The State Hornet would like to extend its congratulations to all the winners of last week?s ASI elections. The elections?which were a hard fought battle??brought an entirely new outlook of slates and ASI elections to our campus. With the aggressive campaigning of Students First, Support US and VISION, most thought the election outcome would introduce a mixed-slate ASI Board to the University. However, the clear winner was the VISION slate, which captured seven of the 13 seats for next year?s ASI board, including three of four executive positions.

Regardless of who won, the overall opinion has been that ASI will be in good hands for the next year. And The State Hornet agrees completely, especially since this year?s pool of candidates was, by far, the most experienced and well-rounded group the campus has seen in years. The quality and sheer number of the candidates interested in serving the students in an ASI position are a clear indication that student participation is on the rise.

We would like to offer a few suggestions to President-elect Artemio Pimentel and the rest of the ASI Board: Fulfill your campaign pledge of access, accountability and unity by embracing those who were not elected. Utilize their vast array of talents and knowledge for the benefit of the campus. Keep ASI from building VISION and non-VISION factions that will hinder the cohesiveness of the Board. It is now up to you, Mr. Pimentel, to produce a united, slate-less ASI.

And we believe that these goals are not only achievable, but also easily obtained by the right leadership?the leadership that got Mr. Pimentel elected. We are optimistic that next year?s ASI will be a cohesive group that is able to work together to attain all of their goals.

We wish everyone elected the best of luck and hope that the ideas and goals established during the election are brought forward over the next year.