Tyler Sunderman for Chair

2006-03-07T12:51:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to serve as your chairman over the course of the next year. In addition, thank you on behalf of Team Sunderman for your vote of confidence. Through the campaign, I learned a great deal about the needs of our chapters in all corners of Minnesota. I have had a chance to speak with so many of you and get your feedback on my plans for the future of this organization.

I would like all of you to know that in order for our organization to be successful, we need to be united behind a common mission, which is, of course to win elections and promote conservative thought on our college campuses. I am committed to bridging the divide that was present at the convention. As your chairman, I pledge to reach out for the good of our party and our candidates and strengthen the Minnesota College Republicans on every campus in the state.

The results of the elections were clear. The Minnesota College Republicans clearly endorsed a plan for the next year and the team that they would like to accomplish those goals. I look forward to continuing to roll out my agenda for the coming year and I look forward to working with each of you in the process.

Thank you,

Tyler

2006-03-02T13:20:00.000-08:00

University of Saint Thomas College Republicans Endorse Team Sunderman

Sunderman's Home Chapter Recognizes his Record of Leadership and Achievement in MCRs

Saint Paul – Team Sunderman announced today the endorsement of the University of Saint Thomas College Republicans. The home chapter of Tyler Sunderman voted overwhelmingly at a recent meeting to endorse the ticket.

"Tyler has a long history of leadership in our club. Elected as our club chairman as a freshman, Tyler increased our membership by 500 members and doubled meeting attendance. Most importantly, we have spent countless hours working alongside of Tyler. Whether volunteering during the 72 hour effort, protesting John Kerry, or organizing carpools of volunteers for special elections, Tyler has proven his ability to lead our organization and deliver victory for our candidates. We are proud to support Tyler and his team for the leadership of the Minnesota College Republicans," said UST Chair Emily Regan.

"I am honored to accept the endorsement from my friends at the University of St. Thomas. From my very first day in College Republicans, I have been privileged to work with an outstanding team of dedicated activists at UST. I cannot imagine where I would be today without such a strong group of leaders in my home club. I am proud to have Tom Kalil and Tim Rudolph on my ticket. They will continue to do an outstanding job in their roles in my administration," said Sunderman.

The University of St. Thomas College Republicans are led by Chair Emily Regan and are the recipient of the College Republican National Committee's Best Chapter in the Nation in 2005 award.

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2006-03-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

University of Minnesota-Morris Endorses Team Sunderman

Home Chapter of MCR Co-Chair Emily Loehr Joins Coalition of Clubs Supporting Sunderman for MCR Chair

Morris – Team Sunderman picked up another endorsement as the University of Minnesota-Morris College Republicans endorsed Team Sunderman at their weekly meeting Tuesday night. The UMM endorsement adds a third U of M campus to the coalition of Team Sunderman supporters.

"Tyler Sunderman has been a powerful, energetic force within the Minnesota College Republicans," said chapter president Nathan Swanson.

"I have had the opportunity to visit the Morris chapter twice and I have found that it is always worth the drive to see such an effective group of conservative activists. Despite their relative distance from other chapters, they have built a strong tradition of leadership in our organization. I have seen them drive to St. John's University to hear Dinesh D'Souza and to Marshall for campaign training. They are a dedicated group of College Republicans that I am proud to count among my supporters!" said Sunderman.

"Tyler is a diligent, effective leader and has assembled a team that will maintain the strong tradition of the Minnesota College Republicans. If the State Convention is the 'Kickoff to Victory,' Tyler Sunderman is the quarterback who will take us to the end zone in November."

"In the coming year, I am excited to work with the Morris chapter to improve communications, recruit new members, and win votes for our Republican candidates," said Sunderman.

The University of Minnesota – Morris chapter is the home of current MCR Co-Chair and Team Sunderman member Emily Loehr.

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2006-03-01T19:43:00.000-08:00

Concordia College – Moorhead Endorses Team Sunderman

Chapter Recognizes Sunderman’s Hands-on Approach to Leadership

Moorhead – Team Sunderman picked up another key endorsement from Northwestern Minnesota today, as the Concordia College- Moorhead CRs announce their endorsement. Team Sunderman members Tyler Sunderman, Luke Hellier, and Tom Kalil visited Concordia in January to build a stronger relationship between Concordia and the state organization and to help develop better relations among the chapters in the Fargo-Moorhead area.

“As senior chair of the CR’s here at Concordia, I am honored to endorse Tyler. He has become an essential team member in creating an open platform of communication between Concordia College and other Republican chapters across Minnesota. I know Tyler has great potential as a leader, so lets get him where he belongs as State Chair in the 2006 Elections!” said Concordia College Chair Jon Eisert.

“In January, I got the opportunity to visit Concordia and speak with Jon about ways that our organization can foster better communications between outstate chapters and the state organization. I am proud to say that we have built a strong personal relationship and I look forward to seeing the club continue to grow under his leadership. In the 2006 elections, I am particularly interested in fostering better relationships between chapters at Concordia, MSUM, and NDSU. This will help us to build a more effective organization in the Tri-College System in Fargo-Moorhead,” said Sunderman.

“Tyler has taken the republican chapter communication in Minnesota to a whole new level. He has taken time to drive out to other college campus to sit down and talk with his fellow members. I believe that Tyler is the most qualified candidate for State Chair in the 2006 Elections,” said Eisert.

“I am honored to have the support of the Concordia College CRs,” said Sunderman. “I look forward to better coordination in the future and renewed growth at Concordia.”

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2006-03-01T08:39:00.000-08:00

St. Olaf Co-Chair Justin Swenson to Serve as Political Director in Sunderman Administration

Swenson to Coordinate Campus Activism activities and Mock Elections Around the State

For Immediate Release:

Northfield – Justin Swenson, Co-Chair of the St. Olaf College Republicans, joined Team Sunderman today, agreeing to serve as Political Director of the Minnesota College Republicans in Sunderman's administration. Under the Team Sunderman plan, the Political Director will have a strengthened role in MCRs, coordinating campus activism activities such as rallies, street theater, demonstrations, and mock elections."

"In my administration, MCRs will have a renewed focus on campus activism," said Sunderman. "By organizing special events, demonstrations, and mock elections, we will raise the profile of our chapters on college campuses across the state. I am proud to announce that Justin Swenson will serve as Political Director in my administration.

Under my plan, he will be responsible for coordinating and developing our strategy for on-campus activities that will generate enthusiasm for our cause and win votes for our candidates in November."

"I look forward to serving as the Minnesota College Republican's Political Director under Tyler Sunderman's leadership. Through my experience with the St. Olaf College Republicans, I believe that I will help Tyler in his goal to build campus activism on campuses around the state. As the St. Olaf Chapter co-chair, I have advanced the conservative message on my campus through what we do during our weekly meetings and what we encourage our fellow College Republicans to do in the classroom and in other social settings.

At St. Olaf, we have built an organization that understands the importance of getting conservatives involved. I look forward to using the resources provided by Young America's Foundation and the Leadership Institute in order to bring these resources to every campus in the state. With my experience in campus activism at St. Olaf, I will be able to use my skills to do similar work at other campuses in Minnesota.

My work during the 2004 election season gives me the experience needed to help Tyler increase awareness and activism in this important election season," said Swenson.

Swenson is currently a Junior at St. Olaf College, where he is studying Political Science and Economics.

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2006-02-28T07:07:00.000-08:00

Minnesota State Community and Technical College – Fergus Falls Endorses Team Sunderman

Chapter Recognizes Sunderman’s Plan to Strengthen Community and Technical College Chapters

Fergus Falls – Team Sunderman gained yet another endorsement from the Minnesota State Community and Technical College Fergus Falls College Republicans. Sunderman visited Fergus Falls in early January as a part of his chapter building tour in Northwest Minnesota.

“Tyler is a guy who has paid his dues to the organization, and his leadership and enthusiasm will make him a great State Chair during the 2006 Elections. Tyler understands that for the organization to be successful, he will need to pool together efforts from all around the state, and that less-established chapters have the most untapped potential. Before the 2004 elections, there wasn't a CR chapter in Fergus Falls, but because of the upstart group, over 200 new voters were registered for the Republican cause, with better results to come this November. Successfully reaching out to less-developed chapters will yield great results, and this is a key part of Tyler's platform. We are enthusiastic to see where Tyler can take the Minnesota College Republicans in 2006 and beyond,” said MSCTC-FF Chair Jon Hanson.

“The Fergus Falls CRs are an outstanding example of what community and technical college chapters can accomplish. Jon and his team of activists are doing an outstanding job. As I developed my first platform piece that addressed strengthening chapters in outstate Minnesota, I was glad to get positive feedback from Jon, who has valuable experience in the field. In 2006, I will dedicate this organization to maximizing the untapped potential on community college campuses,” said Sunderman.

