In response to the letter, “What does GSB really do, anyway?” from Jan. 26: I wondered the same thing until I became a member of the Government of the Student Body cabinet.

Then, I realized our daily lives are affected by GSB — from CyRide to the student voice in the Ames community, from students lobbying the Iowa Legislature to the justification of student fees and tuition.

The reason so many of GSB’s actions go unnoticed is because many students are not familiar with the actions of the organization.

Last semester, GSB members administered a survey in Union Drive Community Center, and we discovered, from the 68 students interviewed, that only 7 percent were “very” familiar with GSB and 68 percent were “somewhat” familiar. These statistics reflect the need to increase our visibility on campus.

As GSB’s Director of Student Projects, I help plan activities that increase our visibility and provide an atmosphere for students to relax and have a good time.

GSB is cooperating with LINC, KURE and SUB to have a Battle of the Bands in April, and a free-food study break at the library is being planned for Finals Week.

As for the senators and other cabinet members, I know they spend a majority of their day talking with their constituents and improving ISU campus relations.

Other student positions exist on GSB, and my role is just a small one. In order to learn more about what we do and how we can improve serving students, I invite you to attend a cabinet meeting, at 5 p.m., or a senate meeting, at 7 p.m., on Wednesdays in the Memorial Union. These are open to all students, and I encourage you to come and voice your concerns. We are serving you and welcome your input on our actions.

Victoria Brenton

Director of Student Projects

Government of the Student Body