[Editor's note: This is the first in a series of four articles introducing the Undergraduate Student Government presidential candidates.]
Name: Matthew Kenney
Year and major: Political science and English literature junior.
Running mate: Mike Jones
Web site: unknown
What do you think the job you are running for entails? The president's job entails many things, but as a generalization he or she protects the student's interests. This, by the way, was not done last year.
What issues are you focusing on? The major issue that needs to be taken care of before all others is to refocus the administration off of the future and on to the present. Once this is accomplished, my administration will be able to make much needed changes. These include tuition, parking, meal plans and the involvement of clubs and organizations.
Why did you want to run for this position? In the past year, the student government has made many huge mistakes that would not have happened had I been in office. I am not only talking about Yaser [Alamoodi]'s failure to follow the bylaws, but the Senate's disregard for students.
Take, for example, a Senate bill that stripped the University's Christian clubs and other religious organizations of desperately needed funding.
What experience do you have? I have to admit I have no student government experience, but that is actually a blessing. It allows me to bring a whole new vision to the table. However, I do have a lot of real-world experience. I am in the Army, which has taught me honor, integrity and loyalty, which in this case is to the students. I have also worked for two congressmen, but the one thing that has taught me the most and given me my motivation was community service. Working with my church helped me realize that I could really make a difference in people's lives.
Why are you interested in student government? In the next few years my brother and sister may be coming to ASU, and I feel that if someone does not step up and make the necessary changes now, it will have negative effects on them.
In your view, what is the best thing that student government did this year? Early last year, the student government passed a bill that required the USG to "support and endorse" voting in city, state and national elections. This showed great initiative and responsibility. It is just too bad that nothing like this was created.
The worst? Letting President Michael Crow forget what is most important -- the students.
Where are you originally from? Tucson, Ariz.
What do you like best about ASU? It's not in Tucson and it's not UA.
What do you dislike about ASU? Nothing.
What has been your favorite class at ASU? [Kenney did not include a response to this question.]
What's your ultimate career goal? I have always wanted to be a state prosecutor, locking the bad guys up.
What do you hope to do after graduating? I am going to serve my country as an Army infantry officer.
What are your hobbies outside of school? Drinking with my friends, watching sports and fishing.
Profiles compiled by Kristi Eaton. Reach the reporter at kristi.eaton@asu.edu.
