University life is not limited to studies only. Here students also develop their leadership skills, teamwork and ability to influence policies. That is why the student government elections held every year are a topic of much discussion among the students. These elections are not only to fill the posts but also decide how the voice of the students will be heard in the coming year and who will stand for their interests.
This time in the 2025 elections, a tough competition is being seen between two major teams – Brand New U and Next Century Canes. Both the teams are making big promises for the students, and they have their own visions. Let us know in detail who these two teams are, who are their main candidates, and what changes they want to bring for the students.
Brand New U: Students’ Power and New Opportunities
The slogan of the Brand New U team is – “Empowering students, increasing resources and listening to every voice.”
Ivana Liberatore is the candidate for the post of president of this team. Kylie Quintana is the candidate for the post of vice president and Victoire Wuyts is standing for the post of treasurer.
Key Initiatives and Promises
Brand New U focuses on three major issues – empowerment, accessibility and innovation:
- Digital facility – Adding Cane Card to Apple Wallet for easier payments and identity card use.
- Campus infrastructure improvement – Promises to improve hostels, libraries and other facilities.
- Professional and economic opportunities – Providing connections and resources for jobs and internships.
- Student Leaders Roundtable – A platform for leaders of different organizations to share ideas.
- Free Airport Rides – Free transportation during holiday seasons.
- Raising Cane’s Restaurant – Proposal to bring this fast food chain to campus.
- RA Training – Better first aid training for Resident Assistants to ensure dorm safety.
Ivana Liberatore’s Story
Ivana began her student government journey on the First Year Leadership Council. She then served as Assistant Director of Academic Affairs and Undergraduate Representative to the Board of Trustees. She says,
“I believe there is a lot of power in the student voice. Now is the time to take that power to the next level.”
Kylie Quintana’s Story
Kylie is majoring in Political Science and Psychology. She has previously served as a judge on the Student Government Supreme Court and has led several clubs. Her focus is to train new student leaders and help shape the university’s next century.
Victoire Wuyts’ Vision
Victoire is studying Business Analytics and Law. She says her goal is to “provide equitable and transparent access to financial resources for every student organization.”
She has already partnered with SAFAC to distribute a $1.6 million budget to 306 student organizations.
Next Century Canes: Action and Results
On the other side stands Next Century Canes. Their slogan is “Action and Results for Students.”
Isaac Jimenez is running for president and Damian Gomez for treasurer.
Key Initiatives and Promises
Next Century Canes focuses on immediate needs and quality of student life:
- Increased funding for student organizations – Helping clubs operate on a larger scale.
- Extended dining hall hours – Ensuring food access late at night.
- Transportation discounts – Special ride-share discounts and perks.
- Town hall meetings – Regular forums for students to share opinions and concerns.
- Strengthening the alumni network – Building mentorship and job opportunities.
- Campus security – More security guards and night surveillance.
- Career and graduate school opportunities – Workshops and seminars for further studies and jobs.
Isaac Jimenez’s Experience
Isaac is a political science student and has already been a student government senator. He passed a bill to extend freebie transportation service on campus to weekends. He says,
“I want to be president so that every student’s voice can be heard and their needs can be acted upon immediately.”
Damian Gomez’s Contribution
Damian is a student of accounting and business. He has already handled financial operations as treasurer of SAFAC and Interfraternity Council. He believes his training and experience make him the perfect candidate.
Election Drama: Withdrawal of Vice President Candidate
A big twist shook the elections recently. Next Century Canes’ vice president candidate Dominique Thomas suddenly withdrew.
She announced on social media that her thinking and priorities did not match the team.
As a result, now only one vice president candidate remains – Kylie Quintana (Brand New U).
This means students will either vote for Kylie or abstain temporarily.
Importance of These Elections for Students
Many students often wonder what difference student government elections really make. The truth is, these elections directly impact daily student life:
- Dining hall hours – No late-night food struggles.
- Free airport shuttle – Saves both time and money.
- Career network – Faster access to internships and jobs.
- Campus safety – Peace of mind while walking back from classes at night.
These elections decide not just student politics but also the quality of campus life.
Election Dates and Voting Process
- Voting Dates: Monday 17 February to Wednesday 19 February
- Results Announced: Thursday 20 February, 12pm
- Voting Platform: Online Engage Portal
Every student has the right to vote, and this is their chance to make their voice heard.
Conclusion
The contest in the 2025 Student Government Elections is shaping up to be a very interesting one. On one side is Brand New U, focusing on innovation and empowerment, and on the other side is Next Century Canes, promising immediate action and practical solutions.