2027- William Bennett

 

William Bennett

Major: Biology

Describe your vision for the position you intend to run for.

In my time on Student Government, I felt there were times when we, as an organization, were more representative of the administration than the student body. During those times, I was frustrated that we weren’t representing the student body as best we could. However, I now understand that focusing on constructing a relationship with the administration was necessary to build the organization’s credibility. In that time, we built a strong relationship with the administration. Now it is time to build one with the students. As an organization, it’s time to emphasize inviting students outside our internal structure into discussions about conflicts that may arise during the school year. I envision myself in this position as someone who fosters a comfortable space where students feel invited to participate in Student Government’s processes. To fulfill our primary directive of representing the student body, we must encourage student participation. We will broadcast our senate meeting agendas to the student body before each meeting, so more students are aware of what we discuss. I will make sure every meeting includes something of interest to the general student population, such as an administrator attending, budget information, or a discussion of an on-campus conflict. To further build relationships with the student body, we should also emphasize communication with other important student-led bodies. Whether that’s through previous research by Lafayette’s Gov Lab, LAF, or student organizations, gathering information on students’ day-to-day experiences will help us organize our internal functions and improve our organization.

Describe why you are the right person for this role.

My work in Student Government is fueled by the privilege of being part of a community where so many people work to leave Lafayette better than they found it. I’m proud to be surrounded by caring people, and they inspire me every day to work hard to serve the student body. Every student is capable of bringing great change to this campus. Since joining Student Government, I have spent hours working to bring change to this campus, ensure students feel heard, and improve their time at Lafayette. I have spent my time learning about different aspects of campus, both inside and outside my academic space. I bring a clear understanding of the organization’s past success and how to get things done here.

If you need evidence of my ability to get things done, just look at the new sports court down by the Fisher residence halls. That was me. As head of student life for Student Government, I have always seen myself and my fellow senators as agents of student affairs. I learn about the student experience and their struggles by going through the week, listening, and having conversations with students. Having conversations with administration and learned about the different aspects of campus, experiencing how each one operates firsthand. Learning how the institution operates has made me knowledgeable and equipped to set realistic goals and deliver results. I care about the students, which makes it easy to feel inspired to drive change for a better future.