Elections - Orent Paddy

Elections: Inside the mind of the current fundraising chair!

The election meeting is always my favorite meeting to go to. There is usually free food there! I love the election meetings because it’s a great way to see people realize their full potentials as brothers of APO. This year I was nominated for Sergeant at arms. Sergeant at arms has always been a position that I have considered. Being a brother in APO I have always been drawn to positions that I felt needed attention and were noteworthy but weren’t getting the exposure that they needed. For instance, I took on the responsibility of historian in my inaugural semester as an APO brother because I felt that historian is a significant position that always got overlooked. A fraternity without knowledge of its history is like a tree without roots. I gave my speech, and the executive board liked it and I was granted the position. I took on the responsibilities of the position and I even created some new responsibilities for it. Fast forward 2 years and, I was up for an executive committee position. I was very nervous. I was running against someone that I respect, and felt did a decent job with their prior position. So, I know getting this position would not be an easy thing to do. My challenger gave his speech first, and he had some decent things to say. I went up after him and my heart was racing at full speed. I started to read my speech and I could feel the energy in the room. I felt that I had a great speech. I detailed my aspirations for the position, and the direction that I would like to take Sergeant at arms. We both were asked questions, and we both did a good job answering them. During discussion, I sat outside with my challenger and we had a good discussion. Upon entering the room again, I knew I had did a good job getting my point across, but you never know the results. When I found out that I had won the position, I felt very pleased. I knew that I would work hard enough to bring hard work and success to the position. I can’t wait to start!!

Good luck to the new exec! Especially my challenger, who I know will do great with his appointed position!!