Vote!!!
Voting starts in less than two hours. Go online to www.vote.iastate.edu on Monday or Tuesday to voice your opinion!
Rocking the Vote
We're into the final weekend of the campaign season, and the big day is almost here! Please be sure to share the goals and missions of the Roling/Dobbels campaign with your fellow Iowa State students. Revisit our campaign's journey and issues by clicking on the various tabs in the above right corner of our site. Note the various endorsements of our campaign, ranging from college councils to residency councils to individuals across many different organizations.
Most important, be sure your voice is heard this coming Monday or Tuesday by voting in the GSB election. Voting is a very simple online process at www.vote.iastate.edu.
Nate and I cannot thank our supporters enough for all their help in the past few weeks. We have shown our commitment to team efforts to make change across campus. Your votes will help make our plans for change a reality.
Most important, be sure your voice is heard this coming Monday or Tuesday by voting in the GSB election. Voting is a very simple online process at www.vote.iastate.edu.
Nate and I cannot thank our supporters enough for all their help in the past few weeks. We have shown our commitment to team efforts to make change across campus. Your votes will help make our plans for change a reality.
Student Organization Endorsements
Inter-Residence Hall Association
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Council
Engineering Student Council
Design Council
Design Council
Order of the Rose and Chessmen
Starbuck House (Martin Hall)
Alpha Zeta
Starbuck House (Martin Hall)
Alpha Zeta
Personal Endorsements
Daniel Finnegan
Government of the Student Body
Engineering Senator
Erik Hofstad
Government of the Student Body
Engineering Senator
Christopher Bone
Government of the Student Body
Agriculture & Life Sciences Senator
Derek Grygiel
Government of the Student Body
Frederiksen Court Senator
Subhadarshi Sarkar
Government of the Student Body
Graduate Senator
Dakota Hoben
Government of the Student Body
United Residents of Off-Campus Senator
Anna Sawyer
Government of the Student Body
United Residents of Off-Campus Senator
Sagar Chawla
Government of the Student Body
Inter-Residence Hall Association Senator
Lisa Nelson
Government of the Student Body
Inter-Residence Hall Association Senator
Arjay Vander Velden
Government of the Student Body
Inter-Residence Hall Association Senator
Bevin Waters
Government of the Student Body
Inter-Residence Hall Association Senator
Kelsey Gent
Government of the Student Body
Human Sciences Senator
Jordan Becker
Government of the Student Body
Design Senator
Jared Knight
Government of the Student Body
Supreme Court Justice
Andrew Brown
Graduate & Professional Student Senate
Andrew Brown
Graduate & Professional Student Senate
Former President
Lindsay Crawford
Agriculture and Life Sciences Council
President
Lisa Putz
Honors Student Board
President
Brittney Miller
Frederiksen Court Community Council
President
Hallie Satre
VEISHEA General Co-Chair
President, STARS
Andrea Biagioli
Inter-Residence Hall Association
Director of Finance
Christopher Roth
Inter-Residence Hall Association
Director of Finance Emeritus
Bryan Schmidt
Order of the Rose and Chessmen
President
Rajin Olson
President, ISU Bhangra
President, Martin Hall
Allie Bender
Starbuck House
President
Beth Baudler
Block & Bridal
President
Allison Buck
Block & Bridal
Ag & Life Sciences Council Rep
Nathan Fritz
Agricultural Education Club
Ag & Life Sciences Council Rep
Allison Doll
Alpha Zeta
President
Enhancing the Experience - Financial Responsibility
As our university fights through tough financial times, student organizations also feel a significant impact upon their pocketbooks. Though GSB will not directly see financial losses (since its funds are received from student activity fees), groups funded through college councils rather than GSB have already begun feeling the impact upon their budgets. Colleges have had to drastically decrease the amount of funding they pass to student organizations, leaving these groups searching for other sources of funding. With fundraising opportunities sparse and corporate sponsorships also limited by tough economic times, some student organizations face extreme difficulties in making their financial ends meet.
The Roling/Dobbels administration recognizes the need for certain restrictions in the GSB funding process. A vast majority of organizations receive funding from GSB since there is no other source from which they can directly receive funds. It is GSB's responsibility to make sure the needs of these groups are met. However, it is important that GSB practices wise and efficient use of its funds in these trying economic times. Many student organizations across campus are only minimally eligible for funding through GSB. The recent creation of the GSB Events Account allows GSB to fund any student group for events entertaining and open to all students. This is a strong first step toward using fees to benefit students in the best way possible.
Nate and I are committed to working with the GSB Finance Director and Finance Committee to streamline the GSB finance rules and processes so students can have as many opportunities available as possible. We will work to adjust rules as needed to provide students with the best possible use of their funds. Nate and I recognize certain restrictions need to remain in place; however, we are committed to working out different aspects of funding that will be key in developing partnerships across campus.
The Roling/Dobbels administration recognizes the need for certain restrictions in the GSB funding process. A vast majority of organizations receive funding from GSB since there is no other source from which they can directly receive funds. It is GSB's responsibility to make sure the needs of these groups are met. However, it is important that GSB practices wise and efficient use of its funds in these trying economic times. Many student organizations across campus are only minimally eligible for funding through GSB. The recent creation of the GSB Events Account allows GSB to fund any student group for events entertaining and open to all students. This is a strong first step toward using fees to benefit students in the best way possible.
Nate and I are committed to working with the GSB Finance Director and Finance Committee to streamline the GSB finance rules and processes so students can have as many opportunities available as possible. We will work to adjust rules as needed to provide students with the best possible use of their funds. Nate and I recognize certain restrictions need to remain in place; however, we are committed to working out different aspects of funding that will be key in developing partnerships across campus.
Enhancing the Experience - University Partnerships
Next year's GSB executives must work to maintain two-way communication between students, GSB, and university administration. In the face of budget cuts and trying financial times, it is important that the needs of the student body are communicated to our university leaders so essential services are not removed from our student experience. Nate and I are committed to working with students across campus to determine exactly what areas should be identified as critical areas for student success.
