ASNAU presidential candidates debate the issues
Robert Otsubo - March 10th, 2008ASNAU’s executive debate was held on March 5 in the Cline Auditorium. Presidential candidates Chris Mundon, Dereck Omo and Colt Fulk voiced their opinions during seven rounds of questions. Current ASNAU president Tom Wahl conducted the debate.
The opening question asked candidates to voice their opinions on what they felt was the most pressing issue for students at NAU.
While both Omo and Fulk addressed the possible tuition hike, Mundon spoke about the recent hate crimes seen around campus that were targeted towards the homosexual and transgendered communities.
“This shows how ignorant people are about these communities,” Mundon said. “ASNAU needs to take strides to fix that. Proper bylaws need to change.”
A major part of the debate centered around the rising cost of higher education in Arizona.
Wahl asked the candidates if they felt the increase in the cost of education is a problem, and if, so what can be done about it.
Candidates unanimously agreed it is an issue of concern.
“It takes a strong student voice and presence to fix this,” Omo said. “As presidents, we can mobilize the student body and direct their voice.”
Omo said while the Arizona Student’s Association’s (ASA) lobby efforts for student bodies at all Arizona universities are important, it may not be in the best interest for one specific school.
“We should appoint delegates to ASA, but then fight for what is best for our students,” Omo said.
With the concerns about rising tuition costs came the issue of the current Arizona state budget crisis. Wahl asked the candidates what they would do if the state cut the school budget as a result of this crisis.
Candidates agreed getting students’ opinions to the administration is essential to seeing any results.
“If they receive pressure from students, I think the administration will listen,” Fulk said.
Mundon addressed the possibilities of smaller organizations on campus losing out on necessary funding.
“This would be detrimental for students,” Mundon said. “A president needs to voice their concerns to the administration. They can make sure the students are heard.”
Another issue of importance was student involvement on campus and the apathy students may face toward getting involved.
“We need to target the younger generation, like the freshman,” Fulk said. “ASNAU must also establish a positive relationship with clubs and organizations and encourage them to show up at school events.”
Omo said it is hard to change people’s minds once they are made up.
“But we can push student organizations and let students make up their own minds,” Omo said.
The night closed on a lighter note with Wahl asking the candidates if they could change the school’s mascot what would it be to and why.
“Coming from Minnesota, I have always loved Paul Bunyan,” Mundon said. “So I like the lumberjack. However, also being from Minnesota I’m a Vikings fan. So I would love to see a Viking.”
Omo said Louie the Lumberjack should not be changed.
“It is a source of integrity,” Omo said.
Brad Busse did not attend the debate due to personal reasons, but is still in the race for president.
ASNAU elections will be held on March 11. Students can cast their votes at ASNAU’s Web site, http://home.nau.edu/asnau/.