As the spring semester winds down at Southern Utah University, campus buzzes with anticipation for the upcoming SUU Student Association elections. With primary elections March 20 through March 22 and general elections on March 27 through March 29, students prepare to cast their votes for the coming academic year’s representatives.
SUUSA advisor Heather Garcia highlighted the importance of guiding candidates throughout the election process. “I am happy to meet with any student considering running,” she said. “My goal is to be extremely supportive and appreciative for the sacrifices they are making to be a part of this process.”
Garcia noted the significance of student engagement in the election process. “Overall, I think a revived and revamped excitement towards student engagement at this time of year is always something we look forward to,” she noted. “It’s a new set of fresh ideas, perspectives and student initiatives that can really better the student experience.”
Students can learn more about the candidates’ platforms and engage with them directly at the SUUSA Elections Debate on March 27. This event provides candidates a place to articulate their vision for the university and address student concerns.
Election director Kara Conrad emphasized the role of leadership in candidate selection stating, “One of the main qualities and attributes that students should look for in a candidate would be leadership ability. I want a candidate who I know will work hard and stand up for what they believe in.”
Student Body President Carson Brown encourages students to actively participate in the election process and consider joining one of many student government roles.
“I think a lot of people see student government as an all-or-nothing kind of experience. In reality, you have this wide spectrum of offices to choose from to get involved with,” said Brown. “I started my student government experience as an associate justice in the judicial committee, and it was a very small position. But it got me introduced into student involvement in student government and student representation.”
Smaller leadership positions work directly with and under the incoming SUUSA vice presidents and its executive council. Applications for these positions for next year are open now and available until April 3. For more information on the election process, visit ST 177.
Results are scheduled to be announced on the night of March 29. These elections stand as a testament to the spirit of democracy and student engagement at Southern Utah University, so students are encouraged to vote.
Author: Brooklyn Monson
Photo courtesy of SUU
Editor: Anna Mower
news@suunews.net
