STAFF EDITORIAL: A mandate for the new UA

The Undergraduate Assembly shouild focus on manageable tasks to improve the quality of life on Penn's campus. Sorry, Mike, but we don't expect the UA to spread peace and harmony throughout the land over the next 12 months. But we do have some advice for the body as it sets about creating its 2000-01 agenda: · Stick to manageable issues. We have faulted the UA in the past for attempting to exceed its limitations and influence University policy where it has no leverage with the administration. First and foremost, the UA is at its most successful when its members focus on narrow, achievable tasks. · See through the achievements of last year's UA. Provost Robert Barchi has endorsed building one basketball court on campus, but the UA membership should continue its effort to increase campus recreational space. The UA should also work to expand incoming Treasurer Michael Krouse's initiatives on undergraduate financial aid. · Take advantage of an unprecedented opportunity to improve race relations on campus. The UA and the United Minorities Council have worked over the past year to augment minority representation in student government. The effort has paid off, with minority students comprising seven of 25 UA members and two of the UA's five executive board members. The challenge now is to parlay that increased representation into initiatives that will break down the walls of division on this campus. We particularly like Krouse's suggestion that a race relations dialogue be incorporated into New Student Orientation, and hope to see more creative thinking on race in the coming year. · Focus on quality of life. Some of the smallest initiatives -- such as late-night walking escorts for students studying in the library -- have also been the most appreciated. Projects that help improve the quality of life on campus -- bringing a new 24-hour diner to campus, making SEPTA more accessible, carving out all-night study space, planning enjoyable non-alcoholic events -- should be the cornerstone of the new UA's agenda. The leadership of the UA appears committed and competent. By sticking to what the UA can do best, the body may finally earn the faith of the students it represents.