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ý Student Government Honors its Very First President

In 1965, just one year after ý opened its doors, Daniel Mica, BA ’66, became the University’s very first Student Government (SG) president.


By kelsie weekes | 12/5/2016

In 1965, just one year after ý opened its doors, Daniel Mica, BA ’66, became the University’s very first Student Government (SG) president. ý had almost 4,000 ý at the time, and a gallon of gas was just 31 cents.

Mica, who would later go on to serve five terms as a U.S. congressman representing Florida’s 11th District, recently returned to ý for his induction into the Majestic Owls Society, a society dedicated to ý alumni who have reached the 50th anniversary of their graduation.

While on campus for the ceremony, Mica stopped by the SG headquarters to meet with current SG President Michael Cairo, where they both reflected on their own experiences upholding SG’s highest office.

Mica was impressed with the size of Cairo’s office, and they both laughed when they compared each other’s annual budgets. Mica also shared a story about a deal he worked out with the Miami Dolphins, where he was able to meet with the team’s owner and get a block of tickets for ý ý. In exchange, ý would let the Dolphins use its cheerleaders since the NFL team didn’t have any at the time.

“After meeting and talking to Dan, he encouraged me to be fearless in my continued pursuit of achievement and how important it is to exude a strong, positive energy,” said Cairo.

Before wrapping up their meeting, Cairo presented Mica with a plaque to honor his service to ý as the University’s first student leader. Mica then signed a giant ý logo on the wall that a handful of former ý SG presidents’ signatures from prior visits.  

“I could not have been more impressed with the people in Student Government,” said Mica. “Michael Cairo and his team were knowledgeable, energetic and most gracious to me and my guests. ý is fortunate to have such talent in their student leadership.”

For more information on ý’s Majestic Owls Society, visit .

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