SGA Spring General Election Information
SGA Spring General Election will take place on March 11th, 2025. Elections will open at 12:00 AM and close at 4:30 PM.
Learn More About Your Future Campus Leaders
President Candidates
Diego De Assis
Junior, Hospitality and Culinary Management
I seek this position to better the campus as a whole and work together with students and faculty
Qualifications: Student Senator, Vice committee chair, Leadership at RUF
Campus Involvement: Student Senator, RUF, BCM, Culinary Council, ISO, Engage,
Ayanah Scott
Junior, Nursing
I seek the role of SGA President because I truly value leadership. I value the qualities that it takes to be a strong leader including integrity, character, accommodation, compassion, and drive. One thing I’d like to accomplish as SGA is to recruit more leaders on campus. Any and everyone can be a leader, but they need someone to believe in them and help them tap into those skills that they already have. I want to be the representative that believes in our students.
Qualifications: I believe I am qualified because I have been well rounded here at JSU. I started as a Freshman working in our school cafeteria then working my way to Wow! I became a senator my sophomore year and then VPSS my junior year. I truly feel that I have worked my way up in a way, seeing all the different aspects of a focused student here on campus and meeting so many people from different walks of life. I’ve also changed my major a couple times so I know how it feels to genuinely not know what you want to do. I’ve dealt with people who may not agree with my leadership style or decisions so push back is no fear of mine. I think my biggest qualification is that I’m willing to try and I will go in wanted to be learn. I don’t think I’m a big shot or better than anyone but I know I will do my best with my tasks given.
Campus Involvement: Staff members of Sodexo (2022-2024), Student Senate (2023-2024, SGA VPSS (2024-2025), Founder and President of Tap In With God (2023-, Vice President of Operations Big Sister (2025-
Nick Shell
Sophomore, Political Science
I am seeking the Office of the SGA President to bring change to the student government. I offer an open office that will represent all students from all parts of campus. I will accomplish a balancing of power to the student government in order to incentivize and create competition for our student government. I will increase dialogue of students on campus and present the ideas and complaints of all students to the board of trustees and to President Don Killingsworth. Additionally, I will create a respected SGA and offer an alternative to the current established SGA.
Qualifications: I am currently majoring in Political Science and minoring in Journalism. I have had discussions with major politicians in the state of Alabama including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the former Secretary of State, and many state senators and representatives.
Campus Involvement: I have served as an SGA Senator and the Vice Chair of the Governmental Relations Committee for two semesters. I am the president of the Catholic Student Organization and the president of YAF. I currently serve as a delegate for our collegiate legislature club.
Vice President of Student Senate
Tanaya Fairbanks
Senior, Elementary Education
I have served at the VPOA for the past two years and I feel as if it was time to step up and venture out into a different position.
Qualifications: I currently serve as the VPOA. I am also in leadership positions for several other organizations.
Campus Involvement: SGA Vice President of Organizational Affairs, NAACP President, Operation Big sister President/Founder, Alpha Phi Omega Compliance Officer, BSU Freshmen Committee, Student Senator, C-Leg Speaker of the House, SSC101 Mentor, SAC Member, National Society of Success and Leadership Honor Society.
Anna Silvey
Junior, History
I am seeking this position because I want to better and grow the Student Senate with my experience as being a senator for almost two years it shows me what Senators go through so i can better understand them. I will help them set meetings up with staff or faculty so they can get bill ideas or resolution ideas. I will be available to them just about 24/7 to help. I want to better unite the senate and do team building events as well as do meet and greets with other student organizations so we can get to know each other better.
Qualifications: I have been a student senator for almost 2 years. As well as I have been a member of SAC and OC Organizational Council and the last semester and this semester I have showed up just like exec for every event and work alongside them.
Campus Involvement: Chairwoman of Jax State College Republicans, Clerk of the student senate Vice President of Young Americans for Freedom, Director of Special Interest groups on Organizational Council, Member of Student Activities Council, Head of Registration for the Mountain Retreat, Member of the Tocqueville Society, Member of Collegiate Legislature, Vice President of Political Science Debate Team, Member of Banner Church, 2x Student Symposium Presenter
Vice President of Student Activities
Bethany Dean-Stoots
Junior, Social Work
I am seeking the position of SGA Vice President of Student Activities because I want to bring more exciting and engaging events to our campus. I believe student involvement plays a huge role in creating a strong campus community, and I want to help plan events that bring people together, encourage school spirit, and make student life more enjoyable. My goal is to increase the number and variety of events on campus, ensuring there’s something for everyone. I want to collaborate with student organizations to create activities that reflect the diverse interests of our students and make campus life more vibrant and inclusive.
