Bakersfield College’s Legislative Liaison Alan Crane was elected to be president by 23 of the regional representatives that comprise the council for the Statewide Student Senate of California Community Colleges.

“Its the first time in any ones recollection that anyone from the valley has taken the position as president,” said Crane.

“Historically it’s a student from Los Angeles that receives this position.”

There are 10 regions in the state and approximately 10 schools in each region. Each region elects two senators, in the entirety of the state elects 10 senators at large.

“I’m president of the 30 schools that represent 110 colleges,” said Crane. “When I say 110 I also recognize Compton College as a valid student body.”

Crane manages the representatives that are involved in state level participatory governors councils and committees.

Due to Title 5, students must have the ability to weigh in on policies that are being decided, their opinions on policies must be taken into consideration.

According to Crane it’s the only school system in California that enjoys that right.

Crane not only takes on his regular school schedule but he is also getting hands on political training most students wont get to see until their third or fourth year of undergrad studies. He is gaining extensive knowledge of small group decision making applied politics as well as political science.

“I chair monthly meetings in Sacramento, where policies are discussed dealing with elected officials in the capitol,” said Crane.

“Since the Friday before school started I’ve been doing 18 hour days, I’ve been in Sacramento every weekend for the last three weeks.”