The temporary shutdown of Oregon State University’s student government has become an indefinite shutdown as ASOSU leaders continue to work on internal reforms.

In a letter released by Vice President for Student Affairs Dan Larson addressed to student employees and newly elected ASOSU officials for the 2025-26 academic year, Larson announced an extension of the operational pause which began in late February, citing ongoing concerns surrounding workplace culture, governance, and organizational dysfunction.

The letter was sent out Friday, May 2, the same day slated for the temporary shutdown to end after two months of reform.

“While progress is being made… more time is needed to complete work necessary to resume ASOSU activity,” Larson wrote. He emphasized that the student government should only resume its operations after addressing the systemic issues which led to the initial shutdown.

Those issues, according to Larson, include allegations of intimidation, a hostile work environment, retaliation, acts of bias, and a breakdown in professional decorum. The ASOSU has been under review since Feb. 28, when its activities were paused amid mounting concerns from both students and university staff.

Concerns came to a head with the resignation of then Vice President Zach Kowash. Then President Audrey Schlotter, following Kowash’s resignation, consulted the Board of Trustees, which resulted in the decision to temporarily suspend student government activities within ASOSU until May 2.

Larson commended the ASOSU advising team and student leaders for their work thus far, including efforts to restructure employment expectations, develop new governing documents, and assess workplace well-being.

While no timeline has currently been given for when ASOSU may resume its operations, Larson said he will consult with advisors and incoming student leaders once they have completed mandatory training.

“Elected and appointed members whose position is considered a student employee, may not function in their elected or appointed capacity until they have completed the hiring process and participated in required training,” Larson’s letter stated.

ASOSU serves as the primary voice for students on campus, and manages a multi-million dollar budget while advocating for student interests at the university, local, and state levels. Its shutdown has temporarily suspended legislative and judicial activity.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.