Qualifications: I am highly qualified for SGA Vice President of Student Activities due to my leadership experience and deep campus involvement. As Vice President of Lambda Sigma and the Social Work Club, I have led executive boards and coordinated initiatives. My roles as Delta Zeta’s Parent and Alumni Chairwoman, SNT Coordinator for NSLS, and a Freshman Forum Mentor have strengthened my event planning, communication, and organizational skills. I am committed to enhancing student engagement, creating inclusive events, and making campus life more vibrant for all students.
Campus Involvement: Marching Southerners, Delta Zeta’s Parent and Alumni Chairwoman, Vice President of Lambda Sigma, Vice President of the Social Work Club, Freshman Forum Mentor, El Latido, Student Senate, Organizational Council, The National Society of Leadership and Success SNT Coordinator, Student Activities Council
Kaylee Lanier
Sophomore, Early Childhood/Elementary Education
I am running for Vice President of Student Activities because I am passionate about creating a vibrant and inclusive campus community where every student feels engaged and connected. I believe that student activities play a crucial role in shaping our college experience, and I want to ensure that we have diverse, exciting, and meaningful events that bring us together. If elected, my goals include increasing student involvement by organizing events that reflect the interests of our diverse student body, improving communication and accessibility so every student knows about opportunities to participate, and fostering a sense of school spirit through creative and engaging programming. I want to collaborate with student organizations to provide more opportunities for leadership, networking, and fun. Ultimately, my goal is to make student activities more impactful, ensuring that every student finds something they enjoy and feels a true sense of belonging on campus.
Qualifications: I am qualified for the role of Vice President of Student Activities because of my strong leadership skills, dedication to student engagement, and experience in organizing and supporting campus events. As an active member of our student body, I understand the importance of creating events that are not only fun but also meaningful and inclusive. My ability to collaborate with different student organizations, communicate effectively, and think creatively allows me to plan events that bring people together. I am passionate about making sure every student has opportunities to get involved, and I am committed to listening to student voices to ensure our activities reflect their interests and needs. With my leadership, I will work hard to make student life on campus more dynamic, engaging, and memorable for everyone.
Campus Involvement: Student Activities Council (Chair of Major Entertainment)
Nadiyah Oden
Junior, Forensic Investigation
I seek this position because I want to expand my skills learned in previous leadership roles to this position and utilize the opportunity to connect and improve the bond with the student body through events and activities on campus.
Qualifications: My qualifications consist of being involved with Student Activities Council for about 2 years now. I’ve obtained vital knowledge on how events are planned, operated, and managed with volunteers. This experience has led me to believe I am qualified for this role.
Campus Involvement: Current Vice President of Student Activities Council , Director or Marketing and Programming for Black Student Union , Member of the JSU Gospel Choir, Member of NAACP , Mentor in JSU Operation Big Sister , Previous Freshman Forum Mentor, Previous Freshman Forum Member, Previous Member of Lambda Sigma Honor Society, Previous Director of Operations of Student Activities Council
Kylie Swinford
Sophomore, Exercise Science and Wellness
As a 3rd generation student at Jax State I have a deep love for this campus and the opportunities it has given me. I am seeking the position of Vice President of Student Activities because I am passionate about enhancing the student experience and creating a better campus community. I plan to grow mental health awareness with my position as I believe in fostering a space where students can connect, collaborate, and grow. I want every student to feel as though they have a voice on this campus not just when they vote but all year long.
Qualifications: I not only have experience in event planning as a previous Key Club Lieutenant governor but as well as skills in collaboration and public relations. In my past two years on campus I have held leadership positions as being a member of freshman forum and serving as the current Chaplain of SGA. While being a Jacksonville State student I have became a member of Zeta Tau Alpha where I was the previous Director of Activities and the now current Membership Enrichment chair. While all balancing school and three other organizations on top of it all. I truly think I have the discipline and determination needed for this position.
Campus Involvement: Member of Zeta Tau Alpha (current membership enrichment chair and previous director of activities), SGA chaplain, Member of Organizational council, Member of Student Activities Council, Member of SODA ( Student Organs Donation Advocates), Member of Freshman forum, Member of Fit, Friends, and Fitness.
