Wednesday night’s Student Senate meeting was embarrassing for those who are affiliated with Student Government. The removal of Student Body President, Bobby Mills from the meeting was nothing but a circus for all parties, even garnering a few chuckles from Tom Stafford, vice-chancellor for student affairs.
Those chuckles combined with the juvenile-like behavior indicates that the credibility of SG is near the cellar not only among students, but administrators. Ironically, its credibility among both groups that ultimately gives power to SG, not just their title.
Professionalism was lacking last night among the monkey-suited officials. If SG members want to take their roles in campus politics seriously, then they need act like professionals in meetings and in front of administrators.
How are administrators supposed to take SG seriously when its members make fools out of themselves? SG is the advocate for the student body and to do that effectively it needs credibility with the administration. It’s with this credibility that the group can get things accomplished for the good of students.
Members of SG must remember that they would not be in the position they’re in without the support of students. Petty internal fighting is not the way to go about obtaining support from the student body. Instead SG should focus on getting things accomplished.
The events of Wednesday night are another black mark on SG’s record. It’s up to the four student body officers to come up with a solution so that they can work together. If there is disagreement between the branches or officers, then voice the concerns in a respectful and professional manner.
As of now, the legislative and executive branches of SG are wrapped up in a petty turf war. The judicial branch is the only branch that seems to be doing things the right way — the professional way by acting like adults.
Time is already ticking fast for SG this year. Maybe the rest of SG can look to the judicial branch for guidance. It’s time for SG to get down to the real business at hand, and that’s working for students and our interests.
