Student senate elects new judicial council president, shares aspirations for future

Elijah Jones from Alumni Hall was elected to serve as judicial council president at Wednesday’s student senate meeting. He will replace Hunter Brooke, who resigned in December to avoid impeachment.

After a 28-page bill of impeachment was circulated to senators, alleging misconduct and unethical conduct, Brooke resigned from his role as judicial council president on Dec. 11, avoiding what would have been his second impeachment hearing before the senate. Jones will leave his current position as student union historian to fill the new role. 

The senate highlighted Jones’ strengths in civil communication, his compassion for his peers and his ability to take care of those in vulnerable situations.

“Elijah is one of the kindest and hardest working individuals, and he aids in making our class council move smoothly,” said Aleah Applin, the class of 2027 president.

“This was an easy decision,” said student body vice president Maeve Miller. 

Senate members also stressed that his election served as a reminder of the significance of elected officials’ actions in conversational settings. They emphasized that the compassion of elected leaders is especially important, as they reflect the collective identity of the Notre Dame student body. 

During general announcements, a member of the financial management board announced that the board had set aside 20% of their budget to aid with medical bills for students who fit certain financial criteria. 

The Black Excellence Dinner was highlighted as upcoming events for the University were discussed.  Members encouraged everyone to feel welcome to attend. 

“It is to celebrate the community and through such honoring the efforts of Martin Luther King,” explained Kaza-Zack Kazirukanyo.

The meeting concluded after 22 minutes.