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2006-02-27T19:24:00.000-08:00

Hamline University College Republicans Unanimously Endorse Team Sunderman

Club recognizes Sunderman's Record of Grassroots Leadership in the Minnesota College Republicans

St. Paul – Team Sunderman gained another key endorsement today in their campaign to lead Minnesota College Republicans to victory in 2006. Hamline University's endorsement adds to the solid and unstoppable momentum building behind Team Sunderman with only days to go before the State Convention.

"Serving as club chair at Hamline and as a Vice Chair on the State Board for the last year under Tyler's superb leadership, I am pleased to announce that the Hamline College Republicans fully endorse Tyler Sunderman for State Chair and all of Team Sunderman," said Vice Chair Metro Brad Short. "Tyler is a natural-born leader and has an innate passion for electing Republicans and bringing conservative views to college campuses. He has been instrumental in building the College Republican organization over the last year, creating a grassroots army for the Republican Party of Minnesota. Tyler has the ability to mobilize college students from every corner of the state to get Republican candidates elected, the vision to lead College Republicans to victory in November, and has put together an amazing team of dedicated leaders, making him the best candidate for State Chair of the Minnesota College Republicans."

"The Hamline University College Republicans have a strong record of achievement at one of the most liberal schools in Minnesota," said Sunderman. "Over the course of the past year, I have had the privilege of working with Brad and the Hamline CRs at a number of events, including the Hope for the City dinner, the Hamline activities fair, and the special elections in the fall of 2005. Their endorsement is a key step in my campaign for the leadership of the Minnesota College Republicans. I look forward to working alongside the Hamline CRs as we deliver victory for the GOP in 2006."

# # #

2006-02-26T18:10:00.000-08:00

Bemidji State University College Republicans Endorse Team Sunderman

Chapter Recognizes Sunderman's Record of Leadership

Bemidji – Team Sunderman gained yet another endorsement from outstate Minnesota today as the Bemidji State University College Republicans issued their official endorsement.

"As Executive Director, I traveled to Bemidji to meet with newly-elected BSU Chair Anna Fournier and develop a plan for growth for her chapter. I am excited to work with her in the future as we continue to build a successful club at a school that is traditionally very liberal. In the 2006 election, the BSU College Republicans will play an important role in their local community as they work to elect local candidates and recruit new CRs on their campus. I am proud to count them among my supporters," said Sunderman.

"During this Spring semester we have been in the process of rebuilding the College Republicans on the BSU campus, and Tyler Sunderman has been there every step of the way! He has had great advice on how to get more people involved and has been a great motivator to us. As the Acting Chair of the Bemidji State College Republicans I proudly endorse Tyler Sunderman for MCR Chair. The election season of 2006 is crucial for Minnesota and the country, and Tyler's leadership is exactly what the Minnesota College Republicans need!" said BSU Acting Chair Anna Fournier.

The Bemidji State College Republicans join a rapidly growing coalition of schools from around the state that have united behind Team Sunderman. With just one week remaining in the Campaign for MCR Chair, Tyler Sunderman continues to gain momentum.

# # #

2006-02-23T14:14:00.000-08:00

Deputy Vice Chair Metro Bethany Buckhout of Northwestern College Endorses Tom Kalil for MCR Treasurer

Cites Kalil’s Unrivaled Record of Dedication and Activism in the Minnesota College Republicans

St. Paul- Deputy Vice Chair Metro and Northwestern College Republicans Community Relations Director Bethany Buckhout has endorsed Tom Kalil for MCR Treasurer.

"I am proud to support all members of Team Sunderman, and I feel that Tom Kalil is especially deserving of my support," said Buckhout. "Having worked with both Phil Johnson as a club member at Northwestern, and with Tom Kalil at the state level of College Republicans, I feel that Tom is the best choice for MCR Treasurer. In his previous service in this role, and as the Director of the Students for Kennedy, Tom has consistently shown his ability and willingness to lead College Republicans to victory in 2006. This election is too important for College Republicans to choose inexperienced leaders, and when it comes to dedication, attitude and experience, Tom Kalil is the superior candidate."

"I am grateful for Bethany's support as I seek re-election," said Kalil, "Bethany has been a great asset to the Minnesota College Republicans and her chapter at Northwestern College. I know that with the help of activists like her, Team Sunderman will lead Minnesota to victory in 2006!"

Bethany Buckhout was appointed Deputy Vice Chair Metro in 2005, and currently attends Northwestern College, where she is studying nursing.

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2006-02-22T21:04:00.000-08:00

Bethel University College Republicans Endorse Team Sunderman

Chapter Recognizes Sunderman's Detailed Plan for the Future of the Minnesota College Republicans

St. Paul – The Executive Board of the Bethel University College Republicans have unanimously endorsed Team Sunderman, adding a key club to the rapidly growing coalition of clubs supporting Tyler Sunderman in his bid for Chairman of the Minnesota College Republicans.

The Bethel University Chapter has a long history of producing leaders in the Minnesota College Republicans. Bethel alumni include Jake Grassel, former MCR State Chairman, and Mike Krueger, former Executive Director of the College Republican National Committee and current Pawlenty for Governor Campaign Manager.

"The Executive Board of the Bethel University College Republicans is pleased to announce its unanimous endorsement of Tyler Sunderman for Chair of the State Board of Minnesota College Republicans. As Chair of the St. Thomas College Republicans and as the Executive Director of the Minnesota College Republicans, Tyler has proven his leadership abilities, his strong work ethic, and his commitment to the ideals of the Republican Party and to the organization of College Republicans. This semester he has also been instrumental in helping to revitalize the Bethel College Republicans. Tyler has laid out an impressive agenda and we believe that he has both the capability and initiative to fulfill it. We are proud to stand by Tyler in his bid for State Chair," said the Bethel College Republicans in a statement.

"I am glad to have the support of the Bethel CRs," said Sunderman "Helping chapters like Bethel to grow continues to be one of my personal priorities. As State Chairman, I will commit myself to helping clubs across the state to grow their membership and obtain the resources that they need to be successful. I look forward to working alongside the Bethel CRs as we deliver victory for the Republican Party in 2006," said Sunderman.

# # #

2006-02-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Team Sunderman Gains Endorsement of Minnesota State University – Mankato College Republicans

Mankato CRs Recognize Sunderman’s Commitment to Schools in Outstate Minnesota

Mankato – Team Sunderman gained a crucial endorsement from the Minnesota State University – Mankato College Republicans today. Coming just ten days before the 2006 MCR Annual Convention, the Mankato endorsement is a major addition to the coalition of outstate schools supporting Team Sunderman.

“I have visited the Mankato Chapter several times and every time, I am impressed with the outstanding work that they are doing for our party. Whether hosting speakers, helping out local candidates or throwing a birthday party for Ronald Reagan, they have proven their dedication to our cause. The MSU Chapter has grown immensely under the leadership of Mike Bruner and his outstanding team. Their endorsement is a crucial step for my campaign on the road to the March 4th convention,” said Sunderman.

“On behalf of the Minnesota State University College Republicans, I am pleased to announce that our chapter has officially endorsed Team Sunderman,” said MSU Chair Mike Bruner. “Tyler has proven be an effective leader and will be exactly the type of person chapters across the state can count on for support in the numerous races we have coming up this next election. Tyler has done an excellent job assembling a team of students from across the state, and his small town background ensures an understanding of issues that outstate schools face. The Minnesota State University delegation is looking forward to a successful convention as well as a successful election year.”

# # #

2006-02-21T09:57:00.000-08:00

Concordia University-St. Paul College Republicans Endorse Team Sunderman

CSP Chair Sam Seefeld Cites Sunderman's Long Record of Organization and Communication

St. Paul – Team Sunderman gained yet another key endorsement today in their campaign for the leadership of the Minnesota College Republicans. Concordia University – St. Paul's endorsement adds to the unstoppable momentum building behind Team Sunderman in the final days before the convention.

"As a third year chair and founder of Concordia University's CR Chapter, I am pleased to announce my full endorsement of Tyler's campaign for state chair," said Concordia Chair Sam Seefeld. "Tyler has been instrumental in organizing events and communicating well with many other schools. Tyler has a passion and a great vision that is needed as state chair, and I feel he will deliver and not disappoint! Tyler's ability to be in touch with his peer's on a personal level make him the "all around" candidate the state needs as a leader."

"I am grateful to have the endorsement of the Concordia University CRs," said Sunderman. "This past September, I helped to recruit at their activities fair, and I recently worked with them to plan the Concordia State of the Union Party. They are a great group of activists to work with. In the 2006 campaign, my administration will work to maximize the votes that we receive from Christian schools such as Concordia University. I look forward to working with them for victory in November!"