As a member of University Affairs Committee, I have begun work to promote openness between the university and the student body. Many students have felt that the course evaluation work they complete at the end of each semester is not fully utilized by departments. We are not only working to help the university explain to students the policies associated with course evaluation data, but are asking faculty to consider making hard data public for students to examine. Projects such as this that benefit students are central to our campaign.
Nate and I also want to improve the voice of the student body in the affairs of Faculty Senate. Students are currently represented on various committees, but the direct voice of students directly to Faculty Senate could certainly be improved. Nate and I will commit to working with the Senate to open up two-way communication between faculty and student governments for the benefit of both groups.
Finally, it is important that we note the importance of two-way dialogue in conversations with university administration. Many issues students have with university decisions often stem from a lack of information passed directly to the student body. Students are often confused about policies on many different levels (such as the course evaluation policies). Nate and I will commit not only to representing the student voice, but also to educating students about the decisions and methods of our university leadership.
As a member of University Affairs Committee, I have begun work to promote openness between the university and the student body. Many students have felt that the course evaluation work they complete at the end of each semester is not fully utilized by departments. We are not only working to help the university explain to students the policies associated with course evaluation data, but are asking faculty to consider making hard data public for students to examine. Projects such as this that benefit students are central to our campaign.
Nate and I also want to improve the voice of the student body in the affairs of Faculty Senate. Students are currently represented on various committees, but the direct voice of students directly to Faculty Senate could certainly be improved. Nate and I will commit to working with the Senate to open up two-way communication between faculty and student governments for the benefit of both groups.
Finally, it is important that we note the importance of two-way dialogue in conversations with university administration. Many issues students have with university decisions often stem from a lack of information passed directly to the student body. Students are often confused about policies on many different levels (such as the course evaluation policies). Nate and I will commit not only to representing the student voice, but also to educating students about the decisions and methods of our university leadership.
Celebrating Diversity on Campus
In addition to simply recognizing the accomplishments of organizations across campus, it is important that GSB promotes and sponsors events on campus that celebrate our diverse population. The "Mind the Gap" campaign developed by GSB is currently examining the opportunities available for a collaborative event between GSB and a variety of organizations on campus. It would ask groups to propose a large-scale diversity event sponsored by GSB and hosted by organizations of a wide range of interests. It is this type of inter-organization collaboration that our campaign is looking to promote. We look forward to great successes in the future from Mind the Gap, especially in its potential to promote cooperation on campus.
Nate and I want to work to involve all of GSB in this effort, as well. We are firmly committed to working hard as executives to make sure goals become a reality. We will communicate our initiatives and rely strongly on help from the other branches of GSB. Diversity on campus requires the effort of every student from all across campus, as we all bring something unique to the table. Nate and I will develop personal partnerships to make these efforts happen.
Nate and I want to work to involve all of GSB in this effort, as well. We are firmly committed to working hard as executives to make sure goals become a reality. We will communicate our initiatives and rely strongly on help from the other branches of GSB. Diversity on campus requires the effort of every student from all across campus, as we all bring something unique to the table. Nate and I will develop personal partnerships to make these efforts happen.
Recognizing Diversity
Iowa State University is one of the most diverse communities in the State of Iowa. Students of different ethnicities, beliefs, and orientations attend our university and bring a rich heritage of traditions to our campus. The combination of all of these truly makes Iowa State a unique place.
The Roling/Dobbels campaign is committed to recognizing the accomplishments of organizations across campus, especially organizations contributing to the diversity of our campus. Many Iowa State students are not aware that groups such as multicultural groups are in fact open to all students and host events that are open to all students. Nate and I are committed to promoting awareness of the events, activities, and accomplishments of all student groups on campus. We are committed to helping all students become involved with events on campus that celebrate the rich backgrounds and traditions of our diverse population. We will work to publicly recognize those groups whose work is truly outstanding. Nate and I are committed to developing personal relationships with the leadership of all interested organizations on campus. Our initiative in developing partnerships will be the key step in accomplishing our goals of recognition and involvement across campus.
What other actions will Nate and I work toward in our administrative roles? Check back tomorrow for the second part of our discussion on diversity.
The Roling/Dobbels campaign is committed to recognizing the accomplishments of organizations across campus, especially organizations contributing to the diversity of our campus. Many Iowa State students are not aware that groups such as multicultural groups are in fact open to all students and host events that are open to all students. Nate and I are committed to promoting awareness of the events, activities, and accomplishments of all student groups on campus. We are committed to helping all students become involved with events on campus that celebrate the rich backgrounds and traditions of our diverse population. We will work to publicly recognize those groups whose work is truly outstanding. Nate and I are committed to developing personal relationships with the leadership of all interested organizations on campus. Our initiative in developing partnerships will be the key step in accomplishing our goals of recognition and involvement across campus.
What other actions will Nate and I work toward in our administrative roles? Check back tomorrow for the second part of our discussion on diversity.
Full Leadership Potential
Welcome everyone to my final blog post regarding leadership potential on campus. First of all, I hope you are all enjoying the Winter Olympics and seeing all of the exciting action. Tonight I want to quickly touch on our final thoughts on developing leadership potential. With the thoughts I mentioned last night, I want to quickly expand on the main areas of leadership we hope to focus on.
Leadership, in my mind, should include dedication, communication, teamwork, and responsibility just to name a few characteristics. However, leadership should also focus on community service, continuous learning, personal reflection, and other various aspects that help students fully understand and develop leadership. So how can our campaign help students develop these skills? Our main goals of potential, partnership, and progress all address this thought. Helping students understand what they can accomplish and their potential will help them develop leadership skills. Partnering with other students and developing mentoring opportunities will help develop leadership. Students working together is one of the best ways we can enhance leadership. I want to bring leadership retreats, leadership seminars, and other leadership aspects to our campus. Progress is always a main aspect of leadership. We all know leadership will never be fully developed unless we make progress. I want to help students take small steps to reach large goals.
With ISU having so many wonderful traditions, I want leadership to become a tradition at ISU. Employers are looking for students who are looking to lead and take the initiative both in the workplace and out in the community. If we can create a tradition of consistently teaching students to become leaders, ISU will become more of a recruited university. We have some of the top placement ratings in the nation, some of the largest career fairs, but I think there is always room for improvement. It will be my goal to speak with employers, see what they are looking for, and bring that information back to students. I will take the knowledge I gain and share it with all students.
Finally, it all comes down to motivating students to succeed. If we can all work together, spread our experiences and knowledge with other, we can truly become an outstanding campus. As a tour guide on campus, I have the honor of speaking to prospective students and their families. While on these tours, I am always honored to represent ISU and our wonderful characteristics. If we all work together, we can add our exceptional leadership opportunities and leadership skills to our recruitment tool to help ISU become a top leadership institution.
Stay tuned tomorrow for more of the Roling/Dobbels campaign!
Expanding Leadership!
Welcome everyone to the second blog post on developing leadership throughout campus. Yesterday I mentioned the current leadership on campus and I now want to expand on our thoughts about how we can develop these areas. I want to address our ideas for expanding the leadership certificate, connecting leadership groups on campus, and motivating students to enhance their leadership skills.
I first want to touch on development of the leadership certificate. I have already met with the main coordinator for the leadership certificate program and she has shown extreme interst in developing a wonderful partnership. We have discussed setting up possible leadership days and spreading the certificate to all majors across campus. We have also discussed creating a "leadership team" to help spread the word about this wonderful progam. We had some conversation about how to enhance the program as well. This would include possibly adding in community service activites, mentoring within the group, a leadership certificate retreat, and other leadership development experiences.
The second aspect of leadership will include cooperation and coordination between leadership groups and teams. I want to personally connect different groups to develop leadership events, leadership workshops, and enhance the overall leadership experience. In my mind, there are so many leadership groups with wonderful experiences and skills that need to be spread all across campus. If we can connect leadership groups, I think we can effectively develop the potential of all students at Iowa State.
Finally, I want to just simply spread the word about leadership. In my mind, I truly believe all students have the potential to do wonderful things both inside and outside of the classroom. I want to motivate students to discover their full potential and to seek opportunities all across campus. The dedication I have towards helping students understand how much they truly can succeed will help me share my passion of leadership with others.
Stay tuned tomorrow for the final segment of maximizing leadership potential!
Maximizing Leadership Potential
Welcome everyone to our three part series on "maximizing leadership potential". Over the next three days I will be posting three blogs. The first blog will cover current leadership on campus and how we think leadership is currently being addressed on campus. The second blog will cover how leadership potential can be maximized and our goals for the upcoming year. The final blog will include how we plan on accomplishing our specific goals and establishing a strong reputation for leadership at Iowa State.
To start things off, I first want to address my thoughts about leadership on campus. Leadership is something that is very important to many students and one of my biggest passions. However, many students are unaware of numerous leadership opportunities. I want to personally develop current leadership programs, expand current leadership opportunities, and share my leadership experiences with others. Please follow later blogs to see how I plan on accomplishing this.
Some of the main leadership focuses on campus include: an interdisiplinary leadership certificate, leadership programs and many organizations that focus around leadership. These are all wonderful aspects of leadership, but I want to focus on developing each of these areas and sharing them with students all across campus. With so much potental all across campus, I want to personally work with leadership programs, expand the leadership certificate, and bring leadership groups together to enhance the overall Iowa State Experience. Luke and I are only two people, but the experiences we have had, the connections we have made, and the initiative we will bring to developing these ideas, will help our goals become a reality.
Please stay tuned tomorrow for my specific leadership goals and how we hope to enhance the Iowa State experience as we continue our blogs about leadership and potential!
To start things off, I first want to address my thoughts about leadership on campus. Leadership is something that is very important to many students and one of my biggest passions. However, many students are unaware of numerous leadership opportunities. I want to personally develop current leadership programs, expand current leadership opportunities, and share my leadership experiences with others. Please follow later blogs to see how I plan on accomplishing this.
Some of the main leadership focuses on campus include: an interdisiplinary leadership certificate, leadership programs and many organizations that focus around leadership. These are all wonderful aspects of leadership, but I want to focus on developing each of these areas and sharing them with students all across campus. With so much potental all across campus, I want to personally work with leadership programs, expand the leadership certificate, and bring leadership groups together to enhance the overall Iowa State Experience. Luke and I are only two people, but the experiences we have had, the connections we have made, and the initiative we will bring to developing these ideas, will help our goals become a reality.
Please stay tuned tomorrow for my specific leadership goals and how we hope to enhance the Iowa State experience as we continue our blogs about leadership and potential!
Partnering with the Student Body
In the last two days, we've discussed the problem of student debt at Iowa State. We've shown that Iowa State ranks among the worst universities nationwide in debt accumulation upon graduation. We've declared our intentions to continue to lobby legislators for lower tuition rates, and have expressed our willingness to work with university administration to use money most effectively. Our most promising effort to reduce student debt, however, will involve much more direct contact with the student body.
I am a founding member of a peer-to-peer financial education group specifically targeting the student debt problem at Iowa State. This organization is loosely modeled off other successful groups at the University of Arizona (Credit-Wise Cats) and Texas Tech University (Red to Black). Our organization (still to be named) has been working with staff from the Financial Counseling Clinic, the Department of Human Sciences, and university-level administration to develop a financial literacy program fine-tuned to the needs of Iowa State students. Preliminary plans for this program will highlight areas identified as most important to students: banking, money management, financial aid, and credit. Members plan to cooperate with 101 lecture classes as well as with student organizations on campus to publicize the group and to share introductory material. Student-to-student advice will be available to anyone who feels they're in need of guidance. The organization will begin recruiting and training mentors and finalizing its structure this spring semester and will launch in the fall.
Nate and I are extremely excited by the potential this project holds. We see this as an excellent opportunity to promote cooperation between GSB leadership and students on many levels. I plan on being more than just an organizer of this campaign; I want to be a mentor who makes a difference. The successful execution of this plan will require the cooperation of student leadership and mentors, student mentees, and university administration. Nate and I plan to maintain excellent communication between these groups to make solid progress toward tackling student debt at Iowa State.
