Eric Evangelista and Joyce LaLonde’s combined experience, knowledge and means of leadership prove the duo to be the most qualified to lead the 60th session of the Student Association at Syracuse University.

Evangelista, a junior history and political science dual major, and LaLonde, a junior policy studies and public relations dual major, have formed a comprehensive campaign on the basis of C.A.R.E., which stands for “Committed to collaboration, Anti-discriminatory, Ready for reform and Excited for excellence.” Proposals that have been explicitly outlined under the platform include increased access to mental health care and enhanced off-campus security, among other initiatives.

Evangelista’s thorough understanding of the bureaucracy of SA as its longest-serving member complemented by LaLonde’s extensive dedication to the university community and greater city of Syracuse provides a balanced approach to what can be realistically accomplished on the SU campus.

In comparison to rivaling platforms that are too idealistic to come to fruition or too narrow to affect a significant number of students, Evangelista and LaLonde’s diverse local involvement in different facets of city and student life allow them the capacity to accurately represent the voices of the collective undergraduate body. LaLonde alone has done research consulting for local homeless shelters, is on the board of directors for Nourish International and is spending her summer in Syracuse working on several ongoing projects, including the development of an improved relationship between the university’s undergraduate and graduate programs.

Running alongside Evangelista and LaLonde on the ballot are candidates who present valid student grievances, but lack essential knowledge of SA or significant issues facing the campus community. And when Evangelista and LaLonde are undeniably prepared to discuss specific components of life at SU rather than provide a broad and ineffective response, it is clear that they are best prepared to take office.

This preparation may be partly rooted in the connections Evangelista and LaLonde have made among key players within the university administration, the Department of Public Safety and among student organizations over the course of their academic careers. If the pair were to be elected, these relationships would carry significant weight considering these community members can provide valuable insight as the pair navigates SA decisions.

This commitment to collaboration is reflected in the pair’s own relationship. Evangelista and LaLonde have delegated their areas of expertise to best mold their own leadership roles. This is demonstrated in how LaLonde’s focus is placed on big picture initiatives and Evangelista’s involvement within SA equips him to take an in-depth look at the finer details of campus life.

While the two haven’t known each other for very long, the power of the pair’s dynamic is apparent through their interactions as peers and as candidates — a leading force that has the strong, unanimous endorsement of The Daily Orange Editorial Board.

Published on April 11, 2016 at 7:50 am

Contact: opinion@dailyorange.com