When prospective new students are looking to come to Iowa State, one thing that is promoted heavily is the number of clubs that exist. But, recent actions by the Iowa State administration may start driving clubs away.

This past June, Iowa State rolled out new trademark policies, restricting the names and logos clubs can use. For example, under the new rules, ISU Rodeo Club will have to become Rodeo Club at Iowa State.

After some initial backlash from organizations and club presidents, Student Government decided they were going to attempt to do something for the second time.

Earlier this semester, Sen. Sam Freestone introduced a resolution that called for reprimand for the trademark policy creator. Eventually, the resolution failed, with many senators citing that the resolution was too aggressive.

With a new potential resolution on the horizon, has Student Government already shown their true colors?

The role of Student Government, both in the Senate and various committees across campus, is to represent the student populous. The fact that the original resolution that called for someone’s termination (which would subsequently cause a landslide of issues) was brought up in the first place may discredit them going forward.

The new resolution even states: “We accept our own share of responsibility for this unfortunate situation knowing we could have and should have done more as representatives of the students and their voices.”

With that in mind, it will already be an uphill battle for Student Government. However, the new resolution has potential.

“The Iowa State University Student Government asks university officials to temporarily halt the continued implementation of the new trademark policy for the remainder of this semester to allow for better communication and an opportunity to work together.”

The fact that students were not more involved should have raised red flags before the new policy was rolled out in June. Especially given that newly installed president Wendy Wintersteen is pushing for “cultivating a welcoming and inclusive campus climate.”

Telling scores of clubs to change their name or logo isn’t exactly welcoming and inclusive.

When the Student Government senate meets next week, it is the opinion of the Iowa State Daily that this resolution be passed for the betterment of clubs and organizations on campus. Though the first attempt failed, this new resolution is logical, as it calls for more student involvement in the trademark policy creation and implementation process. 

The Wintersteen administration should recognize this as an opportunity to connect with more students, and work on a solution that benefits all involved. Regardless of whether or not this resolution passes, it is ultimately up to the administration to gauge the wants and needs of the students.