Susu the cat voted honorary president of Southampton University Students’ Union
Debate hears moggy is already fulfilling ‘an important duty’ by being ‘detached from union politics’
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A cat has had such a profound influence on the student body at Southampton University, its students’ union (SU) has made her their honorary president, making her the second to ever hold the post.
Debating a motion prior to the decision this week, the union heard how the cat, Susu - named after the initials of the SU - had lived in one of its buildings for more than a decade, having attracted “a great deal” of attention on visit days from parents and prospective students.
As well as this, the union believed Susu made an “outstanding contribution” by “helping to enrich the lives of students,” adding: “The cat is already fulfilling an important duty by being detached from union politics, thus providing stability and security which is greatly needed in the face of an ever-changing union.”
The motion was passed by 176 votes to 86. Only one other person has ever been the sole holder of the position, George Clegg, who was recognised for 30 years of outstanding service to the union in 2009.
Naturally, the union will be amending this rule to now include the cat.
In an statement on the union site, president Ben Franklin described Susu as being an independent feline who does not rely on anyone for anything - “except food, water and the occasional belly rub.”
He added: “She is the world’s most aloof cat and, if she lets you pet her, you are truly among a blessed number. Bae of the year, every year since 2002.”
The president will formally declare Susu an honorary president at the launch of the new union brand later this month.
All the best in your new role, Susu.
This isn’t the first time a cat has had a big influence on students.
Last August, Bubba the cat was officially recognised as a student - complete with his own ID card - at Leland High School in San Jose, California, after roaming around the school’s grounds for several years.
He’s due to graduate in 2017.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments