SGA News

We are the Change that We Seek: A Call to Action

By Kevin Thomas

                         As we continue to progress through the 2009-2010 academic year, the Student Government Association continues working diligently to ensure that the needs of the student body are met. With everyday, there is a new problem that must be addressed and we as student leaders tirelessly pursue the solution to these said problems. However, despite the overwhelming willpower of the student leaders here on campus, it is simply ludicrous for anyone to believe that we can solve each and every issue without the support of the students.

                        Since my appointment as Director of Governmental Affairs and University System of Maryland Representative late last spring, I have come to terms with the fact that there unfortunately is a large percentage of students that are more than willing to voice their displeasure informally to their colleagues, however, when it comes time for us to bring these concerns to the administration, they aren't active in helping us to ensure that their voices are heard. What my fellow students must come to realize is that there is strength and numbers. For example, during the fall 2009 academic semester, the Student Government Association launched the "We Run This" campaign. The purpose of the "We Run This" campaign was to force the hand of the administration, who, we as students felt were lethargic in addressing the issues that were brought forth to them by the students. During this campaign, we were victorious in having our voices heard and several changes were implemented. The key to our success was the visible support from our fellow students. As a student leader, I can't stress enough how important it is for the students to unite as one, and begin to act in a cohesive way to make the dreams that we have for Bowie State University come true.

                        As we move forward through the spring 2010 semester, I would like to issue out a challenge to the entire student body here at BSU. I challenge my fellow Bulldogs to aid the Student Government in keeping the promises that us student leaders made when we took that sacred oath. I challenge you all to take pride in what this institution has to offer and to join us in ferociously advocating for what the institution lacks. Lastly, I challenge my fellow Bulldogs to formulate their vision for BSU and ask themselves how they can contribute to make that vision a reality. If you accept this challenge, we would like for you to walk with us on the path to ensuring that Bowie State University truly receives the respect that it deserves. This institution is rich in history and we as students have the responsibility of preserving and contributing to the history of this great institution for higher learning. In the words of President Barack Hussein Obama, "We need you to stand with us, and work with us, and help us prove that together, ordinary people can still do extraordinary things."

Thomas is Director of Governmental Affairs and USM SGA Undergraduate Representative