2006-02-20T07:48:00.000-08:00

Raising the Funds to make the Minnesota College Republicans effective in 2006 and beyond

Platform Piece 5
February 19, 2006

Fellow College Republicans,

As your Executive Director, I have had the privilege to learn from the inside what our organization truly needs to be successful. I have gone to work every day determined to make this organization better for all College Republicans. To quote Morton Blackwell’s Laws of Public Policy, “You can’t save the world if you can’t pay the rent.”

In order for our organization to be successful in the 2006 elections and for years to come, we must improve the way that we raise money to ensure that our chapters have the resources that they need to be successful.

The contacts that I have gained as Executive Director as well as the relationships that I have built within the Republican Party will give me a head start in fundraising. Under my leadership, MCRs will continue its close ties with the Republican Party of Minnesota. With just months before the 2006 election, our organization needs an experienced leader with established relationships who can take the lead in raising money for our state federation and our chapters.

Major Donor Fundraising.

Our organization has long relied on generous donations from Republicans who recognize the importance of the conservative grassroots movement. As State Chairman, I will devote my time to raising the funds from our major donors that will allow us to deliver victory in November.

As Executive Director, I have been able to build valuable relationships that will maximize our fundraising opportunities. Experience has taught me to focus on the basics to ensure success, and I will not rely on lavish fundraising events that will consume our time and resources. Rather, I will make full use of targeted major donor meetings and the tremendous support net that our organization retains to raise the money that will fund our organization throughout this election cycle.

· I will spend the spring and summer aggressively raising money from major donors.

· I will raise money through person-to-person donor meetings and not overpriced fundraisers that consume time and energy that is better spent on the campaign trail.

· The contacts that I have made as Executive Director enable me to begin fundraising immediately without spending valuable time building donor relationships.

Direct Mail Fundraising

One of the largest assets that our organization retains is our substantial mailing list that has been built through years of donor prospecting and list development. My administration will make immediate use of our list through mailings that detail our plans and show our donors the tremendous impact of their donations on the future conservative leaders of our country.

· In the run up to the election, mailings will increase in frequency to take advantage of pre-election enthusiasm in our donors.

· Mailings will include the details of our plan for victory in 2006, and will show donors specifically what their donations will fund.

· In order to maximize the effectiveness of our direct mail campaign, follow up calls will be made to encourage donors and address any questions they may have about CRs. This has never been done by MCR before but has been proven to boost returns dramatically in other organizations.

· In order to educate our donors, the Minnesota Conscience will be distributed to show the impact of CRs on campuses across the state.

· The success of MCRs will be better publicized by mailing newspaper clippings and important press releases to our donors. This will better include them in our activities.

· Donors will be sent weekly MCR e-mail updates so that they are informed about how their investment is being utilized.

Chapter Grants

One of the most important functions that the State Federation serves is to help clubs raise the funds that they need to buy everything from pizza to banners and gasoline. Chapter grants have been helpful in the past by helping chapters to fund events and buy supplies. In my administration, chapter grants will be an important way of ensuring that chapters are strong and at their best for our candidates.

· Chapter grant application forms will be made available on the statewide website.· Focus of chapter grant program will be to encourage clubs to spend money on special projects and events that will strengthen our organization and help our party.

· As many grants as possible will be given to chapter around the state.

· Grant applications will be processed rapidly so that the funds raised will have the greatest impact on chapters around the state.

· Grant applications will be evaluated and approved based on available funds and the way that the grant will affect the mission of the Minnesota College Republicans.

· MCR Treasurer Tom Kalil will be responsible for administering and distributing chapter grants.

2006-02-17T08:37:00.000-08:00

Normandale Community College Chair Rob Erickson Endorses
Team Sunderman

Recognizes Sunderman’s Strong Record of Achievement for our Chapters

Bloomington – Rob Erickson, chair of the Normandale College Republicans, endorsed Team Sunderman today, joining a winning coalition of schools backing Tyler Sunderman and his ticket in their bid for the statewide leadership of the Minnesota College Republicans.

“When I enrolled at Normandale Community College, our chapter was all but non-existent,” said Erickson. “Tyler contacted me and we met to develop a plan for the future of my chapter. Vice Chair Metro candidate Tim Rudolph also helped me to conduct my first meeting as well as obtain funding from our local Senate District. I fully support Team Sunderman and I look forward to working with them as we grow the Normandale chapter.”

“When I launched my candidacy, the first platform piece that I released focused on strengthening chapters of all sizes, including community colleges. Rob is doing an outstanding job of building his chapter and I am encouraged by the good work that he has been doing. In the 2006 election, we will count on chapters at schools of all sizes. The plan that I have developed will help to improve every chapter in the state,” said Sunderman.

# # #

2006-02-15T09:08:00.000-08:00

Strengthening Communications and Technology in the Minnesota College Republicans

Platform Piece 4
February 14, 2006

Fellow College Republicans,

Over the course of the next year, our organization will face unprecedented challenges as we work hard to re-elect Governor Tim Pawlenty, add another United States Senator, the entire legislature, not to mention our outstanding Congressional delegation. In my campaign for State Chairman, I have hit the road to visit with our Chapters. One of the most important things I have been able to accomplish through this campaign is to listen to the ideas and concerns of our members. I believe that by listening to the needs of our members, the state leadership is better equipped to improve the way that our organization does business. As your next State Chairman, I will immediately work to improve the way that we communicate and use technology to our advantage.

www.MNCR.org

A good organization has a good website. In my travels around the state, I have talked with many of our members about the need for MCRs to develop a new website that will contain useful information, pictures, important links, and chapter resources. MCRs is currently developing a new website that will better represent our organization. In the heat of the election battle, we must ensure that information is available to our clubs on the website in a timely manner. Therefore, my administration will act to immediately implement the new website, allowing us to continue to develop it as we approach the 2006 election.

· MNCR.org will feature a better layout to allow for easier navigation and use.
· Color scheme will be changed to create an attractive website.
· A secure section with club resources, such as chapter manuals, calendars, and fall election plans will be created, allowing password-protected access for club chairs.
· The Minnesota Conscience will be better displayed in PDF format on the website, allowing better distribution of our statewide newspaper.
· Picture section of website will be regularly updated.

YourClub@MNCR.org

One of the most significant technological changes that will be implemented will be mncr.org e-mail addresses. Under the website that is being developed, we will have the capability to issue each club an mncr.org e-mail address that they may use to send out their club e-mails and official correspondence. This will allow schools to be able to organize their lists and store them in a secure location. It will also give schools that are not given a school-issued e-mail address, such as community and technical schools a place to send their club e-mails from.

· E-mail capability will improve the way that clubs communicate with their members, by giving them a secure place to store and utilize their lists.
· E-mail addresses will give clubs an official address with which to contact candidates, speakers, and school officials.
· MNCR-issues e-mail addresses will allow technical and community colleges to have a place to store membership lists that can easily be transferred to new club leadership.

MCR Weekly Update

If we are to be successful in 2006, we must take our publication of our events to the next level, reaching out directly to our members. One the ways that I would like to improve communications is to better utilize the management of our mass e-mail list. Following the lead of numerous campaigns, I will utilize a service such as mailermailer.com to send out our statewide e-mails directly to our members, notifying them of the events for the coming week. Without filling our members’ inboxes with mail, this will allow us a chance to send out a bulletin of upcoming events at the beginning of the week. Using such a service will also allow us to utilize automatic unsubscribe capabilities so that our members may opt out of receiving the weekly communications at any time.

· MCR will send out weekly bulletins at the beginning of each week.
· E-mails will be attractive HTML e-mails that will catch our members’ attention.
· By using a mass e-mail management service, we will have the capability to utilize automatic unsubscribe capabilities, allowing our members to opt out of our bulletins at any time.
· Weekly bulletins will help to ensure that our members are connected to what is going on at the state level.
· Weekly bulletins will allow members to learn more about what our organization is doing so that they can get involved at their chapters.

2006-02-13T14:30:00.000-08:00

St. Scholastica College Republicans Unanimously Endorse Team Sunderman

Duluth school adds to wave of support building behind Team Sunderman

Duluth – Team Sunderman gained support from the St. Scholastica College Republicans. Their endorsement adds to the tremendous momentum that is building behind Tyler Sunderman in his campaign for State Chair of the Minnesota College Republicans.

"The St. Scholastica CRs are proud to endorse Team Sunderman," said CSS Chair Andrea Urshan. "After considering our choices, our club decided to enthusiastically endorse Tyler's ticket. Tyler has a proven record of leadership in our organization and he has assembled an outstanding team that will lead our organization to new heights in 2006. I look forward to seeing MCRs grow under their leadership."

