by Bradley J. Burt

On Weds. March 25, Student Senate presidential candidates received an email from Student Senate. In the email, the 64th Madison College Student Senate requested a response to the following questions:

Hello all,

I hope you are doing well and enjoying the warmer weather this week!

Student Senate is excited to introduce a new initiative designed to better connect the students of Madison College with you, the candidates running for Student Senate President.

These interviews will be conducted by one of our three Senate members listed in the CC section of this email. These interviews will be posted to YouTube, as well as WolfPack Connect.

Please reply to this email with a few dates and times that you are available to participate in an interview.

To help you prepare, all candidates will be asked the same five questions:

1. What specific initiatives or projects would you prioritize continuing from the current administration, and why?
2. What new initiative would you introduce in your first semester as Student Senate President, and how would you realistically implement it?
3. Can you describe a leadership experience where you had to represent a diverse group of student voices? What challenges did you face, and how did you handle them?
4. Student engagement is often a challenge. What concrete strategies would you use to increase student participation and trust in Student Senate?
5. Beyond your qualifications, what personal values or perspectives set you apart from the other candidates, and how will those shape your leadership vision?

Each candidate will be asked these same questions to ensure a fair and consistent opportunity to share their perspectives with the student body.

Thank you, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Q: What specific initiatives or projects would you prioritize continuing from the current administration, and why?

A: As the former Public Safety Advisory Committee chairperson, I would prioritize completing the Rules Committee’s goal of establishing a Dane County FM radio connection for Clarion Radio. This initiative is critical for emergency communication in situations such as domestic terrorism, active shooter incidents, or other first-response events. Currently, Clarion Radio only reaches a streaming audience, which limits accessibility during emergencies. Expanding to FM radio would help ensure that the community remains informed and safe both on and off campus.

Q: What new initiative would you introduce in your first semester as Student Senate President, and how would you realistically implement it?

A: I would introduce a structured reporting and collaboration initiative requiring all committees to actively participate in Student Senate reporting processes. This would include roundtable discussions during new business, where committees share updates and identify key issues. From there, the Senate would vote on the most pressing priorities, assign responsibilities for the upcoming week, and ensure that new members understand the scope and function of each committee. This approach promotes accountability, transparency, and effective teamwork.

Q: Can you describe a leadership experience where you had to represent a diverse group of student voices? What challenges did you face, and how did you handle them?

A: During my time with Clarion Radio and as a newspaper business director, I was responsible for representing a wide range of student voices through ethical broadcasting and responsible brand management. One challenge I faced involved navigating a classroom experience where I felt singled out during a discussion of SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis in a marketing course.

While the situation was difficult, I chose to handle it professionally by addressing the concern through appropriate institutional channels, including my disability resources coordinator. This experience reinforced my understanding of advocacy, professionalism, and the importance of addressing concerns constructively.

As a non-traditional student with military service and a disability, I am deeply aware of the challenges related to ageism, ableism, and social bias. I address these issues by raising awareness, engaging in dialogue, and escalating concerns appropriately when necessary. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to inclusive representation and respectful leadership.

Q: Student engagement is often a challenge. What concrete strategies would you use to increase student participation and trust in Student Senate?

A: Building student trust begins with accountability and transparency. I believe Student Senate must openly acknowledge areas where improvement is needed, particularly in addressing concerns related to campus culture and inclusion.

To increase engagement, I would focus on creating consistent communication channels, such as open forums and student-centered programming, while ensuring that student feedback directly informs Senate decisions. My experience developing initiatives like “Fist of Senate” through Clarion Radio reflects my commitment to creating platforms where student voices can be heard.

Ultimately, trust is built when students see their concerns taken seriously and reflected in meaningful action. My goal is to ensure that Student Senate operates in a way that prioritizes the broader student body over individual interests.

Q: Beyond your qualifications, what personal values or perspectives set you apart from the other candidates, and how will those shape your leadership vision?

A: I believe leadership should be rooted in fairness, independence, and equal opportunity. I approach decision-making without strict allegiance to any political party, instead focusing on issues and outcomes that best serve the community.

As someone who has run for Congress as an independent candidate, I have demonstrated a willingness to challenge systems and advocate for underrepresented voices, particularly veterans and non-traditional students. My leadership style is grounded in integrity, accountability, and a commitment to representing all students without bias or favoritism.

These values guide my vision for a Student Senate that is inclusive, transparent, and truly representative of the diverse student body.

I am Bradley J. Burt and I approve this message.