Bruce Bigler and Archit Dash are to lead SGA next year.
Chief Elections Officer Aryn Moore announced next year’s Executive Committee in the Faculty Lounge last Wednesday to a small crowd of candidates and their friends. Over 800 votes had been tallied for vice president and over 900 for president.
“Party at the Polls” ran from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Prior to 9, when the announcement was scheduled, the nervous energy in the room was palpable. Graduate advisor Vishwari Aleti acknowledged the atmosphere. “There’s a lot of excited nerves, but it’s really great to see everybody getting along well. All of the candidates are talking to and encouraging each other. This is a great way to celebrate.”
Current Student Government Association president Kadee Jo Ransom appreciated the closure that comes with a set event. “This is a hard time [for the candidates] because you have to throw yourself out there and hope that people agree with what you’re saying. When I found out [I won] last year, I was sitting on my friend’s couch wearing sweatpants. This helps add finality and peace.”
Moore also announced the secretary and treasurer. Both freshman and running unopposed, Zac Edwards and Reagan McComas were happy to claim their titles. They will assume their roles alongside the newly elected president and vice president at the start of the upcoming academic year.
Junior Archit Dash was named vice president-elect. In a statement afterward, he said, “there wasn’t a single candidate who ran who wasn’t capable. Every other candidate would be able to do a wonderful job in this position. I’m just grateful the student body chose to elect me, and I’ll do my best to live up to their expectations.”
And to raucous applause, Bruce Bigler claimed the title of president elect, defeating four other candidates. In his speech, he compared TU to Route 66. “Back in the day, Route 66 connected the entire nation, but over time … it became a lot more destitute and forsaken. It turned into something that was a little bit sad and difficult. This year, we are celebrating the 100th anniversary, and it is so cool to see it come back. … At TU we’ve definitely gone through tough times and challenges and difficulties, but nevertheless, we’ve always come back. That’s exactly what I’m hoping to do this year.”
Bruce Bigler and Aryn Moore after the presidential announcement. Photo by Olive Clay.
Ransom still has three months as president but is “excited to guide the next person and set them up for success.” She is also proud of everyone who ran. “[This event] is not only celebrating who wins, but everything that’s gone into [running]. All the SGA members have worked so hard.” With results finalized, the SGA executive team now turns its focus toward representing the student body in the year ahead.
