Former student body vice president Ian Goldsmith endorses Tom and Blake

Former NISG vice president Ian Goldsmith has endorsed candidates Tom and Blake in a letter to the editor of the Northern Iowan. Here is what Goldsmith wrote:

If you've not yet heard, the Northern Iowa Student Government elections are now in full swing! If you've successfully avoided the frenzy thus far, then to that I give you a slow clap (enter slow clap). However, I invite you to become informed, because the leaders elected make decisions that directly affect you and your college experience. 

I had the honor of serving as 2011-2012 student body vice president. Throughout the year I learned a tremendous deal about the University of Northern Iowa, politics and life. I understand the level of work and commitment required by the job. 

This year you are lucky to have three unique, qualified sets of candidates. The only wrong decision you can make is to not vote at all. With that said, I would like to share why I am endorsing Tom Madsen and Blake Findley. 

Both of these young men were my residents when I was an RA. Since then, I've had the pleasure of watching them grow into incredibly hard-working, confident, passionate leaders. 

Tom impressed me with his leadership as SAA president this year. I constantly forget how many other ways Tom is involved, because he balances it all without complaint. For example, last year, I witnessed him successfully complete six finals and throw a 700-person dance party during the week of his departure for summer basic training, all with a smile. 

Blake is probably the hardest-working student I know. In NISG alone, he has chaired two committees and co-chaired a third. Additionally, he writes for the Northern Iowan, helps lead the Student Leadership Center and volunteers regularly, all while academically excelling in 20-plus credits every semester. Perhaps most impressively, he consistently sets aside time to maintain close relationships with friends. 

A 300-word letter from an old fogey like me can't do these candidates' qualifications justice. They have the commitment, ideas, courage and heart to lead this university. Join me in voting for Tom and Blake!

Even though he graduated back in December, Goldsmith is still on campus taking a class and working on his honors thesis to be completed in May. In what is shaping up to be a close race, this endorsement could be huge for Tom and Blake. As one of the original creators of the Interlude and a former student body vice president, Goldsmith is most one of the most popular students on campus and there are undoubtedly a number of students who trust his judgment and will follow his lead. I will say that I wish Goldsmith was a little more specific in his reasons for supporting Tom and Blake, other than the fact that both are good at time management and heavily involved on campus. No mention of their platform is a little disappointing, but I understand the space constraints of a letter to the editor.