Behind the SGA Campaigns With Alexa Morrissey

Alexa Morrissey is a 19-year old freshman from Fort Lauderdale, Florida that was just elected to her second consecutive term as the Class of 2025’s president. Along with her position amongst the Student Government Association (SGA), Morrissey is a lifestyle writer for The Edge Magazine, an account executive for United Way through the Live Oak Public Relations Agency, and a member of Alpha Xi Delta’s class of 2022.

 

 Q: What sparked your interest in student government?

 

A: I was a part of student government all throughout high school, and then when the opportunity to get involved in it at Elon came up, my roommate convinced me to go for it! I was elected in the fall of 2022, and have been loving the experience. Now, I’m excited to bring my ideas to life in the upcoming term.

 

Q: How does college student government compare to the student government that you were a part of in high school?

 

A: In college, I definitely am aware of the fact that I am a voice for a much greater number of people. I also get to work a lot more with other class representatives whereas, in high school, things weren’t quite as collaborative.

 

Q: How would you describe what you do as class president?

 

A: I organize all class meetings for the Class of 2025, brainstorm different ideas, and suggest new ideas for potential legislation. I’m also working with the new treasurer, Claire Rudolph, on new sorority recruitment legislation that aids in students’ mental health. We are partnering with the GED foundation which provides emotional health assistance for teens and young adults nationwide. We are trying to focus some of that around Elon Panhellenic for some mental health check-ins because sorority life can definitely be a transition. I know some people who have had such amazing experiences, but I also have some friends who struggled to adjust to a new sorority. We’re hoping this will help, new members especially, to have an outlet. I am excited about this effort because mental health is something that I’m passionate[LB1]  about.

 

Q: What were some of your favorite things that you worked on last semester?

 

A: We approved a new budget request for “Dragstravaganza,” which is a fall pride festival through the GLC and Spectrum. It also included a drag queen show on campus, and voting and advocating for that was something that was so awesome. It was great to see so many students and faculty excited to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. For this semester, my primary focus is on  sorority mental health work and something that will carry over into next year!

 

Q: Have there been any organizations that you have worked with on campus that you have got involved in or are looking to get involved in because of SGA?

 

Photos courtesy of Alexa Morrissey

A: One club that I’ve always been interested in is Elon Outdoors. I'm not sure if they need any legislation, but I’ve learned so much about this group and I’d love to see what help and advocating I can provide through SGA.

 

Q: What pushed you to run again this year?

 

A: I loved it so much, and I’ve made a ton of great friends through the organization. I am passionate about advocating for change on campus and being a voice for the people, so I am so honored that it ended up working out!

 

Q: How would you compare the process of running last year to running this semester?

 

A: I knew what to expect this semester better than last, and now I know way more people involved in SGA! I’m much more comfortable in my own skin, and it was nice to be able to run my campaign as I preferred, with more knowledge as to the wants and needs of the student body. 

 

Q: Lastly, if you had any advice for the student body in regard to their relationships with SGA, what would it be?

 

A: Don’t be afraid to ask any members of SGA for literally anything! Even if it’s a simple minuscule concern, it definitely will have a big significance to someone! We also have Thursday night business meetings that are open, so if people are interested I recommend coming to those!

 

Elon’s SGA wants to hear the concerns, wants, and needs of the entire community. They are here for all, so do not hesitate to reach out to anyone!