Write-in Candidate Name: Annette B. Crowder for Vice President of Team Development and General Senator
Why am I a write-in candidate when I am the current Vice President of Team Development? I have a busy schedule with several responsibilities, including parenting, advocating for my fellow students, and commuting to Madison College. Recently, I was taking care of some last-minute tasks related to the election and the upcoming open mic student senate town hall event I proposed. After that, I started finalizing my student senate applications. My computer encountered unexpected technical issues, which prevented the completion of the registration process. Despite this, I understand the importance of student representation and the chance to contribute positively to my college community. Therefore, I decided to pursue a write-in candidacy as Vice President of Team Development and General Student Senator.
My diverse experiences and commitment to serving others have equipped me to advocate effectively for our student body’s needs. I am excited to bring my unique perspective and wealth of experiences to the student senate, ensuring that every student’s voice is heard and valued. I aim to help create a culture of belonging and inclusion for all.
Academic Program enrolled in: Human Services and Addiction Studies.
Please list the activities/organizations you participated in during your college years (here and at any other institutions you have attended). Also, briefly describe your role or position and the skills you used/learned in each activity.
Throughout my academic journey, I have held various leadership positions that have helped my personal growth and development. I have undertaken the following: vice president of team development, president of the Black Student Union, RISE general board member, and Writing Center Fellow. These experiences have enabled me to hone my abilities in creating constructive collaborations, leading by example, effective communication, and organizational skills. These proficiencies are crucial in serving and supporting my community. “I am a RISE TRIO student enrolled in the Retention Initiatives and Student Engagement program. As a 1st generation, an income-eligible woman of color and a student with disabilities, this program has been instrumental in helping me become a better student and leader. The program offers workshops, coaching, advising, and other resources that have enhanced my academic experience. I share this because other students could benefit from this information. You can learn more about the program here: https://students.madisoncollege.edu/resources/academics/advising/retention.
Moreover, I have utilized shared governance opportunities to advocate for my fellow students. I have participated in the Program & Activity Council (PAC), Diversity & Community Relations Council (DCRC), Student Parent Policy Review, Wisconsin Technical College Systems (WTCS), Student Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging and Accessibility Committee, and Vision 2030 Advisory Panel. I engage respectfully with esteemed guests during General Assembly Meetings, asking clarifying questions to ensure I understand the information and often share the knowledge with my peers.
I bring student concerns to the forefront and highlight any issues that impact students, which is how the conversation about public safety started. Furthermore, I build relationships by engaging in areas that teach me things outside the classroom, both on and off campus. This enhances my perceptions and understanding of the world around me.
I have also had the opportunity to interact with various student groups and clubs, emphasizing the importance of forming relationships and working with people from diverse backgrounds. I am committed to personal growth and excited about future opportunities.
Based on my experience, I have identified the essential skills and qualities an ideal candidate for the Vice President of Team Development, or any other position within the Madison College Senate, should possess. I believe that I have them.
1. Leadership: The ideal candidate should be able to inspire and guide fellow students, lead meetings, and effectively represent the student body.
2. Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary to convey ideas, negotiate, and maintain transparency within the Senate.
3. Collaboration: The candidate should be able to work well with others, build consensus, and foster a positive, inclusive environment within the Senate.
4. Problem-solving: The candidate should be able to identify issues, analyze them, and develop creative solutions to address student community challenges.
5. Organizational skills: Effective time management, prioritization, and efficient coordination of various tasks and responsibilities are essential.
6. Advocacy: The candidate should be committed to advocating for students’ needs and interests regarding academic policies, campus resources, or student welfare.
7. Accountability: The candidate should have a sense of responsibility and integrity in fulfilling duties, being transparent about decisions, and being accountable to the student body.
8. Adaptability: The candidate should adapt to changing circumstances, navigate complex situations, and remain resilient when facing challenges.
9. Vision: The candidate should be able to think strategically, set goals, and develop long-term plans based on peer needs to improve the student experience and enhance the effectiveness of the Student Senate.
10. Empathy: The candidate should be able to empathize with diverse perspectives and experiences and prioritize all students’ well-being and inclusivity.
What would you like to accomplish as a Student Senate Vice President?
As the Vice President of Team Development for the Student Senate, my main objective is to improve the Senate’s connection with the Madison College student body and increase awareness about Shared Governance and its importance. To achieve this goal, I plan to work together with my fellow Madison College senators and take the following initiatives:
1. Regular communication channels like newsletters and town hall meetings will keep students informed. It is necessary to explain how Shared Governance empowers students to participate in decision-making.
2. Hold regular office hours and outreach events to gather student input and align Senate actions with student needs.
3. Collaborating with other campus organizations, clubs, and departments will help us leverage resources and address broader student needs.
4. Workshops on shared governance, leadership, and advocacy could be offered to equip students to advocate for their interests.
5. Prioritize transparency by clarifying decisions, publishing meeting minutes, and seeking student feedback to build trust and credibility.
As Vice President, I aim to strengthen the Student Senate’s bond with the Madison College student body, promote transparency and understanding of Shared Governance, and collaborate effectively with other campus organizations to achieve our shared objectives of enhancing the student experience and fostering a vibrant campus community.
What qualities and skills do you possess that would make you an ideal candidate for this Vice President role on the Student Senate?
I am a genuine, passionate person who serves my college community and is committed to making a positive impact at Madison College. My experience as the current VP of Team Development and the work my team and I have put forward show my skills. I do my best to lead, not dictate, and work with all the members of Team Development. I encourage everyone to use their voice and engage their strengths or areas they wish to strengthen. Everyone can always be a better candidate for the Vice President position in the Student Senate, but I will do the best job possible and, most importantly, care. I will use the combination of these qualities and skills to serve and make a difference if allowed to serve a 2nd term as Vice President of Team Development or as a General Senator for 2024-2025.