Guest Essay: Why You Should Vote 

Participating in student government elections is more than a mere campus ritual — it’s a key way to shape the university’s future. 

The Student Government of Loyola Chicago is the official conduit that connects the student body and university administration. By voting, students ensure their ideas and concerns are represented. 

When elected representatives truly reflect the student body, they can effectively advocate for issues that matter to you — all it takes is your vote. 

Historically, SGLC has been a catalyst for meaningful transformations on campus and instrumental in promoting progress on issues ranging to DEI, wellness and sustainability. 

From launching a scholarship to support undocumented undergraduate students to the upcoming installation of the Eastern Redbud trees on campus, SGLC has been committed to progress — both for people and for the planet.

Voting is how the student body can hold SGLC leaders accountable, either electing them or not. Strong voter turnout sends a clear message — we’re watching, we care and we expect accountability from those who represent us.

While serving as president this past year, my administration has worked hard to advance an agenda of progress, persistence and purpose. 

We’ve worked with the Office of Equity and Compliance to provide students with the knowledge of their civil rights, we’ve helped supply Narcan across campus, we’ve advocated and stood up for transgender students so everyone can feel safe and seen and we’ve taken meaningful steps toward a stronger Loyola. 

We’ve embraced a new era of student leadership, prioritizing transparency, advocacy and action. 

But progress is never finished — it requires constant engagement. Each year, every student is called to recommit to the ideals of empathy and service that lift us higher. It’s our collective duty to choose the path forward.  

SGLC plays a pivotal role in addressing student concerns, working every day to find solutions to prominent issues on campus. Voting ensures those elected prioritize tackling the issues that directly affect students’ day-to-day lives.

Elections stimulate student dialogue by promoting a sense of community and shared purpose. They encourage discussions about potential future challenges and cultivate a collective vision for the university’s future. 

Voting also provides a platform for underrepresented groups to influence decisions on campus. It ensures diversity in representation, leading to more inclusive policies and a campus culture that respects and celebrates varied perspectives. 

As we look toward the future of Loyola’s student government, one thing is clear — engagement is the key to progress. 

It’s not about a single person or settling scores, but a shared vision of governance and leadership that prioritizes listening and taking action. The future hasn’t been written yet — it’s created by decisions we make every day. 

When voting starts on Friday, you’ll decide the future. I strongly encourage you to research and evaluate every candidate. Remember, your vote is your voice — make it count. 

Voting in SGLC elections isn’t just a right, but a responsibility. It’s an opportunity to influence the present and future of Loyola, to push us forward and to enshrine a future where everyone is included, where we can all engage together. Now is your time to decide what the future will look like. 

I’ve had my time as president, and it’s been a great honor to serve this community. Now, I’m ready to pass the baton not just to the next person in office, but to a new generation of student leaders. What happens next is up to you — the goals you believe in and the future you’re ready to build.

Vote via ballot sent to your LUC email starting March 28 and ending April 7. 

Editor’s Note: Daniel Williams is the sitting president of the Student Government of Loyola Chicago. Opinions submitted in guest essays do not necessarily reflect those of The Loyola Phoenix. To submit a guest essay for publication please contact [email protected] and [email protected].