February 28, 2011

In Support of Adam Nicoletti ’12

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While the power, effectiveness and transparency of the Student Assembly are all matters of debate, its importance as allocator of the Student Activity Fee cannot be disputed. For this reason, it is important to elect a leader who is not only a personable and natural, but also well versed in the funding process. Adam Nicoletti is the natural choice for S.A. President because of his proven track record and ability to build consensus. A mentor and friend, Nicoletti may not be a standout rapper or have a catchy slogan, but he most certainly is engaging and diligent.

I’ve known Nicoletti since our days at Great Neck South High School (yes, we are from Long Island, but don’t hold it against us). He introduced me to DECA, a business club, and mentored me through applying and transitioning to Cornell. Anyone who has actually worked with Adam or gotten to know him on a personal level can attest to his ability to get things done efficiently and build relationships. Thanks to Adam’s guidance, I was able to succeed in DECA competitions (read: free trips to Orlando and Anaheim) and successfully find my place on the Hill. Interestingly, I was president of my high school’s Student Government, which Nicoletti wasn’t involved in, but that just goes to show he isn’t a scheming politician. Nicoletti is running for S.A. President because he genuinely wants to help the student body — and he can.

If you are a member of a registered student organization, you can vouch for the difficulties associated with acquiring Student Assembly Finance Commission funding. Nicoletti has significant experience with the funding process as chair of the S.A. Appropriations Committee, ex-officio member of the S.A.F.C. and VP Finance of Delta Sigma Pi business fraternity. As a result of learning what works and what doesn’t with regard to funding, he has developed a comprehensive S.A.F.C. fix. Nicoletti’s plan calls for limiting excessive paperwork, giving an organization a second chance to re-submit forms with errors, and creating more opportunities to apply for funding. This plan is not a convenient talking point conceived over lattes at Libe, but rather the product of experience on both sides of the process. In a by-line funding year, he will also ensure large organizations maintain their proper funding (Nelly doesn’t play Slope Day for pennies). If Nicoletti is elected President, there is a good chance you will see a fundamental change in how student organizations are funded. His actions will make your life easier — try saying that for the actions of any S.A. president in recent memory.

Nicoletti is great with people as well as with numbers. Actions speak louder than words: Nicoletti has been the driving force behind the creation of a Campus Pub, increased student representation in the R.H.D. selection process and worked with countless organizations to build a consensus on major issues. His S.A. voting record speaks for itself. The main critique of Nicoletti’s candidacy seems to be that he is not personable. That opinion is simply misinformed. Nicoletti is outgoing and has a vision for the S.A.’s future, to leave a legacy of activism and continue to mentor young student leaders. He has focused on merits and platforms this campaign because he thinks that’s what matters most. I happen to agree and hope you do as well. Nicoletti’s platform is relevant and attainable, and his experience is unmatched.

I actively follow student politics and have devoted a few columns to the S.A. this year. In reviewing the platforms for this election, I promised myself I would remain objective and impartial. Having focused on what matters most, I can say with confidence I will be voting for Adam Nicoletti today at www.assembly.cornell.edu/vote. My vote for Nicoletti is one based on his experience, platform and abilities. He can’t rap (trust me) and his campaign might lack flare, but Nicoletti can effectively lead and make a difference in every student’s Cornell experience.

Jon Weinberg is a sophomore in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations. He may be reached at [email protected]. In Focus usually appears alternate Fridays this semester.

Original Author: Jon Weinberg