Last week, the University of Tennessee won Student Government of the Year at the annual SEC Exchange in Starkville, Mississippi.
At this event, student governments from across the Southeastern Conference gathered for networking and recognition of exceptional service and leadership to their respective institutions.
This award honors outstanding student leadership in several categories within the last academic year.
UT Student Body President Caroline Marcus shared the magnitude of this recognition.
“For our university, I believe that this award exemplifies another way that we excel within the Southeastern Conference,” Marcus said.
The winning submission was selected on the basis of supporting student needs, collaboration with administrators and off-campus partners and development of necessary and innovative programs and services.
The awards were voted on by advisors, faculty and SGA executive members of the host school, which was Mississippi State University this year.
“Receiving this award is such an honor, not only for the Student Government Association, but for our entire university community,” Marcus said. “It is incredibly rewarding to see our efforts recognized on this level.”
Chief of Staff Julia Dieter was responsible for the majority of the submission process.
UT SGA’s submission highlighted initiatives aimed at improving accessibility and enhancing the student experience.
Some initiatives included expanding student disability services, introducing canvas applications focused on student wellbeing, the creation of a new branch of SGA for transfer students and growing the FUTURE internship program.
Student Body Vice President Anna Beth Thompson said the emphasis on growth and inclusivity distinguished the university from their SEC counterparts.
“I think what makes Tennessee’s Student Government unique is our belief that everyone is a member,” Thompson said. “We strive to ensure every student has a voice in the decisions that shape the Tennessee experience.”
The student experience is ever-changing, and SGA plays an integral role in developing relevant policy and programs directed at campus life.
Moving forward, the association plans to increase promotion of the work they do in order to cultivate campus awareness and grow student participation.
“We’re focused on increasing student engagement and transparency, so every student understands what our student government does and how they can get involved,” Thompson said.
Despite the success of the past year, Marcus said the work is not over. A new group of students means new opportunities, challenges and room for innovation.
“This shows what can be accomplished with the purpose of serving others,” Marcus said. “I cannot wait to build upon this momentum and see what we can accomplish this upcoming year.”
