A recent look at the AUSG Web site has revealed its content and updates to be neglected. While current SG President Andy MacCracken posts informative updates somewhat regularly — about once a month — those filling other positions rarely, if ever, follow suit. The vice president has never posted; nor has the comptroller. There are no minutes from the Fifth Undergraduate Senate, which has been in session since October. This is unacceptable. The student body depends on regular communication with its elected representatives. An accurate and frequently updated Web site should be a foundational component of this outreach.
The SG may object by pointing out they use other forms of communication to reach out to the students of AU. It is true that both Twitter and Facebook are well-utilized to this capacity, but student funds contribute to the continued maintenance of the site. It seems irresponsible for the site’s architects and contributors to accept these payments without updating it. Likewise, our SG executive positions are paid positions. Student leaders, while understandably busy, should be cognizant of all of their responsibilities, including periodic and informative Web posts. It is important to note that prompt dissemination of accurate information helps legitimacy, visibility and effectiveness.
Generally, AU students are not involved in the SG, but students still depend on just these kinds of communications to become and remain engaged in SG issues. Even if only a few students utilize these online resources, those who do could be critical in spreading the awareness gleaned. In short, being more vigilant in updating the Web site is a small step the SG could take to further engage the student body.