Next on our blog series: "Leadership!" hosted by Nate. Stay tuned to learn all about our plans for maximizing leadership potential on campus!
I am a founding member of a peer-to-peer financial education group specifically targeting the student debt problem at Iowa State. This organization is loosely modeled off other successful groups at the University of Arizona (Credit-Wise Cats) and Texas Tech University (Red to Black). Our organization (still to be named) has been working with staff from the Financial Counseling Clinic, the Department of Human Sciences, and university-level administration to develop a financial literacy program fine-tuned to the needs of Iowa State students. Preliminary plans for this program will highlight areas identified as most important to students: banking, money management, financial aid, and credit. Members plan to cooperate with 101 lecture classes as well as with student organizations on campus to publicize the group and to share introductory material. Student-to-student advice will be available to anyone who feels they're in need of guidance. The organization will begin recruiting and training mentors and finalizing its structure this spring semester and will launch in the fall.
Nate and I are extremely excited by the potential this project holds. We see this as an excellent opportunity to promote cooperation between GSB leadership and students on many levels. I plan on being more than just an organizer of this campaign; I want to be a mentor who makes a difference. The successful execution of this plan will require the cooperation of student leadership and mentors, student mentees, and university administration. Nate and I plan to maintain excellent communication between these groups to make solid progress toward tackling student debt at Iowa State.
Next on our blog series: "Leadership!" hosted by Nate. Stay tuned to learn all about our plans for maximizing leadership potential on campus!
Standing Up for Students
As our tuition climbs, it is important that the voice of the student body is heard in decisions regarding our academic experience. Our university is currently in the midst of redefining its priorities as it adjusts to recent budget cuts. It is essential that the services receiving funding are those that are most vital to students. The Roling/Dobbels campaign is strongly committed to communicating the needs of the student body to university administration so money is properly allocated to essential services and departments. We plan to partner with student groups across campus to work with all students and determine what areas are most important. We'll then make these needs known to administration so they can be properly addressed.
We must also not abandon efforts to maximize funding from the State of Iowa. Funding higher education should be a top priority in the state's budget. It is absolutely essential that we continue to work with state legislators to fund our universities as much as possible. The ISU Ambassadors organization is an excellent resource we have to accomplish these goals. However, our biggest lobbying day (Regents' Day at the Capitol) comes after the point legislation is due. Nate and I are committed to making our lobbying efforts heard by legislators by taking full advantage of the Regents' Day as well as providing a stronger year-round push for funding. We will push to help legislators understand the true importance of education in our state.
What else can we do to reduce student debt at Iowa State? Tune in tomorrow for our plans to reduce debt by working directly with students.
We must also not abandon efforts to maximize funding from the State of Iowa. Funding higher education should be a top priority in the state's budget. It is absolutely essential that we continue to work with state legislators to fund our universities as much as possible. The ISU Ambassadors organization is an excellent resource we have to accomplish these goals. However, our biggest lobbying day (Regents' Day at the Capitol) comes after the point legislation is due. Nate and I are committed to making our lobbying efforts heard by legislators by taking full advantage of the Regents' Day as well as providing a stronger year-round push for funding. We will push to help legislators understand the true importance of education in our state.
What else can we do to reduce student debt at Iowa State? Tune in tomorrow for our plans to reduce debt by working directly with students.
Affording the Experience
As you are likely aware, the cost of higher education at the three regent universities of the State of Iowa is on the rise. Last week, the Board of Regents approved a six percent tuition increase for the upcoming academic year. This rising cost will continue to place a large financial burden on Iowa State students. While most students are aware that costs will continue to climb, many do not realize how dire the financial situation is already for students at Iowa State.
"Iowa State University student debt rankings." A quick Google search for a combination of those terms yields troubling results. A multitude of sites identify Iowa State on their watch lists for schools with the most debt accumulated per graduating senior. "The Project on Student Debt" recently listed Iowa as number one nationwide for most debt. Iowa State University is named by every source, including the Board of Regents, as the school within Iowa with the highest numbers - over $30,000 per student! Looking through Google results, it is shocking to see Iowa State on so many lists, especially short lists. Some show Iowa State in an unordered Top 10 or Top 5. Some even identify Iowa State as #1 nationally due to the state's rank and Iowa State's contribution to that ranking. Lists of "Top Overall Colleges" often must send Iowa State down their ranks due to these factors. How can our university keep students here and attract new minds when the costs of attendance are so high?
GSB currently identifies the student debt problem as a major issue. Why, then, has no progress and so little initiative by the current administration been seen to help solve this problem? Over the next three days, you'll hear how the Roling/Dobbels campaign will actively seek to take on the student debt problem at Iowa State. You'll learn about our specific plans for working with university administration, state governments, and the students of Iowa State to make significant progress towards making the educational experience affordable for all.
Iowa State is highly ranked nationally in many areas: some academic, some athletic, and some aesthetic. This is one area in which we literally cannot afford to make national rankings.
"Iowa State University student debt rankings." A quick Google search for a combination of those terms yields troubling results. A multitude of sites identify Iowa State on their watch lists for schools with the most debt accumulated per graduating senior. "The Project on Student Debt" recently listed Iowa as number one nationwide for most debt. Iowa State University is named by every source, including the Board of Regents, as the school within Iowa with the highest numbers - over $30,000 per student! Looking through Google results, it is shocking to see Iowa State on so many lists, especially short lists. Some show Iowa State in an unordered Top 10 or Top 5. Some even identify Iowa State as #1 nationally due to the state's rank and Iowa State's contribution to that ranking. Lists of "Top Overall Colleges" often must send Iowa State down their ranks due to these factors. How can our university keep students here and attract new minds when the costs of attendance are so high?
GSB currently identifies the student debt problem as a major issue. Why, then, has no progress and so little initiative by the current administration been seen to help solve this problem? Over the next three days, you'll hear how the Roling/Dobbels campaign will actively seek to take on the student debt problem at Iowa State. You'll learn about our specific plans for working with university administration, state governments, and the students of Iowa State to make significant progress towards making the educational experience affordable for all.
Iowa State is highly ranked nationally in many areas: some academic, some athletic, and some aesthetic. This is one area in which we literally cannot afford to make national rankings.