"I am happy to accept the endorsement of St. Scholastica," said Sunderman. "I look forward to helping them grow in the coming year. In the coming election, we face battles in all corners of the state. St. Scholastica will be an important part of our efforts in 2006."

The St. Scholastica CRs are led by Andrea Urshan who also currently serves as Deputy Vice Chair North.

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2006-02-13T14:27:00.000-08:00

Augsburg College Republicans Endorse Team Sunderman

Chapter Joins a Rapidly Growing Number of Clubs around Minnesota to Support Tyler Sunderman for MCR Chair

Minneapolis - Team Sunderman has gained yet another endorsement from the Augsburg College Republicans. The club voted unanimously to endorse Team Sunderman at a recent meeting. Augsburg is the home chapter of current MCR Chair Tina Quick. The Augsburg CRs join a coalition of schools from across the state that have recognized the the positive plan that Tyler Sunderman has developed for the Minnesota College Republicans.

"We are proud to support Tyler. He has proven to be a great leader. Tyler is a very determined and supportive person of our chapter. We look forward to his leadership in the upcoming year and we support the team that he has assembled," said Augsburg chair JC Olson.
I am honored to accept the unanimous endorsement of the Augsburg College Republicans. In my tenure as Executive Director, I have had the privilege of working with CRs from Augsburg. They are a group of dedicated Republicans that can be counted on to deliver volunteers and hard work for our candidates," said Sunderman. "In the coming year, our party is counting on the volunteers that are generated on campuses around the state. Despite one of the most liberal campuses in the state, Augsburg thrives. I am proud to count them as supporters of my campaign."

The endorsement of the Augsburg CRs adds to the tremendous level of support for Team Sunderman on campuses around the state. With several weeks remaining in the campaign, enthusiasm continues to build for Team Sunderman.

# # #

2006-02-07T20:36:00.000-08:00

Setting the Record Straight

Fellow Minnesota College Republicans,

My name is Nell Streitz. I am a sophomore at Minnesota State University Moorhead and I am currently involved in restarting our CR chapter. As I have come to understand, the club here at MSUM disbanded at the end of last semester before it could even truly get up and going. When I received a Facebook message in early January from Tyler Sunderman, asking if I was interested in restarting the chapter, I was happy to help. Before transferring to MSUM, I started a CR chapter at Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri during the 2004 election cycle. I believe that College Republicans is a great organization and will be a great asset to the MSUM campus.

When I recently learned that the Moorhead CRs had "endorsed" Tyler's opponent, I was perplexed. How could a chapter "officially endorse" a candidate without the participation of any of its members, much less one of the people who has dedicated the past month to restarting the club?

I would therefore like to correct some of the distortions surrounding the supposed "endorsement" of Dane Gallagher by the MSUM CRs.

When Tyler Sunderman, Tom Kalil, and Luke Hellier visited MSUM on January 10th to meet with several of us and help to get our club going, they gave us a box of supplies and assisted us in developing a plan for reactivating our chapter. Before coming to Moorhead, they attempted to contact Tyler Reiss, but received no reply.

Upon their return from their trip, Tyler Sunderman put us in contact with Tyler Reiss in the hope that he would make a good member of our club. He also sent us one of last year's MSUM membership lists to give me some potential CRs to contact. In the weeks since, I have tried in every way that I can to work with Tyler Reiss, but he has been uncooperative with the other members of our fledgling club.

Recently, we held a meeting to discuss our progress and to develop plans for kicking off the spring semester. Tyler Reiss unfortunately didn't show up. While the other members of our team have been working with Tyler Sunderman and the state leadership to restart our chapter, he has not been cooperative.

While I have no doubt that Tyler Reiss is a strong Republican and dedicated to our cause, I want to correct the distortions in the release. He is not the "chair" of the MSUM College Republicans and he certainly did not consult with other members of our group before issuing an "endorsement". While he is free to support whomever he wishes in this race, he does not speak for an entire club, and certainly not for me.

Tyler Sunderman and the leaders that he has asked to join his team have been extremely helpful in restarting our club. They have kept in constant contact, always making sure we are getting the help we need, offering further services, and have been a tremendous resource as the MSUM chapter gets off the ground.

I have seen how hard he works and the dedication that he has shown to rebuilding and strengthening chapters in outstate Minnesota. That is why I will be supporting Team Sunderman at the convention on March 4th. Tyler and his team will do an outstanding job of leading our organization and I look forward to the coming year as we help Republican candidates and recruit new members into our organization.

2006-02-07T09:09:00.000-08:00

Reforming and Improving the Minnesota College Republicans at the Statewide Level

Platform Piece 3
February 7, 2006

Fellow College Republicans,

As we enter the 2006 election cycle, with BPOU, Congressional District, and the State Party Convention, our organization has a tremendous opportunity to improve the way that our organization is led. One of the keystones of my plan is to streamline the State Board, with a much greater emphasis on recruitment, campus activism, and building chapters across the state. I believe that our organization has an opportunity as never before to improve the way that we coordinate our efforts. In my administration, the State Board will be heavily engaged in assisting chapters, meeting their needs, and listening to the ideas of our fellow College Republicans. In my tenure as Executive Director, I have proven my commitment to increased communications with our chapters around the state. Under my administration, the Minnesota College Republicans will be strengthened by an improved statewide structure.

Elected Officers

Under the Minnesota College Republican Constitution, there are seven elected officers on the state board. The Chair, Co-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer and three regional Vice Chairs comprise the State Executive Committee. In my administration, the Secretary, Treasurer, and Co-Chair will be active as recruiters, helping at schools in their area. In addition to their constitutionally required jobs, my team will hit the road in support of our chapters. As your next State Board, Team Sunderman will be engaged in helping your chapters to succeed.

· When elected, Team Sunderman will continue its aggressive travel schedule, visiting chapters in all corners of the state.

· Co-chair Emily Loehr will continue her leadership, serving as editor of The Minnesota Conscience.

· The members of Team Sunderman have been picked for their expertise in recruiting, chapter building, and campus activism.

· MCR Treasurer Tom Kalil (a native North Dakotan) will be responsible for coordinating with the North Dakota CRs as we work more closely in Fargo-Moorhead and Crookston and Grand Forks.

Appointed Staff Positions

As I have traveled around the state, I have spoken with CRs from Mankato to Crookston about my plan and what we will accomplish together. I have begun to assemble an appointed staff, keeping a close watch on balancing not only skill, but leadership potential, and not only the input of club leaders, but also spreading our recruiters evenly across the state. Immediately following the spring convention, our entire state leadership must be prepared to work hard all the way through election day. This is why I am assembling an entire team of hard working activists, who will assist clubs immediately as we build our membership for the November election.

· In my search for the leaders that our organization needs, I have actively sought the advice of club chairs, asking for their input on who they think would be best for our state leadership team.
· The input of club chairs has been crucial in formulating my plan for the future of MCR. I believe that our clubs know best what they need to be successful.

· Regional deputy vice chairs are being selected with the consultation of club chairs, maximizing the cooperation between clubs and the state leadership team.

· I am improving our efficiency by eliminating or combining the appointed staff positions on the board, while increasing the number of Regional Deputy Vice Chairs to improve campus activism and chapter growth.

· I am reforming the appointed staff positions to ensure that every position has clearly defined responsibilities.

Campus Activism Coordinator

One of the most important functions of our organization is our activism on our college campuses. The issues that we bring to the attention of our fellow college students affect the future of our nation. I believe that we must do more to focus on raising the level of debate on college campuses and show the tremendous untapped conservative base at schools around the state. As your Chairman, I will immediately appoint a Political Director whose job it will be to plan demonstrations, coordinate mock elections, research our opponents, and organize on campus rallies.

· I will abolish several staff positions to reform the job and function of the Political Director, giving that person the responsibility of coordinating campus activism activities.
· While it is too early to tell what events the fall election season will bring, our plan relies on coordination with the Republican Party of Minnesota and use of the Young America’s Foundation’s Campus Battle Plan.

· As a part of a nationwide movement, MCR will take advantage of resources available from national organizations such as YAF and the Leadership Institute.

· Mock elections will be key to proving our success at campuses around the state, and will be coordinated by our Political Director.

· Our Political Director will be responsible for coordinating with the Leadership Institute, which will hold training in St. Cloud on Sept. 10.

