It's early to judge the Gabriel Presidency, but I don't intend to let that stop me. Jesse was still putting together his list of projects for the year when I interviewed him in early July, so I was mainly treated to an overview of his administrative structure and objectives for the year. More will probably follow as he increases his detail level.

The other three Executives I've interviewed had remarkably little to say on their predecessors in the office. SAO Salam only mentioned Alex a few times. EVP Han only talked about Justin in terms of his Department of Student Group Services, which she was basically dismantling. AAVP Tony only talked briefly about Catherine in regards to Academic Senate. In contrast, Jesse has former President Adeyamo very much in mind; mementos of Wally's adventures and projects litter the office, and Mr. Gabriel often compared his own intentions to his predecessors'.

This shines most in organizational structure. Jesse's most innovative structural change is the institution of a Cabinet system composed of representatives from numerous offices. It will serve two purposes. The first is a talking shop and policy setting instrument for the entire ASUC, involving all Executives. The second, and most interesting one, is a coordinating office for cross-office projects. Considering the advocacy emphasis of this year's Executives, this becomes especially vital. An example would be a Cabinet meeting on advocacy to improve Student Services. Tony, Han, and Jimmy send their Senior Directors and Researchers, who can easily compare information and collaborate. There should be similar gains by coordinating Publicity and Research efforts.

Also structurally, Mr. Gabriel will focus the Office's efforts on a small number of important projects, rather then pushing in too many directions. All projects will fall under one of five areas, all with the general aim of community building. These include increasing ASUC involvement with students, examine self-segregation on campus, coordinating community service, advocacy to the Administration, and increasing Academic Advising.



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