With five minutes on the clock, three senators hammered out their qualifications to be Student Government Association's pro tempore.
SGA member Rich Garcia announced Meghan Newlund "the clear winner" in the race against Michael Piercefield and Olufunmbi Elemo.
Following the candidates' speeches, three senators participated in the question and answer session. Candidates responded to how they would interact with SGA executive board and University Senate.
"I attended the last two University Senate meetings, before I knew I was running for the position," Newlund said. "I didn't even know the position was open. I went because I was interested."
Newlund fast forwarded her speech at the one minute warning
to include why SGA needs an intermural team, a senator of the month and a bigger orientation.
"I want to know you all more on a friendship basis," Newlund said. "If you're more on a friendship level, then you'll make a better team together."
Newlund said if SGA members feel more comfortable with each other, they can discuss legislation without anxiety.
"I want to assist senators in writing what they feel and putting it into legislation," Newlund said.
After listening to the candidates, senators discussed pros and cons of the proposals. Freshman Steve Geraci said Newlund narrowed her campaign to social possibilities.
"Too much of her focus was pro tempore as social buffer for senate," Geraci said. "That's important, but I don't think that's what the focus should be."
Organizational committee member Jessica Paxsm said Newlund "put 100 percent of her heart into SGA."
As pro tempore, Newlund no longer serves in the off campus caucus. Piercefield said she'll be hard to replace.
"It's a big loss not having Meghan," Piercefield said. "She was a big voice."
Newlund said her voice will now speak for her senators at University Senate meetings.
"Whether I agree with them or not, that's my job," Newlund said. "I am only a delegate of my senators."
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