Our City, Too!
Iowa State students make up a large portion of the Ames population - almost 50 percent! For this reason, Iowa State students deserve to see greater levels of cooperation between their student and city governments. Nate and I are committed to developing stronger partnerships between GSB and the City of Ames to enhance the college experience for all students.
Currently, GSB has a Cabinet member designated as the City Council Liaison. This representative attends all council meetings throughout the year, serving as a direct representative of the student voice. However, this GSB representative doesn't have an official vote on City Council. Students are allowed to run for City Council, but many are discouraged due to the impracticality of serving a 4-year term while in the middle of their college career. Nate and I plan to work with the council to investigate options for making the GSB City Council Liaison a voting member of council with a one- to two-year term friendly to academic careers.
Nate and I also plan to make progress in our two semesters towards long-term goals of GSB and the City of Ames. We plan to develop partnerships to find a satisfactory solution for the DZ Triangle project. We will work to establish policies for landlord/tenant relations. We will partner with organizations such as the Campustown Student Association and Campustown Action Association to develop a plan for revitalization of the Campustown area. Several groups and organizations are interested in working to address these issues and more. Nate and I are willing to provide the personal touch needed to bring groups together and initiate productive conversations.
Currently, GSB has a Cabinet member designated as the City Council Liaison. This representative attends all council meetings throughout the year, serving as a direct representative of the student voice. However, this GSB representative doesn't have an official vote on City Council. Students are allowed to run for City Council, but many are discouraged due to the impracticality of serving a 4-year term while in the middle of their college career. Nate and I plan to work with the council to investigate options for making the GSB City Council Liaison a voting member of council with a one- to two-year term friendly to academic careers.
Nate and I also plan to make progress in our two semesters towards long-term goals of GSB and the City of Ames. We plan to develop partnerships to find a satisfactory solution for the DZ Triangle project. We will work to establish policies for landlord/tenant relations. We will partner with organizations such as the Campustown Student Association and Campustown Action Association to develop a plan for revitalization of the Campustown area. Several groups and organizations are interested in working to address these issues and more. Nate and I are willing to provide the personal touch needed to bring groups together and initiate productive conversations.
Reshaping the GSB Image
The Government of the Student Body currently acts quite independently in its projects and issues. A vast majority of student organizations interact with GSB only to participate in financial processes. Constituency councils interact with GSB only by sending representatives to vote in GSB on behalf of the council. As a result, a majority of students know little of GSB and form their opinions of GSB based on these limited interactions. GSB is perceived by many as an unapproachable group that sees itself as superior to all other organizations. It often seems too busy to work with other groups on their projects, even projects that would benefit the student body as a whole. This apparent attitude of superiority annoys and frustrates many Iowa State students, and casts a negative light on many GSB actions.
Nate and I seek to end the image of a GSB that puts itself above other students and groups. We plan on developing personal relationships with the leaders of college councils, residency councils, and interested student organizations. By meeting personally with the leadership of these groups, we can dispel the notion that GSB appears too important to work along with others. Nate and I are excited at the numerous opportunities for potential projects formed through collaboration between GSB and other organizations. Unprecedented student events open to everyone can be planned jointly by GSB and other groups. I am personally interested in arranging regular meetings between the leaders of college councils, residency councils, and GSB to start conversations that can lead to successes. In addition to forming GSB-council relationships, these meetings can promote other teamwork opportunities between councils that exist only minimally at present.
The new Events Account that has been created for next year provides a financial backing for partnerships between GSB and other organizations. $50,000 will be available from GSB for any organization to plan entertaining events open to all students. Nate and I are willing to provide the manpower and determination necessary to make such projects happen. We're truly excited at the opportunity to reshape GSB's image and make it far more willing to work with student groups. With our initiative and positive enthusiasm, Nate and I are truly committed to creating a team atmosphere to improve the Iowa State experience for all.
Nate and I seek to end the image of a GSB that puts itself above other students and groups. We plan on developing personal relationships with the leaders of college councils, residency councils, and interested student organizations. By meeting personally with the leadership of these groups, we can dispel the notion that GSB appears too important to work along with others. Nate and I are excited at the numerous opportunities for potential projects formed through collaboration between GSB and other organizations. Unprecedented student events open to everyone can be planned jointly by GSB and other groups. I am personally interested in arranging regular meetings between the leaders of college councils, residency councils, and GSB to start conversations that can lead to successes. In addition to forming GSB-council relationships, these meetings can promote other teamwork opportunities between councils that exist only minimally at present.
The new Events Account that has been created for next year provides a financial backing for partnerships between GSB and other organizations. $50,000 will be available from GSB for any organization to plan entertaining events open to all students. Nate and I are willing to provide the manpower and determination necessary to make such projects happen. We're truly excited at the opportunity to reshape GSB's image and make it far more willing to work with student groups. With our initiative and positive enthusiasm, Nate and I are truly committed to creating a team atmosphere to improve the Iowa State experience for all.
GSB Teamwork
The Roling/Dobbels campaign places a great importance on teamwork, and developing effective teams within GSB is the first step towards larger goals. Nate and I realize that we are only two people. Though our skill sets are well-rounded, there are areas in which we are not experts. We are committed to selecting a team of experts in various fields around campus to maximize the effectiveness of Cabinet. Nate and I are not top authorities in every campus issue, but we realize our ability to inspire and organize others multiplies the overall effectiveness of the executive branch. The current executives often fail to work as a team, and therefore miss out on many valuable opportunities to accomplish goals. Nate and I are team players who will place a great deal of trust and confidence in our staff to make Iowa State better for all students.
A strong executive branch is only the first step towards improving internal GSB relations. The executive branch is quite small compared to the numbers of the legislative branch. Nate and I want to enhance partnerships between the executive and legislative branches to improve our ability to reach out to the student body. Effective two-way communication of goals and initiatives between the executive and legislative branches is essential to the success of GSB as a whole.
