Cayuga SGO Leaders Welcome New, Returning Students

Students, especially those new to Cayuga Community College this semester, get to know your Student Government Organization (SGO) President and Vice President!

A graduate of G. Ray Bodley High School in Fulton, SGO President Lauren Woods is a first-generation college student and mother of five. She’s also involved with the Wellness Club and Phi Theta Kappa, and is earning an Associate in Arts in Liberal Arts & Sciences: Humanities & Social Sciences with a concentration in Psychology.

Marjorie Lester is a graduate of Port Byron High School and mother of two who worked at the E. John Gavras Center, an award-winning pre-school in the City of Auburn. After the COVID-19 pandemic, she enrolled at Cayuga to earn an Associate in Science in Human Services with a concentration in Educational Support.

Here what they have to say about Cayuga, SGO, and their advice for new students!

What’s Your Favorite Part About Cayuga?

Lauren: My favorite part about Cayuga is the sense of community. The faculty, staff, and students have helped me recognize strengths in myself that I did not always see and encouraged me to step into leadership. I’ve grown academically, personally, and professionally at Cayuga, and I want other students to experience that same feeling of being valued, supported, and genuinely included.

Marjorie: My favorite part is the people who work at Cayuga. Students need professors and staff who establish strong bonds and know the field while also being highly relatable. One thing I will always remember about Cayuga is that, on more than one occasion, I noticed staff members take it upon themselves to assist students who were too afraid to ask questions.

Why Did You Decide to Join SGO?

Lauren: My experience at Cayuga showed me how much encouragement and connection can influence a student’s success. I wanted to help provide that same support to others, especially students balancing school with work, family responsibilities, or personal challenges. To me, leadership is about listening to others, understanding what they need, and connecting them with people and resources that can help.

Marjorie: My values align greatly with clubs like NAMI or our Wellness Club, as they support awareness, provide advocacy, and focus on community needs. This is also why I participated in Student Government (SGO). Last year, I was the SGO secretary and am returning this year as SGO vice president. I have a deep passion for improving the quality of life for all people and communities, but it goes beyond that. It’s my entire personality because I believe it only takes one genuine person to change a life or a community.

How Does SGO Help Students

Marjorie: The primary purpose of student government (SGO) is to serve as the official voice of the student body. We advocate for student needs, manage student resources, and foster community at Cayuga. This means you are not alone! If you have a question, a concern, or an idea, come to us. Our office is in the cafe, and you can also email me at mlester2@cayuga.cc.edu.

Lauren: We also create events and opportunities that make campus life more welcoming and engaging. This year SGO is launching the Atlas Challenge at our upcoming block party. Inspired by my service dog, Atlas, the challenge encourages students to attend events, serve others, and become more involved in campus life while earning recognition for their participation. Students can email me with ideas and questions at ljones23@cayuga-cc.edu. 

Any Advice for New Students?

Lauren: My advice would be: Don’t just attend, belong. College can easily become a routine of going to class, completing assignments, and going home, especially when you already have a busy life outside of school. However, some of the most meaningful experiences happen when you step outside that routine. My journey at Cayuga has taught me that belonging often begins with one small step.

Marjorie: My advice to students is that college, whether you are a traditional or adult learner, is not easy. One of the hardest lessons we learn in life is knowing when to ask for help. When you ask for help, it's not about solving an immediate problem. Asking for help means you recognize your limits and you realize you don't have to carry the burden alone.