ASUN SENATOR BURCHESS PRESSURES UNL INTO PROTECTING STUDENTS FROM LIFE-THREATENING COLD

ASUN Senator and Independent Candidate for President of the Student Body, Jack Burchess (photo by Marissa Lindemann)

LINCOLN, NE— Last night, College of Business Senator Jack Burchess, the only elected independent in ASUN, and independent candidate for president of the student body, successfully authored, introduced, and passed Resolution #6, calling on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to establish a clear, science-based inclement weather policy to protect students. Approximately an hour after its passage, The University hastily announced a late start—an unmistakable response to Burchess’s legislation. 

For days, the University refused to act in the face of dangerously cold conditions. But with temperatures plummeting and student frustration rising, Burchess took action when no one else would. The resolution was co-sponsored by the College of Education and Human Sciences Senator, Laila Doyle, and the College of Business Senator, Colin Mahon. The resolution, which passed unanimously, condemns the administration’s failure to prioritize student well-being and demands a bright-line policy that sets a specific temperature and wind chill threshold for class cancellations or remote learning. 

“The fact that it took ASUN intervention to protect student well-being, is a bit ridiculous. While I am happy that UNL administrators are starting to listen to students, the reality is that we shouldn’t have to beg for basic safety measures. A late start is like putting a Band-Aid on frostbite – a half measure that doesn’t address the root of the issue. We still have quite a long way to go, and that’s why I’m running for President of the Student Body,”  said Burchess. 

Resolution #6 states that “the University currently lacks a clear, consistent, and science-based inclement weather policy” and “formally condemns the University administration’s decision to prioritize in-person class attendance over student safety during extreme weather conditions.” Senator Doyle, one of the resolution’s co-sponsors, thanked Burchess for bringing this legislation to her attention. 

“This bill is important for students because it prioritizes their safety, one of the most basic principles of our institution. I want to thank Senator Burchess for reaching out to Senator Mahon and I to include us on this unprecedented legislation,” said  Doyle. 

Jack Burchess and Emma Lindsey are proud to be the only candidates in the upcoming ASUN election to be actively fighting to protect students. 

While other campaigns focus on their Instagram and what TikTok sound is the most “aesthetic,” Burchess and his team are fighting for students and creating change. Whether it’s student safety, student fees, or alcohol policy, Burchess is leading the charge to hold the University accountable. 

“This is exactly why Emma and I are running: To make ASUN actually work for   students. To demand better. And fix what’s broken –  To Blaze a New Trail.  If the University won’t act in students’ best interests, we will,” Burchess said. 

Resolution #6 will now be sent to the Office of the Chancellor, the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor, the Office of Student Life, and other key university officials to push for a permanent policy change. 

This is what leadership looks like. 

The Burchess for Nebraska website, www.jackburchess.com, will formally launch soon. Students can vote in ASUN elections April 1-2 on MyRed.