At the beginning of this year’s Student Congress session, I gave a speech with one goal in mind: to empower the representatives to recognize and use their influence at the University of Evansville. As we move past midterms and into the SGA election season, I want to amplify that message to the entire campus community.

Too often, I receive emails, overhear conversations, or see Yik Yak posts filled with frustrations about the university—but without any effort to enact change. I understand these concerns. Campus isn’t perfect. But venting alone isn’t enough to improve our experience. Real change requires real engagement. And no, Yik Yak doesn’t count.

Over my years in SGA, I’ve learned that students have significant power to shape the university. However, many don’t know how to utilize this power effectively. There’s also a common misconception that administrators don’t support student initiatives. In reality, I’ve seen firsthand how much the student experience is valued at the highest levels of this institution. But making progress takes more than just complaints—it takes action, collaboration, and, most importantly, patience.

No major improvement happens overnight. Just as Rome wasn’t built in a day, the perfect student experience won’t be either. And just as Rome wasn’t built by one person, neither is SGA’s agenda. A diversity of voices is crucial for truly representative leadership. As SGA President, I advocate for student concerns, but without consistent input from the broader student body, I can’t be certain that I’m representing everyone fairly. This is why your involvement matters.

Being heard isn’t about being the loudest, most incessant, or most forceful. Complaints shouted into the void rarely lead to meaningful change. Instead, effective advocacy requires clarity, pragmatism, and unity. I’m not saying that students need to take it upon themselves to coordinate a collective message on their own—that’s the role of the SGA Executive Board. However, meeting with Board members to share concerns ensures that we understand what truly needs attention. When we hear the same issues repeatedly, we know where to focus our efforts and who to bring into the conversation.

That said, SGA can’t solve every issue instantly, nor can we develop solutions in isolation. When students come to us with concerns, my response is often, “How would you like me to help solve this?” and “What steps have you taken so far?” Without answers to these questions, change is unlikely to happen. We want to help, but there are only nine members on the Executive Board with myriad responsibilities. Our impact is strongest when students bring forward actionable ideas or positive solutions.

Building relationships among students, representatives, and administrators is also key. Trust, respect, and open-mindedness create an environment where student influence thrives. When we approach discussions with empathy and a willingness to understand the university’s decision-making processes, we foster a healthier and more effective advocacy culture. This kind of engagement doesn’t just improve today’s student experience—it sets a precedent for future generations to continue shaping campus life.

This brings me to the upcoming SGA election. One of the most direct ways to exert your influence is to be informed about who’s running and to vote. As 2024 showed us, elections can have a significant impact through their results. This is not to say that the SGA election is comparable to the U.S Election. The outcome of this won’t shape international security or economic policy, but it will impact your daily life on campus. The students elected at the beginning of April will be the megaphones for your concerns over the next year.

Student engagement matters. This election may not be controversial or dramatic, but it also shouldn’t be a popularity contest. I would argue that it is an opportunity to send a clear message that the students at UE care about representation and governance. A strong turnout will ensure that message resonates across campus.

The foundation has been laid for students to take an active role in shaping the university’s future. But making an impact starts with you. Every member of the SGA Executive Board holds office hours weekly, ready to hear your ideas and concerns. Bring us your input—we’re eager to listen. Frankly, our office hours can get pretty boring without student engagement!

I’m excited to see how the University of Evansville evolves in the years ahead, and I’m honored to have played a role in that process. The work isn’t done. There’s so much potential ahead, but we can’t get there without you. The SGA Elections will take place on UEngage from Thursday, March 27^th until Wednesday, April 2^nd at noon. Your voice matters. Make sure it’s heard.

Mr. Simpson has served as President of the Student Government Association since 2023. You can reach him at SGAPresident@evansville.edu.