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St. Cloud State University
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MSUSA recognizes legislators
By Carol Seavey
Published:
Thursday, October 17, 2002
The Minnesota State University Student Association (MSUSA) has chosen the members of the 2002 Legislative Dean's List and Legislators of the Year.
Each year MSUSA recognizes a number of Minnesota's state senators and representatives for their support of higher education.
"One, it's just to let them know that students of Minnesota are paying attention," said Yorgun Marcel, an SCSU graduate student and the MSUSA state chair. "The second part is to let them know that their concern for higher education is a warranted one, one that is recognized and one that is supported and that there are voices out there who believe in those messages."
Legislators honored from St. Cloud include Sen. Dave Kleis (R), Rep. Jim Knoblach (R), and Rep. Joe Opatz (DFL). A total of 27 state senators and 36 representatives were recognized.
"I'm pleased that they recognized the work I do for students," Opatz said. "I understand the needs of the students."
MSUSA members follow legislators' voting records; those who push for bills and issues that are important to higher education are included on the list.
"It's very easy to see who are the people who are really out there trying to do something and support," Marcel said, "and those people who may not."
Recognizing legislators on the MSUSA Dean's List also encourages senators and representatives to continue to support higher education.
"(We want to) send a message to other legislators that yes, the students are here and are looking at your voting record throughout the year and it's a way of accountability from our end," Marcel said.
Rep. Opatz supports student involvement.
"It's an important service for (MSUSA) to identify legislators who are meeting the needs of the students," Opatz said.
Sen. Kleis said, "Education, especially higher education, is my top priority."
Of his experience with MSUSA he said, "It's an honor that we've been working together."
MSUSA also chose the 2002 Legislators of the Year. The winners were Sen. Keith Langseth (DFL-Glydon) and Rep. Tom Pugh (DFL-South St. Paul).
MSUSA chose members during their Presidential Board of Directors meeting at Winona State University Sept. 20-22.
