Polls for the upcoming University-wide student elections open next week, and the position of Student Council vice president for administration is among the more prominent of the contested elections. The race features two candidates who have been extensively involved in Council and have plans to streamline its internal operations. Peter Townsend, co-chair of the Safety and Wellness Committee, hopes to further diversify Council and increase outreach to communities less represented and involved. As Council's director of University relations, Jen Bristol brings to the campaign proven communication skills and the approachability needed for successful administrative collaboration. Though both are excellent candidates, The Cavalier Daily's Managing Board has decided to endorse Townsend for the office vice president for administration.
Townsend's upbeat attitude and realistic goals for Council distinguish him as a candidate who would not take this position lightly. An ideal candidate for this office would be someone easy to work with and able to bring people together; Townsend exemplifies both of these qualities. Serving on the Safety and Wellness Committee for the past three semesters, he has demonstrated his passion for Council and developed the institutional knowledge necessary to propel his success within Council during the upcoming term. He also hopes to address one of Council's primary weaknesses: lack of diversity. Though the organization ostensively represents the entire University community, Council's membership does not proportionally represent certain student groups.
Townsend is our candidate of choice, but Britol should also be acknowledged for her dedication to Council. Townsend would be wise to build upon Bristol's outreach and communication efforts from during her term as director of University relations.
Both candidates should be commended for their efforts thus far, but we believe Townsend is a better fit to help lead Council during its next administration.\n
Wielding the shield
\nThe Managing Board will be pleased to see Evan Shields elected as Student Council's vice president for organizationsEvan Shields is running unopposed for the office of Student Council's vice president for organizations, and The Cavalier Daily's Managing Board believes students will be electing a qualified individual. Like any other candidate, Shields brings both strengths and weaknesses to the table, but we think that his ambition will ensure success at this position.
Serving as the chief financial officer for BEATS, a cultural performance Contracted Independent Organization, Shields formulated business plans and raised more than $4,000. Nevertheless, Shields has relatively little experience within Council. He has expressed his intentions to bridge the gap as quickly as possible, but the learning curve will be steep. Fortunately, Shields is ready to familiarize himself with the appropriations process and has indicated several changes he would institute, including clarifying the process for the student body. He also plans to introduce incentives for co-sposorship among CIOs.
Shield's involvement in many diverse organizations allows him bring a fresh perspective to Council, as well. His past experiences in CIO leadership and financial management provide him with the necessary background to perform ably as vice president for organizations.
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