Kachelle Pratcher
Staff Writer
Who will lead students at Jackson State University during the 2014-2015 academic school year?
Students filled Ballroom B of the Student Center on March 24th during the Student Government Association Nominations workshop to get a glimpse of potential candidates to answer this question.
“I’m always excited about SGA nominations. The election season always wakes the campus up from its winter sleep,” said Kentonio Johnson, a biology/pre-pharmacy major from LaGrange, Ga.
The event started with a welcome by presiding officer T’Erica Hudson, who currently serves as the 2013-2014 SGA Vice President and Election Commissioner. After introducing students serving on the Election Commission and announcing the various positions and rules/regulations of this campaign season, it was time for the moment everyone was waiting for.
“I was really excited to see who was running for SGA President and Miss Jackson State University; it seems that everybody was waiting to meet the nominees,” said Darsha Campbell, a senior mathematics major from Mobile, Ala.
Open positions included, Executive branch-President, Vice President, Parliamentarian, Business Manager, Executive Secretary, Executive Assistant Secretary, and Miss Jackson State University. Under the legislation branch there were two open Academic Council senators, two Special Interest Council senators. Open class council positions included President, Vice President, Parliamentarian, Business Manager, Executive Secretary, Executive Assistant Secretary, King and Queen.
“I have always wanted to be a part of the SGA. I ran for a class position last year but didn’t win, so this year I’m eager for this election season to really work harder and possibly represent my class,” said Alexus White, a sophomore healthcare administration major from Flora, Miss.
The Judicial Branch has a new selection process this year and interested students are required to attend a series of informational forums, submit an application to the Deans office, and participate in an intensive interview. The three candidates with the highest votes will be selected as student justices.
The next two names on the ballot were for Chief Justice and Associate Chief Justice and whoever has the highest vote will assume the position of Chief Justice and second highest vote will assume the position of Associate Chief Justice. The two students selected were Chelsea Turner and Charance Wright.
“Seeing that this was my first time attending formal nominations, it was really nerve-wracking not knowing who would go up for what position. I was excited the entire night,” said Jeffery Greg, a freshman business major from Puckett, Miss.
The position of Student Government Association President has three nominees: Shontrice Garrett, Rashad Sayles and Keonte Turner. The position of SGA Vice President includes two nominees: Michael Gordon and Keith January. Miss JSU includes five nominees: Arekia Bennett, Anissa Butler, Jennifer Cotton, Jade King, and Ebonee Swilley.
The next steps for these candidates include submitting application packets by deadline and attending the mandatory Emerging Leaders’ Summit which will be held on Saturday, March 29 and feature guest speaker Judge Glenda Hatchett.
