As students, we have a voice in very few leadership positions. On Thursday, April 6, we get to use our influence to elect our two highest student representatives. We also take the time to elect individuals who will serve under the Grand Marshal to lead our Senate and represent our best interests. Each vote is one little expression of confidence that who you choose is who you really want to lead our student body next year.
First and foremost, go vote. It’s difficult to make decisions that represent the full student body if the student body does not go out and vote. This includes undergraduate and graduate students alike. The Grand Marshal and President of the Union have an influence on all aspects of student life, not just student life issues of undergraduates.
This past year, many student concerns have been addressed. The student government serves as a method for students to have their issues addressed. Be sure to elect a leader that you feel can lead the Senate appointing the right people for the Judicial Board, E-Board, and various committees around campus. Elect the leaders who you believe can lead this year to be as successful as last. Without the dedication of this year’s Senate, Go Be Red, Ruckus, Rensselaer Advantage Dollars for vending machines, and the shuttle tracking devices for next year would not have been possible. Look past the political nonsense, and find who is genuinely going to work toward improving student life. Be sure that the goals are realistic, and worthy of dedicating the amount of time they will need to be done well.
As you make your decision, we ask you to consider all the facts. Read the GM Week issue that came out on Friday, March 31, and learn about the candidates for all positions. Visit the elections website at http://elections.union.rpi.edu/ to learn about different party platforms and to learn about the Grand Marshal and President of the Union candidates. We also encourage you to attend the debates from 3-5 pm today in the McNeil Room. We also hope that you will ask candidates as many questions as you would need answered in order to make the most informed decisions. E-mail them, talk to them on the way to or from class, and do whatever it takes for you to feel comfortable that you are voting for the right person for the right reasons.
