We vote for the officers every year, and the presidents occasionally make announcements in chapel, but what exactly is the Student Leadership Council?
The SLC primarily functions as a communication channel between the student body and the administration. They also plan events, such as skating and bowling outings and the student body programs for students to enjoy.
Fourteen members comprise the SLC. For most positions, the whole council nominates candidates for whom the student body votes. Offices include men’s and women’s presidents, chaplains, Intersociety Council directors and event coordinators. The council of 14 can’t do all the work themselves, so they also form subcommittees of volunteers, which can be a good way for anyone to get involved.
With elections beginning on March 29, Dr. Eric Newton, dean of students, encouraged students to vote for leaders who will serve and make the most of the opportunity.
Mr. Kasey McClure, head of activities and organizations, explained that the SLC and the Intersociety Executive Council were merged four years ago. Previously, the SLC only organized student events, and the Intersociety Executive Council oversaw society activity.
Over the past four years, the SLC has grown into its role as a liaison from the student body to the administration. Senior Bible major and SLC men’s president Aaron Berry said they have been trying new ways to connect with the student body in order to give feedback to the administration about ways to improve student life. For example, the SLC has been sending out surveys and organizing brainstorming sessions with groups of students.
“Give as much feedback as you can,” Berry said. “[Dr. Jones] listens. He really wants to hear what the students have to say.” Berry encouraged anyone with suggestions or input to email him at [email protected].
“The University genuinely cares what the students think, but it’s up to us in the proper channels to get that across,” said David Freeman, senior accounting major and men’s ISC director. He said that some SLC officers meet routinely with Dr. Stephen Jones and other administrators to keep the communication channel open.
Newton said he believes that fellow students are well positioned to disciple each other, and he wants to work to make that easier. “[Equipping] students to lead students is one of my burdens,” he said. “I would like to put more responsibility in students’ hands.”
In that respect, Newton believes the SLC should not only lead but also set an example for other students on how to invest in one’s peers.
So think about whom you want to elect to fill these valuable roles as organizers and communicators. “We need to start looking toward next year [in light of] the new things we’ve done,” Berry said.
