By Kyle English

With the Hilbert College Student Government elections over, it is time for the new president to take the helm and lead the students on campus.  That person is Junior Rebecca Crawford.

Crawford patiently waited while the ballots were being counted and recounted for accuracy.  When it was over, she realized the results were worth the wait.

“I was surprised.  Then I became nervous and excited at the same time,” Crawford said.

“It is an honor to be elected president.  The previous two presidents were very inspirational and I wanted to follow in their footsteps,” Crawford said.

Crawford made an immediate impact on those who were in attendance for her inaugural address.  She challenged the students in her inaugural speech, telling them “to speak less, listen more and stand a little bit taller.”

Crawford was quick to add that the presidency is not just going to help the students and SGA, but it is going to help her grow as an individual and break out her shell.   “It is very important to me on a personal level, too.  I am going to be doing two things that I love to do, making a difference and talking to people.”

Starting immediately, Crawford is putting her plans into action.  “My main focus is to involve and intertwine all groups on campus.”  However, her plans don’t stop there.  Crawford also intends on re- emphasizing Hilbert College Student Government’s open door policy, which allows and encourages people to come, ask questions, and voice their concerns.

When asked what her expectations for SGA are, given she has the largest Senate Hilbert has had in several semesters, Crawford responded with enthusiasm.  “I’m not really sure what to expect, but I am excited that we have so many people that want to be involved.  It should bring a larger presence on campus.”

Crawford brings with her two years of SGA experience (one year serving on the Executive Board as Secretary), various Leadership programs at Hilbert and two years of managerial experience in the fast food industry.

By winning the election, Crawford ends the streak of five straight male presidents dating back to the 2010-2011 academic year.

ed. note: Hilbert College News writer Kyle English is the outgoing SGA president.