Recently, a faculty member in my department approached me to see whether I was interested in having the hOUr party’s presidential candidate discuss his platform with the student organization I represent.
I was very surprised, given that this candidate contacted a faculty member rather than me. It is ironic that the hOUr party president purports to be interested in connecting with graduate students, but goes about it by contacting faculty.
Moreover, several weeks ago, I was contacted by an hOUr candidate via email requesting to speak with members of my organization. I replied that we did not have a meeting scheduled until after the election, but I would gladly forward any information regarding their platform to my members. I am still awaiting a reply.
Though these issues might seem trivial, understanding how to connect with your constituents is an imperative for successful leadership. While the hOUr ticket apparently lacks the ability to effectively communicate with the graduate student community, the PROUD party led by presidential candidate Tracy Kelly does not.
On more than one occasion, Tracy has promptly answered my queries. I have found her to be a reliable and effective Graduate Student Senate president. She is a tireless advocate for graduate students on such critical issues as stipend support, health care and campus safety.
Finally, let there be no mistake, graduate students at Ohio University need strong, experienced leadership; Tracy Kelly and the PROUD party have — and will — provide just that.
Matt Jacobs is a doctoral student studying history and president
of the History Graduate Student Association.
