The Undergraduate Student Government Senate confirmed new Vice President of Services Kaitlin O’Neil Tuesday night.
O’Neil is taking the place vacated by former Vice President of Services Tina Mounlavongsy. Mounlavongsy resigned to focus on school.
USG President Jacob Goulding said O’Neil was very qualified for the position.
“My list consisted of only one person and I don’t think there is anyone more qualified than Kaitlin O’Neil,” he said.
O’Neil, an Asian studies senior, served as the USG chief of staff last semester and the intern director last year. She was also part of USG during her sophomore year.
Goulding appointed O’Neil as the vice president of services-elect during the first few weeks of the semester, pending her confirmation by the Senate.
Vice President of Policy James Baumer said the transition period had gone smoothly.
“It’s been a million times better than I thought it would be,” he said. “I think this semester is going to be one of the best.”
One of O’Neil’s first acts this semester was to oversee film director Spike Lee’s visit to ASU. O’Neil said she hopes to continue offering educational services like Lee’s appearance.
“This will help to ensure that everybody receives a well-rounded education at ASU,” O’Neil said.
O’Neil also plans to continue expanding the Safety Escort Service, which provides free transportation to students on the Tempe campus after dark. She said the average wait time for the shuttles is 10 minutes, but that there is room for improvement.
“I can leave my mark and make a real difference in this position,” O’Neil said.
O’Neil’s confirmation and other Senate items were postponed until later Tuesday night after a senator proposed impeaching Senate President Kumuda Pradhan.
At press time, the reason behind the impeachment motion is unclear.
The Senate failed to reach the necessary two-thirds of votes to begin an impeachment trial.
Reach the reporter at julia.shumway@asu.edu or follow @JMShumway on Twitter.
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