Montgomery, AL — Twenty-two Jacksonville State University (JSU) students recently made their mark in Montgomery at the 30th annual YMCA Collegiate Legislature Conference. During the conference, students engaged in the process of drafting, debating, and passing mock legislation, shaping the future of Alabama.
The event provided a platform for students to hone their public speaking skills, forge connections with peers from other universities, and represent JSU in the state capital. Participants deliberated on bills within the Alabama State Legislature Chambers, where actual state legislators enact laws impacting the citizens of Alabama.
JSU’s delegation showcased exceptional performance, securing an impressive tally of 8 out of the 12 elected leadership positions available. The successful candidates include:
– Collegiate Governor: Kaitlyn Letson
– Lieutenant Governor: Keyon-Dre Swift
– Speaker of the House: Tanaya Fairbanks
– Senate Pro Tempore: Nathan Bean
– House Pro Tempore: De’Onta Bush
– Senate Floor Leader: Dylan Lee
– House Floor Leader: Miller Small
– Senate Chaplain: Jackson Davis
Additionally, the Gamecocks clinched several awards, underscoring their outstanding contributions:
– Outstanding Statesman of the House: Miller Small
– Outstanding JSU Delegate: Jonah Czar
– Best Senate Bill: Jonah Czar
Reflecting on the remarkable achievement, Dylan Lee, chaplain of the JSU Student Senate, remarked, “Considering there were six other universities present, Jacksonville State claiming 8 of the 12 seats was pretty incredible. It really showcases our dedication and leadership within this program.”
JSU students selected to participate in the program benefitted from complimentary attendance, courtesy of the Dean of Students office. Kaitlyn Letson, JSU’s vice president of Student Senate and the newly elected governor of the Collegiate Legislature, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing its transformative impact on students’ lives.
“I have watched this program change the lives of so many students, including my own,” Letson said. “I am so thankful that Jacksonville State offers this opportunity so that they may grow and lead beyond the university.”
The Gamecocks’ stellar performance sets a high bar for future engagements, as they eagerly anticipate their return to the 31st annual Collegiate Legislature Conference in Spring 2025.
