254 Organizations Shine Bright Harding’s Student Government Association ushers in a new campaign for the 2024-2025 academic year. Senior Adele Duncan brought a new motto, “Illuminate,” to Harding’s campus for the 2024–25 school year. The new theme for Harding University’s Student Government Association (SGA) was introduced by Duncan during her term as student body president. She campaigned with the idea in mind of illuminating various aspects of campus. “I remember hearing the term ‘radiant illuminations of Christ’ and thinking, ‘Wow, those are some powerful words,’” Duncan said. Her goal was to highlight the voices of others and bring campus together as one. One of the ways “Illuminate” brought students together was by allowing them to receive more information about clubs offered by Harding and what they have contributed to the institution. In chapel programs, announcements were made to shine a spotlight on different clubs and students who were making an impact on campus and around the world. “I would love for the SGA to carry on that tradition of bringing everyone together,” Duncan said. The members of the SGA strove to create a positive culture of encouragement rather than one of criticism. “It takes a mindset shift, and you’re looking at the positive instead of the negative and you’re looking for things to illuminate and to be proud of,” senior SGA vice president Reed Wilson said. Wilson noticed that the student body embraced the theme of “Illuminate” and spoke about her love for the theme. “They are looking for those things to illuminate and be excited about,” Wilson said. The theme also made a positive impact on the faculty. It boosted awareness of events on campus and gave them a chance to notice the positive aspects of campus life. “There are so many good things happening that we don’t always know about, and so I really like the idea of looking for positive things to share,” assistant professor of mathematics Jill Davis, SGA sponsor said. Those who were a part of the organizations that were showcased felt appericiated and were thankful for the opportunity provided by the SGA. “They were very appreciative and felt seen, and it was just very positive,” Davis said. “They weren’t expecting someone to support them like that or shine the light on them.” The “Illuminate” theme put forth by Duncan was one that positively impacted campus in ways that were seen, heard and felt. Written by Grace Hawkins
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