UVA Wise and UVA Student Government Associations Join Forces

On Friday, history was made between the University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise) Student Government Association (SGA) and the University of Virginia’s (UVA) student council when the two met in person for the signing of a cooperative agreement. 

The result of months of dialogue and ideas, a partnership was formalized between the two student governing bodies, ensuring that both groups will now work side-by-side to amplify student voices across the University of Virginia system.

The agreement states that the student governments at UVA and UVA Wise recognize that they must work together to make decisions that benefit all students, no matter where they attend. With a nod to the distinctiveness of each institution, UVA with its sprawling campus in Charlottesville and UVA Wise with its tight-knit community in southwestern Virginia, the proclamation acknowledges that the interests of both student bodies must be considered in any University wide decision-making process. 

The agreement has been in discussion since February 2025 when William Rudeseal, the UVA Wise SGA president, visited UVA for discussions about ways the two student bodies could collaborate more effectively. This trip was not just a ceremonial gesture but an honest attempt to forge additional connections between the two campuses, which was met with enthusiasm on both sides. 

“This cooperative agreement is historic,” said William T. Rudeseal, SGA president at UVA Wise, in a statement after the proclamation was passed. “It’s the first of its kind in the Commonwealth of Virginia. For us, it’s an opportunity to ensure that the voices of UVA Wise students are heard at UVA’s table. There have been issues in the past where Wise students felt disconnected or forgotten. This partnership gives them a voice and a chance to work collaboratively with the University’s main campus on real issues that matter to both communities.”

Rudeseal’s sentiment was echoed by his fellow student leaders. “This partnership is critical for the future of both our organizations,” said Connor Blevins, Vice President of UVA Wise SGA. “The students at UVA Wise bring an important perspective that needs to be heard, and this agreement provides the foundation for that. It’s about creating a space for dialogue and collaboration, so when problems arise, we can solve them together.”

Both student government presidents are deeply committed to maintaining this partnership. As part of the proclamation, the two organizations have agreed to regularly communicate and meet in person. 

“We know what you’re doing here is special. We look to you all for inspiration and look up to you as a consistent and positive example of what it is like to uplift every member of your community,” UVA SGA President Clay Dickerson added. 

The excitement surrounding the partnership is palpable, with both sides eager to continue strengthening ties and working together on issues that matter to all students. Gregory Perryman, Jr., student representative for the Board of Visitors at UVA also held a listening session during the visit, giving students the opportunity to voice their opinions. 

In the words of Rudeseal, this agreement is not just about the present, it’s about setting a precedent for the future. “I believe this will be a moment that is looked back on for many years to come,” he said. “It’s about strengthening both of our student governments, and it’s about giving UVA Wise students the recognition they deserve. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”