Monarchs must vote for student government

Students at Valley College should prioritize voting for those making decisions on behalf of the student body.

Opinion by Matthew Royer, News Editor

Students gather under the Student Union's skybox conference room. Student government elections begin April 26. (Jeremy Ruiz / Valley Star)

Two percent, three percent, two percent and one and a half percent. This tantalizing data set represents the student-voter turnout over the last four years of ASU elections, according to The Star. This year students must make their voices heard and take control of the legislative body that represents them at Valley College.

While some students at Valley pay their yearly dues to receive ASU benefits and few even serve on the executive body, it is fair to assume that a majority of students either do not know what the ASU does or simply do not care. But the cycle continues. A year after the lowest recorded turnout according to The Star, the cycle must come to an end.

Constant vacancies and the occasional scandal are not much to convince Monarchs to care about one of many student services on campus, but the ASU is more than than just a service. Students come together every semester to ensure their wants and needs are met, helping find balance when it comes to the diverse backgrounds which make up the mosaic that is Valley. Last year the ASU allocated $25,000 to “Helping Hands,” the campus food bank, allowing students to receive $200 grocery cards, as well as also providing free menstrual products for students on campus the same semester.

Those who toss their names in the hat for a student election take a chance not just to gain leadership experiences, but also to represent the Valley community and campus. The ASU presents an opportunity for like-minded individuals to “accomplish anything,” to borrow a few words from incumbent ASU President Sandra Sanchez.

With the power to enact shifts in campus policy and work with distinguished faculty on campus, the student officers allow for students to have a point-person to represent them when feeling voiceless. During this past year at Valley, the ASU has held events including a vigil for lives lost in the war in Ukraine and a domestic violence defense workshop, among others. In addition, open office hours create dialogue, which can lead to agenda topics for upcoming executive council meetings.

In fact, the campus community would cease to exist without the ASU. Since the return to campus, the ASU has been the driving force in pushing through new events and gatherings for students to interact with one another. Its second branch, the Inter-Club Council, is made up of members from each club presiding on campus. Receiving funds from the ASU, these clubs make up different sectors of Valley’s student body. Whether it is cinema aficionados, the Armenian Student Association or even Valley’s honor society, clubs offer students a place to grow their skills and form connections with others here in Valley Glen.

Attend informational gatherings for the upcoming election, log onto the student portal and take the leap. Casting a vote is as simple as a click of a button. Students may be surprised in a few months with the benefits that click might return. Students can vote starting April 26 through May 2.