For his extensive experience in the undergraduate student government and his dedication to advocacy, this board endorses Matt Spring for president, though with a strong critique of his slate-focused vision.
Spring’s platform centers on issues of affordability and campus climate. He presented such proposals as expanding UCLAdvocacy Day, introducing new students to USAC and more campus resources during orientation, providing research recognition for students and increasing resources and advertising space for student groups.
Spring demonstrated thorough knowledge of USAC’s potential, limitations and responsibility to work with the administration to effect long-term change. His awareness of issues relevant to students extends beyond the borders of campus to the state and national levels.
As General Representative 1, Spring implemented sustainable programs such as the Take It to the Hill Resource Fair, which has been adopted by the Office of Residential Life, and the extension of the evening van service south of Wilshire Boulevard.
Spring improved USAC’s visibility this year with the installment of the Ask USAC table and “USAC Goes to You” tours to student group meetings. This board believes that Spring’s consistent performance in office bodes well for next year.
Although Spring said he hopes to unify the council around issues of affordability and advocacy, we strongly advise him to look past his Students First! affiliation and be open to other ideas that may not line up with his slate’s vision. Spring should take care not to dismiss or disregard certain projects in order to advance a certain slate but rather support the goals of all elected officers and their offices.
Spring’s strongest opponent, Bruins United presidential candidate and General Representative Emily Resnick, was enthusiastic about uniting the council and encouraging co-programming. Despite her experience on council, Resnick’s platform demonstrated a predominantly internal focus, and two of her major projects this year ““ the farmers market and snapshots of gym traffic ““ took nearly her entire term to come to fruition.
Independent presidential candidates Adam Swart and Daniel Yadegari are underprepared for the position. Swart’s platform was very internally focused, and he did not demonstrate a thorough understanding of the limitations and responsibilities of USAC in advocating for student interests. Similarly, Yadegari lacked a working knowledge of USAC and had not researched his platforms or spoken to the appropriate administrators on the feasibility of his ideas.
As such, this board believes Spring exhibits the experience, initiative and larger vision required of the USAC president.