School: College Year: Second Major: Undeclared Hometown: Chester, Va.
Housing: Off Grounds, Rugby McIntyre Apartments
Activities: Student Council, President's Committee on EOAA, University Guide Service, Peer Advisor, Volunteer-Sexual Consent Campaign, Office of African-American Affairs Peer Advisor
Current Office: CLAS Representative--Community Affairs Committee, Diversity Initiative Committee
Web site: www.voteupton.com
What makes you a competent and qualified candidate?
I've been an accomplished leader in Student Council groups for several years, and since arriving on the Grounds, I've established an excellent record of building productive relationships with several student leaders, organizations and administrators. I fully understand the legislative process and its importance, but equally important, I never confuse the mere activity of it with the benchmarks of tangible process.
In your opinion, what are the most pressing issues facing the University and how would you use your office to deal with them?
As recently highlighted, general student safety remains a major concern. Most specifically, my office will address sexual assault crimes. Not only will we push to establish a Preident's Committee, prevention measures and resources, but so, to ensure that University policies comply with the Clery Act, and that a Student Crime Bill of Rights is published outlining what crime victims can expect of the University. Diversity also remains a priority. My office will sponsor appropriate programs to support recommendations developed by the Zero Tolerance for Ignorance Forums and the Special Committee on Diversity.
How will you maintain contact with your constituency and ensure transparency in your actions?
In addition to pursuing complete voting records, we will develop an online constituent survey and concerns forum allowing students to conveniently access StudCo, voice their priorities, and tell us how they think we are doing. We will also sponsor activities designed to increase face-to-face interaction between StudCo and the student body.
Why did you decide to run for office?
I want to change perceptions that StudCo is merely a bureaucratic machine with little relevance to the average student. It's important that we have a cohesive, visible and productive Council that leaves no question that we are student focused. I have the best combination of experience and people skills required to accomplish that.
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