VP of Programming
CiAnn Ardoin
junior radio-TV-film and Sociology major

What are your goals if elected Student Government Association Vice President of Programming Council?
TCU’s visions and values revolve around diversity. Yet, many students feel “the bubble.” My goal is for that image to pop, as students break the walls of segregation that exists within our student organizations. After all, diversity should be seen, not just on brochures, but in our attitudes. Through more co-programming, more interactive activities and a greater knowledge of those around you, PC will help organizations to open up and branch out.

What are your qualifications to serve as Student Government Association Vice President of Programming Council?
I believe first impressions say a lot, and the best way to make a good impression is to be yourself. As a student with natural talent and communication skills, I have no problem being myself. I am involved with other students, organizations and the community. Currently, I am the SGA Secretary. This past summer, I was an Orientation Student Assistant. Throughout my college career, I have participated in pageants, banquets, social and academic organizations.

What is the No. 1 issue you think the House should take up next year, and what is your suggestion for how the House should solve that issue?
Currently, there are graduate students and commuters that feel underrepresented by SGA. Thus, implementation of a system in House that includes all TCU students would guarantee better participation, stronger student representation and open awareness of issues faced on this campus. This is a great way for student leaders to come together as one, in ideas and goals, to learn from one another and to encourage each other to see the whole picture at TCU.

What is the one unique thing you have done as a student at TCU that sets you apart from other students?
When asked to be a student representative for the Department of Radio-Television-Film in the selection of a Dean for the College of Communications, I was so excited! As a sophomore, this was a great honor because only fifteen students were chosen! Not only did I get to interview Dean candidates, but I also got to address important issues that exist within the department, and have an input on the future of the college.

Do you support the proposed SGA fee increase? Why or why not?
Programming Council is a direct connection to TCU students and their desires. Its purpose is to provide programming that students want and will participate in. Everything from welcome back parties to concerts to lectures and cultural awareness fall under the direction of PC. Without co-programming funds, co-sponsorship of events and students’ demand to enjoy college life, SGA and PC would be less representative of students power of voice.

What do you see as the role/job of Programming Council?
Student participation is crucial for PC to be a success. Thus, the decision is up to the students! Through e-mails, speaking at organizations, newsletters and websites, PC is determined to let students know what is going on and how they can get more involved. If someone fails to attend a meeting or contact PC with their desires, then they are silently agreeing that SGA always makes programming decisions that directly reflect their behaviors.

How do you plan to boost student participation in PC events?
Big name acts are only successful if TCU students want to have them on this campus. The money in the programming budget can be compromised, but big ideas and names will not evolve from mid air. Thus, if students voice their desire for bigger name acts, and are willing to downsize other events to compensate for the bigger prices, then anything is possible. Greater student participation but fewer events may just be worth it.

How are you going to bring more big-name acts to the TCU area next year?
To prevent left-over funds, SGA needs student and organization participation. Organizations are encouraged to work together to reach the community, individuals are pushed to voice their concerns about programming and everyone is happy in the end. When TCU gets involved, then the money will be dispersed across student organizations and programming. It’s there for students to use and enjoy, so what is there to loose when getting involved.