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Candidates vying for Student Government Association president received one last chance to speak to the student body yesterday at Convocation before the ballot table opened.
The five opponents, juniors Paris Dennard, Steve Williams, Jason Palmer, Giuseppe Nespoli and Steve Lyle, each had two minutes to present lasting images of their campaigns.
The first to be up, Dennard pledged to dedicate all “145 pounds” of himself to his plans and position.
“For me this is about doing what I am passionate about and being able to make a difference in other people’s lives,” he said. “I will be giving you what you need, what you want and what you deserve.”
During his time, Dennard highlighted his experience in politics and service to the school. He also presented Paris’ Pact with Pepperdine to emphasize what he will do as president.
“I can’t do these things by myself,” he said. “I need your help. I need your support.”
Unlike the other candidates, Williams took a musical approach to his speech as he stood on stage and belted, “L is for the way you look at me. O is for the only one I see … Love is all that I can give to you.”
Williams said the song was his way to express his feelings for Pepperdine. He also explained that he did not put up posters or distribute flyers and pins for his campaign because he is not a politician.
“I won’t be upset if you vote for any of my peers because they are all good candidates,” Williams said in the closing of his speech.
Similar to Dennard, Palmer discussed his prior leadership experiences and qualifications to be president. However, Palmer opened his speech in reference to the looming war with Iraq and how the SGA elections showed the importance of providing leadership. In addition, he presented ideas that other students had approached him with.
“What I do is I take an idea and I run with it,” Palmer said.
Current SGA vice president Nespoli labeled himself as the “Italian stallion” during his time on stage. On a serious note, he said, “Those of you who know me, know that this is the only time I’ll ever take credit for what I do. It’s not my character to look for recognition.”
Nespoli described the traditions he has contributed to Pepperdine in his services, highlighting the Tidal Wave pep rally and lighting the Phillips Theme Tower last semester.
“I love you guys and I want to do this, capisce?” he said in his final statements.
Taking on a different approach from the prior speakers, Lyle transformed himself to the likes of Mickey Mouse while on stage.
“I could dress like a Disney character to appeal to your childhood days, but that’s not what I’m about,” he said.
He then went on to proceed to put on a pair of mouse gloves and ears as he discussed his platform of fiscal responsibility and speaking out to administration.
“I guarantee to you that I will give you more bang for your buck,” Lyle said. “I can make your dollar go farther because I’ve done it in my businesses.”
Students voted for the SGA executive board, class presidents and class senators yesterday and today from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the fountain on the Seaver main campus. Results will be posted by 6:30 this evening.
In the event that candidates do not receive the majority vote needed to win in a race, SGA bylaws stipulate that a run-off election be scheduled for next Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Submitted March 20, 2003
MALIBU, CA
