To the Editor:
Students deserve a voice in decisions that the College makes, such as the meal plan change with DDS. Students deserve a responsive Student Assembly that they feel represents them. Students deserve access to useful student services, like the SA Course Guide.
Hi, I'm Will Hix and I'd like to be your Student Assembly president.
Many students are frustrated. They don't feel like their concerns are being addressed. How did this happen at this college we love so much? The Assembly has failed to represent us. The present leadership just doesn't know how to get things done it didn't have the experience necessary to solve important problems.
I've been solving problems since my freshman year. In 2009, I chaired the Student Services Committee in the Assembly. In just one term, a small group of us worked together to get results. We put rentable computer chargers and staplers in the library, a microwave in Novack and a student fax machine in Collis. We expanded the Lost and Found and the Room Draw Guide.
I've also teamed with student organizations to get results. I recently worked with Dartmouth EMS to secure funding for free CPR and first aid for undergraduates. I also developed the campus events listserv for COSO groups. Last term, I worked with Hacker Club to bring back Course Guide.
Along the way, I learned how to work with multiple groups to accomplish large projects. When I served on the Undergraduate Finance Committee, I used the skills I had learned to streamline student activity funding, foster cooperation among organizations and promote accountability in student government.
Student government is on a dangerous course that will ultimately lead to its total irrelevance. It's become even worse during the last year. I'm convinced that with able leadership, our best days are still ahead. That's why I have chosen to pursue a write-in candidacy for Student Assembly president. It's time that we put the student voice back into the forefront of College decision-making, with sensible planning, smart initiatives and accountable representation.
It's time to get results.
Unfortunately, I will not be on the ballot. EPAC created an unprecedented regulation to bar any previously suspended student from running for this position. I once served a one-term suspension. Seeking medical care for me, my friend called in a Good Sam. Hanover Police cited me for a minor in possession of alcohol and for disorderly conduct because I tried to evade them. It was a very serious mistake, but one from which I've learned a great deal of humility and responsibility. I completed DAPA training and will apply what I learned in working to reform alcohol policy.
I know that if we remain committed to working on an issue, nothing can stand in our way. This effort isn't about a person, it's about making Dartmouth the best college it can be. I believe that I have the experience necessary to make changes happen. Please write me in during the election this Friday before 8 p.m.
Will Hix '12
