On September 21, members of the ASYC stood before Yuba’s 400 building with a donation table for the American Red Cross to help the families of victims. They raised a total of $408. Commendable.
Unfortunately, theSeptember 27 ASYC meeting brought a unanimous vote by members against matching the amount donated by Yuba College students and staff with ASYC funds. “The American Red Cross is a great organization,” said James Hall, ASYC Senator. “But there are things that we can do here to help the people here.” Hall did not elaborate on any plans to help any people on campus.
What has the ASYC done at Yuba to help students?
The ASYC is sponsoring a blood drive during Halloween, an act that deserves commendation. And the ASYC promises to update its finances so that future members can keep an accurate account of their money. Members allotted $100 to purchase Quicken, a financial management computer program, to update their records.
Perhaps members can utilize this software to track the $250 each receives every semester for books.
When asked what function the ASYC serves, Donna Evans said that the ASYC is here for the students, and to allocate money to groups and clubs on campus.
What clubs? Only four have submitted their charters this semester. How are we supposed to find out about them? ASYC has yet to organize a “Clubs and Organizations Day” on campus.
Associated student councils at other colleges often dedicate a whole week to the clubs on campus when all clubs can set out tables to generate student participation. But the ASYC expects students to come to them for help.
A fundamental question has become, what are ASYC members elected for? On most other community college campuses, the associated student governments organize events such as concerts, movie nights, guest speakers, discussion forums, and other activities that enhance a college experience beyond textbook work. Our student council members do not even have to undergo a rigorous election campaign.
ASYC introversion and lathargy will eventually gain the critisicm of students beyond those on the local college newspaper staff, whom the ASYC regards as “in the business of ASYC bashing” to evade the issue.
In its constitution, ASYC commits to “provide for an expanded educational and social program, which will stimulate the intellectual and social awareness of the student body.”
We’re still waiting.
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