FUSA candidates duke it out at debate

In front of a slim crowd at the Barone Campus Center, the candidates for next year’s FUSA executive positions squared off in a one-hour debate Thursday afternoon. Candidates for the Vice President positions for both Senate and Programming began the debate which closed with the debate of the four Presidential candidates.

The candidates are as follows: for VP of Senate, Ryan Cantor, ’04, and Geoff Cook, ’05; for VP of Programming, Jeff Holland, ’05, and Jillian Grant, ’05; and for FUSA President, Caroline Conway, ’04, Marissa Lanteri, ’04, Kevin Neubauer, ’05, and Chris Zeitz, ’04.

A diverse panel from the Fairfield community asked tough questions which all candidates did their best to answer and rebut. The debate of the presidential candidates was the most intense, where the panel came up with interesting and intriguing questions in hopes to show the true colors of out potential next president.

Each candidate gave their opening statements, proclaiming their platforms. Conway’s divers background in activities and clubs proved to be an intricate piece of her puzzle. She stated that her knowledge of all the workings of FUSA would aid her bid as president. An increase in communication was also a key part of her opening statement.

Lanteri also spoke of her background in FUSA and how she has been involved in many other clubs and organizations on campus. She notes that this has made her a “well-rounded” candidate for the presidential position.

Neubauer spoke of his focus to improve student life on campus. He has been class president the past two years and noted that because he is a rising junior, that he will be able to see the fruits of his labor

while he is still at the university.

Finally, Zeitz talked about his main goal to improve town-gown relations. He mentioned that the university is an economic benefit to the town of Fairfield. His involvement with the Mirror and as an RA has helped him become a good candidate for president, he said.

Check back later this weekend as more in-depth coverage of the debates is posted. Included will be audience reactions and detailed answers to all the questions from the candidates.