Two candidates are running for Student Government Association vice president. From 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., candidates will represent their campaigns Wednesday through Friday and meet with students on the Haley Concourse. Voting will occur on Friday, Feb. 7, from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. and the winner will be announced the same day at 10 p.m. on the Cater Hall steps.
Buckley Nettles
Buckley Nettles is a junior in communications and is running with her platform "Buckling Up with Buckley." Uniting the student body and providing an understanding of the core values of SGA is how Nettles plans on using her voice.
With three main points on Buckley's agenda, her first point focuses on increasing the SGA community with an emphasis on the student senate. To create a more collaborative environment, Nettles aims to elevate engagement as well as accessibility. She also strives to unify SGA with every member of Auburn's student body.
"My goal is for every student at Auburn to feel welcome in approaching any member of the Student Senate, whether through participating in open forum or attending their college’s office hours," Nettles said.
Her second point is to educate. Gaining experience as an At-Large Senator helped her gain insight into the concerns of the student body. The number one concern Nettles heard was being unaware of the goals SGA wants to accomplish.
"I will strive to educate every Auburn student on the core values of SGA. As Vice President I would increase education across campus on all branches, outreach and campus initiatives, and legislation," Nettles said.
Nettles' third point is centered around participation. Reflecting on the impact joining organizations had on her, she is motivated to help Auburn students do the same.
"I understand how difficult it can be to find your place in a new, unfamiliar environment, and I want to ensure that other students have the resources and support they need to feel like they belong," Nettles said. "I believe that every student deserves the opportunity to discover their passions, connect with others, and grow as an individual."
Encouraging students to take an initiative, whether joining a club or starting one, Nettles focuses on that first step and making Auburn a place to call a second home. Vowing to keep every student in mind when making decisions, Nettles sees serving Auburn as an honor.
"I commit to dedicating my complete attention and effort to promoting these pillars of communication, education and participation and I look forward to being able to serve Auburn University," Nettles said.
Emma Frances Zellner
Photo contributed by Emma Frances Zellner.
Emma Frances Zellner, junior in accounting, is running for SGA vice president with her platform "We Can with Emma Fran." Prioritizing making Auburn's campus an uplifting environment, Zellner puts an emphasis on making the student's feel supported.
Focusing on three main points, Zellner's first point works on enhancing the student experience. She plans on listening to student feedback and jumping into action to make those changes. Inviting inclusivity, she believes that Auburn students should feel championed by the Auburn family both socially and academically.
"No student should feel less valuable to the student government than another. It is my desire that every student enjoys their four years at Auburn and truly believes that the Auburn Family supports each other," Zellner said.
Her second point focuses on emphasizing resources. Zellner wants to showcase the resources SGA and the university have, making students aware of how to utilize them. Aligned with that, she wants to make sure the student senate is a group that is approachable.
"As the SGA vice president, I will strive to make sure every student on campus knows about the resources that are put in place to help them succeed," Zellner said.
Her third point features encouraging the student body to be connected through both cooperation and events. She expressed that her role as vice president would be vital to unifying everyone on campus, regardless of the college, organization or committee.
"Legislations and initiatives can have a powerful impact when there is investment from diverse groups. It is my priority to encourage the student body to be united in our efforts to bettr this campus and the broader community," Zellner said.
Bringing her ideals to the forefront of her platform, Zellner references the Auburn Creed to work alongside her goals to represent the interests of students, ensure SGA is a true partner and be committed to intentional service to all on Auburn's campus.
"The Auburn Creed mentions 'mutual helpfulness' and 'happiness for all.' These may seem idealistic, but they truly are goals I have for myself whether I am elected or not. As SGA vice president, I will dedicate my time and efforts to enhancing the student experience, emphasizing our resources, and encouraging the student body to be united, both for the betterment of each individual student and the campus as a whole," Zellner said.
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