The Facts:

A student body president debate was held in Talley Student Center Thursday night. Six candidates were at the event to make their case for becoming the next student body president.

Our Opinion:

There are many attributes a successful student body president could possess, but putting students is definitely first and foremost.

The candidates for several elected campus offices took part in a debate Thursday night in Talley Student Center. It was broadcast live around the Triangle on WKNC and Wolf TV. Despite a relatively quiet start, the room on the second floor slowly began to fill during the evening in the lead up to the night’s feature event, the debate between the student body president candidates.

The six candidates put on a good show and provided lively insight, which often led to some cordial quarreling along the candidate’s table. They addressed Student Government’s response to the Talley Student Center renovation and even pointed a few fingers at some of the year’s mishaps.

Last night, the candidates got to make their case; now, the morning after, students have the opportunity to evaluate the merits of each candidate and determine who will best advocate for students.

One of the sentiments expressed by several of the potential student leaders is that the student body president’s primary role is to be an advocate for students.

While this is absolutely true, there is a long list of items that make a great leader — a great student body president.

Reflecting on the successes — and failures — of the several previous student body presidents, there are definitely some identifiable traits which lead to success for the position and students.

It all begins with openness. Giving students access to all Student Government’s endeavors will help fertilize a trust and understanding the organization hasn’t been able to foster despite two rebranding campaigns in the last two years.

Be a hard worker, not a big talker. Student Government’s influence on campus is its role in advocacy and student representation. The next student body president must prove that he or she will work hard for students while keeping the realistic goals of an advocate; campaign promises don’t mean too much to the University’s administrative leaders.

Use your resources; do it wisely. The student body president has the incredible opportunity to use the campus media outlets, Student Senate and other student leaders as advocates and allies. He or she must not take these people for granted and retain the humility of someone elected for the students, by the students.

The student body president plays a large role on this campus and students must evaluate the candidates for who will best serve THEIR interests.