Senators said their goodbyes at the last ASI Senate meeting of the semester Wednesday.
The ASI Senate kicked off the meeting by awarding Cal State Long Beach students Andrea Esposito and Brandy Bandaruk for their commitment and dedication “above and beyond the call of duty.”
Esposito was awarded for her services as community services commissioner. She organized community service programs and developed new programs such as the Mother’s Day Fundraiser.
Bandaruk was awarded for her services as the awards and recognition commissioner for the Senate.
Zaira Tinoco was also presented with an award for her services as ASI treasurer for the years 2005-06 and 2006-07. Tinoco was awarded for establishing the ASI Working Student Scholarship.
She accepted her award with a tearful recognition to the senators.
“I don’t know what to say, but I’ll start by saying this means so much to me. I am so glad that we were able to accomplish all the things we were able to do,” Tinoco said. “All of your different perspectives have helped me out so much; I couldn’t have done it without you.”
Sen. Shelena McClinton, the treasurer-elect for the fall 2007 semester, spoke regarding Tinoco.
“You are truly amazing and I don’t know how I’m going to fill your shoes. You have truly left a legacy and all the hard work you have put in will be carried on,” McClinton said.
Richard Haller was the next to be awarded by the Senate for his service as executive director of ASI as well being the “secretary of the Senate.”
ASI Vice President Hironao Okahana presented the award to Haller and thanked him for being his personal mentor and adviser.
Haller received his award by thanking the Senate and Okahana.
“I don’t think I’d trade the last two years for anything. It has been challenging, always interesting and heartwarming,” Haller said.
