No student input for the Union Board Executive Director

Union Board is known around campus predominately as a programming organization, but it also functions as the governing body of the Indiana Memorial Union. At least, it did until now. As of July 1, the IU vice chancellor for auxiliary services and programs, Bruce Jacobs, will take over as the new executive director of the IMU – a change in leadership that was made without input from any Union Board student director. \nAs the entire University faces a transition into a new administration, I can’t help but wonder if this flagrant disregard for student input will set the tone for this new administration. I was of the impression that IU is a place that values student involvement, development and leadership. The administration’s recent actions illustrate that perhaps I was mistaken. \nFounded in 1909 by John Whittenberger (class of 1911), the Union Board started by planning social events and activities for the campus that centered on the Student Building. After only a few years, the Union Board, with the help of community members and administrators, began to build support for the creation of a student union. The IMU building was dedicated in 1932. Since then, the IMU has made students a priority through student-focused retail, student employment, office space for student organizations and the overall student-oriented atmosphere. \nThe importance of student involvement in the IMU is reflected in the Union Board Constitution, ratified by the trustees, which states: “The government of the Indiana Memorial Union shall be vested in a Board of Directors” as well as “The Board is hereby empowered to direct the policies and activities of the Indiana Memorial Union.” Historically, Union Board has been involved in the decision-making processes that involve the IMU. Although Union Board involvement was never required, the administration realized the importance of the Union Board and sought input and feedback from the students. \nNeglecting to involve students in the very decisions that shape their time at IU is unjust. Perhaps the administration needs to be reminded that the University exists for the growth and development of its students.