Harper's new student trustee plans to advocate for students

Eric DeBold is a firm believer in the importance of making informed decisions. So the second-year student plans on doing a lot of homework as Harper College's new student trustee, a position that works to ensure the board of trustees is acting in the best interest of students. Board Chairman Gregory Dowell swore in the 19-year-old Cary resident at the April meeting.

DeBold succeeds Joe Haynes.

"I know how decisions that the board makes can improve students' lives, so I want to make sure I do what I can to learn about their impact and represent their stories," he said.

DeBold, who will serve a one-year term, prepared himself for the role in part by climbing the ranks of the Student Government Association. Shortly after coming to Harper in fall 2014, he became a senator and then was elected president of SGA in spring 2015. He was part of a contingent of students that explored the feasibility of solar panels on campus. More recently, DeBold has worked to educate students about the state's budget crisis and its impact on the college. He has also advocated for student representation in Harper's Shared Governance system.

DeBold is studying political science and plans to transfer to Loyola University, Chicago, to major in environmental policy. He also works as a student aide in the Office of Student Involvement. Outside of Harper, he cultivates his love of music as a guitar player in his band.

DeBold, who considers himself thorough and objective, said he'll push for transparency as student trustee.

"I think the experiences I've had, the people I've met and the things I've learned this past year have put me in a place where I can be effective," DeBold said. The student trustee position carries an advisory vote.

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