Earlier this month, Ohio University recognized the contributions of our student leaders at the 32nd annual Ohio University Leadership Gala. The event led me to think about the many ways in which students have shaped the course of Ohio University over time.
In retrospect, I think it’s safe to say that the university we know and love is truly a reflection of our students’ contributions and feedback. Upon our students’ recommendation, we implemented the Campus Conversations series, which has greatly aided cultural understanding. It was upon students’ urging that the Bobcats Who Care suicide prevention training was created. In the 1960s, I was among the Ohio University students who lobbied for the establishment of the Department of African American Studies. Similar student efforts led to the construction of Ping Recreation Center and Baker University Center, among other university facilities. Truly, Ohio University is a better place because of our students’ passion and leadership!
On Tuesday and Wednesday, you will have an opportunity to elect your 2015-16 Student Senate leaders and senators, who will shape the course of Ohio University’s future. It is wonderful to see so many students vying for the chance to help lead Ohio University during the 2015-16 academic year. I encourage all of you to seriously consider the candidates and the causes that they represent. More importantly, I encourage you to show up and vote. Just as it is your civic responsibility to vote for qualified public officials, it is your responsibility as students to vote for Student Senate leaders and senators that represent your hopes and dreams for Ohio University’s future.
In assessing candidates for leadership roles in Student Senate, I would encourage you to consider three particular characteristics that I consider of utmost importance in a university setting: honesty, optimism and open-mindedness. Honesty: In my experience, the student leaders who have affected the most change at Ohio University have made it a point to share information openly, truthfully and without spin. Optimism: Positive energy inspires progress and encourages the type of cross-collaboration that is essential for change in higher education. Open-mindedness: Successful student leaders listen carefully; they are respectful of all opinions and consider the diverse input of everyone they represent. By insisting upon honesty, optimism and open-mindedness from student leaders, you are equipping your Student Senate for success.
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That’s not to say that the future of Ohio University rests solely with our Student Senate. In fact, there are many of you who don’t hold an official leadership title in Student Senate but are greatly influencing the future direction of our university. You do this by simply leading from where you are: as an individual or as a member of a student organization on campus.
As an introverted college student, I often failed to recognize the ability I possessed as a student to make Ohio University a better place. I have since learned that true leadership doesn’t require a platform or a loudspeaker. It begins with a strong desire to make the world a better place. It is empowered by commitment and initiative. It is enhanced through creativity, positivity and intuition. By drawing upon our innate leadership qualities, we all have the ability to make a difference, if we’re willing to persevere.
Today, I challenge you to be agents of the change you want to see in the world. In ways big and small, your voices and actions are scripting the future. Be deliberate in all that you do. Insist upon honesty, optimism and open-mindedness. Vote with purpose. Live with resolve. Tap the leadership potential within yourself to make a difference in our community and beyond.
Roderick McDavis is the president of Ohio University.
