Writing in the context

I am writing in response to the Editorial Board’s “Disallow Young Trustee Write-ins,” in the context of the present election cycle.

In my campaign thus far, I have sought to keep the strength of my candidacy distinct from claims of weakness against the YTNC. However, I must now critically address the role of the YTNC. According to the Editorial Board, the “situation” of my campaign “greatly devalues the work of the YTNC.” I urge you to consider the extent to which the YTNC has devalued itself in what has become an extremely political process that misrepresents the qualifications and service of an effective Young Trustee.

The Editorial Board writes that the YTNC decides who is “worthy of serving on Duke’s Board.” But the qualifications that make such a body “worthy” of issuing these selections are unclear. Additionally, members can withdraw throughout the process, communicate regularly with candidates outside of interviews and ultimately join the campaign of the finalist of their choice, exposing long-standing preferences.

Deeply passionate about Duke and knowledgeable about what is at stake in the position of Young Trustee, I will not tolerate the election being compromised. I am committed to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. Although my name will not be included on the ballot, the option to write it in will. I look forward to sharing more details with undergraduates on how to do so as they become available.

The current process leaves the decision up to students—so here we are. May all candidates be treated fairly, and may the one best suited for this service in the way it was intended be chosen to fulfill it in trust.

Brooke Kingsland

Trinity ’11