Vice President of Organizational Affairs
Trey Landman
Junior, Family Consumer Science & Political Science
I hope to build upon what the previous VPOA has implemented, such as training on topics relevant to organizations, improving access for organizations to receive allocations, and advocating for the students of Jacksonville State University. My main goal, if elected, will be to establish training and provide information on how to build and grow an organization, as well as how to maximize its benefits for members. I also aim to foster strong relationships with fellow students to listen to their concerns and ideas, ensuring that I can enhance their experience through my position.
Qualifications: I have been involved in organizational leadership for a few years. I originally started as the President of the Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Organization, where I established a strong and professional organization with many executive officers, ambassadors for the FCS Department, and numerous members. I then became the State President for the Alabama AAFCS Student Unit. In that role, I rebuilt the unit after it was shut down due to COVID-19, forming a team and establishing partnerships with two other schools: Montevallo and Alabama A&M. During my tenure, I had the opportunity to host a Student Leadership Conference at JSU, where I taught students about professionalism, networking, and organizational development. I currently serve as President-Elect for the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, with a mission to strengthen university organizations as well as state-level FCS organizations. Additionally, over the past year, I have held leadership positions in SGA, including serving as Parliamentarian for the Student Senate and Director of IFC and NPC for the Organization Council. With the knowledge and experience I have gained over the years, I am confident in myself to serve my fellow students to the best of my ability
Campus Involvement: Organizational Council Director of IFC and NPC , Student Senate Parliamentarian, AAFCS National President-Elect, ALAFCS State President (2024), ACTE National FCS Ambassador, College Legislature, FCS Student Organization President, FCS Ambassador Director, FCCLA Officer and competitor, BioArt Club President (2023), SAC FCS Community Outreach Program Director (2024), Hospitality & Culinary Management Advisory Committee, FCS Department Survey Committee, College of Education & Professional Studies Survey Committee, Alpha Tau Omega Philanthropy Chair (2023), Student Assistant - Jax State Child Development Center.
Rylan Sharpe
Sophomore, Forensic Investigation
I have been in the SGA student senate for the past year, and although this position isn't exactly the same thing, I feel like it is a step up from the senate. I want to be able to help all of the organizations on campus to become better and continue to grow. I have a few ideas to try and help organizations be able to recruit new members.
Qualifications: I have been an SGA senator for the past year so I have been able to talk to the present SGA exec team. I also am able to hold a leadership position in my other organization as well.
Campus Involvement: SGA student senate, KA Vice president, TPUSA, College republicans, Collegiate Legislature
Keyon-Dre Swift
Junior, Film
The reason I am running for this position is because I have seen how important involvement is on campus. It drives many students to do better and gives practical leadership experience. Jax State has given me so many opportunities and I want to return the favor by giving opportunities to organizational leaders.
Qualifications: I have been through professional leadership trainings since I was a freshman in high school. I have also been very involved on campus since my arrival here in 2021 with the SGA and office of first and second year experience.
Campus Involvement: I was a member of Freshman Forum. I have served as an SGA student senator, GO! Leader, the Organizational Council pro-tempore (VPOA Vice-President), the Collegiate Legislature Lieutenant Governor, and Film Production Club Executive Coordinator.
Vice President of Public Relations
Karma Rice
Junior, Criminal Justice
I’ve always wanted to be a part of Student government association, and I’ve always wanted to be something more on campus and not just be know someone who can dress in Ashley be in student activities and I’ve always known myself as far as like social media and public appearance so I feel like being a student government association being the vice president of public relations will really take it far for me Gain something from and learn
Qualifications: Public relations has always been me when I was in high school. I was the secretary for student government associations in transferred to vice president but every public appearance that the student government team Dylan it was because I got them booked and got them in order and appeared to each activity that we do in social media is always what I’ve run for them like my whole life so I will take it that makes me qualify for this position and I’m so nice and I’m so approachable That also a good reason as well
Campus Involvement: Yes
Miller Small
Sophomore, Emergency Management
I currently hold the position of SGA Vice President of Public Relations, and I am deeply committed to fostering a student-oriented approach in everything I do. My primary goal is to continue creating content that is not only informative but also interactive, engaging, and designed to meet the diverse needs of students. By prioritizing student feedback and ensuring that the resources we provide are practical and accessible, I aim to create a learning environment where students feel empowered and supported. I'm excited to continue working towards building content that encourages student participation and enhances their overall experience here at Jax State!