One specific way Nate and I are looking to improve executive and legislative relations is to expand on this year's attempt to bring personality to GSB. We often notice GSB acts as an extremely formal and impersonal organization. Nate and I recognize that encouraging individuals to put their personality and passion into their GSB work will greatly improve the group dynamic. We are both individually committed to establishing a positive, enthusiastic environment. We are looking at ways we can reinstate and redevelop the "Director of Human Resources" position from this past fall to host internal fun events and make members of GSB comfortable working with each other. By working towards developing leaders who are engaged in their work with GSB, Nate and I can help improve GSB retention and continuity to maximize its effectiveness as a student organization.
A strong executive branch is only the first step towards improving internal GSB relations. The executive branch is quite small compared to the numbers of the legislative branch. Nate and I want to enhance partnerships between the executive and legislative branches to improve our ability to reach out to the student body. Effective two-way communication of goals and initiatives between the executive and legislative branches is essential to the success of GSB as a whole.
One specific way Nate and I are looking to improve executive and legislative relations is to expand on this year's attempt to bring personality to GSB. We often notice GSB acts as an extremely formal and impersonal organization. Nate and I recognize that encouraging individuals to put their personality and passion into their GSB work will greatly improve the group dynamic. We are both individually committed to establishing a positive, enthusiastic environment. We are looking at ways we can reinstate and redevelop the "Director of Human Resources" position from this past fall to host internal fun events and make members of GSB comfortable working with each other. By working towards developing leaders who are engaged in their work with GSB, Nate and I can help improve GSB retention and continuity to maximize its effectiveness as a student organization.
Cabinet - Developing an Effective Team
The GSB President and Vice President are able to select a group of individuals known as "Cabinet" to aid them in accomplishing their goals. GSB Cabinet is the primary set of student advisers to the executives. Their roles are many and diverse, and are critical to the success of the executive branch and to GSB as a whole.
The GSB Bylaws outline the roles of six members serving on Cabinet. The Treasurer is required to aid in managing internal GSB finances, such as creating executive budgets, and to serve as a member of GSB's Finance Committee. The GSB Secretary records and organizes data from executive meetings, as well as authors executive branch news releases and press materials. The Director of ISU Ambassadors serves as a bridge between GSB and the state government and coordinates lobbying efforts on behalf of the students. The Director of Information Technology is responsible for maintaining the GSB web page and all GSB technology, such as office computers and files. The Director of Student Diversity links the executive branch and multicultural students by promoting multicultural events and diversity throughout the university. Finally, the Ex-Officio City Council Liaison is a non-voting member of the Ames City Council who promotes cooperation between the City of Ames and GSB through participating in discussions and meetings of both groups.
The GSB President may also create further Cabinet positions at his or her discretion through executive orders. One such position often created by the President is the Chief of Staff, who aids in administrative aspects of Cabinet in addition to serving as a primary advisor. Another such position is the Director of Student Affairs, who places a special focus on a broad range of issues important to all students as well as works with GSB's University Affairs Committee. The Director of Sustainability focuses on student-driven projects in Iowa State's larger goals of sustainability in the Live Green initiative. The Director of Public Relations seeks to share the progress of the executive branch with the larger Iowa State community. The Director of New Student Outreach seeks to reach out to students beginning their educational journey at Iowa State through participating in programs such as Destination Iowa State. Finally, positions like the Director of Human Resources seek to improve internal GSB morale and keep the GSB experience fun, interesting, and dynamic for all involved.
GSB Cabinet is an extremely important group of individuals, and it is important that they remain in a close relationship with the President and Vice President. Check back tomorrow as we begin to dive into our first major goal for the upcoming election: "Partnerships Within the Executive Branch"
The GSB Bylaws outline the roles of six members serving on Cabinet. The Treasurer is required to aid in managing internal GSB finances, such as creating executive budgets, and to serve as a member of GSB's Finance Committee. The GSB Secretary records and organizes data from executive meetings, as well as authors executive branch news releases and press materials. The Director of ISU Ambassadors serves as a bridge between GSB and the state government and coordinates lobbying efforts on behalf of the students. The Director of Information Technology is responsible for maintaining the GSB web page and all GSB technology, such as office computers and files. The Director of Student Diversity links the executive branch and multicultural students by promoting multicultural events and diversity throughout the university. Finally, the Ex-Officio City Council Liaison is a non-voting member of the Ames City Council who promotes cooperation between the City of Ames and GSB through participating in discussions and meetings of both groups.
The GSB President may also create further Cabinet positions at his or her discretion through executive orders. One such position often created by the President is the Chief of Staff, who aids in administrative aspects of Cabinet in addition to serving as a primary advisor. Another such position is the Director of Student Affairs, who places a special focus on a broad range of issues important to all students as well as works with GSB's University Affairs Committee. The Director of Sustainability focuses on student-driven projects in Iowa State's larger goals of sustainability in the Live Green initiative. The Director of Public Relations seeks to share the progress of the executive branch with the larger Iowa State community. The Director of New Student Outreach seeks to reach out to students beginning their educational journey at Iowa State through participating in programs such as Destination Iowa State. Finally, positions like the Director of Human Resources seek to improve internal GSB morale and keep the GSB experience fun, interesting, and dynamic for all involved.
GSB Cabinet is an extremely important group of individuals, and it is important that they remain in a close relationship with the President and Vice President. Check back tomorrow as we begin to dive into our first major goal for the upcoming election: "Partnerships Within the Executive Branch"
Executives - What Do They Do?
The GSB President and Vice President have the most visible and important leadership roles in student government. These individuals work to establish government policies and goals, assemble an executive leadership team in the form of a Cabinet, and represent all students in interactions with university, city, and state officials. The President and Vice President provide the drive and direction for new initiatives around campus.
The GSB President is the primary representative of Iowa State students. He or she works directly with university, city, and state officials to help make student goals a reality. The GSB President is also a representative of Iowa State students to the Board of Regents, who set policies and ordinances such as tuition for students of Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa, and the University of Iowa. He or she appoints a Cabinet to aid in accomplishing executive goals. (See tomorrow's post for roles of Cabinet!) The President also appoints a Finance Director, who oversees the entire financial process for GSB, as well as the GSB Supreme Court members. The President has the authority to sign (or veto) all bills passed by GSB Senate, as well as the ability to issue Executive Orders. Finally, the GSB President serves on numerous university committees and has a direct voice in the creation and modification of university policies.
