The Graduate Student Association was organized with the purpose of representing graduate students' concerns to the University administration. Why, then, have they not enthusiastically endorsed Thomas Howarth's campaign as an alumni candidate to the University Board of Trustees (they tabled his request for endorsement at their meeting.)

To have Mr. Howarth, a doctoral student in Engineering Science, on the Board would be an invaluable asset to all graduate students.

In addition to possessing strong organizational skills and a sense of priorities rivaled by few -- necessary qualities in a board member -- Mr. Howarth would be in a position to represent graduate students' concerns to the group which has the highest authority of University policy!

With his strong character, Mr. Howarth would not allow our voices to go unheard. Having earned his bachelors', masters', and now working towards his doctorate at Penn State, he understands this University well from the students' perspective.

He also has six years' experience in industry, which contributes to his strong sense of corporate dynamics.

The GSA has everything to gain and nothing to lose by endorsing Mr. Howarth in his campaign for trustee, and could benefit even more by actively working towards his victory at election time.

The actual election will run from April 7 to May 11.