With the Jan. 31 deadline looming, students at Alabama State University have a pivotal opportunity to shape campus political leadership by running for Student Government Association (SGA) executive and legislative positions. But securing a spot on the ballot is not just about ambition, it requires careful preparation, meeting eligibility standards and navigating the structured election process.
According to Student Life Coordinator Latasha Ivey Bell students have had multiple chances to learn about SGA opportunities.
“The application process started in December,” Bell said. “For potential candidates or students interested, there was an interest meeting that was offered to them so they could get information about the positions that would be available.”

Bell outlined the necessary steps students must take.
“Students got information about becoming a part of SGA, the legislative and executive branch, as well as the application process,” she explained.
Academic requirements are a key factor in determining eligibility.
“As far as academically, they have to be sure that they meet the GPA requirement, have the credits necessary for the candidacy and make sure they understand what they’re signing up for,” Bell emphasized.
Candidates are also required to submit a statement of intent and outline their campaign platform.
“Candidates have to create their statement of intent. That tells us as well as the student body why they want to be in the position and what their plans are. We also ask for them to identify their platform goals, which is their vision or method to fulfill their obligations.” Additionally, each candidate must list their campaign team in the application. “We let them know that they’re responsible for their campaign team,” Bell noted.
Submitting an application is just the beginning, students must also pass a candidacy test to move forward in the election process.
“The application will close at 5 p.m. on Jan. 31, so I highly encourage anyone who wants to submit their application to go ahead and get it in by that time, but the application process does not stop there for SGA because they also have to take and pass a candidacy test.”
The test, consisting of 20 questions, is designed to ensure candidates understand the university’s Constitution and their potential role in SGA.
“The test is 20 questions and it’s not something that’s built to stump you, which I hope isn’t a deterrent for anyone who wants a position,” Bell reassured.
To aid students, the Elections Committee will offer an information session to review key topics.
“It is not mandatory for candidates, but it is highly encouraged. During that session, they’re going to go over information from the Constitution as well as specific information needed to pass the candidacy test,” Bell added.
This year, SGA is reintroducing Senate positions to the ballot, creating additional opportunities for student leadership.
“Senators are being added back to the ballot, they haven’t been on the ballot in a few years,” Bell shared excitedly. “We reached out to the deans of the colleges so they could share information with students in regards to being a Senate member and representing their peers. Some deans recommended students personally that they would like to see in the position. But, it’s really up to the student to take the initiative,” Bell said.
Jai Nolen, the Elections Committee chairperson, provided insight into what happens after applications are submitted.
Nolen said, “First you would go to one of our various interest meetings. We will give you the requirements and eligibility for candidacy, and in order to receive an application, students must submit a survey.” “If your application meets all the criteria, you will be eligible to run for candidacy,” Nolen explained.
Strict election guidelines remain in place to ensure fairness.
“Everything is still the standard. You cannot pre-campaign, meaning students can’t campaign before March 31st. And yes, Fizz is still a no-go,” she said.
According to Nolen, one of the most common mistakes candidates make is failing to fully grasp campaign rules. She emphasized the importance of thorough preparation.
“A common mistake candidates make is that they don’t properly tell how they want their campaign to be,” Nolen said. “When they get sanctioned or fined, they expect us to kind of rule with them. The candidate, their campaign team managers and campaign members should know that book inside out. And if you don’t know the book, it’s okay to come up and ask, very simple,” she advised.
For students who miss the application deadline, options are limited.
“So those who submit by the deadline, which is January 31st at 5 PM, I really can’t do anything for them. So I would say if there was a personal reason that you missed the deadline, obviously let me know and I will see if I can work with you but, if it’s something where you just did not meet the deadline, I cannot help you because that’s not being fair,” Nolen explained.
SGA is actively seeking passionate leaders, and Bell urged students to consider the impact they could make.
“Be open-minded, but also be caring and compassionate about advancing your student body. At the end of the day, Alabama State University Student Government Association, they are here for the students.”
She also encouraged students to seek spiritual and personal guidance.
“I don’t wanna bring religion into it but, if you believe in God, just pray and ask Him for guidance. When I say guidance, I mean, guiding you to be that voice for your peers and making decisions based on what’s best for your peers.”