Information Management Director

One of the issues that faced the Minnesota College Republicans in the 2004 election cycle was the flow of information between recruiters and the leadership of our clubs around the state. With Vice Chairs and CRNC Field Staff crisscrossing the state, recruiting CRs, it is crucial that the names and contact information of the people that they recruit reach the club chairs in a timely manner. I will appoint an Information Management Director whose responsibility will be to collect the recruiting forms from the field and enter them in spreadsheets that will be e-mailed to the Club Chairs. This will ensure that our new recruits can become active and involved in their clubs immediately.

· Information Management Director will be responsible for collecting names and contact information from Vice Chairs.

· Names will be entered in spreadsheets that will be e-mailed to club chairs as soon as possible.

· E-mail addresses will be entered into the MCR e-mail list so that all recruits can receive updates on upcoming events.

· When large numbers of recruits arrive at MCR headquarters at the same time, volunteers from metro area schools will assist with data entry to ensure that clubs receive the information in a timely manner.

· Better data management will improve volunteer output by enabling club chairs to contact students recruited by Vice Chairs more rapidly.

Street Theater/Opposition Bracketing

In past election cycles, street theater and opposition bracketing have earned MCR tremendous earned media. With the Democrat Party poised to nominate Mike Hatch for Governor and Amy Klobuchar for US Senate, we have a tremendous opportunity to point out how the DFL has been taken over by the radical left. In my administration, MCR will generate positive media by engaging in street theater, demonstrations, and letter writing campaigns.

· In my capacity as Executive Director, I have been able to forge close ties with the Communications and Research Departments at the Republican Party of Minnesota. As your State Chairman, my administration will work with the Republican Party of Minnesota to engage in street theater and bracketing.

· Political Director will work closely with clubs to form responses to events held by Democrats on college campuses.

· A phone tree system will be organized to rapidly turn out volunteers for opposition bracketing and activism activities.

· While using the CRNC Chapter manual, MCR will develop its own campaign activities, drawing on our organization’s tradition of success and the ideas of CRs from around the state.

9/11 Remembrance Project

2006 marks the five year anniversary of one of the most important days in American History. As young Americans, this event has formed the way that our nation and our world have developed. In the years following 9/11, our nation has fought two wars and has killed or captured most of the senior leadership of Al Qaeda. We must ensure that our fellow college students never forget the day that changed our nation forever.

· MCR will plan a 9/11 remembrance event on September 11th, 2006.

· MCR will assist chapters in participating in the Young America’s Foundation’s Never Forget Project.

· MCR will promote conservative speakers to remind college students of the importance of 9/11.

· MCR will take a more active role in helping military families in need by increased participation in Mary Pawlenty’s Minnesota Care Initiative, which allows military families to seek help around the house from volunteer organizations.

2006-02-03T07:08:00.000-08:00

Winona State University College Republicans Unanimously Endorse Team Sunderman

WSU joins Statewide Coalition of Clubs Supporting Tyler Sunderman for MCR Chair

For Immediate Release:
February 3, 2006

Winona – Tyler Sunderman gained yet another endorsement today in his bid for Chairman of the Minnesota College Republicans. The Winona State University College Republicans voted to endorse Team Sunderman, joining a rapidly growing coalition of clubs statewide who have joined the Team Sunderman coalition.

"The Winona State College Republicans are very excited to endorse Team Sunderman," said WSU Chair Amanda Getz. "Tyler is without a doubt the best person for the job. He has proven to be highly qualified for fulfilling the duties of State Chair."

"In my campaign for MCR Chair, I have traveled to clubs in all corners of the state, talking about my plans for the future of our organization and meeting with our members across the state. I am honored to accept the endorsement of the Winona CRs. They are true leaders in our state federation and I have always been impressed by their success at WSU. As I campaign around the state and prepare to lead this organization into the 2006 election, I am proud to count Winona amongst my supporters."

"We're very excited about Tyler and look forward to working with him in the 2006 election," said WSU Executive Director Andrew Kehren.

WSU Chair Amanda Getz has joined Team Sunderman, running for Vice Chair South.

# # #

2006-02-02T15:58:00.000-08:00

College of St. Benedict/St. John's University Endorses Team Sunderman

Collegeville – Team Sunderman received a crucial endorsement today from the College Republicans from the College of Saint BenedictSaint John’s University. “CSB/SJU College Republicans are very enthusiastic about Team Sunderman,” said CSBSJU Chair Chris Van Guilder. “Tyler has worked hard for the party serving as Executive Director,” stated Luke Fischer, CSB/SJU CR Treasurer, “our club is more than ready and willing to begin the hard work of preparing for the ’06 election with Tyler.”

“The CSB/SJU College Republicans have been one of the up and coming clubs in the state, producing bold leaders and rapidly growing their roster. Over the course of my involvement in CRs, I have been impressed with the dedication and inspiration of the leadership in Collegeville,” said Sunderman.

“I am proud to count them among my supporters. I look forward to helping their chapter continue to grow as we build momentum for the elections in 2006.”

The CSB/SJU College Republicans are led by Chair Chris Van Guilder and currently have over 400 members.

2006-02-01T18:32:00.000-08:00

Sunderman Announces Running Mate for MCR Secretary

Rachel Boughton of Crown College to Join Ticket

For Immediate Release:
February 1, 2006

Saint Paul – Tyler Sunderman announced today that Rachel Boughton of Crown College will join his ticket and run for MCR Secretary.

“I had the pleasure of working with Rachel in the elections in the fall of 2005. She is a dedicated leader in our organization and she will make an outstanding Secretary,” said Sunderman. “I am building a strong team of campus activists who will lead the Minnesota College Republicans to victory in 2006. As Secretary, Rachel will help to lead our organization to new levels of activism, membership, and organization.”

“The Minnesota College Republicans face a tough election in 2006,” said Boughton. “I am excited to run for Secretary of the Minnesota College Republicans. I look forward to leading this organization in the coming year and I am honored to join Team Sunderman.”

Boughton currently serves as Chair of the Crown College Republicans.

# # #

2006-02-01T09:46:00.000-08:00

Candidate Profile - Tom Kalil, Treasurer

Tom Kalil was born and raised in Williston, North Dakota, and has worked on his family farm since he was old enough to see over the dashboard of a pickup truck. He is the second of four sons to Dan and Kathy Kalil, a farmer and a math teacher.

Tom spent many long hours listening to Rush Limbaugh while working on the farm, and his activism began with his father’s re-election campaign to the Williams County Commission. He fondly remembers a blizzard during October of 2000. “Right before the election, a nasty storm blew up, and my dad was out on the farm, trying to get our cows moved to winter pasture; he left me in charge of the campaign, and my friends and I went door to door in the rural part of his district. There was about a foot of snow on the ground and plenty of mud, and we were struggling to get around in my friend’s ’91 Dodge Spirit; after getting stuck in a couple of driveways, soaking my shoes and getting a nasty cold, all for a couple of dozen votes, that’s when I knew that politics is where I belong.”

When he arrived at St. Thomas in 2003, Tom quickly became involved with the UST College Republicans. In 2004, he was elected club Treasurer, and also served on the state board as Chairman Jake Grassel’s Outreach Director. At the 2005 CR State Convention, Tom was unanimously elected state Treasurer. Tom is currently an intern at the Pawlenty for Governor Campaign and serves as the director of Students for Mark Kennedy.

2006-01-31T08:01:00.000-08:00

University of Minnesota -
Twin Cities College Republicans Endorse Sunderman

Key Endorsement adds to Wave of Support Building behind Team Sunderman

Minneapolis – Team Sunderman received a crucial endorsement today from the College Republicans of the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities.

“The University of Minnesota College Republicans are thrilled to endorse Tyler Sunderman for State Chair. He has proven himself to be one of the most energetic, intelligent, and hard-working young leaders in the party and we are confident he will use those qualities as Chair to lead the organization forward. We look forward to being a part of the great things he is going to accomplish,” said U of M Chair Jason Baskin.

“The University of Minnesota has always been one of the anchor clubs in our state, producing outstanding leaders and continually growing on one of the most liberal campuses in our state. Over the course of my involvement in CRs, I have always admired the tradition of leadership at the U of M,” said Sunderman. “I am privileged to count them among my supporters. I look forward to seeing the chapter continue to grow as we work together for victory in 2006.”

The University of Minnesota - Twin Cities College Republicans are led by Chair Jason Baskin and currently have over 1300 members.

# # #

2006-01-30T14:57:00.000-08:00

Fellow College Republicans,

The Minnesota College Republicans have a tradition of strength and success. The key to our effectiveness is the tremendous number of Republican leaders that we have to draw from. If we are to be successful in the 2006 election, we must have implement a massive effort to recruit new members, register voters, and distribute absentee ballot request forms. I believe that across Minnesota, there remains a tremendous number of untapped voters that we must convince to join the ranks of our party. In the fall of 2006, we will knock on countless dorm room doors and cover campuses with posters to show college students the tremendous number of supporters our party has on our college campuses. Our party has long stood for economic growth and jobs, which are crucial issues to students. Under my leadership, we will improve the way that we recruit new members to maximize the number of votes that our candidates receive from college campuses.

