Get ready for an exciting election season as the Student Government Association (SGA) campaigns kick off! This year's race promises to be a hotly contested one, with three executive positions up for grabs and an intriguing twist: one position remains unclaimed, leaving an open door for potential candidates.
The SGA office is buzzing with activity, and the election date is fast approaching. Scheduled for February 24th, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time, this election will determine the leadership of the SGA for the 2026-2027 academic year.
The presidency is a highly sought-after role, with three candidates vying for the position. Samantha Simmons, currently the vice president for academic affairs, has a vision to lower financial barriers and enhance student life. Kyle Porter, another presidential hopeful, emphasizes personal and academic success for all students. And Aaron Rak, the third candidate, aims to tackle parking and course fee issues.
But here's where it gets controversial: the vice president for communications position is currently vacant, with no certified candidates. This leaves an open field for any eligible individual to step up and make their mark. The election for this role will be a write-in process, allowing for a unique opportunity to shape the SGA's communication strategy.
The other executive positions also have strong contenders. For vice president for academic affairs, Madelyn Herwig and Harlie Hicks are running, each with their own ideas on improving academic accessibility and student success. Emma Honer and Marykate Foster are competing for the vice president for belonging and wellness position, both committed to enhancing student well-being and creating an inclusive campus community.
Other positions up for election include vice president for external affairs, financial affairs, and student affairs, each with their own set of candidates and platforms.
This election is a chance for students to have their voices heard and shape the future of their student government. With so many passionate candidates and diverse perspectives, it's an exciting time for the SGA.
And this is the part most people miss: the power of student involvement. Your vote matters, and it's an opportunity to influence the direction of your student government and, by extension, your entire campus community. So, stay informed, engage in the process, and make your voice count!
(Don't forget to check out the official SGA election website for more details: https://sga.sl.ua.edu/)
What do you think about the candidates and their platforms? Feel free to share your thoughts and engage in the discussion below! We'd love to hear your opinions and insights.
