Since the beginning of the semester the Daily Egyptian has been closely following the process of choosing a new chancellor to replace the departing Donald Beggs. There have been reports about the candidates and their views and editorials urging the student body to actively participate in the process.

Also, the important role a chancellor plays in the running of this University has been stressed. But the chancellor is not the only one that determines what polices are to be enacted or how those polices are to be implemented.

As we all know, 1998 is also a state-wide election year with campaigns currently enacted for the positions of governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, treasurer, comptroller, secretary of state, and county clerk. There also are senate and house seats, both state and federal, being contested. All play a role in politics and decisions involving SIUC.

Advertisement

Friday both John Schmidt, gubernatorial candidate for Democratic nomination, and Peter Fitzgerald, candidate for Republican nomination for U.S. Senate, came to Carbondale to promote themselves and get voter support. Their presence in Southern Illinois shows they need our support just as much as citizens elsewhere in the state.

Those elected to state office have a strong influence on what programs may or may not be implemented on campus or what funds could be appropriated for SIUC. Like the chancellor selection, it is equally important for students to become active and voice their opinions in the races for state and federal seats. It could be a simple contribution or keeping up on the candidates and voting on election day, but the bottom line is if you do not vote you have no right to complain or expect change.

In April, SIUC students elected people to the Carbondale City Council who would give students a voice and consider our interests. It is time we do the same with state government.

Many of the problems this University complains about can be easily eradicated if the individuals in power have students, and more importantly as citizens, in mind. There is life outside of Carbondale, and who is elected this year definitely will affect tomorrow. It should be in our best interests as well as our civic duty to society to be conscious and active in the elections of those that affect our futures.