I would like to use my last article to share all of my thanks and appreciation throughout this past year. I have had the opportunity to work with many people who have helped make my time here very memorable. As I near the end of my term and reflect on everything that has happened, I realize that I am taking away more than I ever thought I would learn. This school is full of amazing students and staff who can truly make a difference.
Mike, you were a great GM to work with—you always kept me smiling, if nothing else. This year I was privileged to work with a wonderful Executive Board, which included an exceptionally intelligent and talented group of students. I would like to recognize the E-Board members that have worked so hard this year and gone beyond their required duties: Eric Griffith, Mary Kate DiTursi, Rachel Evans, Peter Baldwin, Ronak Talati, Hansel Baez, Laura Brochet, Khaoula Benghanem, Jon Schleder, Adam Jubanowsky, Serina Yang, and André Lewis.
To the Union administration staff, I will definitely miss all of you and thank you for making my job much easier. I would like to share a special thanks to the SARPs: Cameron McLean, Beth Carlile, and Steve Allard. Each of you has helped me more than needed this year and I appreciate all of your support and guidance. Martha—it has been great to work with you and you have been so much help just by understanding everything. Jean—your work is always appreciated and you can make anyone smile!
Rick—you have been an incredible advisor and mentor. I have learned so much from working with you and truly appreciate your hard work and commitment. I admire your leadership, dedication, and willingness to work with so many students.
To the Athletic Department, including Ken Ralph, thank you for working closely with us and joining us for a successful year.
There are several professional staff members that have been very influential and supportive throughout my term. First and foremost, I would like to give a sincere thanks to Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson for her hard work and loyalty to the students. I would like to thank the Board of Trustees, and especially Chairman Sam Heffner, for being receptive and dedicated to the life at Rensselaer. Furthermore, I thank Dr. Eddie Knowles and the Student Life Division for their continued support.
I would like to thank my friends and family for their ongoing support and motivation to excel. A couple of years ago I would have never expected to be the President of the Union. Their encouragement has pushed me to show what I can really do. Anne Marie—I wouldn’t have stepped foot into student government if it wasn’t for helping you campaign the first weeks of freshman year! To all the girls—you were always there to listen and allow me to realize what’s really important. Brad—thank you for always believing in me, understanding what I need in the good times and the bad, and of course proof-reading all my articles.
Lastly, I would like to thank all of the Union clubs and organizations, in addition to the entire student body. It has been an honor to serve as your PU and be able to work with so many of you over the past year.
Remember to vote tomorrow in the final elections in the Union, DCC, or Commons. On Friday night, join the Grand Marshal and me from 6-11 pm in the Houston Field House as we honor the new student leaders and say our good-byes.
I hope that everyone has had a great year and I wish you all lots of luck for the future!
