SGA Offices Dedicated to Mike Darby ’73

In 1952, while Rockhurst High School was still on Troost Ave., it was decided that the entire student body would cast votes in the election of class officers.

The following year, each homeroom elected one member to represent it, so that every section would be assured of a voice in school decisions. And then in 1954, the term “Student Government” was used for the first time.

In the 70 years since, there have been various iterations of Rockhurst’s Student Government Association (SGA), but the constant has been the group’s commitment to serving as the official representative of the student body. It acts as a consultant to the faculty and administration concerning all matters of student life, promotes school spirit and community by acting as a network organization of student clubs, and sponsors a variety of social and social justice awareness events.

Now located in the Barry Commons, the SGA Office serves as the hub of student leadership, where pep rallies are scripted, dances are scheduled, Harvest Food Drive canned goods are collected, and Mission Weeks are planned. 

On Nov. 6, the space was made even more special by being dedicated to Michael K. Darby ’73. Darby was a four-year SGA member, President of the great Class of 1973, and lifelong supporter of Rockhurst and the greater Kansas City community. He was a founding member of Tour de Hope, a nonprofit organization built around the biking community to raise money for underprivileged children in the Kansas City area, namely through The Hope Center. 

Many of Darby’s family and friends, current SGA members, and Hope Center representatives joined for the blessing and dedication ceremony.

Following a formal blessing by Fr. Thomas Pesci, SJ, President Emeritus, members of the Rockhurst community and Darby Family shared remarks about Mike and the importance of servant leadership, especially the leadership that takes place in the SGA Office for the betterment of all students. 

“This SGA Office symbolizes leadership and excitement, and it’s where the Rockhurst community is made,” shared Sam Komenda ’25, Student Body Vice President. “This room embodies lifelong memories at The Rock, and it will forever hold a special place in all of our hearts.”

While Darby was taken from us too soon in 2017, his memory and spirit will live on through a perpetual scholarship in his name as well as through the Mike Darby ’73 Student Government Association Office. 

“His memory will live forever,” reflected Bob Darby, Mike’s older brother. “It’s not as good as having him, but it’s the next best thing.” 

Rockhurst students understand Mike’s legacy of commitment to his classmates, his alma mater, and the entire Kansas City community. 

“On behalf of all of the SGA representatives, we are really grateful to be a part of a rich tradition that the Darby Family has helped us create. We are excited to honor Mike Darby by living up to his legacy,” remarked Luke Kuechler ’25, Student Body President, at the ceremony. “As seniors who are about to graduate, we look forward to the future and giving back to Rockhurst just as Mike and the Darby Family have.”