Incumbent UPUA President T.J. Bard announced in an e-mail to the assembly Monday night that he would not be seeking re-election for a second term next year. A current junior, Bard cited “personal issues” as the reason for this decision.

“Unfortunately as some of you know, due to personal issues I have decided not to run for a second term,” Bard wrote. “I have the utmost confidence in each of you and your ability to lead UPUA. I encourage all of you to step up this coming year and take on a strong leadership position within the organization. I look forward to having the opportunity to help and guide you all however possible.”

As someone who has been an outspoken critic of UPUA, it’s hard to criticize Bard for something other than his vapid tie collection. This has been the toughest year in the history of the University, and Bard has handled himself exceptionally well in his position as the leading student voice and figurehead.

While the assembly was busy wasting money on cup and sunglasses, Bard was addressing the student body after the scandal hit or introducing his idealistic six points for change. Although I wish Bard had played a more active stance in trying to stop the standard UPUA shenanigans instead of taking a passive role–he admitted that he was personally against UPUA’s publicity spending initiative, but chose not to veto it–the next UPUA President will have a respectable legacy to sustain.

UPUA elections will be held on March 28, but who will compete at the top of the ballot is still a wonder. As of February 27, no one had signed out executive packets, which are required to run for president. Bard is also the alumni relations officer for the 2012 Homecoming Committee, and he made no statement regarding whether he would remain in a leadership position for that organization.