A Word from the Pres...

This has been an incredible semester (Spring Semester 1996), and a landmark for my tenure in AGS. People sometimes ask why I like AGS so much, and my response has always been, because of the people involved in this organization. There is such a broad cross-section of the campus and community involved in AGS, it is what makes us so unique and incredible.

This semester I have seen the positive things that such a diverse group of people can do when they act together. We have sent record numbers of people to H.O.W.I.E., brightening up the lives of our community's elders. We have provided tutoring for numerous students on campus and offset the demand on the tutoring center. We donate food to the Homeless Educational Assistance Project (HEAP). And we just had a record-breaking Blood Drive. The effect that AGS has on the college and the community in the last month and a half has been wonderful. I am very proud to be a part of this group.

Several times during the last month, people have told me how impressed they are with the enthusiasm and organization they see in AGS. They comment on the extensive advertising around campus, tons of food brought in for the bake sales, and smiles seen on the members' faces.. I always tell them, "Thank You - the group is worthy of the highest of compliments." And you are, my applause go out to every one of you.

If I am not mistaken, I might begin to think that we are all having fun.. Be careful, this can be addicting. Just kidding, but actually, the energy that AGS expresses is widely felt around campus, and is having a profound effect on the other student organizations. Administrators have often stated that the great student leaders of this campus come from the clubs, and AGS usually breeds the best and the brightest. When the other student leaders and activists see the positive energy emulating from AGS, it excites them to know that there are other students, like themselves, who feel the rush from being a positive influence in their community. Keep up the good work. (I love making them envious.)

In a few closing words, I will try to resume the serious nature that my job seems to incorporate. Time management... no matter how much fun you are having, always take care of your priorities first and foremost. A past AGS President, Stephen Shofner, put it well when he diagrammed a priority list for us foolish enough to have multiple activities going on in our lives. The list goes something like this:

1. Take care of YOURSELF

2. FAMILY responsibilities

3. 3. Take care of WORK & SUSTENANCE

4. SCHOOL Responsibilities

5. Make time for FRIENDS

6. EXTRACURRICULAR involvements

7. Your COMMUNITY involvements

And remember, a hungry community activist is not a happy community activist.

Best wishes for a successful semester, and have a wonderful time in AGS.

I love y'all,

[IMAGE]" Tova S. Joffe

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