Matthew Venaas

junior, political science major

1. What are your goals for the Student Association?

Overall, I would like to use my position to help improve communication between the SA, other student organizations, and the student body. I think one of the biggest problems the SA has is that many students do not know about the SA and the significant role it plays in the student body. For example, many students I speak to are still baffled when they discover that the Senate allocated over $1.5 million to student organizations on this campus. If reelected, I will do my part to help students better understand the SA.

Additionally, I feel that the SA needs to continue its efforts to understand the challenges and problems which students on this campus face. This is an area in which our organization has focused significant effort in the past few years; however, I believe we can and must do more.

2. What qualifications do you have to represent the student body of NIU?

I served as an SA senator for the last two years. During my freshman year, I served on the Mass Transit Board. Last year, I served as the Chair of the University Services Committee, working to understand and legislate on student issues, including but not limited to the Financial Aid Office. Furthermore , I represented the SA as a member of the University Council.

In addition, this is my second year of being a part of the Residence Hall Association. Last year, I served as the Administrative Vice President of the Douglas Hall Council, and served on several RHA committees to represent the residents of Douglas. This year, I am serving as President of Douglas Hall. I can use the connections that I have with those in my hall, and with other hall councils, to stay in touch with students on campus.

Moreover, I was a part of the Residence Hall Association the last two years, serving as Vice President and President of Douglas Hall Council over that time span. I have served on numerous different committees, dealing with issues ranging from governing documents to hall improvements.

3. What in particular can you offer the student body in this position?

As a Senator, I can be someone that the student body can trust to look out for their best interests. Over the previous two years, I have grown as a student leader. I have acquired knowledge, tools, and connections to successfully represent student interests on a campus-wide scale. My dedication to this position and my strength as a leader, shown with my previous experiences, will allow me to serve as an excellent Senator.