee pay for?
A: Just look through this web site! The student organizations and their events and activities as well as the student government operations and services listed here are all funded through the activity fee. See the USG Budget Page for more info on budget allocations.

Q: Where is USG?
A: Take the elevator in the southeast corner of the Campbell Student Union lobby to the 4th floor. The USG offices are the first ones you'll see (402 and 416). The Student Life Office is farther down the hall in room 400.

Q: When are the Executive Officers there?
A: When you first get off the elevator on the Union 4th floor you'll see a bulletin board. The officers hours are posted there. Or call 878-6701 and ask for the current hours of the officer you'd like to contact.

Q: How do I start an organization and get it recognized and funded?
A: The basic organizing is up to you. You'll need a well-defined purpose and a critical-mass of at least 13 students (so you can have three officers and 10 members). USG publishes a booklet that outlines what to do next. The booklet is availble in the USG Office. The staff of the Student Life Office may also be able to help you get organized, since you must be registered with them in order to use campus facilities (sign-out rooms, etc.). See the USG Budget Page for more info on budget allocations.

Q: How can I tell if an organization is already recognized.
A: The organizations page on this web site is kept as up-to-date as possible. Any currently recognized organization will be listed there. If you still have a question call or visit the USG Office.
Note: Being registered with Student Life is NOT the same as being recognized by USG and vice-versa. However the two can currently be accomplished with the same form, available in both offices.

Q: I'm supposed to get a check from USG. Where and when can I pick it up?
A: Checks are available in the USG Business Office (Union 416) from 2PM to 4PM on Fridays, or the following week.

Q: Can USG send a fax for me?
A: Yes! USG offers fax and copy services in Union 403.

Q: How do I sign out a table or room in the Student Union?
A: This is handled by the Student life Office through the Information Desk in the Union lobby. You must be an organization registered with Student Life or sponsored by one.

Q: Where do I get my NFTA Bus Pass?
A: The Butler Library Information Commons. The same location you would use to update your College ID will issue your pass.

Q: How do I get my organization's event listed on the big sign in the Union?
A: All requests must be e-mailed to usgmedia@buffalostate.edu one week prior to the appearance of the message on the sign. Make sure to include the following information in your e-mail:

• Name of the organization sponsoring event
• Name and a brief description of event
• Date
• Time
• Location
• Admission cost and ticket availability if applicable
• Message text and when you want your message to run (NO GUARANTEES)

Hand written requests will not be accepted.