Elections for the Students’ Association were Wednesday and Thursday.
Students were able to vote for officers to represent their classes, residence halls, and department buildings. This year many more students participated in voting then they have in previous years. Many candidates ran unopposed, but others, particularly freshman, contended for votes.
“I have a passion for leadership,” said William Mince, candidate for freshman class president.
Mince, freshman public relations major from Wills Point, Texas, finds campaigning fun and a great way to meet people and learn more about himself.
Many candidates were forced to be more outgoing than they had been before.
Makayla Jones, candidate for Gardner Hall representative, said she was convinced to run by Eric Gumm and chose to take the chance.
Jones, freshman undeclared from Abilene, Texas, said she was glad she ran for office because she had fun and learned more about ACU’s campus. Putting her face on a poster of Uncle Sam was just one of the many fun things she was able to do, she said.
Tre Byrd, who ran for Vice President of the Freshman Class, said he ran so he could give a voice to those who normally wouldn’t speak out.
“It’s about the class, not a popularity contest,” said Byrd, freshman Bible major from San Antonio, Texas.
He said he considers SA officers to be servants to other students.
Emily Moreno, freshman, ran for Nelson Representative with a similar attitude.
“Nelson Hall is my home and I want other people to feel at home home here,” she said.
While many freshmen were excited for elections, most upperclassmen candidates ran unopposed.
Savannah Cheatham, sophomore graphic design major from Abilene, said this could be because many upperclassman don’t care as much for class politics as they do for their studies. As they get more involved with social clubs and other organizations, the Student’s Association moves into the background.
Some students may be apathetic or afraid to step out, but as Makayla Jones said, “Why not?”
There will be a run-off on Friday September 12. Students are encouraged to vote once again at vote.acu.edu for the candidate they want in office.
