SGA elections for numerous positions including president and vice president are set to begin Tuesday, March 16, and are open to all students.

In previous elections, the student body has shown minimal participation and involvement. This year, however, Elections Committee Co-Chairs Jacob Rosen and Kyle Mudd are implementing more outlets for students to be involved, such as a live debate between candidates, a meet and greet with the candidates and a polling station, according to SGA President John Jewell.

"Being on SGA is rewarding," Jewell said. "There are good skills to pick up on, and it's also a good training ground for the real world. Any student can run for any position, and I'm excited about these elections."

SGA also provides a challenging, yet different experience, Jewell explained. Members of SGA, especially the president and executive vice president, are publicly held accountable for things, but they also get the opporunity to serve as an intermediary between administration and students.

Students interested in running should have attended one of two informational meetings held on March 10 and 11. Next, they must gather signatures as well as complete a candidacy contract, which are both due March 16, Mudd explained. After candidates have been approved, they can begin campaigning.

On Wednesday, April 7, students approved for president and executive vice president will debate. All students are encouraged to attend.

Students can cast their votes from Thursday, April 8 at midnight to noon Saturday, April 17.

Other positions up for election this spring include vice president of academic affairs, vice president of residential affairs, vice president of finance, class senators, minority senators and academic senators. Interested students can consult a complete listing at sga.udayton.edu.

"SGA only works if people hold us accountable," Jewell said. "Without student voices, SGA wouldn't be productive and wouldn't be able to improve."