Those seeking executive offices of the Student Government Association discussed Wednesday administration and student relations, campus diversity and rising education costs.

About 30 students, including those running for office, were present at the annual SGA debate.

“I think faculty and the administration can be trusted so long as they are given the proper information and proper advisement form student leaders,” Connor McCarthy, the presidential candidate for the Office Party said.

In contrast, the Foundation Party said meeting with administrators would not promote student involvement.

“We’re not here to meet with administrators all the time,” McCoy Pitt, the Foundation Party’s presidential contender, said. “You can’t advocate student issues if you don’t have a pulse with students.”

The Foundation Party said it will tackle “student apathy” and focus on racial divisions.

“We are running the idea that we want to bring people together with the community,” Pitt said.

Members of the Foundation Party have visited more than 70 student organizations, Pitt said, concentrating on Memorial Hall organizations to bridge the gap between the SGA and students. The Office Party said increased diversity entails more than meeting with organizations.

“It’s about putting on programs for a broader base of students so different people want to come here,” Nicki Batelli, the Office Party’s vice presidential candidate said. “It’s not just slapping (SGA’s) name on something, but getting something accomplished together.”

On the rising cost of tuition and books, the Foundation Party said they would advocate for decreased costs and encouraged a “grass-roots” effort to raise awareness on the state level.

The Office Party suggested increasing student use of the Tate Copy and Print center to cut down on printing costs.

Both parties say they will overhaul UGAmail.