Two USG-D senators have resigned from their posts due to other commitments, leaving Barrett, the Honors College with no senate representation for the first time since the Downtown campus student government began operating two years ago.
Journalism sophomore Anna Gunderson and human nutrition sophomore Ashley Ryder were elected in late spring to represent Barrett but resigned this past week before any new legislation took place. Gunderson and Ryder ran unopposed for Barrett’s two vacant seats.
Gunderson said her resignation was due to her journalistic ambitions and ethics.
“I just realized as I got more involved with the Downtown Devil that it would be harder to stay neutral, especially when talking about (USG-D) and issues relating to student government,” Gunderson said. “For me and my career goals, Downtown Devil is more important.”
Downtown Devil reporters are allowed to participate in student government but are barred from covering any story deemed a conflict of interest. Editors are prohibited from becoming involved in USG-D or political causes.
Ryder said scheduling conflicts and academic commitments played a large role in her resignation.
“My academic workload was going to be a lot more (and) it wasn’t worth the benefits we would receive for the amount we put in,” Ryder said.
USG-D President Joseph Grossman said he understands both girls’ decisions and wishes them the best.
“I understand Anna’s decision and conflict of interest,” Grossman said. “It’s an excellent opportunity and I support her completely.”
Grossman said he also understands Ryder’s decision and the conflict with her academic workload.
“Our government will be doing a lot this year,” Grossman said, adding that all positions will require a lot of time and dedication from each member of USG-D.
Danielle Chavez, director of public relations for USG-D, said they are looking to fill the empty seats.
“We are accepting applications for the two vacant honors college senate seats, as well as for all other vacant senate seats,” Chavez said in an email.
USG-D, which stands for Undergraduate Student Government Downtown and formerly was named ASASUD, currently has eight vacant senate seats.
Contact the reporter at tebrook1@asu.edu
