Valencia's SGA President Speaks At News Conference

By Samantha Sharma

ORLANDO, Fla — A news conference was held at Valencia Community College with the new president of the Student Government Association on June 16 at Valencia's West Campus. President Robert Stio spoke about his goals for SGA and the ideas he plans to implement. 

Stio comes to the position of president with an “extensive background in the film and television industry.” Stio has worked on “full-length feature films, television shows and commercials” and plans to use his "professional experience to bring the SGA to a new level.”

“Mass media is the future,” said Stio, who plans on incorporating “marketing and publicity” to alert students about the SGA. Members of the SGA are currently in the process of creating an online monthly magazine called the Gavel, a SGA website, as well as using technology such as YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, blogs, video recordings and "word of mouth" in order to spread the word of the SGA.

Stio, 35, had initially ran for the position of vice-president, winning his position un-opposed. When the former president Warren Levy was not able to fulfill his duties due to “personal issue” Stio stepped in and assumed the role of president.

“I don’t have any power, but I know how to set things in motion,” said Stio.

Stio gave a brief presentation at the press conference on his goals and hopes for the SGA before opening the floor to questions.

Stio expressed that “students and student awareness” was the main goal of the SGA members. “We want to let students know that we really are listening and using their ideas,” said Stio.

Increasing student participation was another main concern of SGA members. "Anyone can get involved ... get involved, it is a benefit, there is money behind it," said Michael Scott, SGA's chief-of-staff, who accompanied Stio to the press conference. The SGA plans to have more one on one time with students and train SGA members in public relations in order to build a connection with students. The SGA also has planned an array of events in hope that they can get to hear from students and create awareness about the SGA.

SGA members are working on outlines and hammering out details to their ideas that they hope to have in effect soon. Stio’s current task is setting up the senate, which consists of senators he will appoint, and a swearing in ceremony on June 30.

For more information on the Student Government Association or how you can get involved email Rob Stio at SGAWPres@valenciacc.edu or visit the student leadership office in Building 3 Room 154.