When the new director of the Student Union starts the job in July, he or she needs to be ready to parse through the thousands of conflicting voices to separate the good ideas from the bad. Here’s our list of the good:
? Reach out for student feedback. The purpose of the Union is to provide programs, services and facilities for the entire campus. Before taking any major steps, the director needs to not only reach out for public feedback, but also act on that feedback. Show students and organizations that their opinions matter and the Student Union is listening.
? Work with the Carolina Union Activities Board to book even more awesome acts. This past year CUAB brought in big names like Diplo, Iron & Wine and J. Cole. When it comes to musical performances, quality, not quantity, is key.
? Maximize space. Quiet study spots, especially during midterms and finals, are coveted treasures. The newly renovated basement has helped fix that problem, but why are meeting rooms locked when not in use?
? Finish renovations: There is still an entire half of the Union’s basement — the often desolate game room — that is rarely used by students. In tandem with the student body, the new director should see through responsible improvement to this space’s use.
Because major functions of the Union are funded by student fees, every student is entitled to an opinion on its direction. The new director needs to consolidate all of these ideas and work together with all stakeholders to make the Union the go-to place to eat, study and relax.
