Anderson University seeks to promote a diverse and professionally advanced environment where its students can participate and thrive. One of the ways this growth happens is through the Student Government Association, or SGA for short. This being the 97th year of Anderson University having SGA, I contacted Leah Duncan, our current Student Body President, and asked her some questions about SGA.  

What is SGA?  

The Student Government Association (SGA) is a student-led organization that fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community. Our mission extends beyond simply connecting students; we actively work to ensure that every voice is heard and adequately represented in decision-making processes. By providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration, SGA empowers students to engage with one another and the administration, promoting an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and considered. 

What does SGA do?  

SGA exists to encourage and develop student interests through student body representation, club and organization support, and servant leadership. We achieve this mission by funding student clubs and organizations, supporting campus improvements, and collaborating with University leadership regarding student concerns and feedback. 

In the past, these campus improvements have looked like:  

• Funding the new Trojan Transit stops located at the Athletic Campus and Student Center 

• Funding the remodel for the pavilion to allow for Troy’s to have a welcoming event 

• Implementing the spicy chicken sandwich on meal swipes for Friday 

• Contributing to the Anderson City Parade Float to represent Anderson University to the community 

What has your personal experience with SGA looked like, and how have you grown from it?  

I started in SGA in my first year as a class senator. Since then, I have served as Executive Director of Operations and now as Student Body President. I never anticipated being involved with SGA coming into college, and now I truly could not imagine college without it. I am so grateful for all that it has brought and cannot wait to see what this year holds.   

Serving in this organization has brought me the best teammates and continuously pushes and challenges me. The past three years taught me a greater sense of responsibility, discipline, and teamwork. SGA has been life-giving in how I see the world and practically care for those around me. 

How could other students get involved in SGA?

There are three different ways you could get involved! 

1. SGA hosts elections for our 32 Senate seats within a few weeks of the beginning of the Fall semester. SGA may host special Senate Elections throughout the year as needed to fill vacant seats. 
2. SGA will host elections for our 4 elected officials (president, vice president, executive director of operations, and treasurer) in March.  
3. SGA conducts hiring of our Director and Secretary positions in March and April, immediately following the Spring elections. These positions are filled through an application and interview process and are open to the student body. 

Even those who do not hold a position in SGA can still get involved! You can talk to your class senators about what’s upcoming in SGA or what you would like to see happen, or you can attend a Senate meeting on Monday nights at 6:30. You can also be part of a club/organization and request funding from SGA.  

As always, you can reach out to the executive team and senators with any questions. We also host events and collaborate throughout the year, so be on the lookout for ways to connect with us! Learn more about SGA here. 

You can also follow SGA on Instagram for more information about upcoming events and elections!