Archivist note: Originally published on the Elections WordPress site. Feb 8, 2014 @ 00:03, “The Secretary/Parliamentarian of SGA”
Charlie Bruce
My name is Charlie Bruce, class of 2016, and I’m running for SGA Secretary. I love that we have a system based on self-governance, and I think we can improve it. The role of the Secretary connects the campus at large to the assembly meetings through note taking and Mawrk notes. As Secretary, I would use my position as communicator between the Assembly and the larger student body to increase the accessibility of SGA as a space where students can voice their opinions. In my multiple discussions about SGA, a lot of students feel that the structure, purpose, and benefits of SGA aren’t clear. As a result, many students feel that they can’t participate. In this position, I would work to make videos explaining SGA to answer these and many more questions.
I feel confident that I would be a good Secretary because of my skills and past experience. In my jobs, clubs, and personal life, I have learned time management. I’m experienced at typing notes from Earth Justice League meetings and conference calls. Last fall, I was appointed as a Seven Sisters Council Representative. Through this position, I built a relationship with the EBoard and learned the constitution in order to explain it to other college representatives at the Seven Sister’s conference. While I don’t like confrontation, I am ready and willing to hold Assembly members accountable for frequent unexcused absences.
My goal for this year is to start a video campaign of “what is SGA?” with the Outreach and Communications Committee or the Members At Large. These videos would explain clearly and concisely what SGA is, as well as explain what new resolutions are being passed at SGA. I think it would encourage students to bring their thoughts to SGA if they saw the impact of non-assembly involvement. I’d like to expand the responsibilities of this position, by making the Secretary the head of the Outreach and Communications Committee. This will improve the accountability of the committee.
With a more accessible SGA, I believe we can strengthen our community. In this position, I would make it my priority to work towards an SGA the entire student body believes in and knows how to participate in.
Celeste Gambino
Hi! I’m Celeste Gambino and I’m running for SGA Secretary. I’m currently a Sophomore majoring in Geology with a minor in Environmental Studies. Last semester I was elected to be a Member at Large which has led me to be very involved in SGA this year.
I am interested in becoming Secretary because I believe in the power that Self Governance has here at Bryn Mawr. It is one of the most unique and truly special aspects of the Bryn Mawr community. SGA has brought some great things to our campus and community and I look forward to the opportunity to continuing this custom. I want Self-Governance to continue to be implemented on campus, and as Secretary I hope to be a large part of that process.
I am confident that my skills and experience fit the requirements that this position entails. I am well organized and manage time efficiently, both of which are crucial traits for the Secretary to embody. I believe that my communication and collaboration skills have prepared me well for the social responsibilities that are critical to this position. The SGA Secretary is an important link between the Executive Board, Representative Counsel, and the student body and must work as an effective communication device between the groups. As a Member-at-Large, I have worked closely with current SGA Secretary and I am familiar with the processes of SGA.
Thank you for supporting Self-Governance with your interest and your vote. I hope to represent the student body to the best of my abilities as your SGA Secretary.