When Mary Ellen Wimberly and I announced our candidacy for student body president and vice president, we did so with two goals in mind; one, to make Student Government an organization that works to unite the Big Blue community through equal representation and open channels of communication with the entire student body and, two, to improve the Kentucky experience for every student through a variety of initiatives aimed at improving life on campus.

We know that, if elected, we have the ability and determination to make both of these goals realities within our one year term.

Mary Ellen and I believe SG’s job is never complete and there is always room for the addition of new initiatives and programs. From a text book lending library to short-term, interest free loans, we will work to lessen the financial burdens college expenses can impose.

With Redbox movie rentals, improved wireless printing and other on-campus improvements we will work to make Kentucky a better place to live and learn.

We plan on revamping the lottery system to reward loyal fans and to increase attendance at home football and basketball games.

Finally, we will work to turn more money back to the student organizations that play a crucial role in so many students’ undergraduate experiences. We will dedicate ourselves to implementing these and other programs with the knowledge that SG has a commitment to ensuring the best Kentucky experience for as many students as possible.

As is demonstrated through our diverse Senate tickets, Mary Ellen and I are dedicated to making SG a true representation of the student body. With a ticket that includes ROTC members, Greek and non-Greek campus leaders, club and varsity sports athletes and members of religious and diversity organizations, our ticket is a reflection of our dedication to making SG a more diverse and open organization.

We will maintain this dedication in our own executive cabinet with the creation of a group of 40 on-campus leaders that will meet directly with us once per month, eliminating any middle men and allowing us to hear the concerns and issues most pressing to the entire student body.

Finally, through our One Kentucky campaign, Mary Ellen and I will work to create a feeling of unity, eliminate ignorance and promote the commonalities that every member of the Big Blue Nation shares.

Through a lecture series, a large marketing campaign and the promotion of events co-sponsored with other campus organizations, we will work to show every student, regardless of Greek affiliation, race, sex or religion, that the things that unite us are much greater than the things that divide us.

The above is only a brief outline of our extensive plans for Student Government. Please visit stapleswimberly.com for more information.

We look forward to the coming days of elections and ask for your support on March 28 and 29.