My experience is that turnout is typically at about this percentage of students.

That's always the been true.

Student leaders have two ways to proceed: provide services (guide to off-campus housing, etc, etc) and address political issues.

Of course, that's true of any elected officials...although Student Senate has only advisory power, unlike government office holders.

That said, student leaders can use enthusiasm, logic and the power of moral force.

Otherwise, the choice would seem to be to just give up.

If I'm not mistaken, there have been leaders who were not elected officials who have had great effect on their societies.


So, sure, Student Senate has no specific power. But that's a 'deal with it,' that can be overcome.