James Fowler has had a passion for politics since high school.
During his senior year, Fowler was elected SGA president at Bob Jones High School in Madison. Now, going into his senior year, he has been elected as SGA president again after serving as the vice president for external affairs.
In this capacity, Fowler dealt with student life off campus and supported many programs.
“I am proud to say that every goal we set was accomplished or put in motion for future completion,” Fowler said. “Throughout the year we were able to expand on projects and complete additional ideas that we originally didn’t set out to complete.”
He said most of these projects directly affect the lives of UA students. For example, Fowler said he led the creation of 348-Ride Express. In 348-Ride Express’s inaugural semester, fall 2009, the bus system helped 16,000 students and shortened the wait time from 40 to 10 minutes.
Speaking of Fowler’s Ideas to Action program, Austin Gaddis, a member of First Year Council, said, “As a member of SGA, I see how crucial student input is for the SGA to be as successful as possible. James saw this need and created a phenomenal program that empowers students and encourages them to take a proactive role campus.”
While Fowler said he has made great strides in SGA, he said he also knows that there are problems that need to be addressed.
“The SGA Pasadena community service trip shed light on crucial issues that the SGA faces,” Fowler said. “The SGA must increase transparency, accountability, communications and inclusivity. We must be able to hold each other accountable through the laws set forth by the SGA Constitution and the SGA Code of Laws.”
Steven Oliver, president of the SGA, spoke favorably of Folwer, commenting on how personable he is an individual.
“He’s very approachable and very caring,” Oliver said. “I think he’s a great representative for our student body.”
In addition, Oliver said all the programs that Fowler has been a part of has had a direct impact on students.
“I do think James will make a great president,” Oliver said. “James is very committed to serving students every day and all day, and I mean that. He wants to work with student groups all across the campus, as well as individuals.
“James is very committed to unifying our campus. He doesn’t settle for anything but the best for each and every one of our students.”
Fowler said he wishes to continue to work on the transparency of the SGA and making sure that every student’s voice is heard. While looking to the future, Fowler also values the experiences that being in SGA has given him.
“From my early days as a first year councilor and senator, to my days as vice president for external affairs and as a presidential candidate, I have been both inspired and challenged by experiences I have had and by the students or our University. I look forward to continuing this experience as we work together as an entire student body to unite our campus,” Fowler said.
