One of the greatest treasures we collectively enjoy as citizens of the United States is the opportunity to vote for the person we want to represent us in local, state and national office. This hallmark of our democratic society has definitely been in the spotlight these past few months as our country elected a new president and so many countries around the world suffer through civil unrest.

As Lake Land College students, you have several opportunities to participate in the democratic processes within the college community. The Student Government Association (SGA) is the official body representing the students of Lake Land. You can be a part of Student Government by discussing concerns and ideas with SGA members, attending weekly meetings or running for office.

When we have a question about how a new initiative will impact students, as college leaders we turn to the Student Government for feedback. We also seek input from SGA when reviewing policies and guidelines such as the policy on eating and drinking on campus. Years ago, there was no eating or drinking in classroom buildings. After thoughtful discussion with SGA members, who sought feedback from the student body, we revised the policy to allow for eating in the commons areas and secured water bottles in classrooms.

SGA members are elected by the student body with nine sophomore members elected in the spring and eight freshmen elected in the fall. Student Government offers opportunities to meet with the college’s administration, state and local government leaders and brainstorm ideas and solutions that benefit students.

You can also be a part of the process by casting your vote for SGA members and Student Trustee during elections later this month.

Each spring, a Student Trustee is elected by the student body to serve as its representative on the Lake Land College Board of Trustees. The Student Trustee is the voice of the students to the board and thus, has an important role in conveying student concerns. During monthly board meetings the trustee shares student accomplishments, events and concerns with fellow board members.

If you decide to run for office, I am certain you will gain valuable experience for your future. If you are elected you will continue to build on those skills as a college leader and liaison to the college administrators, faculty, staff and your fellow students. You can pick up an application in Student Life by Subway in the Luther Student Center.

Applications for both offices are due to Student Life by 4 p.m. on March 15.

I strongly encourage all of you to exercise your democratic rights and vote in the election held online through the Laker Hub. Voting opens at 8 a.m. on March 22 and closes at 6 p.m. on March 23.

Growing up in the United States we often take our freedom and right to vote for granted. I ask you to take a moment to give thanks for the millions of men and women who have served our country in the military to protect the democratic process we hold dear.  We are especially grateful to those in our Laker family who have bravely served our country.

Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves, and the only way they could do that is by not voting at all.”

I look forward to the election results and thank you all in advance for participating in our democratic process at Lake Land College.