The Battalion endorses SBP candidate

After interviewing both candidates, the editorial board of The Battalion has decided to endorse Reid Joseph for student body president.

Our goal was to determine which candidate we thought would most selflessly represent the student body to University administrators and local and state communities.

Joseph displayed characteristics crucial to a position of public leadership. He deflected focus from himself and demonstrated the student body’s need for a selfless leader. His personable nature was exemplified in the ease with which he moved around the newsroom, shaking hands, asking questions and referring to us by name.

Joseph showed sincere humility, responding with confidence to questions about campus issues such as the role of mandatory student fees, but honestly acknowledging there are aspects to such issues to which he didn’t know the answer.

Joseph recognized a need to increase communication between the student body and Student Government Association by proposing thoughtful plans to fulfill the needs of connectivity between the two entities. He presented a clear understanding of how delegation is necessary to lead an executive branch that represents a massive student body. For example, Joseph proposed implementation of a new community outreach team that would help bridge communication to the diverse student groups across the University.

Joseph could have had a better understanding or plan of action to collaborate with the legislative branch of SGA, which presents student opinion before the A&M administration and Texas Legislature. However, he expressed sincere desire to continue learning about student concerns to help best represent the student body.

Joseph’s campus involvement and his post-graduation plans speak to his discipline and professional demeanor.

The Battalion fully supports Reid Joseph for the position of the 2013-2014 student body president of Texas A&M.