The Student Government Association Senate unanimously voted to confirm senior Randy Bowden as Executive Vice President at a special session in the Ferguson Center Monday night. Bowden replaces former EVP Stephen Swinson, who became SGA president last month after the resignation of former president Grant Cochran.
According to Senate Communications Director Austin Gaddis, Bowden’s confirmation makes him the second black student in history to become the executive vice president of the SGA. He follows Sylvester Jones, who held the position in 1975.
Bowden previously served as the SGA Director of Engagement, where he enacted programs aimed towards getting more students involved in their student government. Some of his other involvements include the College of Human Environmental Sciences Ambassadors and the campus NAACP.
“First off, I’m very elated to be nominated for the Executive Council,” Bowden said. “I feel that my experience in the office of engagement will give me a great ability to work with the other vice presidents.”
Bowden said he plans to always be available to students.
“I want to let students know I’m here for whatever they need,” he said. “My office will always be open.”
SGA Chief of Staff Nicole Bohannon said Bowdon has a record of working to connect with students outside of the SGA’s comfort zones.
“Ever since I’ve known him his desire for a better and brighter campus has been clear,” she said. “As Director of Engagement he has worked to engage different students than what SGA has been known for in the past and really wants to see SGA move outside of our comfort zones. “
After the Senate approved Bowden’s nomination, he was sworn in by SGA Chief Justice Tara Ward.
Swinson released a statement heralding Bowden’s confirmation as a monumental moment for the SGA.
“Tonight was monumental for SGA and our student body,” he said. “Randy Bowden has been committed to serving students during his time as Director of Engagement, and he will most definitely continue to be an advocate for the students in the coming year.”
Gaddis said the Senate was also excited to work with Bowden as he begins his duties as EVP.
“The Senate is glad to welcome newly confirmed SGA Executive Vice President Randy Bowden,” Gaddis said in a statement. “We are excited to work with Randy in his new capacity, and look forward to continuing our partnership to serve the students of our university.”
Bowden was selected from a group of 18 applicants who applied to become EVP. Swinson then conducted interviews with students interested in the position, and the SGA Executive Council selected Bowden.
The Executive Council consists of the SGA president, Vice Presidents, Executive Secretary, and Chief of Staff. As a result of Bowden’s confirmation, he will become the council’s only black member.
