November 22, 2024

ASCEU gone for good

After a rather discouraging student vote, the College of Eastern Utah constitution has been changed. The vote took place Feb. 20-21, and ratified a radical change in student government.
Effective immediately, the Associated Students of CEU (ASCEU) will change its name and become the CEU Student’s Association (CEUSA). A new system of checks and balances has been formed similar to that of the United States’ government.

This archived article was written by: John Keetch

After a rather discouraging student vote, the College of Eastern Utah constitution has been changed. The vote took place Feb. 20-21, and ratified a radical change in student government.
Effective immediately, the Associated Students of CEU (ASCEU) will change its name and become the CEU Student’s Association (CEUSA). A new system of checks and balances has been formed similar to that of the United States’ government.
Also, students now have the power to bring any bylaw created by the executive board, senate, or any other student government organization to a campus-wide vote, by creating a petition of 250 signatures, giving students the chance to veto or pass any law.
Effective as of fall semester 2008, the student government itself will undergo a massive reorganization. Many positions in the government will be consolidated, making the structure of the student government similar to the government of the faculty. These consolidated positions will have new contracts that align with the new changes to the constitution. New student committees will be formed to work with the new government leaders, resulting in more student involvement, says Andrew Hardman, CEUSA Student Advocate.
In an effort to generate interest in the vote, ASCEU put together a voter information packet. Many volunteers spent hours stuffing and labeling envelopes. Also, the packets were delivered to every room and apartment on campus.
However, even with the publicity provided, only a small percentage of the student body chose to vote. Hardman states, “These changes are a step in the right direction, and I am very pleased that they were ratified. As the CEUSA Student Advocate, it is my responsibility to look out for the best interests of the student, and it is in their best interest to vote. As Americans, we have the power to control our government through our vote, and many students have chosen not to exercise that right. They have thrown away their freedom.”
As a result of the small number of votes, there is a big push to involve the students more in voting on campus issues. Anyone with ideas should contact CEUSA through the comment box located at the CEUSA booth, or contact any member of the CEUSA board.