Freshly elected ASPSU president promotes change

As spring gave way to summer term, Associated Students of Portland State University President Harris Foster and his executive members assembled for their first executive meeting on Wednesday, June 19, to discuss where they’ve been and where they’re going.

How long has Foster been ASPSU president?

“Oh, about 19 days,” he revealed.

Despite being so new, Foster exhibited confidence and authority during the meeting. The agenda included a roundtable discussion of ASPSU’s goals, which include a commitment to transparency in their actions and motivating students to become active stakeholders in issues like university funding.

Foster revealed that his efforts as president have so far been centered on logistical orientation and ensuring that everyone is fitting into their new positions.

“We’re getting everyone acclimated to their positions and making sure they have the necessary skills to lead their committees in the fall,” he explained.

The laid-back atmosphere found on campus during summer term is proving to be a valuable asset as
Foster and his staff gear up for the slam on the horizon come fall.

“It is quiet, and I think it’s necessary,” he said. “In the summer you establish your plans [and] establish your goals, and make sure they’re achievable for a good foundation. I want to start fall and hit the ground running.”

Foster explained that if ASPSU jumped straight into its obligations during the fall, there would a significant amount of time lost as staff members became accustomed to their new responsibilities. He said that fall and winter are the most effective terms for action from ASPSU, as the spring is tied up with voting campaigns.

“We’re still going to be doing things over the summer, however,”
Foster said.

For example, ASPSU is currently involved in facilitating a merger between the Oregon Student Association and Oregon Community College Association. They are also working to help create a full-time coordinator position for the Native American Student and Community Center.

The summer also affords the newly appointed staff opportunities to become more acquainted with each other, such as a one-day retreat that will include team-building activities and training.

“It’ll be some work, some fun—but it’ll be great,” Foster said, encouraging the team to attend.

Foster said that he is excited for the staff members to get into full swing, and feels that they are all well-qualified for their positions. He also said that the office atmosphere is fantastic and that everybody is friendly.

“They know what they’re doing,” he said. “I’m so excited to work with them. I’m excited to give them goals and see them make significant headway.

“I feel like we have a great opportunity for everyone to learn and grow, and use the skills they have to make something real for the students here at PSU,” he added.