A chat and podcast with SGA president

By: Benjamin Ward

Staff-Writer

Within student governance, there are many roles to fill. Perhaps the most widely known position is the president of the student body – but how well do students really know their leaders? While this role can be glamorized, the real life duties of the position have many genuine implications. This is why the job is perfect for someone like Christian Martinez.

From humble beginnings in Berrien Springs, Michigan, Christian has climbed his way up to leading a group of individuals who are responsible for fiscal management, communications and many more pressing tasks.

“I actually think it’s called a village because it’s too small to be a town,” Martinez said.

With his presidential term ending after this semester, Christian does not have much time to see all his plans through, so he said he must be methodical in his approach.

“I’m a pretty strategic thinker, which I think makes me good for this role. After spending two years as treasurer, I feel like I can help clean up our processes a bit and activate new initiatives,” he said. “It is disheartening to see student engagement low after Covid, but I am hopeful that it will increase over the term of another president.”

Martinez continues to set his goals and dreams just as high as they have always been by already completing his undergraduate degree; he will graduate at only 20 years old.

Though he probably will not see all his strivings come to fruition, the president said he is excited for the future of the office and all of IU South Bend.

If you would like to hear President Martinez talk a bit more about his experience as Student Body President, search for The Preface podcast wherever you get your podcasts.