Vote Davis for YT

Engineering Student Government is pleased to officially endorse Matt Davis for Young Trustee. We endorse Davis not because he is representative of Trinity, Pratt or any other aspect of Duke, but because his majors in both undergraduate schools give him many perspectives on campus and academic life. He is best able to represent all of Duke. ESG met with and carefully considered Matt Davis, Michelle Sohn, Ben Getson and Brooke Kingsland. While all were thought to be strong candidates, Davis’ familiarity with the Duke students makes his voice invaluable at the highest levels of University leadership.

ESG notes that Davis stressed the need to build Duke’s brand and differentiate itself from other schools. In addition, Davis indicated the importance of several proposed new academic programs in Pratt. These are critical points of emphasis moving forward for both the University at large as well as for individual schools and departments. It shows that Davis will become familiar with the agenda set forth by the leaders of any part of the University—those who know their program best—and work with them toward progress. Unification of plan and purpose across many levels of University leadership is a key to success that Davis understands well.

We feel that, relative to other elected positions, the Young Trustee is someone who should have a particular emphasis on knowing Duke students. Davis’ involvement with living on campus gives him this viewpoint. The action of the Board of Trustees is beyond that of any single person, but the influential and well-versed perspective of a student is unique to the Young Trustee and an aspect of the position that all students should feel strongly about. The Young Trustee is the students’ direct window to the long-term navigation of the University. Davis is best fit to excel in that role.

For engineering students, and for all students, ESG is confident that Matt Davis will best represent our voice.

David Piech

President, Duke Engineering Student Government

Pratt ’12