Operation Facebook.Com

In my tenure as executive director, I have seen the value of Facebook as a recruiting tool. It is literally possible to virtually recruit CRs through this valuable service. For example, Facebook has recently enabled MCRs to contact prospective CRs at MSU-Moorhead, Gustavus, St. Mary’s, and Martin Luther College. We must use Facebook as a political tool as we work to grow our clubs and increase our effectiveness on campus. Facebook will enable us to identify more Republicans, add more CRs to our lists, and communicate with our members. In my political plan for the 2006 election, Facebook will play a key role.

· At schools where chapters must be rebuilt, Facebook will be used to identify conservatives and make contact with prospective club chairs.
· MCRs will make use of Facebook advertisements to publicize events such as rallies, debate watching parties, and meetings.
· MCRs will assist clubs in adding all conservatives to e-mail lists.
· Fall plan will include identifying prospective members who are members of pro-life, pro-second amendment, anti-John Kerry, and other conservative Facebook groups.

Information Management Director

One of the issues that faced the Minnesota College Republicans in the 2004 election cycle was the flow of information between recruiters and the leadership of our clubs around the state. With Vice Chairs and CRNC Field Staff crisscrossing the state, recruiting CRs, it is crucial that the names and contact information of the people that they recruit reach the club chairs in a timely manner. I will appoint an Information Management Director whose responsibility will be to collect the recruiting forms from the field and enter them in spreadsheets that will be e-mailed to the Club Chairs. This will ensure that our new recruits can become active and involved in their clubs immediately.

· Information Management Director will be responsible for collecting names and contact information from Vice Chairs.
· Names will be entered in spreadsheets that will be e-mailed to club chairs as soon as possible.
· E-mail addresses will be entered into the MCR e-mail list so that all recruits can receive updates on upcoming events.
· When large numbers of recruits arrive at MCR headquarters at the same time, volunteers from metro area schools will assist with data entry to ensure that clubs receive the information in a timely manner.
· Better data management will improve volunteer output by enabling club chairs to contact students recruited by Vice Chairs more rapidly.

Vice Chair/CRNC Field Staff Recruiting

In the 2004 election, all members of the state board assisted with recruiting at chapters around the state. As State Chair, I will insist that in addition to their normal duties, all members of the state board assist with recruiting, voter registration, and absentee ballot distribution. I am assembling a team of leaders in all corners of the state who can travel to clubs to assist with recruitment, including tabling and door to door canvassing. As executive director, I have traveled the state extensively, meeting with chapters and delivering supplies. As State Chair, I will continue to travel the state, going door to door in dorms and setting up membership tables. It is my belief that the State Chair must have a hands-on approach to leadership.

· Recruitment will begin in the summer to maximize recruiting potential.
· Summer Recruiting will focus on universities with large summer programs, such as the state schools.
· Vice Chairs will be assigned schools that they are responsible for.
· Vice Chairs will be in contact with club chairs each week in the fall of 2006.
· Field Staff from the College Republican National Committee will assist at schools that are the farthest distance for Vice Chairs to travel, allowing us to recruit CRs with greater efficiency.
· All members of the state board will recruit extensively, assisting clubs with canvassing, tabling, and voter registration.

Recruitment Incentives

One of the most effective ways to encourage club growth is to create some friendly competition between chapters. I will institute prizes for the clubs that recruit the most and meet their goals. It is important that we reward hard work and dedication. I will work with club chairs to set membership goals that reflect their growth potential. In addition, I will work with the Republican Party of Minnesota and the Republican National Committee to participate in the party’s incentive program for voter registration.

· In the spring of 2005, I will work with club chairs to set recruiting, voter registration, and absentee ballot goals for the fall.
· Goals will recognize the size of the chapter and the school as well as the overall political climate.
· In addition to club growth goals, I will work with club chairs to set goals for meeting attendance, which will help to promote involvement and campus activism.
· Clubs that meet their goals will be rewarded with chapter grants and other incentives.
· The RNC’s current $2 per voter registration program will be effectively implemented to help clubs grow while raising money.
· Weekly e-mail updates will include chapters of the week to highlight clubs that are meeting their goals and are working especially hard for our candidates.

2006-01-29T17:04:00.000-08:00

Crown College Republicans Endorse Sunderman for MCR Chair

Team Sunderman Continues to Gain Momentum

For Immediate Release:
Contact: Sara Linert
linert@gmail.com

Saint Bonifacius – Team Sunderman received a key endorsement today from the Crown College Republicans. Two weeks after announcing his bid for MCR Chairman, Tyler Sunderman continues to gain support around the state.

"The Crown College Republicans are proud to endorse Tyler Sunderman in hisrace for Chair of Minnesota College Republicans," said the club's statement. "As Executive Director, Tyler has demonstrated leadership in his active involvement with Crown College and has been a strong supporter of our efforts at Crown. We are confident that as Chair, Tyler will continue to be a leader with integrity and passion, which is why the Crown College Republicans fully support Tyler in his race for Chair of Minnesota College Republicans."

"The CRs at Crown College are a key part of our state federation," said Sunderman. "Through their dedication to electing conservative candidates and their record of outstanding campus activism, they have shown that they are a club that the Minnesota College Republicans can count on to deliver volunteers and votes for our candidates. I am proud to count the Crown CRs among my supporters and I look forward to working alongside them as we fight the DFL in the 2006 election."

The Crown CRs are led by Chair Rachel Boughton and Vice Chair John Sirjord. The chapter was heavily engaged in the 2005 local elections, volunteering extensively in Bloomington and Plymouth.

# # #

2006-01-27T11:05:00.000-08:00

Candidate Profile: Tim Rudolph - Vice Chair Metro

Tim Rudolph was born and raised in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. He attended high school at Cretin-Derham Hall in St. Paul. His interest in politics and love for debate began at an early age when his extended family would debate political issues around the dinner table. In high school, Tim participating in Mock Trial, placing second in the state regional competitions his sophomore year.

In 2004, Tim enrolled at the University of St. Thomas and on his third day was recruited into CRs. From his first meeting, he was actively involved in the club, volunteering in the 72 hour task force.

In April of 2005, Tim was elected treasurer of the St. Thomas College Republicans. While continuing to help the club at St. Thomas to grow in membership and participation, he was nominated and unanimously approved in the late summer of 2005 to the position of Deputy Vice-Chair Metro.

In addition to his involvement in CRs, Tim also serves as the vice chair of the House District 57B Republicans.

2006-01-27T11:04:00.000-08:00

Sunderman Announces Running Mate for Vice Chair Metro

Tim Rudolph of Saint Thomas to Join Ticket

For Immediate Release:

Contact: Sara Linert
linert@gmail.com

Saint Paul – Tyler Sunderman announced that Tim Rudolph will join his ticket, running for the position of Vice Chair Metro.

Rudolph is currently the Treasurer of the University of St. Thomas College Republicans as well as Deputy Vice Chair Metro.

"I have had the privilege of working with Tim since he joined College Republicans as a freshman. During the 2004 election, Tim was one of the most active volunteers, knocking on countless doors and making endless phone calls for President Bush. Tim's experience in recruiting and helping to run a club makes him an invaluable resource for our metro chapters. I look forward to working with him in the coming year," said Sunderman.

"I am excited to join Team Sunderman," said Rudolph. "I have worked with Tyler both at St. Thomas and at the state level since my freshman year. In that time, he has shown his dedication to our organization and his willingness to put CRs first. I look forward to serving as Vice Chair Metro and helping clubs around the metro area recruit new members, register voters, and prepare for the 2006 election. As Vice Chair, I will work tirelessly to strengthen our chapters."

Tim is currently a sophomore at the University of St. Thomas. In addition to his involvement in College Republicans, Tim also serves as the Vice Chair of the House District 57B Republicans.

###

2006-01-26T08:59:00.000-08:00

Candidate Profile: Amanda Getz - Vice Chair South

Amanda was born in Indianapolis, Indiana but was raised in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, where her family still lives today. She is a junior at Winona State University, studying elementary education with an emphasis in social studies. She hopes to one day to be involved in education reform and work to improve our country’s public schools.

In her spare time, she enjoys watching sports and movies, reading, spending time with friends and family, playing piano, and dancing. After transferring to Winona from Marquette University, she joined the WSU College Republicans.

After the first meeting she was appointed Recruitment and Projects Director and worked on the WSU Get Out The Vote Effort, as well as membership recruitment in the 2004 elections She is the Co-Founder of the Winona Review, a website providing WSU students with news and commentary from a conservative perspective.