The GSB Vice President serves to aid the President in accomplishing executive goals and initiatives. He or she serves as chair for GSB Senate meetings. The Vice President is another important representative for Iowa State students on the university, local, and state levels, and represents GSB on many committees. The Vice President is also charged with assisting in the selection of Cabinet and other executive appointments.
The above duties are those established as minimum levels by the GSB Bylaws. The Roling/Dobbels administration is committed to extending these responsibilities, especially as they relate to interactions with students and student organizations. (Stay tuned for a discussion on these issues coming on Saturday!)
The GSB President is the primary representative of Iowa State students. He or she works directly with university, city, and state officials to help make student goals a reality. The GSB President is also a representative of Iowa State students to the Board of Regents, who set policies and ordinances such as tuition for students of Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa, and the University of Iowa. He or she appoints a Cabinet to aid in accomplishing executive goals. (See tomorrow's post for roles of Cabinet!) The President also appoints a Finance Director, who oversees the entire financial process for GSB, as well as the GSB Supreme Court members. The President has the authority to sign (or veto) all bills passed by GSB Senate, as well as the ability to issue Executive Orders. Finally, the GSB President serves on numerous university committees and has a direct voice in the creation and modification of university policies.
The GSB Vice President serves to aid the President in accomplishing executive goals and initiatives. He or she serves as chair for GSB Senate meetings. The Vice President is another important representative for Iowa State students on the university, local, and state levels, and represents GSB on many committees. The Vice President is also charged with assisting in the selection of Cabinet and other executive appointments.
The above duties are those established as minimum levels by the GSB Bylaws. The Roling/Dobbels administration is committed to extending these responsibilities, especially as they relate to interactions with students and student organizations. (Stay tuned for a discussion on these issues coming on Saturday!)
Election Process
Welcome back! Each spring, GSB officials are elected by the students of Iowa State University. Every student may vote in the election, which is held online at www.vote.iastate.edu. Officials elected in each cycle include Senate members and the President/Vice President slate. Senate members are elected by the individuals they represent. Each student may vote for senators based on their primary academic college (LAS, Business, etc.) and based on where they live (residence halls, Campustown, Greek community, off-campus, etc.). The number of representatives for each area is determined by the number of students living in that area. (1 representative is granted per 1500 students.)
The GSB Election Commission is tasked with overseeing the election process to ensure fair, impartial procedures for all involved in the election process. The Election Commissioner is responsible for oversight and leadership, while six other members aid in the process. Individuals running for election are required to attend a seminar with Election Commission representatives, where they learn about campaign rules and regulations. Upon completing this meeting, candidates are free to begin the campaign process. Candidates for the executive slate must collect 1,500 petition signatures by February 12 to be placed on the ballot, while Senate candidates must collect 100. The Election Commission holds two debates for executive candidates each year in the weeks preceding the election. A debate is also held for highly contested Senate races.
Referendum questions may be placed on the ballot, either by GSB legislation or through a petition of 2,000 signatures collected by students. These items typically include GSB constitutional amendments or large-scale projects (such as the recent Recreation Renovation project).
This year's election will be held on March 1-2. It is a quick and easy process, so all students are encouraged to take 5 minutes out of their day to vote online!
The GSB Election Commission is tasked with overseeing the election process to ensure fair, impartial procedures for all involved in the election process. The Election Commissioner is responsible for oversight and leadership, while six other members aid in the process. Individuals running for election are required to attend a seminar with Election Commission representatives, where they learn about campaign rules and regulations. Upon completing this meeting, candidates are free to begin the campaign process. Candidates for the executive slate must collect 1,500 petition signatures by February 12 to be placed on the ballot, while Senate candidates must collect 100. The Election Commission holds two debates for executive candidates each year in the weeks preceding the election. A debate is also held for highly contested Senate races.
Referendum questions may be placed on the ballot, either by GSB legislation or through a petition of 2,000 signatures collected by students. These items typically include GSB constitutional amendments or large-scale projects (such as the recent Recreation Renovation project).
This year's election will be held on March 1-2. It is a quick and easy process, so all students are encouraged to take 5 minutes out of their day to vote online!
Getting to Know GSB
While you've probably heard of GSB, you may be wondering what exactly the Government of the Student Body does. GSB is composed of three branches, much like our federal government. The executive branch leads the organization by establishing policies and giving direction to GSB initiatives. The President, Vice President, and Executive Cabinet all collaborate on issues affecting students by working directly with university administration. The legislative branch is composed of representatives from each college and residency area. Every student at Iowa State is represented by at least two members of GSB Senate. Senate is responsible for approving major expenditures by GSB as well as representing the student body through legislation. The judicial branch is composed of nine justices appointed by the executive branch and confirmed by the legislative branch. It is charged with settling disputes between and ruling on cases involving student organizations.
The biggest, most visible role of GSB is the allocation of over one and a half million dollars each year to student organizations around campus. GSB directly funds student resources such as CyRide and the Iowa State Daily, as well as many clubs and organizations students participate in around campus. GSB funds are also used for large-scale projects benefiting the student body, such as the replacement of Memorial Union bowling equipment or assisting in the purchase of the Memorial Union display sign.
Behind the scenes, GSB spends a considerable amount of time focusing on issues affecting the student body. GSB officials work directly with university administration to improve the educational experience for Iowa State students. GSB is involved in revising many student policies, such as the university's dead week policy. GSB directly expresses the support of the student body for beneficial projects and voices concerns that students have about their experience. GSB is also the student body's direct link to state legislators and the Ames City Council.
The roles of GSB are many and diverse. However, the Roling/Dobbels campaign sees many opportunities for immediate improvement through enhanced cooperation between GSB and other student organizations. Stay tuned for specific plans regarding these partnerships at the end of this week.
