COLUMN: Spring is season to get involved
As we reconvene on a new semester and a fresh year, I am excited about what lies ahead. This spring semester will provide many different opportunities for us as students; we have the opportunity to see amazing things happen at the university and we will also be able to make amazing things happen. We must take an active role in our classes, government and university to enhance our student experience.
As students, we have the opportunity to attend the yearly State of the University address given by President Kermit L. Hall. This will address the projection of Utah State’s future and will help us see where we are and where we are going. I encourage each of you to attend this event and see what USU has in store. It will be held Wednesday at 4 p.m. in the Eccles Conference Center Auditorium, with overflow locations in the Taggart Student Center.
Another opportunity that each of you will have is to “Be Herd” and elect new student-body officers to serve you in the next school year. This is your chance to be politically involved with your student-government association, the Associated Students of USU. Throughout the year there have already been many changes, but there are many more that need to take place. You can make those changes, both by voting and running for an office. If you’re interested in running, election packets are available in TSC, Room 326. With 20 elected positions to choose from, there is something for everyone.
Now, if you’re reading this and thinking there is no way you want to be an officer, I encourage you to take that active role and vote for your officers. It is your chance to elect those individuals who will do the greatest good for the university, and take the university to new heights. Remember, if you don’t vote, then who will?
Finally, one of the greatest traditions at Utah State are the Robins Awards. Former student body president Bill E. Robins’ pioneering efforts at USU are what prompted the Sigma Nu fraternity to begin these awards. This year will mark the 55-year anniversary of the “academy awards” of USU. Featured awards are given to USU’s top students, athletes, professors and many more. During the month of February, you will have the opportunity to nominate individuals you feel have demonstrated the necessary traits of a good leader, student and community member. The ceremony will be held April 17 in the TSC Ballroom. Look for nomination booths from Feb. 2 to 18 at activities and the first floor of the TSC.
Over the course of this semester I challenge you to take an active role, and to remember the words of T.H. Huxley, “The great end of life is not knowledge but action.” Be active, participate, vote and make a difference at Utah State.
Duke Di Stefano is the president of ASUSU. Comments can be sent to duke@cc.usu.edu.