Dane Rimko photo: Amber Penna served as this past year’s MSG president, and will be leaving the position soon.

As the end of the school year nears, some students are relieved, while many seniors face the task of relinquishing their leadership positions in Mercyhurst’s clubs. Among them is Mercyhurst Student Government President Amber Penna.

Looking back to why she ran for the position in the first place, Penna explains, “I was very involved with school and thought it would be a great opportunity to represent the students and their voice on campus.”

She also greatly values the leadership opportunity the position presented.

This year, the Mercyhurst Student Government took on several challenges and achieved two goals. A smoothie bar has been added to the Laker, providing a new, healthy option for students. They also worked to encourage the Board of Trustees to pass a $1 million housing proposal that will be put towards improving and updating upperclassmen housing.
Penna had some of her own challenges as president.

“I definitely thought it was difficult to manage and make people happy,” said Penna. “It takes time and consideration.”

Next year holds new opportunities and challenges for Penna. Graduating with a Sports Medicine major, she will be attending Duke University for graduate school in the fall. She hopes to earn her doctorate in physical therapy through their three-year program and work to rehabilitate returning war veterans.

For next year’s student government, Penna had a message.

“Take advantage of all the opportunities presented to you because the years go by quickly. You have been privileged to represent the students so be proud of that,” Penna said.