E.J. Walicki's resignation from his position as UF Student Body treasurer will create a gap in UF's executive branch, but Student Government officials said there would be a replacement by March 18.
Walicki announced during a meeting of the Student Senate on Tuesday night that he must resign from office to be with his family following his father's death in January. Today is his final day in office, he said.
Before he returns to Baltimore, however, Walicki will suggest three candidates to potentially fill his shoes until his term ends May 1.
If the nominees accept Walicki's nod, they will give speeches and answer questions posed by student senators at March 18's Senate meeting, said Student Body President Ryan Moseley.
The senators will decide which candidate will act as treasurer until Paul Drayton, the newly elected treasurer, takes the reigns in May. Drayton was elected in last week's SG spring elections.
Walicki said his candidates would have strong experience in both SG and business.
"I can't see putting someone who is somewhat new or doesn't have a lot of work or finance experience in there because it would be a setback," he said.
Moseley said whoever takes control will handle one of the busiest seasons of the year. Many student organizations need SG funds to travel to conferences at the end of spring, which requires approval from the treasurer.
Walicki said Drayton, who is chairman of the senate's budget committee, is "obviously qualified" to adopt the position now. He did not say whether Drayton was one of the top three candidates he was considering.
"But Paul is a fantastic name that comes to mind," he added.
Drayton said if Walicki nominated him, he would happily accept so he could get a head start on his duties before he officially takes over in May.
Walicki said he would return to UF in the fall, after he completes a summer internship.
Moseley said he would miss "his boy" but understands why Walicki, needs to return home.
"E.J. is a very strong kid," Moseley said. "He's a great kid."
