Sitting in the presidential debate for the Student Union last week, I found myself waiting for one question that never got asked that evening: Where in the world is Drew J. Phillips? I am a Jeanne Mansfield supporter all the way, and even though I’m a senior, I want to see this little engine that could succeed for future generations of BU alumni. In fact, I have faith that if she wins, the student body may experience a change big enough to actually give back to the alumni fund with fond memories of their alma mater. Those of us involved in Mansfield’s campaign are willing to do what it takes to get this kid’s name out there. Mansfield, an outsider to the Union, pledges to bring fresh ideas and tangible change to BU’s campus.

But enough about that superstar — what about those insiders? If I have heard nothing else in conversations with these kids in the last year, it has been, “We welcome participation! Come check out a meeting! We’re always looking for new members! We’re so happy you’re here getting involved with us!” However, if you look at this election alone, it seems that the “us” has been split in half. I’d be apprehensive to jump into that sinking boat, but for some reason Mansfield thinks she has the heart and mind to fix it. If anyone can, it’s her.

The Union is so fragmented that not even the often harked-upon spirit of participation and community can prevail. Originally, there were four noggins contending for the crown, now there are three. The primary elections to enter the race were earlier this year, and less publicized — automatically eliminating much of the outside competition that may have tried out for the top spot. The bumped-up deadline, in fact, put one slate, led by former Elections Commissioner Phillips, on the tardy list. How better to repay this young man and his team for their years of loyal service to the Union? Eliminate them, of course. Better the odds, of course. You see, it appears Papa Union’s attention was once split three ways — Team Union, The New Deal and REV — and the only thing that could be agreed upon by the two remaining “children” was that REV should not be allowed to play.

If you really want people to pay mind to your organization, do not set an example of petty unwelcome acts, do not eliminate the potential for a higher voter turnout and do not call yourselves a Union until you can show that you can play nice with the competition. Next time around, encourage action, not rhetoric, to combat your problem of voter apathy.

Katie Geiss

CAS ’08