Marquette Student Leaders Launched Campus Initiatives
The newly elected administration implemented infrastructure and service improvements for the student body.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Civic Engagement
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Marquette University Student Government President Jacob Ricard and Vice President Rae Dakins have introduced several campus initiatives following their election victory. The pair partnered with local city officials and university departments to address infrastructure needs and student services.
Why it matters
These efforts are designed to restore student confidence in the government and address persistent disparities in food access. By collaborating with municipal leaders, the administration seeks to improve the immediate environment for the university community.
Jacob Ricard and Rae Dakins secured their positions with 54% of the vote on March 27. The administration has also prioritized infrastructure improvements, including coordinating repairs on Kilbourn Avenue and 13th Street.
The players
Jacob Ricard
He serves as the Marquette University Student Government President.
Rae Dakins
She serves as the Marquette University Student Government Vice President.
Robert Bauman
He is a Milwaukee Alderman who collaborated on infrastructure projects near the university.
The details
The administration worked with Milwaukee Alderman Robert Bauman to fix road damage near campus and partnered with university departments to create a student grocery delivery app. Additionally, the student government improved the usability of the Presence platform and added an Eagle Express van to bolster transit capacity.
Timeline
Jacob Ricard and Rae Dakins won the spring election on March 27, 2026.
Road repairs and website improvements were completed during the summer of 2026.
The 2026-27 school year began in September 2026.
The Market Mondays initiative is scheduled to launch in spring 2027.
Political Context
Some student groups have raised concerns about whether these specific infrastructure projects fall under the traditional scope of student government responsibilities. Critics argue that MUSG should focus exclusively on internal student activities rather than lobbying city officials for public infrastructure repairs.
Students can expect improved transit availability through the additional Eagle Express van and easier navigation of campus resources via the updated website. Residents in the immediate vicinity of Kilbourn Avenue and 13th Street will benefit from the completed road repairs.
The takeaway
The administration aims to demonstrate that local partnerships can lead to tangible improvements in campus quality of life. Future success will likely depend on the effective implementation of the planned grocery access programs and the transition to a new data system.
What happens next
The administration is scheduled to launch its Market Mondays initiative in the spring of 2027 to address campus food access.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts by exploring Civic Engagement projects in the area.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Marquette Wire.
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