By: Hannah Ford

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Voting for the 2021 Associated Student Government elections at the University of Arkansas began yesterday, March 1. 

The Associated Student Government at the University of Arkansas is a student-led organization. ASG acts as an organized voice for all students and strives to effectively represent student interest.

Each year these elections are a hot topic for the University. Students, along with those running for ASG, strive to make campus a better place.

ASG acts to effectively represent students in the University’s decision and policy making process and to provide a broad educational experience for all students. 

The Associated Student Government also organizes around $250,000 in Registered Student Organization events throughout the school year. 

Senior Jessica Weiss said having strong leaders turn all the best ideas into action.

“I think it’s important for students to vote because the winner of the election will represent you,” Weiss said. “When you choose not to vote, you’re letting others decide what they think is best for you.”

ASG Presidential candidate Caleb Parker said, “The Associated Student Government is of the students, for the students. A strong ASG leader is defined not only by their ability to lead the organization, but to hold firm in their beliefs and the student interest when working with administration.”

Campaigning around campus encourages students to participate in the voting process.

Parker said strength in the sense of leadership is about how well you represent the student interests when advocating to administration. 

“The unique position we have on campus allows its leader to instill a sense of hope and belonging that few roles can,” Parker said. “A Student Body President should continue to strive for excellence every single day.”

Weiss says it’s important for the students to play a part in these elections. 

“I am very grateful to be a part of a University that gives students such a strong voice,” Weiss said.

In order to be able to vote, students must be currently enrolled undergraduates. Students in this category are able to vote for Student Body President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. All undergraduate students will be eligible to vote in the ASG Senate election based on their primary college of enrollment.