See You Later-the BSUSA Student Senate Edition

Tonight was my last Student Senate meeting. Near the end of the meeting, in Points for the good of the Order, I read the following:

As you all are well aware, this is my last Senate meeting. When I joined this organization as a Freshman I never imagined I would still be sitting here nearly five years and an estimated 130 meetings later. It’s almost scary.

I have seen and done many things and worked with many people over the years. The relationships formed and doors opened as a result of being involved are something I am extremely grateful for. I have even chosen a completely different career path than the one that brought me to BSU as a result.

We’ve had some interesting times this year. Good, bad, tumultuous and traumatic. I guarantee that at one time or another, we’ve each thought about throwing in the towel. However, as a team, we have persevered.

I was asked at one point a while back what was “wrong” with Senate. I don’t think anything is, or ever was. Of all the incarnations of Student Senate that I have been part of, I am most proud to say I was a member of this one. Not because I have close friends in the leadership, or got to be called “The SAC” all the time, but because we have come a long way in the last 9 months, through all our ups and downs.

I think Senate really “found itself” this year…as a proactive body rather than a reactive one; a body that truly tries to speak for students and acts with their interests, as well as the University’s, in mind.

This body has great potential. With the high number of returning members, you can truly do great things. Make the most of the opportunity being presented to you…work hard, have fun, and make yourselves, students, alumni and community proud.

I have great respect for everyone in this room. Some of you may disagree with the comparison, but I’ve always likened Senate to a large, dysfunctional family. You are like my brothers, sisters, cousins, etc. I love you crazy kids.

Whether you are graduating or returning, I wish you all the best and sincerely hope you’ll stay in touch. And I hope I get a chance to spend some time with many of you before I blow this pop stand next week.

I will close with the same comment I made at the MSUSA Board the other week…this is not goodbye, it’s see you later.

I did manage to get through the meeting without tearing up, which surprised many, including me. I think it helped to have what I wanted to say written out in advance, however no words can really do justice to what the organization and its people have meant to me during my time at BSU. I'm sure that as I help wrap things up over the next few days I will have lots of time to reflect. If there is one piece of advice I would give a new college freshman it would be this: Get Involved...you'll be glad you did and regret it if you don't.

I know I'm glad I did.