Coming tomorrow: The GSB Election Process
The biggest, most visible role of GSB is the allocation of over one and a half million dollars each year to student organizations around campus. GSB directly funds student resources such as CyRide and the Iowa State Daily, as well as many clubs and organizations students participate in around campus. GSB funds are also used for large-scale projects benefiting the student body, such as the replacement of Memorial Union bowling equipment or assisting in the purchase of the Memorial Union display sign.
Behind the scenes, GSB spends a considerable amount of time focusing on issues affecting the student body. GSB officials work directly with university administration to improve the educational experience for Iowa State students. GSB is involved in revising many student policies, such as the university's dead week policy. GSB directly expresses the support of the student body for beneficial projects and voices concerns that students have about their experience. GSB is also the student body's direct link to state legislators and the Ames City Council.
The roles of GSB are many and diverse. However, the Roling/Dobbels campaign sees many opportunities for immediate improvement through enhanced cooperation between GSB and other student organizations. Stay tuned for specific plans regarding these partnerships at the end of this week.
Coming tomorrow: The GSB Election Process
Welcome!
Hey everyone! Welcome to our site! Over the next few weeks, we'll be posting daily updates including information on campaign issues and platforms. We'll also provide some personal content to help you get to know us better.
Following is a list of issues we'll be covering on our way to the upcoming election. Many of you have already been able to hear various levels of detail about our campaign through meetings with organizations or through personal conversations. This list is just a brief outline of the issues Nate and I will be discussing online over the next few weeks. We're breaking it up so you have time to digest the information in small bits rather than being overwhelmed all at once. However, if you'd like more information on any topic at any time, feel free to give us a call or shoot us an email and we'll be happy to elaborate.
You'll notice the following three major themes throughout all our work in our campaign and in our potential time as GSB executives:
- Focus on one-year steps towards long-term goals
- Development of a team-oriented atmosphere
- Maximizing potential
Come back tomorrow for "Getting to Know GSB."
List of issues and tentative schedule:
- GSB General Information
- GSB Overview (Feb 1)
- The Election Process (Feb 2)
- Roles of the President and Vice-President (Feb 3)
- Roles of the Executive Cabinet (Feb 4)
- Developing Lasting Partnerships
- GSB Internal Relations (Feb 5)
- Working to improve relationships between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches
- Student Organization Relationships (Feb 6)
- Working directly with academic and residency councils on projects and events open to the student body
- City of Ames (Feb 7)
- Collaborating with the city to make concrete progress in areas with high student populations, such as the DZ Triangle project and Campustown revitalization
- Making the College Experience Affordable (Feb 8 - 10)
- Working with university administration and students to voice opinions on the proper use of student fee money in the face of budget cuts
- Lobbying legislators in a timely manner to increase funding for higher learning in Iowa
- Developing and leading a peer-to-peer mentoring group promoting financial literacy and fiscal responsibility for Iowa State students
- Recognizing Leadership (Feb 11 - 13)
- Enhancing and uniting leadership programs across campus to recognize the leadership accomplishments of students of any academic major through a leadership certificate
- Promoting Diversity (Feb 14 - 15)
- Continuing the work of the Mind the Gap campaign
- Working with student organizations on a collaborative diversity event
- Enhancing the Experience (Feb 16 -17)
- Promoting policies of openness between university administration, faculty, and students
- Work to ensure course evaluation feedback is taken seriously by administrators
- Push for more student representation on Faculty Senate
- Maximize efficient uses of GSB funds, especially in the regular allocations process
About Luke
The past three years of my life have been a blur of learning experiences and good memories. I moved to Iowa State in the Fall of 2007 after graduating from Prince of Peace High School in Clinton, IA. Though the cities of Clinton and Ames are similar in size, it was a bit of an adjustment moving from a high school with 18 in my graduating class to attending a university of over 27,000. I am planning on graduating next year with degrees in chemical engineering and mathematics. The past few years have been a fun journey, and I'm looking to finish my career at Iowa State on a high note.My involvement with the Government of the Student Body (GSB) began in Spring 2008 when I was elected to represent the Inter-Residence Hall Association as a senator. I served in that position for one year, and have since been reelected to represent the College of Engineering. In addition to my current role as an engineering senator, I serve as chair of the University Affairs Committee for GSB. This committee examines issues of all varieties important to students, and has opened my eyes to the extremely broad range of items on and off campus.
My biggest goal for the upcoming year involves developing partnerships with organizations around campus and the City of Ames. GSB often operates too independently and passes up valuable opportunities for teaming with other groups. I am willing to develop personal relationships with leadership of college councils, residency councils, and student organizations to collaborate on projects benefiting all students.
My past involvement at Iowa State includes serving on Engineering Student Council Exec for 1.5 years as Vice President for Outreach and President of Freshmen Leaders in Engineering. I have served as a seminar leader for the Freshmen Honors Program, and am an active member of the University Honors Program. I am a die-hard Cyclone sports fan, especially of football and basketball. I claim to have spent as many hours waiting in line as almost any other Cyclone fan, highlighted by a 40+ hour stint before this year's Iowa State-Iowa football game. I also enjoy following the Atlanta Braves and Green Bay Packers. In my free time I enjoy watching TV (The Office and Heroes, in particular) and playing with computers.
About Nate
I have a true passion for helping others and my many involvements clearly represent that belief. I am a member of the University Honors Program and just finished a year of serving as the Undergraduate Assistant for the First-Year Honors Program. I am the Membership Development Coordinator for STARS and am also a Morale Captain for Dance Marathon. As a National Collegiate Agriculture Ambassador, I have traveled the country representing the agriculture industry and sharing my inspiration with others. I have also worked as a Destination Iowa State Team Leader and truly enjoy sharing my experiences and knowledge with others.
In the upcoming year, I have many goals to help students enhance their Iowa State experience. One of my biggest aspirations will be to develop a leadership certificate. This will allow students to work on community service activities, gain knowledge in leadership classes, and develop the skills employers are looking for. I also want to serve as an inspiration for students all across campus. I am one student willing to make the sacrifices, develop the relationships, and serve as the motivation to create change on our campus. We all know things need to be done, and it will be my goal to make plans and take action so I can finish my objectives in one year. I will serve as the voice for all students, while understanding teamwork will be the foundation towards the success of Iowa State University!
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