News

Katie Bryan – Rizzo the Rat
Commerce Representative
Critic had never seen this “Katie” character previous to the presentation of her first report, and apparently neither had the Executive, as Katie has been spending a large proportion of her time with OCOM. Her first report attempt was a bit “word-light” (barely over 50 percent of the required word count), so Katie was asked to resubmit; her second attempt met with more success. Katie has certainly been giving her all to the Commerce department, but to the detriment, it seems, of her general OUSA duties, which were barely mentioned.
2/5
 
John Philipson – Animal
General Executive
John’s report was late, not because the dog ate it or a flying pig stole his printer, but because he was just a bit slack. The Exec couldn’t think of a suitable punishment, despite John’s suggestion that it be kinky. John’s report was a little scanty, but he was let off because he does “secret squirrel” stuff for the Finance and Expenditure Committee that was in the report but “not in so many terms.” Dan pointed out that John is either here all the time or not at all, which might explain John’s limited involvement in the general Exec duties.
3/5
 
Imogen Roth – Emily Bear
General Representative
Imogen pointed out the serious lack of a job description for her position, which is sort of an issue when comparing someone’s performance against said job description. Nevertheless, it seems that Imogen has been doing her bit, especially with the whole VSM campaign thang, which has required “blood, sweat, tears, and a small sliver of [her] soul.” No surprise, then, that one of Imogen’s goals is to “avoid getting Rogered by Voluntary Student Membership.” Consensus was that Imogen (and her equally dedicated plus-one) has been a pretty good contributor, and the report was carried with two thumbs up.
4/5
 
Stephanie Reader – Ernie
Education Officer
Poor Steph. She hated writing the report, and it had lots of grammar issues, once again demonstrating why she is a worthy Education Representative (could she not have used the spelling and grammar check like everyone else?). Steph thought her scary position would have her “shaking in [her] little booties,” but apparently it hasn’t been as bad as she initially thought. Listed among her O Week activities were teaching first-years proper lecture etiquette and pinning togas back onto drunken freshers. Steph has spent her time sitting on heaps of boards, giving “snazzy” class rep presentations, liaising with University Staff on Education Issues, and experiencing the “funness” of writing a policy. 
3/5
 
Michael Anderson – Bert
Sciences Divisional Representative
Michael admitted that of his weekly ten work hours, perhaps one hour is spent on Farmville. The Executive is continuing to support him despite his known problem, as they are a non-discriminatory bunch. Michael doesn’t communicate regularly with the class representatives, or advertise his contact details. He does however maintain numerous weekly “meetings” and daily “chats” with Stephanie Reader, as part of his duty to keep in regular “contact” with the Education Officer. Michael has also been heavily involved with the environmental committee and environmental sustainability advisory committee, which is working towards drafting policy relating to travel and transportation. It seems Michael has a finger in every pie, which Critic thinks is kinda impressive.
4.5/5
 
 
Shonelle Eastwood – Lady Gaga
Women’s Representative
Shonelle has done so much in her General Duties that the Execcies were concerned she had wasted her words. “Good job” said the Execcies, in adoring voices. It seems Shonelle has also been putting in a lot of work in her role as the Women’s Rep. Shonelle launched the Women’s Room on International Women’s day with a “multitude of balloons,” and co-ordinated with Rape Crisis and the NZUSA National Women’s Rights Officer. All in all, it’s difficult to fault Shonelle, who seems to be a dedicated addition to the Exec.
4/5
 
Malia Asopesio Vete – Telly Monster
Pacific Island Representative
Like the others, Malia is pretty VSM-focused, and has been informing Pacific Island students about what could happen if the bill is passed. Malia hasn’t yet met with community leaders or attended a welfare committee meeting, though – not good. But Malia has done other things to support Pacific Island students, such as sitting on some committees and helping Pacific Island association presidents apply for grants to a conference. Malia hopes to increase student participation in Pacific Island events. 
3/5
 
Harriet Geoghegan – Miss Piggy
President
Yeah, her report was late, but who’s complaining? Harriet has been doing a “mean job” as Commander in Chief, always glowing and serene in the face of adversity. Much of what Harriet does is difficult to quantify, such as networking and her radio show, but the general feeling is that she is going above and beyond the call of duty with never a hair out of place. She’s been doing a “butt-load” of work (an official measure, allegedly) for VSM, co-ordinating with student association Presidents around the country. She has achieved a far healthier relationship with the media and the University Council than her infamous predecessor. At Critic’s count, she represents students on seven different boards. On top of all this, she controls her flock, the wily Executive. The Executive gave Harriet snaps for open communication and a happy environment, which, although cheesy, are much deserved.
6/5