Joshua Anderson states that his transition from vice president to president was fairly smooth when appointed the top spot during last year’s term.
“I was the vice-president for the better part of two years. I was fortunate to work under Kyle [Berndt] (former student gov’t. president)…we got along and he taught me everything he knew. [Now it’s about] getting back into the swing of things,” Anderson said.
The duties of vice-president include presiding over senate and standing committee meetings (Campus and Community Outreach, Internal Affairs, Diversity and Inclusion, Student Services, and Finance and Special Issues) and the day-to-day guidance of student government.
Anderson’s duties have changed with his new presidential position. His new duties include meeting with faculty, staff, deans, cabinet members and the president.
Some goals that Anderson would like to see achieved in the 2013-2014 school year include the McFarland Library being open on Saturdays, Smart Boards being utilized to their full potential and improving internship opportunities in greater Minn.
As for other members of Student Government, Anderson says that it is a group that is well experienced, though there is a shortage of senators.
“There is a good group of people [working in student government]…they know what they are doing,” Anderson said.
“I hope to be an ethical and transparent leader. I hope to grow my own leadership skills…learn from past mistakes,” Anderson said, “I hope to make the university a better place and to do a job well done.”
The mission statement of Student Government encourages participation from all students:
“We are elected to serve and to represent our fellow students. The student association highly encourages active involvement by all students in the decision making process at our university. We are always seeking out the best ways to benefit the entire student body. In order to do so, it is important we hear input from other students and faculty. If you have an idea, or an issue, feel free to contact a senator or a student government executive by using the contact info and members sections in our website. You can also always feel free to attend any of our committee meetings and senate meetings.”
The Student Gov’t. office is usually open and is located in SC 217/220. Student Gov’t. meetings are held Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. in PE 214. Whether you are interested in joining the student senate or would like to share some ideas, attend the meetings and let your voice be heard.
