Finance and Services Officer James Meager has resigned from his position on the OUSA Executive. Meager’s resignation letter casts doubt on the way the Exec is run and OUSA President Harriet Geoghegan’s leadership style.
Meager tendered his resignation in a rather lengthy letter addressed to OUSA Secretary Donna Jones last Monday. In the letter he claimed that he no longer had the drive to work for OUSA, and that he had been drained physically and mentally: “My University studies have suffered detrimentally, as well as my own well-being.”
However, later in the letter it became apparent that the major reason for Meager’s resignation was dissatisfaction with the OUSA Exec itself. “I feel that I am unable to work within an Executive environment which lacks structure, professionalism, punctuality, leadership, and overall adherence to any level of standards.” He further noted that he felt uncomfortable within the negative atmosphere of the Exec, although he conceded that he himself had contributed to the vibe.
In contrast to Philipson’s happy families resignation letter, Meager’s letter was fairly negative. “I will be keeping my distance to focus on my studies and to complete what has been a very long, arduous year.” He completed his down beat letter by stating, “I no longer feel like I have anything to give to this organisation worth giving.”
Although Meager’s resignation is concerning, it does not come as a shock. Meager had become increasingly disillusioned and dissatisfied with the Exec, an attitude that was particularly evident at recent Exec meetings.
Geoghegan said Meager’s resignation was “a shame,” as he had contributed greatly to OUSA, especially to internal policy. She did acknowledge however that university work was the foremost priority for Exec members.
Meager is the fifth OUSA exec member to resign this year. He follows in the stead of Presant Singh, Amith Koleth, John Philipson and most recently, Stephanie Reader. The number of resignations raises concern over the nature of internal politics during 2010.
Meager eager to go
