One characteristic of UD that stood out to me from day one was how the administration valued student input at all levels of the decision making process. Over my four years I have learned to attribute this to the Marianist charism, particularly its emphasis on inclusivity.

I now have become disillusioned with what I held as the best attribute of my beloved UD.

On the surface it appears that the administration does a great job including students in important decisions. For example, students currently sit on the Chapel Renovation Committee, the Rector's Council and various selection committees.

An examination of the students who hold these positions reveals that the leadership positions are held by the same few students who represent a small segment of the student population. Casual conversation among the student body classifies these students as the administration's "favorites."

At first you might think that this elite group of students is more qualified, but the way in which they acquire these roles is troubling. Rarely is there an application for these positions. The committees often approach specific students and invite them to take a position.

My invite to join the Chapel Renovation Advisory Board and my position co-directing another program were based on connections, not an application. While I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given as a "favorite," I am disappointed with how I got them.

This is not a reflection on the current student leaders, but on those who are in charge of their selection. I wonder what advances could be made with the untapped potential of other students.

Some positions are filled by an application process, such as President's Emissaries, but this is not the trend. Unless the administration's version of "big brother" into students' capabilities is well hidden, many students are prevented from life-changing leadership opportunities.

If the administration is going to instill Marianist values in students, it needs to lead by example, or change what they claim to be UD's values. I challenge the administration to reevaluate its method of incorporating students into leadership roles and students to demand a fair voice.