Student Body President Ramon Trespalacios swears into office Tuesday at the 100th Student Senate Inauguration April 30 in Hughes-Trigg. (Christopher Saul / The Daily Campus)

Student Senate celebrated the inauguration of the 100th senate with the newly elected officer and representatives yesterday.

Just last month, SMU students elected Ramon Trespalacios as the new student body president, Jaywin Malhi as student body vice president and Katherine Ladner as student body secretary.

After a brief welcome and invocation, SMU President Dr. R Gerald Turner gave the opening remarks to the senators.

Soon after, the 2012-2013 Student Body President Alex Mace addressed the crowd. Mace, a graduating senior, discussed several issues the campus is facing, including diversifying the student body and emphasizing the importance of the Sexual Misconduct Task Force.

“I cannot wait to see what the 100th Student Senate can do,” Mace said.

As Mace finished his remarks, he reminded the newest members of the senate that just because he is graduating, does not mean he will be gone.

“I’m a resource. Don’t hesitate,” Mace said.

“I guess it’s my turn,” Trespalacios said as he took the stage. Before he began speaking, he passed out a card to everyone before reading it aloud.

On the front it said “SMU values statement,” and on the back “I, as a citizen of the SMU Community, commit myself to upholding the values of intellectual integrity, academic honesty, personal responsibility and sincere regard and respect for all SMU students, faculty and staff.”

Trespalacios believes that these morals are essential for a successful governing body.

Trespalacios expressed his gratitude for being able to lead the 100th Student Senate.

He hopes to not only improve communication within the student body, but to follow Mace’s example and encourage a more diversified student body.

“SMU is heading in the right direction,” said Trespalacios, “I have been given a gift to lead the university.”

Training for this year’s senators is August 30-31.

Following the inauguration, the first senate meeting of the year began, where the senators passed the referendum to add one new senate seat that is set-aside for transfer students.

“Look around. Find someone you don’t know. Get used to it,” said Trespalacios. “Whether you like it or not we’re in this together.”