By: Vice President of Academic Affairs candidate, Brandi Hernandez; Vice President of Student Affairs candidate, Evan Braun

Students have important choice to make for the upcoming Student Association (SA) elections. This year’s Presidential election has three candidates of varying backgrounds and experience. The choice however, is very clear if students want to see continued success and proven leadership at the helm of Student Association.

Ryan Sorenson has shown himself to be a tried and tested leader within Student Association. With more than three years experience within SA, Ryan has rebuilt meaningful relationships with UWM faculty, administration, staff, and student leaders after years of distrust and corruption within SA. This past year, under Ryan’s leadership, has been one of the most productive years in decades for the Student Association. His actions have lead to the creation of a bike share program in the next few years, the expanse of sustainability initiatives on campus, defending the UWM Panther Arena, and maintainable student fees with an emphasis on student impact.

Ryan has also made a strong effort to empower those around him in Student Association to succeed in their efforts to improve UWM. He has helped SA members create student committees on Parking and Transit and Women’s Advocacy to ensure student input is always on the table for these student concerns. He has also supported SA members to push for the new Student Union project, which is on its way to be approved without a major jump in student fees.

If students should remember anything when they vote this April for student leadership, they should remember the years of experience and relationships Ryan brings to the table. Experience with managing student fees, working with administrators, and fighting for student shared governance rights. The connections with countless lawmakers in Milwaukee and Wisconsin, Student leaders across the UW System, and student groups here at UWM. It is an asset the students of UWM cannot afford to lose over the next year with the looming state budget cuts.

We both have high respect for the individuals that have stepped up to put their leadership to the test in this election. Unfortunately, their skill sets and experience do not equate to what Ryan could accomplish with a second term as Student Association President. UWM students need Ryan Sorenson to lead in these hard times. Losing his leadership could result in stagnation for UWM Student Association. If you wish to learn more about Ryan’s platform or ideas check out his facebook page, “Ryan Sorenson for SA President” or his website, www.sorenson4sa.com.

Please join us in supporting Ryan Sorenson for SA President.