Qualifications: With my experience in several student leadership roles, from SGA Vice President of PR to IFC Vice President of PR and Sigma Phi Epsilon Chaplain, I’ve developed the skills needed to communicate effectively, manage projects, and advocate for students. Being part of the Southeast Greek Leadership Association and Freshman Forum has given me a wider perspective on what students need and how to make sure their voices are heard. These experiences have prepared me to continue as a strong and approachable leader in student government, ensuring that our communication is engaging, inclusive, and meaningful.
Campus Involvement: SGA Vice President of Public Relations, Interfraternity Council Vice President of Public Relations, Southeastern Greek Leadership Association Student Advisory Board, Sigma Phi Epsilon Chaplain, Collegiate Legislator House Floor Leader, Freshman Forum.
Student Senate Candidates
- Colby Amos - Major: Communications and Digital media production
- Kiersten Bell - Major: Criminal Justice
- Konner Brown - Major: Business Managment
- Elijah Burrell - Major: History
- Nicholas Butler - Major: Business
- Eda Theresa Camay - Major: Nursing
- Taylor Carden - Major: Elementary Education
- Nicholas Clark - Major: Human resource marketing
- Clark Coggin - Major: Exercise Science
- Anthony Dalesandro - Major: Business Undecided Management
- Landon Deems - Major: History
- Carter Dingler - Major: Biology Pre-Health
- Jorja Ferguson - Major: Nursing
- Jackson Gomez - Major: Forensic Investigation
- Gabby Green - Major: Political Science
- Thomas Green - Major: Forensic Investigations
- Brittany Grindle - Major: Nursing
- Cody Hamrick - Major:Criminal Justice
- Emily Jones - Major: Forensic Investigations
- Kailah Jones - Major: Sociology: Applied
- Rayannua Knox - Major: Family and Consumer
- Reginald Larkin - Major: Political science
- Noah Leachman - Major: Occupational health and safety
- Kaitlyn Letson - Master’s: Public Administration with a focus in Criminal Justice
- Dylan Lively - Major: Graphic Design
- Perry Luzier - Major: Integrated Studies
- Gabby Meyers - Major: Forensic Investigation
- Osaretin Obasuyi - Major: Elementary Education
- Duncan Parker - Major: Education
- Francisco Patino - Major: Business
- Christen Pickett - Major: Communications Public Relations and Advertising’
- Brooks Rosson - Major: Secondary Education
- Zhandria Siler - Major: English: Professional Writing
- Axel Smith - Major: Information Technology
- Derek Smith - Major: Political Science
- Sky Swann - Major: Film
- Hayleigh Taylor - Major: Early Childhood Education
- Ashton Wade - Major: Criminal Justice
- Jaxon Washburn - Major: Studio arts
- Carter Whatley - Major: Education
- Asa Wright - Major: Forensic Science
Ms. Friendly Candidates
Grace Epperson
Involvement: Angle Hall Greeter, Member of Baptist Campus Ministries
Cat Farley
Involvement: Delta zeta sorority and Executive Board
Chloe James
Involvement: Zeta Tau Alpha, JSU Gospel Choir, Panhellenic recruitment team, Student Organ Donor Advocates (SODA) secretary
Rayannua Knox
Involvement: SAC, Dream Team, BSU, First Gen, Elevate ministries
Hayleigh Taylor
Involvement: SAC-Committee Chair and Freshman Forum
Mr. Friendly Candidates
Oscar Juc-Ibarra
Involvement: Alpha Psi Lambda, El Latido de Mi Cultura
Trey Marshall
Involvement: VP of Communication for Sigma Phi Epsilon, 2025 GO! Leader, Admissions Student Assistant, Member of Lambda Sigma, Jax State Ambassador, Gamecock Guide, Cocky Karaoke.
Ms. Jax State
Maggie Graben
Involvement: Zeta Tau Alpha, Panhellenic Vice President of Executive Affairs, Jax State Ambassador, Banner Church Small Group Leader, Society 24, SSC 101 Peer Mentor.
Katie Pruitt
Involvement: Delta Zeta Sorority
Devynn Standridge
Involvement: Delta Zeta, Marching Ballerinas, The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), Cocky Karaoke, Angle Hall Greeter, Freshman Forum Alumna, First Year Experience Mentor