A new position is in the works that would allow ASMSU to handle special projects concerning students.
Jonathan Rosenthal, a business administration and pre-law senior, introduced the idea of a “Director of University Affairs” position to the undergraduate student government this summer, but the position is in the preliminary stages of development, ASMSU Academic Assembly Chairperson Matt Clayson said.
“It’s always great to get people involved,” Clayson said. “There’s so many projects that could be done. I could see the need for someone who works on special projects.”
Although Rosenthal said he is a prime candidate to fill the position, Clayson said no specific guidelines for the position have been decided except that there will be a voting process to decide who will fill it.
Rosenthal said there’s an important need for this position because there are too many duties for current ASMSU officials to take on.
“If you have five entrees, you’ll be able to eat a little bit of each,” Rosenthal said. “But you won’t be able to devour all five.”
Student Assembly Chairperson Matt Weingarden said the position looks at areas where ASMSU is lacking.
“It’s basically looking through past job descriptions and looking through areas we need to work on,” he said.
Rosenthal stressed the position would be unpaid and he would be recruiting people to apply for the position.
“I need the people who want to be there,” he said. “It’s not a résumé builder, I’m being very clear on that.”
Weingarden said ASMSU will consider many other candidates before filling the position - if they decide to form it.
“We try to do as much outreach as we can before filling any positions,” he said.
Clayson said Rosenthal has some good ideas - but the idea is still on the drawing board.
“It’d be great, I’d love to have John on board again,” Clayson said.
Rosenthal began his tenure with ASMSU last year as Director of Community Affairs, and said he developed strong relationships with his contacts. He said the position will improve the quality of life on campus.
He initially brought the position to Clayson and Weingarden so he could put a name to the special projects he’s been working on, such as the new MSU Stars for the Make a Wish Foundation.
The program had its first meeting Thursday night, in hopes of raising money for students for the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Rosenthal said the program will demonstrate MSU students are willing to help people in need.
“The new breed of students doesn’t just come here and float through for four years,” he said. “The new breed of students wants to be involved.”
