The new associate vice president of athletic relations has a lot on her plate. Vice President Student Life Donna Bean tapped the nascent Stephanie Chang, a women’s crew team member and Eleanor Roosevelt College sophomore, over three other candidates. The new appointee now has the opportunity to direct a defining time in UCSD athletics.

Supporters of another candidate, council veteran and Earl Warren College junior Dan Palay, who lost his presidential bid to current A.S. President Marco Murillo last month, were vocal at the May 23 council meeting. Palay’s backers, including All-Campus Senator Meghan Clair and Triton Tide Director Dave Payne, attacked Chang’s qualifications and the interviewing committee’s lack of “”follow through.”” Bean defended her decision, citing Chang’s “”vision”” and “”passion”” for the position.

Bean said that she invited the critics to join the committee multiple times, to no avail. If Chang’s detractors were so concerned about the appointment, Bean questioned, why didn’t they join the interview committee? This board echoes the query.

The challenges Chang will face are certainly pivotal. With the influx of student cash provided by the athletics fee referendum, the department’s proximal success (or lack thereof) will set the tone for years to come. As the council’s liaison to the department, Chang must shoulder the council’s share of responsibility for the department’s image and student enthusiasm. Supporters sold the referendum on its ability to improve UCSD’s school spirit and student life. If Chang proves unable to instate such improvements, the damages will be enduring. Athletics need to shine in student minds when they open their wallets next year – and if Chang’s learning curve is too steep, Clair and Payne may prove vindicated.