Kickin it With the the Elections Commissioner; ‘23 SGA Elections

For all members of the Jaguar Nation, the Fall semester is always observed heavily due to the large number of events and festivities that take place throughout the Bluff during this time of year. One of the more relevant of these annual Jaguar traditions would be SGA campaign season, a prelude to homecoming in the eyes of many. Having had a chance to speak with the Fall 2023 Election Commissioner, Colby Bonier, it’s evident that her excitement for the campaigning students to make their mark is matched only by her enthusiasm for the newest generation of Jags as a whole.
The campaigns that have traditionally taken place at Southern University in years past have illustrated the innovation that the student body has been capable of, in terms of attracting students and expressing their messaging to the voter bases. After speaking to Commissioner Colby Bonier, it’s clear that leadership expects the participating candidates to run creative and innovative campaigns.
While this year’s election season features a bevy of freshmen candidates who are looking to begin making their marks at the university, other open positions such as sophomore class justice are present on this semester’s ballot as well. As SGA elections and student campaigns have begun to ramp up in recent years, the student body has taken it more upon themselves to inform themselves about each candidate and what they have to offer.
“It was interesting hearing what some of the people running had to say, and the energy around campus was just nice,” said Jazmin Skidmore, a sophomore criminal justice major from New Iberia, Louisiana. “I just hope whoever wins makes this semester fun,” concluded Skidmore.
According to different members of the student body such as Skidmore, one of the pervading issues that has become present on the Bluff has been the slow decline in school spirit when it comes to showing support for the university on occasions such as sporting events. When asked specifically how she views this upcoming class’s stance on school spirit, Commissioner Bonier states: “There is no doubt that students can expect exciting campaigns and [planned] initiatives in the future, as SU27 has proven their dedication and ability to deliver outstanding results.”
Based on the turnout and presentation for elections this past week, it’s clear that this perception pointed out by Bonier is one that the newest class of Jaguars is taking seriously. As we move past campaigns and transition into the Homecoming atmosphere more and more over the next couple of months, it’s the expectation that both winners and losers can represent the university with poise.