Becca Yanez (OU)
Jonathan Curtis is a third year student from the University of Oklahoma (OU), and while he has competed with the OU delegation for some time, this is his first year in ALU. Jonathan is currently serving as Deputy Pres. Pro. He delightfully recalled his time this past year working under Pres.Pro Morrison and his growth as a competitor over the years.
“I’m almost like the vice-president (of the senate), I chair when the Pres.Pro. is not there,” Curtis said when describing his role in ALU.
Unlike his many predecessors, Curtis has had a unique set of challenges due to being forced to campaign for his current role as Deputy Pres.Pro and is currently campaigning for Pres.Pro. Curtis compares his campaign experience.
“Back in the day of O.I.L people would create graphics, but they would have pieces of literature and buttons and stuff like that. They would distribute those on the first day of session.” Curtis said “You would lobby people at dinner, and now it’s more like; “ Hi this is my groupme here’s my number.”
Curtis also reflects on his desires to create a smooth transition to in-person session for younger members who have yet to experience an in-person session. Curtis also took the time to describe the attributes of virtual session that he has enjoyed such as the efficiency in voting online. When asked about what Curtis misses from competing in the senate as an OU delegate, he talks in depth about how he misses being involved on the floor and interacting closely with other competitors. In addition, Curtis offered words of wisdom to 0 or 1 star senators who may feel intimidated by the senate, especially when it comes to parliamentary procedure.
“It’s all made up, if someone tries to one up you on their ability to say, ‘Thank you Mr. Deputy, please direct my comments to the body,’ they’re not really the biggest one up on you. Also, no one knows what they’re doing.We are all learning,” Curtis said. “Listen to other motions and don’t be afraid to ask other delegates.”
Curtis went on to offer advice to non-senators who want to be senators, but are nervous to apply and go through their delegation’s process.
“First of all, dispel the myth that the senate is somehow better than the house,” Curtis said. “The learning curve is not too heavy, especially if you’re already a member ( of O.I.L ). We’re not as intimidating as we look, we just have a red room instead of a green room.”
Towards the end of the interview, Curtis talked about his favorite part of the senate was the closeness that he gets to other members due to the size of the chamber being so small.
“I like knowing every single member. There is this unwritten rule that you talk to everyone. I like that the senate is small enough that you kind of have to talk to everyone,” Curtis said.
To watch the full interview, click on the video above!