Today, you will have a choice between many qualified candidates to represent you for the 2012-13 academic year for the Ohio University Student Senate. This campaign has been quite different from the other campaigns that I have been a part of — from differing campaign styles to social media uses. It is imperative that the students of OU receive accurate coverage and are educated about the issues. I am writing you today to encourage you to vote for the REACH party.
At the helm of REACH, Zach George has been an integral part of this campaign, as well as past and current Student Senates. His experience in senate and his ability to stand up for the students is something that this body needs. Zach is a leader inside and outside of Student Senate, and I firmly believe that he is the best candidate for this position. Zach has shown up for the entire campaign period — talking to students, talking to the media and being accessible to students voicing their concerns. Zach stands up for what is right and has been at the forefront of many conversations regarding diversity center hours, college affordability and enhancing the life of OU students.
Amrit Saini, the REACH vice presidential candidate, has done nothing but advocate for OU students. His involvement in the transition from quarters to semesters has been an integral part of this year’s Student Senate, and I have no doubt he will continue to be a strong advocate. He has worn many hats during his tenure with Student Senate, starting as an intern, and filling roles as an East Green senator, a university life at-large senator and the current academic affairs commissioner. Amrit has taken a stand for the students by advocating for those who could have been hindered by the transition to semesters, and has been a great liaison for this body regarding the transition.
Evan Ecos, REACH’s candidate for treasurer, is an integral member of the Student Appropriations Commission and has tirelessly worked to enhance SAC to be more efficient, proactive and diverse. Evan’s work ethic and budgetary experience will serve him well during the 2012-2013 Student Senate year.
The rest of the REACH ticket and supporters are a diverse group of students who have the best interest of the students at OU and the Athens community in mind. REACH has veteran members of Student Senate like Victoria Calderon, who has worked non-stop for the women on this campus, hosting two successful Take Back the Night events, and Mary Kate Gallagher, who has worked endlessly on educating the student body on responsible fest-ing and alcohol consumption. REACH also hosts a diverse population of new and upcoming faces who have already shown that they are willing to put in the hard work necessary to be a successful member of Student Senate.
There has been an argument that other tickets and candidates are a better representation of the student body. REACH has members of the LGBT,
African-American, International, Greek and Athletics community, just to name a few. I have seen first-hand the importance of diversity in a ticket, and I truly believe REACH is your best option.
I encourage you to educate yourself about the issues for the upcoming election and to vote REACH.
Sean Martin is a junior studying applied mathematics and a candidate for the at large senator for the REACH ticket.
