The Falcon   |   Volume 83, Issue 52

Published 5/22/13   |   Log In

Martin addresses Senate

President asks senators to describe SPU

By ALLISON NORTHROP, Assistant News Editor

Published: October 10, 2012

President Daniel J. Martin came to Monday’s Senate meeting with questions.

After giving an explanation of how he became president of Seattle Pacific University, Martin defined the role he needs to play as president, saying once he has organized internally, he hopes to focus on trying to attract resources for SPU.

“Once we define our qualitative future that we see for us and the quantitative future we see for us, my role will shift,” Martin said.

Martin said he wanted to ask senators questions, so when he was out fundraising, he could speak more clearly to the vision of Seattle Pacific University.

“[There are] so many things that I need to know and to be able to express to foundations” Martin said.

“What defines the SPU experience?” Martin asked. “What are the stories that I need to know and have in my back pocket as I work with people...that says this is a descriptor is who SPU is?”

Martin opened the floor for senators to answer in a few words how they would describe SPU.

Some senators commented on the community at SPU.

“I feel like people, even if they’re random strangers, you will feel a lot more connected ,and it’s easier to connect with people,” Junior Everan Chaffee said.

Martin agreed and said he found that to be true.

Senior Audrey Riddle added that she thought the SPU community was intentional.

“[We’re] intentional in our relationships,” she said.

Other senators spoke on SPU’s academics.

“You’re a name and a face, not just a number.” Senior Molly Erickson said. “I’ve found that especially with my professors.”

Junior Jake Caouette noted the academic environment at SPU.

“Students and professors fostered a culture of academic excellence,” he said.

Martin then asked the senators what they wanted SPU’s future to look like.

“I’d like to see SPU live out what we say we believe…I want to be proud that I went here,” Junior Laura Nile said.

Nile also said she wanted to see a new Student Union Building. Her statement received applause from other senators.

Martin asked how a new SUB would help the campus.

Nile said it could provide a place for students to go, other than the resident halls and the library.

Martin ended by saying his discussion with Senate was a good start to many conversations to come.

“I think it will be fun for you to come back in 20 years and 30 years and see [what] this place has become as it incorporates the ideas in this current context,” Martin said.

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