Take a closer look at what student government does
Let’s face it, I’m generally pretty critical of the Student Government Association; however, it is that time of year again.
To some, SGA elections appear as pointless as a Minnesota Vikings Super Bowl trophy case. But maybe we should spend more time considering who will represent us.
The SGA provides image, influence, and money; subsequently, it is important to keep a close watch on any organizations that does this.
SGA represents all of us. Understandably, most students probably couldn’t care less who represents them.
But let’s face it, wouldn’t most of us get pretty upset if our officials made us look stupid? Regardless if you vote, these people will represent us for the next year.
The president of the SGA has regular contact with the president of the university. The SGA president is also one of the university administration’s most direct contact points with the student body. It is in our best interest that this connection be someone who is in touch with the wants and needs of the majority of students.
It is my guess that students in the Greek system have among the highest voter turnout, even though they are a minority of the student body — SGA candidates are often from the Greek system and campaigning happens heavily amongst the houses. Perhaps we would be better represented if people outside the Greek system turned out to vote.
If you are in any student organization, it may interest you to know SGA allocates funding to campus groups. The SGA is given a sizeable budget. For a lot of smaller groups this funding can make the difference between fulfilling their organization’s agenda and not making it through another school year. If you are a member of one of these organizations, it might be a good idea to see how the candidates feel about your organization.
While I will not tell you how I plan to vote in this election I will tell you my reasoning for how I voted in the last one.
Anyone in the political science department can tell you Alissa VanMeeteren and I do not have similar political philosophies. However, I know Alissa is well spoken and hardworking. I understood she would do her best to represent us.
I have to say she has done a pretty outstanding job this year especially in advocating for the university out in Pierre.
So, after you decide voting is the right thing to do, decide who you think best represents your issues.
To new members of SGA, I hope you continue to represent the wishes of the student body. If you do not, remember I will always be here to call you out on any ill-conceived policy choices.
Furthermore, remember The Volante is here to be a watchdog for the students and is not a mouthpiece for the SGA.
Reach columnist Blaine Reynolds at
