Personal Statement

My name is Case Fedor and I am from Louisville, KY.  I am Political Science major with a minor in Philosophy.  I plan on going to law school one day to become a practicing trial lawyer.  The students of the University of Kentucky are top priority in my campaign for Senator-At-Large.  If I were to become Senator I want a way of communicating with all students at this prestigious university.  I am looking for unity between all students no matter what religion, race, culture or background.  We are all wildcats and no one student should have a stronger voice than his peers. Every student that pays tuition has the right to a top notch education. Education should be the building blocks for our society and surrounding community.  The security of every student is essential to our university.  Every student’s safety and health is vital to academic success.  This university should be providing the right tools for everyone to be successful after college.  After a student graduates they should have the power to make an impact on the outside world.  John F. Kennedy once said, “Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country.”  My motto will be: ask not what your university can do for you - ask what you can do for your university.  I am going to step up to the challenge and devote my time and talents for the betterment of the school and the student body.

1. As a student leader, you are aware that there is an emphasis on diversity issues at UK. What are some issues related to diversity that you believe are apparent on campus, and what do you plan to do to create change?

I have noticed that there is a large division between minorities and non-minorities.  There are many different races, religions, and cultures that populate UK's campus, but only a select few will branch out and interact with everyone.  I think more school sponsored activities that encourage diversity would help break down that divide.  School organizations that help different kinds of people meet would be very beneficial to creating a more diverse campus.  The university should also consider offering more classes that educate people on different religions and cultures.

2. What are your plans to help create an end to sexual violence and promote safety on campus?

There should be a zero tolerance for anybody that has been convicted of a sexual violent crime.  Everyone at UK is here to learn.  A student must have to comfort of safety before they can become educated.  Education isn't possible unless all students feel safe on campus and throughout the community.  Many victims of sexual violent crimes are often too afraid to come forward and charge someone with a crime.  Hotlines should be available to all victims so nobody can get away with committing sexual violent crimes.

3. In light of the recent budget issues in state government, what action should Student Government take to help maintain affordable higher education?

More education funds need to be created to help make higher education more affordable.  Philanthropy events such as Dance Blue have been very successful in raising money.  There needs to be Philanthropy events to help raise money for education funds.

4. What action, if any, do you believe is appropriate for Student Government to take to increase voter education and participation both in on-campus elections, and general elections?

Advertising throughout UK's community would help increase voter turn-out and voter education.  Articles in the Kentucky Kernel can be published on answering any questions students might have on the elections.  Mass e-mails can also provide news on the elections and inform students on candidates.

5. What are your plans with working side by side with landlords and the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government on off campus student housing?

Many people don't view students that are living in off campus housing as members of the community.  My goal will be to provide a better relationship with the students and the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government so students can gain the respect of other individuals living throughout the community.  Landlords also need to provide better information to students living in off-campus housing.  There is a divide between students and landlords that needs to be eliminated.

6. Leaders often face the struggle of understanding the people they represent. UK has a very diverse student body in terms or race, class, gender identity, culture, ethnicity, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, and ability status. What measures will you take to educate yourself on these issues? In what ways will you commit yourself to better understand and represent this diverse student body?

I am from Louisville, KY which is arguably the most diverse part of the state.  I have gone to public schooling my whole life and I have socially interacted with many different walks of life.  I am willing to meet with any student organizations to become more educated on these issues.  I will do everything I can to meet as many different types of people surrounding UK's campus.

7. What are your thoughts on improving sustainability on campus? Considering current green issues such as recycling, renewable energy, and biking. What plans do you have to make UK a more green-friendly university?

UK's campus has done a stellar job on green issues.  The school has provided many different resources that make it easier to recycle.  I hope to continue on the path that has been created and make UK as sustainable as possible.  More steps need to be taken for UK to become a more bike friendly campus.  The towing of bikes outside the Classroom Building is unnecessary and needs to stop immediately.

8. What is your response to the recent research proposal to log sections of UK-owned Robinson Forest? Would you be willing to voice a student opinion different from your own to higher administrative positions at UK?

The top priority is to preserve Robinson Forest.  Robinson Forest is part of the Mixed Mesophytic Forest, the most diverse forest region found in temperate North America.  The forest has provided us with great research and this needs to continue.  I am willing to do anything it takes to keep the tradition going

9. Use this space to address any additional ideas, plans, concerns, or platform ideas you have.

No response