By Bryson Carter

Elections for the Student Government Association (SGA) at Greensboro College are starting to get into full swing. Candidates are beginning to get their names out there and word is getting around about whose hands the SGA will be in next year. These student politicians are putting their best foot forward to show that they can lead and represent the GC community with pride. From planning engaging events to getting what the students want done, whoever is elected will have a lot of work to do.

Many students do not realize the importance of the elections and a huge chunk will not even vote. However, participating in the SGA elections is a great way to make sure students’ voices are heard.

“It is important that people vote because that is the way that students choose who they want to represent them as a whole and who they want to see lead,” said SGA advisor Jonathan Hall. “It is a way that all students can get involved in having a say in who their student leaders are and therefore what happens through them.”

While the elections can be a very stressful and competitive event for some candidates, it is important to embrace the fun of the process.

“SGA elections are always a fun time because you see how much students actually care about improving our community,” said current SGA Vice President Xypher Pino. “I love seeing the creative slogans, the fun ideas and the general comradery that is created during this time.”

SGA has a bigger impact than many students realize, which is why voting is such a huge deal to ensure the correct people are chosen.

“SGA is important because it is the voice of the student body,” said Hall. “There are fun events and projects that everyone sees, but also lots of work, meetings, planning and advocacy that tends to happen behind the scenes.”

“Considering the diversity of our community and the desires by many for better and more fun things around campus, if students actually want to see change, then they should vote during this upcoming election and let their voice be heard,” Pino added.

The candidates for president are Bryson Carter and Maurice Stephens. Running for vice president are Jada (JJ) McClay and Brynly ManWaring. Campaigning for secretary is Shaniah Taylor.

Voting starts on April 7 and will end April 9 with the announcement of next year’s leaders happening at the Student Leadership Awards on April 23 in Finch Chapel at 12:30 p.m. Be sure to keep an eye on your Leo’s Line-Up for the link to vote so that your voice can be heard.