When I ran for Student Senate president last year, I promised ability and accountability. Since the student body elected me, despite some misperceptions, I have not reneged on that promise.
In the midst of busy quarters, hard economic times and tough decisions, the university has undergone many changes. And sometimes it is difficult to see what role Senate is playing. However, if students look around them they can see us working for them in every area of the university.
I, along with the elected representatives of Student Senate, am constantly working for the students. Underneath my leadership, Senate fought for (and won) increased RA compensation, advocated for the current tuition freeze, launched a new Web site, sponsored the Athens Business fair, created Greeks Going Green, hosted a great Pride Week and had another successful Athens Beautification Day. This week we are hosting Take Back the Night. This Saturday, Senate is pairing up with Campus Life to host a leadership conference entitled OU Lead.
Of course, the road is not always smooth. I am aware that some students have concerns with the Board of Trustees and are upset with certain decisions the board has made. These students (along with some senators) want the option of voting whether they have confidence or not. I did not support this, not because I don't care. I do care. However, there are better ways to voice complaints other than using a vote whose outcome will more than likely fall on deaf ears because there is no true way to evaluate the results. Our student trustees, Chauncey Jackson and Tracy Kelly, are there to represent the students. I recommend any grievances be taken up with them - not because the students are not smart enough to know and ask for what they want from the Board, but because that is what Chauncey and Tracy are there for.
I also want to take the time to clear up what occurred with this SIS fee. I in no way, shape or form endorsed the fee. I simply wrote a letter saying a presentation had been made to Student Senate and here were the questions posed. I, more than anyone, understand that college affordability should be one of the main priorities of this university and that is why I have fought for and brought it up with the leadership of this university numerous times and why I will continue to bring the issue up.
At times, there seems to be a slight disconnect between Student Senate and the students - this should not be the case. It is important to me and the rest of Senate that students remain involved in the decision-making processes of the university. The members of Student Senate are elected to represent the minds and hearts of the student body. We need student input. The Senate office is located on the third floor of Baker University Center, all office hours are posted and all students are welcome to speak out at our meetings at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays.
I appreciate and value the opportunity to work with students and for students to make this university a better place for everyone.
Michael Adeyanju is the president of Ohio University's Student Senate.
4 Opinion
Letter to the Editor
