Williams, Malone, Elected Student Government President and Vice President
JONESBORO – The Arkansas State University student body elected Jake Williams as the 2025-2026 Student Government Association (SGA) president and running mate Kate Malone as vice president.
The SGA election took place March 19-20, with results revealed hours after voting closed on March 20.
Williams is a sophomore from Piggott majoring in business administration.
“I’m looking forward to bringing people together and building a stronger sense of community on campus. I’m especially excited because I believe there’s a lot of power in getting students connected and working toward common goals,” said Williams.
Malone, a sophomore strategic communication major from Germantown, Tenn., was elected to the vice presidency role. In her position, she will attend meetings, fill in gaps and serve as spokesperson for the student senate.
"Jake is the positive person I need when I get neck-deep in work. He reminds me of our why, which is for the students,” said Malone.
The pair have an agenda of items they hope to address during their term.
“I just want to help create an environment where all students are proud to call A-State home. I also really want to do everything I can to support student organizations and make campus life more collaborative. If I had to pick one thing to highlight as SGA president, it would be making SGA more approachable and making sure students know we’re here to listen and take action on their ideas," said Williams.
Malone echoes Williams’ remarks.
“During my time as V.P., I hope to accomplish many things. I want students to walk on this campus feeling a part of something bigger than themselves. I hope to be a person people can come to make their ideas happen. I also hope to create an overall more efficient A-State,” said Malone.
Williams and Malone ran against Louis Gonzalez, a sophomore biology major from Kansas City, Mo., who ran for president, and Chauncey Betts, a sophomore strategic communication major from McGehee, who ran for the vice presidency role.
Danny Vivar, assistant director of student leadership, compliments both candidates and their running mates.
“This was the first contested presidential/vice presidential race since spring of 2023. Both tickets did a fantastic job campaigning and engaging with students,” said Vivar.
Leadership Center staff were pleased with the large turnout, as over 1,500 students voted in the election. Ahead of voting, SGA hosted a candidate debate, giving students a peek into those seeking the presidency and vice presidency roles.
Vivar emphasizes the vitalness of SGA on campus. “It is important for our students to take part because they are the voice of the students. They can discuss as a group to find ways to make our university a better place.”
Kate Malone and Jake Williams
