Pitt SGB approves food accessibility ad hoc committee — here’s what it means for students
Pitt SGB backs food accessibility ad hoc committee
When the University of Pittsburgh’s Student Government Board (SGB) voted to establish a Food Accessibility, Safety and Equity Ad Hoc Committee, the decision signalled more than routine student government business. The new body will focus on a pressing question for student life: how can every Pitt student reliably access safe, healthy and affordable meals?
Championing Food Equity and Student Voice
The committee’s charter, introduced by board member Rachel Smookler, outlines a mission to advocate for quality food options on and off campus. Its work will go beyond monitoring dining services — it will actively collect and amplify student feedback on allergen awareness, food safety, and affordability.
Smookler stressed that the group’s strength will come from student voices:
“This ad hoc will channel student feedback to key stakeholders to better advocate for accessibility needs and long-term sustainability.”
She added that underclassmen and students with specific dietary needs would be encouraged to participate, ensuring a broad perspective on dining improvements.
Expanding Sustainable Transport with Bike Share
Beyond dining, SGB turned its attention to everyday student mobility. Jorja Fleming, Campus Operations and Innovation Chair, announced early-stage plans to collaborate with POGOH on expanding bike-sharing stations in South Oakland.
Fleming identified Semple Street, Meyran Avenue, and McKee Place as underserved areas where demand is growing. Surveys will soon be distributed to capture student preferences and data to guide negotiations with POGOH.
“There’s a lack of bikes in South Oakland, especially in high-density student housing areas. I definitely plan on collaborating with POGOH,” Fleming said.
Addressing Construction and Campus Systems
Board members also acknowledged other student frustrations. Andrew Elliott and Siya Saraswat reported ongoing efforts to address concerns about disruptive construction projects and difficulties with Pitt’s Event Management System (EMS), which student organisations rely on to book space.
Elliott urged students to come forward:
“If you’ve had a problem, please let myself or board member Saraswat know, and we will make sure to bring those up with administration.”
Funding Requests Reviewed
- Steel City Sapna: $32,214.26 request — denied in full
- Chabad at Pitt: $4,681.50 request — amended and approved at $3,745.20
- Women in Business: $2,685.58 request — approved in full
FAQs on Pitt SGB’s Latest Initiatives
Why was the Food Accessibility Committee formed?
To ensure all Pitt students have consistent access to safe, affordable, and inclusive dining, while amplifying student feedback on food quality and equity.
What improvements are planned for bike sharing in Oakland?
SGB is exploring the addition of POGOH docking stations in South Oakland’s most densely populated student areas, based on survey data.
How can students raise issues with construction or EMS?
Students can contact board members Andrew Elliott or Siya Saraswat, who will take concerns directly to university administrators.
What student groups received funding approval?
Women in Business and Chabad at Pitt received funding (full and partial approval respectively), while Steel City Sapna’s request was denied.