In the fall of 2005 she was elected Chair of the Winona College Republicans and was recently appointed as Vice Chair South.

2006-01-26T08:56:00.000-08:00

Sunderman Announces Running Mate for Vice Chair South

Amanda Getz of Winona State University to Join Ticket

For Immediate Release:
Contact: Sara Linert
linert@gmail.com

Saint Paul – Team Sunderman announced today that Amanda Getz from Winona State University will join the ticket, running for Vice Chair South.

Getz was recently appointed to fill the position of Vice Chair South by current MCR Chair Tina Quick.

Getz is also currently the Chair of the Winona State University College Republicans.

"I am proud to name Amanda to my ticket," said Sunderman. "As we prepare for the 2006 election, we need dedicated Vice Chairs who can help to grow our clubs around the state. Amanda has done an outstanding job as chair of the WSU CRs. Her experience will be invaluable as a Vice Chair. In addition, she will be a strong advocate for southern Minnesota on the State Board."

"I am proud to join Team Sunderman. As Club Chair at WSU, I have learned a great deal about what we must do to be successful as an organization. I look forward to visiting clubs across Southern Minnesota as we recruit new members and register voters to deliver victory for our candidates in November."

Getz is currently a junior at Winona State University where she is studying elementary education. In addition to her involvement in CRs, she is a co-founder of winonareview.com, an independent news and opinion website for the WSU campus community.

###

2006-01-25T11:26:00.000-08:00

Candidate Profile: Luke Hellier - Vice Chair North

Luke Hellier is a junior at St. John’s University and has been involved in College Republicans since his freshman year. Before attending St. John’s, Luke interned for Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life and Rep. Mary Liz Holberg. During the 2004 election, Luke volunteered for the Bush and Kennedy campaigns as well as serving as a member of the 72 hour team.

As a CR at St. John’s he served as President of Students Fostering Conservative Thought, bringing David Horowitz, Deena Burnett, and Dinesh D'Souza to campus. In the spring of 2005, Luke gained national recognition, being named one of the Top 20 Conservative Activists by the Young America’s Foundation Club 100.

Luke is currently ranked 7th in the nation for 2006. In the summer of 2005, Luke served as a research assistant for the Young America's Foundation. During the 2005 election, Luke was involved with Kleis for Mayor and the special elections in St. Cloud.

Luke recently returned from a 1200 mile journey through Northwestern Minnesota to meet with CRs at six different schools as they gear up for the 2006 election. He currently serves on the state board as Deputy Executive Director and on the Bachmann for Congress committee.

2006-01-25T11:23:00.000-08:00

Sunderman Announces Running Mate for Vice Chair North

Luke Hellier of Saint John’s University to Join Ticket

For Immediate Release:
Contact:
Sara Linert
linert@gmail.com

Saint Paul – Tyler Sunderman announced today that Luke Hellier of Saint John’s University will join Team Sunderman as a candidate for Vice Chair North.

Hellier currently serves as Deputy Executive Director of the Minnesota College Republicans.

“I am proud to join Team Sunderman,” said Hellier. “I have had the opportunity to work with Tyler and see his dedication to our organization, and I know that he is the person that we need leading us to victory in 2006. I look forward to having the opportunity to work closely with CR leaders throughout northern Minnesota. I believe our organization’s strength lies in the ability of our chapters to deliver votes and volunteers for our candidates. As Vice Chair North, I will work to grow every club and build the strong ties that we need to be successful in the 2006 election.’

Hellier is currently a junior at Saint John’s University where he is studying Political Science. In addition to his involvement with College Republicans, he has served as President of Students Fostering Conservative Thought, which brings conservative speakers to campus.

“I am proud to have Luke as a running mate. He has shown tremendous dedication to our organization and he will make an outstanding Vice Chair. Whether it be volunteering in the St. Cloud elections or hosting conservative speakers that bring our message to college students, Luke has been a strong leader. In the 2006 election, we need Vice Chairs who are willing to dedicate the necessary time and effort to growing and strengthening our clubs. Luke Hellier will be a powerful voice for outstate schools in my administration,” said Sunderman.

# # #

2006-01-24T08:56:00.000-08:00

Team Sunderman Releases First Platform Piece

For Immediate Release:
Contact:
Sara Linert
linert@gmail.com

Saint Paul – Team Sunderman announced today their first platform piece. The first installment of the Sunderman Plan focuses on growing and strengthening clubs in outstate Minnesota.

"I am proud to launch my platform. There are so many ways that we can work together as a state federation to improve the way that we recruit, communicate, and coordinate our efforts. I look forward to publishing my entire plan over the coming weeks. As executive director, I have seen the strengths of our organization as well as areas which need improvement. I am excited to bring about the changes that our organization needs," said Sunderman.

The entire platform will be rolled out over the coming weeks and will focus on improving communications, recruitment, technology, and fundraising.

"As we approach the 2006 election, it is crucial that our organization is strong and our clubs have the resources that they need to be successful. The focus of my plan is to increase the size and effectiveness of our clubs across the state. Our party is counting on the Minnesota College Republicans to deliver votes, volunteers, and earned media. My plan is designed to improve our organization's efforts in all areas," said Sunderman.

###

2006-01-24T08:55:00.000-08:00

Fellow College Republicans,

With the 2006 election less than a year away, the Minnesota College Republicans must improve the way that we coordinate our efforts in all corners of the state. With so many of Minnesota’s colleges concentrated in the Metro, the State Board must make an extra effort to help clubs in outstate Minnesota grow and be active in their local communities. As Executive Director, I have had the privilege of visiting clubs across the state, from Morris to Winona. As chairman of the Minnesota College Republicans, I will not forget that the true strength of our organization is our members in clubs across the state. I will improve the lines of communication between the state board and the individual clubs.

MCR Road Trip 2006

During the 2006 election, the entire state legislature, all of the constitutional offices, and a US Senate Seat are up for election. As a statewide organization, we cannot forget the importance of local races. One of the key elements of my plan is to organize a weekend bus trip in the fall that will make stops at several schools in competitive areas of outstate Minnesota. MCRs will hold on-campus rallies for local candidates, encouraging students to vote Republican in 2006!

· The bus trip will help raise enthusiasm for local candidates on campus, as well as statewide elected officials.
· Rallies held at each school will boost chapters by helping them hold and organize a rally.
· As a part of the trip, we will be registering voters on campus as well as distributing absentee ballot request forms.
· Between schools, CRs who will be riding the bus will make voter ID telephone calls.
· The bus trip will help forge better relations between metro CRs and outstate chapters.

Regional Conference Calls

One of the most important improvements that must be made as we prepare for the 2006 election is the way that we communicate as an organization, as well as how we coordinate our efforts between the state board and individual chapters. I plan to hold conference calls for each region so that we can work together to maximize our effectiveness as an organization. For example, in southern Minnesota, it is important that chapters in Marshall, Mankato, and Winona are working together to win victory in the first congressional district. By holding regular conference calls, communications between chapters and the state board will be improved immensely.

· Conference calls will be held on a monthly basis at a regularly scheduled time with an increased frequency as we approach Election Day.

· Conference calls will be held for each congressional district. This will allow us to focus on the needs in each district as we work to expand our congressional delegation and make gains in the state legislature.

· The State Chair as well as the regional vice chairs will participate in conference calls.

· The calls will enable chapters to give reports from their chapters as well as learn about events at nearby campuses.

· Conference calls will help to increase the communications between the state board and the individual chapters.

· Conference calls will enable us to better formulate and modify our strategy on a regional level.

Community & Technical College Outreach

Our organization is capable of a great deal of growth at community and technical colleges across Minnesota. In the 2004 election cycle, a great deal of time and resources were spent on recruitment at two year schools. The challenge that many community colleges face is the high student turnover rate at these schools, making it more difficult to build a lasting chapter. If elected chair, I will immediately work to strengthen and grow community and technical college chapters in several ways:

· Work with existing chapters to identify new leaders who will be present on campus in the fall.

· Identify Teenage Republicans who are enrolled through PSEO at community colleges and are willing to start CR chapters.

· Foster better relationships between chapters and local county organizations for better coordination, support, and opportunities to get involved at the local level.

· Provide better online resources such as chapter manuals, strategic plans, event calendars, and voter registration cards, absentee ballot request forms, and membership forms to give clubs the tools that they need to be successful.

· Implement a massive recruitment drive in the late summer and fall of 2006 to register voters, recruit new members, and build stronger chapters.

