Since the Saint Mary's student government turnover occurred April 1, student body president Kim Hodges and vice president Kelly Payne have smoothly transitioned into their new roles.
Hodges became the first black woman in the school's 152-year history ever to hold the position when she took office. She said she anticipates the upcoming year.
"As a leader, I pray that I am the best leader that I can be and in my capacity I will lead student government better than I came in," Hodges said. "I've already sent out an e-mail to the Board for next year saying 'I'm ready to make history.'"
Hodges, a social work major from South Holland, Ill. said her administration is off to a busy start.
She has already begun meeting with members of the South Bend community to work toward her goal of reaching out to the community and making a connection between Saint Mary's and South Bend.
"I just got done meeting with the South Bend Tribune about setting up a Web site about events and sights around town - especially to highlight Saint Mary's events," Hodges said.
The Web site is a joint initiative undertaken by the College, Notre Dame and Holy Cross College to connect with the larger South Bend community.
Hodges has also met with the Saint Mary's administration to discuss the upcoming beatification of Father Moreau in October. And she sat on a committee to discuss the recipient of the Lumen Christi award that will be given to one senior on graduation day.
Hodges spoke to high school students during the College's annual Spring Day on campus Sunday, an event she has participated in as a tour guide for the past three years.
"[The day] felt different because I'm in a different capacity as student body president," Hodges said.
Hodges said she would like to change the format of Board of Governance (BOG) meetings for next year. Although she has not sat on the Board of Governance in any capacity in the past, she said she does not see her lack of experience as a hindrance to her leadership.
Hodges believes that not being on BOG in the past is actually a benefit to next year's board.
"We'll bring more of a fresh perspective to the table and switch things up a little bit," she said. "We will make it a little more interesting and active in the meetings so that meetings can feel a little more enjoyable and to enhance feel of being on BOG."
