Next week, Mizzou students will be asked to make a choice: who do they want to represent their interests as president and vice president of the Missouri Students Association? As the election for these positions draws near, it is important to understand the role and impact that MSA and its leaders have on campus. Contrary to cynical perceptions, MSA is not a group of students who simply “play government,” but it is an organization that manages a $1.5 million budget of your student fees with the goal of creating and maintaining services and events to improve student life on campus. Additionally, the roles of the MSA president and vice president are to advocate for the needs and rights of students to faculty, staff, and administration. As students at the University of Missouri, we are all entrusted with the power and responsibility to choose who we believe would best fulfill that role.
When the election opens at 6 p.m. Monday, the power will be entirely in our hands. As leaders of the student body, we have observed firsthand the impact that our organization can have on the important issues facing our campus community. This year we have three slates to choose from, each with their own unique visions for the future of Mizzou. We strongly encourage all students to educate themselves about the platforms of each slate and make an informed decision on whom they want to lead the student body over the course of the next year. Information for all slates can be found on our website, [msa.missouri.edu](http://msa.missouri.edu/?p=3773).
Most importantly, do not forget to cast your vote in the online election, which will take place from 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 7 through 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9. All students will receive an email to their university accounts with information on how to access the voting site. Please take a moment to get to know the slates, and exercise your right to choose your student leaders. Questions or concerns about the elections may be directed to the Board of Elections Commissioners at BEC@missouri.edu.
–Eric Woods,
MSA President
–Jake Sloan,
MSA Senate Speaker