Conference Awards

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University stands out for its commitment to representation, leadership, and institutional engagement. While its size provides unique opportunities, it has clearly leveraged those advantages to build a highly engaged and effective organization. This Student Government maintains a strong and informative web presence, places a significant emphasis on developing student leaders, and ensures broad committee representation across campus. Its website notably preserves a rare and extensive record of institutional and Student Government history. This Student Government is deeply involved in university governance and is recognized as a respected and influential voice on campus. These accomplishments show a Student Government that is highly engaged, well respected, and committed to making a meaningful impact on campus.

Blessing Norvell

Saint Paul College

Blessing is unique as a non-traditional student who spent years working and traveling before returning to college and becoming Student Senate President. She has openly shared that she did not enjoy school when she was younger and never imagined herself becoming a student leader. With prior state and national advocacy experience, her leadership has been centered on improving the student experience. During her tenure, she helped establish an Ambassador Program for the college, organized the college’s first school dance, led the planning of the first Spring Break leadership retreat, advocated for students, and worked closely with college administration to ensure every student felt heard and included. Her nominator described her as the most well-informed and engaged Student President in their 11-year tenure, citing her exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to student engagement, and meaningful contributions to campus life.

Abe Villarreal

Cochise College

Abe stands out because of his broad commitment to student success and leadership development. As both a campus dean and Student Government Advisor at Cochise College, he brings an institutional perspective that helps connect student leaders with campus administration while ensuring their voices are heard in meaningful ways. His dual role allows him to mentor students not only as leaders within student government, but also as members of the broader college community. Through his leadership, he has demonstrated a commitment to creating an environment where students are supported, empowered, and encouraged to take an active role in shaping their campus. His investment in student leadership development reflects a belief that strong student voices are an essential part of a thriving college community.

Middle Tennessee State University

Kennedy Garrett

Middle Tennessee State University

Cheyenne Olson

Hillsborough College SouthShore