WSUSA creates LGBTQ+ student senator position

In spring 2022, Garrett Potokar, a professional sales student, made history as Weber State’s first LGBTQ+ student senator, filling the inaugural role as an advocate for previously unrepresented students.

“A lot of other groups have senators, which is amazing,” Potokar said. “I think every group should be represented in the senate and that every student deserves a voice. LGBT students didn’t have a voice before now.”

While working as a graphic designer for the Weber State University Student Association (WSUSA), Potokar realized there was little LGBTQ+ representation in the group.

“I saw there were changes that needed to be made, and I’ve had past leadership positions,” Potokar said. “As part of the student senate, I wanted to help pass legislation, get things going and make campus a safer space for everyone.”

In order to move forward quickly for spring 2022, Potokar was selected through an interview process. During his semester in the role, Potokar passed several pieces of legislation, making it easier for students to change their names and identifying pronouns, providing easier access to LGBTQ+ resources and supporting transgender athletes.

“It’s been amazing being in close collaboration with constituents and senators alike. It’s truly been a labor of love from not just me, but also from everyone I’ve worked with,” Potokar said. “I really hit the ground running, and it was exhilarating to pass such large legislation in such a short time.”

Potokar now serves as the executive vice president for WSUSA and as acting parliamentarian, ensuring proper parliamentary procedure is followed by the student senate.

Jazmyne Olson, a public relations and advertising major, was selected as LGBTQ+ senator for the 2022–23 academic year.