What is it that we look for in a leader? Is it sex appeal? The way they say the politically correct thing at just the right time? Only the shallow husk they display on the outside? I’d fervently like to believe there’s more to it than that.
The measure of a true leader is someone who can picture themselves without fancy titles and accolades, and still work for the benefit of their fellow man. That he or she may seek office, but only in order to better facilitate their efforts to improve the world around them, rather than only for the sake of glory, or to just slap something new onto their resume. That they can still maintain the strength of their beliefs while also treating everyone as their peers and allowing all viewpoints to come to the table. A leader is, in a sense, an ethical administrator for a marketplace of ideas, rather than a narcissistic dictator.
Our student body elections are coming up soon. I ask those who, in their heart of hearts, feel that they have the traits I have illustrated to please contact me, any other SG member, or the Office of Student Activities to gain information on running for a Senatorial, Executive or Judicial position. The Student Government will continue to function on behalf of all Dustdevils, but can only reach its owns self-actualization when all of its spots are filled. With the campaign season officially beginning March 20th and elections in mid-April, there is plenty of time to get prepared to run for office.
I also entreat everyone to take a moment and consider several questions: What is it that you want out of your student leadership? Which candidate, if more than one is vying for a given position, best exemplifies the principles that constitute the strengths of all true leaders? Keep this in mind as the campaign season starts, and as you sit down to cast your vote. By doing so, you will have exercised your franchise with the authority that true conviction bestows.