In my own informal survey of students on campus, it seems that very few are aware of the student body presidential election that is now underway. The Student Government Association (SGA) exists to advocate for the students of Northeastern, yet few are aware of any projects that are actually undertaken by this organization. This is an issue that can no longer be ignored.
Since the inception of direct elections, presidential candidates have presented campaigns that promise more accessibility for students to have a voice in SGA, however this is still one of the most prevalent issues today. The current presidential election between Ryan Fox and Matthew Soleyn was extended due to a lack of student participation, which has happened for the second year in a row. This shows just how unaware and apathetic the student body feels toward SGA and how it runs, or, even who runs the organization. Only 20 percent of the student body needs to vote in order to elect the president, which equates to about 3,000 students. This is a small number in comparison to how many students are able to sell out venues like Matthews Arena and Blackman Auditorium in a matter of minutes for events.
The disconnect between students and SGA is not a new claim, yet I feel attention must be projected at how divided the SGA Senate has become as a result of the current election. The two candidates for SGA president have been attacked and called everything from unprepared to passive. Facebook groups encouraging a vote of ‘no confidence’ are becoming ever more popular. Even candidate Soleyn has encouraged students to vote ‘no confidence’ rather than vote for his competitor. This type of campaigning instills no faith in the organization or those who have arguably stepped up to lead SGA. What is even more disconcerting is the fact that one of these groups was implemented by Senator Michael Rockland, and other senators have joined these groups. If members of SGA are advocating ‘no confidence,’ the situation exemplifies the division and lack of faith even members of SGA have in the integrity of their own organization. This is clearly something that must be addressed and should showcase that reform is drastically needed.
In response to these issues, I urge all students to take action and either join SGA or contact a senator and press them to advocate your issues, however small they may be. SGA exists to act as the voice of the student body and to allow student issues to be projected to the administration. At some point along the way, it has become a forum for the members of the Senate to push their own agendas. SGA Senators have a responsibility to their constituents and to the student body as a whole. I press all of my fellow Huskies to contact a senator and ask for the resolution to an issue you’re having. Then follow up with the senator until that issue is heard and either taken care of or dismissed. Just be sure the issue is given the time and attention it deserves.
We have allowed for SGA to exist for far too long without holding the members accountable for any mistakes or corrupt practices. It is now time for drastic reform, instead of continuing to deny that there is a better alternative. Change is upon us and we can do better.
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‘- Joshua Torres is a junior English major.