UNC's newly inaugurated student body officers know what lies ahead of them -- and now it's their turn to deal with those issues.
In an elegant changing of the guard Tuesday night at the Friday Center, past student body officers passed the torch -- and many ongoing campus issues -- to a new administration.
As he took the podium to introduce UNC's new Student Body President Jen Daum, former Student Body President Justin Young looked back on the turbulence he said has characterized his term. "Words can't even begin to express how challenging this year has been," he said.
But instead of focusing on his administration, the former student body president was more eager to close his remarks on a positive note.
"This moment is about a beginning for the people you see right now," he said. "Jen, I wish you the best of luck."
Speaking before a crowd of almost 200, Daum took the opportunity to thank the many friends, colleagues and family members who helped her throughout her campaign.
But she didn't hesitate to discuss the forthcoming challenges at hand. While at times lightheartedly joking, Daum made clear her commitment to working for low tuition and professed her determination to ensure UNC remains affordable. Despite her roots in Wisconsin, Daum also stressed the University's duty to serve the people of the state.
But she equally emphasized virtues -- such as character, service and learning -- that she said she hopes will characterize the campus community during her term. "We talk about these concrete issues ... and there is no doubt we will continue to do so. These larger issues can no longer take a back seat to the everyday shuffle."
As officers from Young's term handed down their positions to fresh faces, the newcomers embraced their new responsibilities with gratitude. Student Body Treasurer Michael Vollmer noted that the inauguration was held during spring, a season of rebirth. "Just as nature's restarting, today, so are we," he said.
