The new student government administration is beginning to take shape.
Executive cabinet positions have been filled and many of the boards have begun working on the promises made by newly elected officials during the Associated Students of the University of Utah election, said Student Body President-elect Tayler Clough.
“All applicants had a great vision for what they wanted to accomplish,” said Rachel Rizzo, vice president-elect of ASUU. “All of them were more than qualified. We really did interview some of the best people for these positions, but we have to choose the ones that we think will do the best job.”
Clough said the most difficult part of the process was eliminating candidates who had played major roles in getting them elected.
“There are so many people that give their heart and soul to the campaign,” Clough said.
“Although they didn’t expect to get an appointment, it is still difficult for them to not get a position. In the end, we can’t just choose our best friends.”
Rizzo said 59 applicants applied for the 15 open positions.
Clough and Rizzo highlighted a couple of specific boards to showcase some of the work that has already started in the new administration.
Chase Jardine has been appointed to lead the Campus Relations Board, which has been combined with the Outreach and Assessment Board to form a single position, in line with a promise made by the Revolution Party during its campaign.
The Sustainability Board will be led by Dave Burt. The new student leaders have started exploring the feasibility of relocating classrooms to more energy-efficient buildings for Summer Semester.
Burt has also initiated a proposal for an Environmental Impact Scholar designation, an idea that came from the GO Party campaign. The designation is not required for graduation, but is available to students looking to enrich their studies, Clough said. Erica Andersen, senior class president and a former member of the GO Party, will work with Burt on the designation.
The administration has also focused on technology, choosing Zach Lee to head the Technology Board. One of the board’s directives is to institute a “conversation of the week” that will be host by Clough and Rizzo and posted on the ASUU Web site. The chats will focus on issues affecting students, and would eventually allow students to ask questions.
“We’re doing “fireside chats’ like FDR,” Clough said.
Clough and Rizzo said that anyone who is interested in getting involved in student government can contact the ASUU office directly.
“We are always looking for people to get involved,” Rizzo said. “We need help with everything. If you have an interest, let us know. We can use everyone in some sort of capacity.”