In recent years, SGA has sadly become a “good ole boys club.”
As a former Arts and Sciences Senator, I used to be on the “inside.”
Which makes me wonder, why is it that the Election Commission continually allows for the formation of election tickets, thereby eliminating nearly all possibility of an independent candidate’s election?
How many individuals would have run for a Senate seat, but were not asked to be part of the process, by one of the two tickets?
To me, it is ridiculous that independent candidates are not given more of a chance by limiting the formation and power of tickets.
I do not mean to belittle the work of the current assembly, Election Commission, current Senators, or E-board members, but students need to realize that association with an election ticket does not necessarily denote a qualified candidate.
I completely agree with Mr. Laplante’s (“Getting Involved,” Feb.1) assertion: Simply because a student fits more into your comfort zone and is popular does not mean they are qualified to represent you.
Also, as a former Senator, I was only partially aware of the students’ finances. However, I was informed that financial committee meetings are closed to all except those on the committee and the occasional Chartered Student Organization who requests spot funding. I was told that the budget was also closed to students.
One question has consistently bothered my about our current system: If the SGA is the check and balances of the students and student groups, who is the check and balance for the SGA? Personally, I do not believe one exists. What I am proposing is for a more transparent government. Students should be able to view how much money each Charter Student Organization is allocated. The financial meetings and budget should not be closed to students in fact it should be just the opposite. I for one would like to known where every single penny of my student activity fee is being spent.
We as students must become informed about SGA, because for one night a week some 35 individuals wield the power to change the face of campus.
Jared M. Walsh
Senator Emeritus 2006-2007
Senior, College of Arts and Sciences