Recruitment

Recruiting new members will be key to our success in 2006. The Minnesota College Republicans will launch a massive recruitment campaign that will visit every campus in the state, registering voters, identifying Republicans, and recruiting new CRs. Regional Vice Chairs will work with chapters to coordinate recruitment efforts, assisting with the campus canvass, membership tabling, and activities fairs.

· Every member of the state board will assist with recruitment across the state.

· To encourage growth and recruiting, MCR will sponsor a recruiting competition between chapters.

· MCRs will hold its annual fall retreat in August with improved training and activities to kick off the election cycle.

2006-01-21T09:40:00.000-08:00

University of Minnesota – Crookston College Republicans Endorse Sunderman for MCR Chair

For Immediate Release:

Contact: Sara Linert
linert@gmail.com

Crookston – The University of Minnesota – Crookston College Republicans endorsed Tyler Sunderman in his bid for Chairman of the Minnesota College Republicans today.

“The UMC College Republicans are continuously working to further the Conservative movement and wish nothing but the best for the Republican Party,” said Ryan Beattie, club Vice President. “Tyler Sunderman and his efforts to better the Minnesota College Republicans have the full support of the University of Minnesota, Crookston College Republicans.”

On his recent tour of northwest Minnesota, Sunderman visited chapters in Fergus Falls, Moorhead, Crookston, and Bemidji with MCR Treasurer Tom Kalil and MCR Deputy Executive Director Luke Hellier.

“I was glad to have an opportunity to meet with Ryan. He is doing an outstanding job of leading his club,” said Sunderman. “In the 2006 election cycle, our party is counting on strong chapters in all corners of the state who can not only deliver votes for our statewide candidates, but also help their local candidates. The Crookston College Republicans are a key part of that effort and I look forward to working with them in the coming year.”

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2006-01-18T18:36:00.000-08:00

Candidate Profile: Emily Loehr, Co-Chair

Emily Loehr is a junior at the University of Minnesota - Morris majoring in economics and political science. She began her active participation in College Republicans as a freshman. Before long, she had assumed the position of Technology Director of the Minnesota College Republicans State Board of Directors in the summer of 2004, and was unanimously elected Co-Chair of the Board in 2005.

Throughout her involvement in College Republicans, she has actively campaigned within Minnesota for President Bush and Minnesota’s Congressmen Kennedy and Kline, as well as neighboring candidates in South Dakota. She has worked as an intern for both Congressman John Kline and the Washington D.C. office of Eagle Forum, the pro-family organization founded by Phyllis Schlafly. In addition, she has studied with and attended many schools of the Leadership Institute in Washington D.C., where she fine-tuned her work with student publications. As Co-Chair, she became the founding Editor-in-Chief of The Minnesota Conscience, the new statewide MN College Republican publication.

2006-01-18T18:34:00.000-08:00

Tyler Sunderman Announces Emily Loehr as Running Mate Loehr to run for reelection as MCR Co-chair

For Immediate Release:
Contact: Sara Linert
linert@gmail.com

St. Paul – Tyler Sunderman announced his pick for Co-chair today by naming Emily Loehr from the University of Minnesota – Morris College Republicans to his ticket. Emily currently serves as Co-chair and will be running for reelection.

“I am proud to announce that Emily Loehr will be joining my ticket and running for reelection as Co-chair of the Minnesota College Republicans. Emily is an outstanding leader and has shown her dedication to our organization time and time again,” said Sunderman.

As part of her duties as Co-chair, Loehr is also the editor-in-chief of The Minnesota Conscience, the official publication of MCRs.

“Emily Loehr was crucial in developing our new statewide newspaper. Her training in the field of campus publications as well as her experience with The Counterweight, a conservative publication at U of M – Morris, makes her an invaluable part of the Minnesota College Republicans,” said Sunderman. “In my administration, Emily will continue as editor of The Conscience.”

“I am honored to join Team Sunderman,” said Loehr. “As Executive Director, he has been crucial to the success of our organization and I look forward serving in his administration. I look forward to working with Tyler and publishing more issues of The Minnesota Conscience.”

Loehr is currently a junior at the University of Minnesota – Morris, where she is studying economics and political science.

# # #

2006-01-18T14:59:00.000-08:00

Candidate Profile: Tyler Sunderman

A Record of Accomplishment and Leadership in the Minnesota College Republicans

Tyler Sunderman grew up in Le Sueur Minnesota on his family’s farm. His interest in politics began with listening to Rush Limbaugh in the tractor with his grandfather. He attended LeSueur-Henderson High School, participating in track, football, speech, band, and drama.

After high school, he enrolled at the University of St. Thomas. He joined College Republicans at a membership table the first day of classes and was immediately active in the club. In March of 2004, Tyler coordinated the Bush-Cheney March Madness efforts at St. Thomas. UST led the state with the most Bush Volunteers, delivering a victory for Minnesota in the national tournament.

In April of 2004, Tyler was unanimously elected Chairman of the UST College Republicans and was also appointed Communications Director of the Minnesota College Republicans. During his tenure as chairman, over 500 new members were recruited and average meeting attendance doubled.

Throughout the 2004 election, Tyler was extremely active, writing speeches and recruiting at other schools, while leading the UST Chapter to new levels of membership, activism and growth. Tyler was also one of three Minnesota Pages at the 2004 Republican National Convention in New York City.

At the 2005 College Republican National Convention, the St. Thomas chapter received recognition for their success and leadership, being awarded Best Club in the Nation.
Tyler was appointed Executive Director of the Minnesota College Republicans in May of 2005, organizing a successful fall training retreat in St. Cloud as well as coordinating the volunteer effort for three separate elections in the fall of 2005.

Tyler announced his bid for Chairman of the Minnesota College Republicans on
January 16th, 2006.

2006-01-16T15:29:00.000-08:00

MCR Executive Director Tyler Sunderman Launches Campaign for State Chairman

For Immediate Release:

Contact: Sara Linert
linert@gmail.com
651.249.9294

St. Paul – MCR Executive Director Tyler Sunderman announced today that he is running for Chairman of the Minnesota College Republicans.

“MCRs will have a pivotal role in the crucial 2006 elections and I am excited to lead that effort. College Republicans across the state must effectively organize to defeat the DFL in elections at all levels of government,” said Sunderman.

Sunderman became a leader in College Republicans as soon as he started college at the University of St. Thomas in 2003. He quickly proved his leadership abilities by recruiting the greatest number of Bush Volunteers in the 2004 March Madness Tournament, propelling the Minnesota College Republicans to first place in the national tournament.

In the spring of 2004, as a freshman, Sunderman was elected Chairman of the University of St. Thomas CRs. As Chair, his leadership brought the club national recognition, being named Best Club in the Nation by the College Republican National Committee at its 2005 convention.

For the past nine months, Sunderman has served MCRs as its Executive Director under Chairman Tina Quick, who has declined to run for a second term. He has been a decisive member of the MCR Executive Board throughout his term and has led the recruiting program and volunteer efforts for many key special elections across the state in 2005.

In the coming weeks, Sunderman will announce the members of his team as well as his plan to bring the Minnesota College Republicans to new levels of activism, technology, fundraising and membership. Leadership elections will be held at the MCR Annual State Convention on March 4, 2006.

# # #

2006-01-16T15:26:00.000-08:00

Fellow College Republicans,

Over the course of the past nine months, I have had the honor of serving as the Executive Director of the Minnesota College Republicans. In that time, our organization devoted itself to three separate election cycles by volunteering for candidates in local elections across the state.

Tina Quick has announced that she will not run for re-election as Chair of the Minnesota College Republicans. Tina assembled an outstanding team of campus activists from across the state and it has been an honor for me to serve in her administration with such exceptional leaders.

As Executive Director, I have had the opportunity to visit chapters across the state, from Winona to Crookston. I have seen the good work that so many of you are doing: registering voters, volunteering in your communities and helping to elect Republican candidates at all levels of government. The 2006 election provides us with an opportunity as never before to truly impact the direction of our state and the political allegiances of young people for generations to come!

Therefore, I am running for Chairman of the Minnesota College Republicans. I believe that our organization is best served when we are united behind a common cause. We must rally behind Governor Pawlenty and fight for our candidates in the US Senate, the US Congress, and the State Legislature. My tenure as Executive Director has allowed me to see the immense growth potential in our organization and what we must do to be an effective grassroots army for our party and our candidates.

The Minnesota College Republicans have a long history of success. In order to defeat the Democrats in 2006 and win unprecedented numbers of votes for our candidates from college campuses, our organization must have strong leadership. I have the experience that is needed to take our organization to the next level of activism, technology, fundraising, and membership growth. I am assembling a team of dedicated leaders from across the state that will take MCRs to new heights. Over the course of the next several weeks, I look forward to talking with all of you about the campaign and your thoughts about the future of our organization.

Tyler Sunderman