LETTER TO THE EDITOR: SGA president says goodbye
A farewell note:
For the past year, I have had the privilege of serving the Coyote family as the voice of the student body. Throughout this experience, I’ve learned a great deal. I’ve learned how to be patient and understanding while considering the needs of others; I’ve learned the art of delegation and the importance in maintaining balance in all areas of life; I’ve learned the benefits gained through the cultivation and maintaining of meaningful relationships. Above all, I’ve learned the importance of loyalty.
The University of South Dakota is a school unlike most others. Potential new students and visitors recognize our uniqueness as they enjoy the countless attributes our school has to offer.
During my term as student body president, I realized the underlying characteristic that sets USD apart from other institutes isn’t found on the football field, within a classroom or in a building blueprint, it’s found in the people.
USD’s greatest strength lies in the heart of each member of the Coyote family. It’s seen in the pride of the students, the dedication of the faculty, and the leadership of the administration. Intertwining all these values is an unbreakable string of loyalty.
At USD, we are loyal to each other, to our school and the values it seeks to instill, and to our educational experience as a whole. We understand that the consequences of our actions will affect others and as such, strive to uphold the elements of compassion, care and responsibility as we engage with our fellow family member.
As the student body president, I was able to witness these values throughout endless discussion, debates and decisions. Although my role was to lead, I can’t help but feel that I was the one being led. Led by the loyalty that binds our family together and guides us down the road of achievement.
To all the students, faculty, staff and administrators, thank you for giving me an opportunity to serve. More importantly, thank for leading me with loyalty.
Sincerely,
Alissa VanMeeteren
