Andrew Harker / The Avion
Junior, BS Mechanical Engineering
"Hi, I am Tilee Miller. I’m a junior in Mechanical Engineering with a focus in Robotic Systems and a minor in Human Factors. I’m in various roles that help students, such as the student assistant in the COE advising office and a researcher in the engineering fundamentals department. As the Treasurer of the Black Students Association, I was able to see how smaller RSOs are treated and viewed by the SGA treasury. My goal as a Treasury Board member, if selected, is to be a welcoming face for the lower-tier RSOs and new treasurers. I will have accessible office hours, in and out of the SLS. For example, tabling outside the SLS during budget packet season to provide feedback and answer questions. I want to reform the tier system to better align RSOs and their respective missions to the proper tier and make sure I am adhering to standards that eliminate bias based on personal involvement. I know how stressful the process can be. Let me be a friendly face to all RSOs, tiers aside."
What makes you a qualified candidate for this position?
"My qualifications for the student treasury board member position come from both my experience and skills. As the former treasurer of the Black Students Association (BSA), I successfully managed the organization’s finances, addressing the credit issues with the Student Government Association’s Treasury while implementing strategies to improve the financial stability of the organization. Through meticulous budgeting and financial planning, I not only fixed the credit issues but also secured savings for future use. Moreover, my prior accounting experience has equipped me with the necessary knowledge and skills to fulfill the responsibilities of a Student Treasury Board member. During my time as BSA treasurer, I applied my accounting experience to maintain accurate financial records, monitor expenses, and make informed financial decisions. Overall, my skills in financial management, along with my accounting background, position me as a qualified candidate for the Student Treasurer Board member role. I am confident in my ability to contribute to the mission of the Student Treasury."
What is the purpose of the Student Treasury?
"The role of the student treasury within the Student Government Association (SGA) involves the prudent management and equitable distribution of SGA fees to Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) and other divisions. Ensuring that these fees are allocated appropriately is crucial, as they are designated for the enhancement of the student body's experience and welfare. Therefore, the student treasury must adhere to ethical and impartial practices when responsibility underscores the importance of transparent financial management and decision-making processes within the SGA. By upholding ethical standards and impartiality in fund distribution, the student treasury contributes to fostering a fair and inclusive environment that supports the diverse interests and initiatives of the student community. The student treasury also plays a vital role in fostering accountability and trust among the student body by ensuring that all financial transactions are conducted with integrity and accountability. Moreover, through regular communication and collaboration with RSOs and other divisions, the student treasury seeks to promote a sense of transparency and cooperation in the allocation of funds, ultimately strengthening the unity and cohesion of the student community."
How would you define risk management, and how would you relate this skill to your position as Student Treasury Board Member?
"In the role of a Student Treasury Board Member, risk management is fundamental in ensuring the responsible allocation and management of financial resources. By identifying and analyzing potential risks associated with funding distribution to various Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) and divisions, the board can prioritize resources effectively to minimize the impact of potential losses or mismanagement. Moreover, risk management supports the ethical and impartial distribution of funds, fostering transparency and accountability in financial decision-making processes. Strategic planning, guided by risk management principles, enables the board to anticipate and address challenges proactively, ensuring that all parties receive adequate support to serve the needs of the student body. In essence, integrating risk management practices into the responsibilities of a Student Treasury Board Member enhances financial stewardship and contributes to the organization's effectiveness. Furthermore, fostering a culture of risk-awareness and continuous improvement among board members strengthens the organization's resilience and adaptability in navigating uncertain financial landscapes. Additionally, regular reviews and updates of risk management strategies ensure that the board remains proactive and responsive to evolving challenges and opportunities, reinforcing its commitment to sound financial governance."
How do you plan to ensure the organizations you represent receive the funding they need without putting others at a disadvantage?
"To ensure that the organizations I represent receive the necessary funding without disadvantaging others, I plan to implement several strategies. Firstly, I will engage in thorough communication and collaboration with each organization to understand their specific needs, objectives, and financial requirements. By comprehensively understanding their goals for the allocated funds, I can prioritize and allocate resources effectively. Furthermore, make sure all groups I'm representing are aware of alternative funding sources and strategies, such as seeking additional sponsorships, grants, or partnerships, to supplement the available budget. This approach allows for a more equitable distribution of resources across all organizations, reducing the risk of any group being disadvantaged due to limited funding. Additionally, I will prioritize transparency and fairness in the allocation process, ensuring that decisions are made impartially and based on clear criteria. By fostering an open dialogue and transparent decision-making process, I aim to build trust and confidence among the organizations and minimize any perceptions of favoritism or unfair treatment. Overall, through proactive communication, exploration of alternative funding avenues, and a commitment to transparency and fairness, I will strive to ensure that all organizations receive the funding they need to thrive without placing others at a disadvantage. "
