Alex Kaufman, the Vice President of the Student Government Association (SGA), brings his leadership to campus. Growing up on a farm, Alex is no stranger to hard work, shaping him into a leader in both fields.
His journey began when his instructor, Woody Reinhart encouraged him to join the SGA. “He knew Lisa, and she said they would like someone from his program,” Alex explains. After serving as Vice President of his local chapter in Newton, IL., during his senior year of high school. Alex knew he wanted to take on a bigger role in the SGA. “I knew I could prosper in any position. I was just fortunate enough to get elected as Vice President.”
Though excited about the role, Alex admits leadership has not always been easy. “I am not too comfortable talking in front of new people,” he says. Being Vice President has pushed him out of his comfort zone. “This role has pushed me to manage my time better and solve problems.”
One of Alex’s proudest achievements this year is helping to establish a club through his Diesel and AG Power Technology Program. “Just being able to set that up this year and leave it for the people below me to keep living on and passing down is something I am excited about,” he says.
Alex balances being Vice President, school, and farm duties with ease. “When I am home, I stay busy between work and helping out on the family farm,” he explains. His family and job have been supportive of his academic goals. “They both want to see me succeed and be proud of what I do and who I am.”
In his free time, Alex’s hobbies are tied to agriculture. “My main hobbies would be anything to do with AG,” he says. When he is not working on the farm, Alex enjoys spending time with friends, watching football and grabbing something to eat.
Though he has only been Vice President since July, Alex has already formed lasting connections with his team. “The people around me in the SGA are amazing, some of the nicest people,” he says. “I am truly lucky to be a part of the team.” He believes these relationships and the experience he has gained will stick with him long after he leaves Lake Land College.
For students looking to get involved in leadership, Alex encourages them to visit the Student Life Office. “Any face you see in there is always going to have a smile,” he says. He believes that there are plenty of opportunities for students who want to make a difference on campus.
At just 20 years old, Alex has already accomplished a lot. One of his proudest achievements is earning his State Degree while working at a dealership in high school. “It is huge for being 20 years old and having coworkers who are double my age trust me to do my job and respect me,” he says.
Alex looks forward to what the future holds. With his leadership experience and passion, Alex Kaufman has a bright future ahead of him.
