Last week, on September 19, campaign week for the class of 2020 and the class of 2018 presidential candidates kicked off. Fifteen freshmen students and three junior students were among those running for the position.

Tuesday night was “Meet the Candidates,” where candidates and their supporters gathered to hear speeches from the individuals who were campaigning.

The remainder of the week consisted of campaigning on social media and around campus, including Bartels, where the candidates were set up at tables to meet potential voters and answer any questions.

Voting started on Monday (September 26) and ended Wednesday (September 28). Positions including President, Vice President, Treasurer, Executive Assistant, and Sergeant at Arms were also voted on and results will be announced a week after the election.

Anyone among the 2020 and 2018 classes were able to vote via email, respectively.

The Class President acts as a mouthpiece for their fellow classmates and serves in a two-year term, which is why the juniors of this year are voting as well as the freshmen.

According to Joyce Lai, Executive Assistant of USGA, “It is the role of the president to make sure all other officers are doing their expected duties and responsibilities. The president is also the initial contact between other classes or RSOs. The president also makes sure the concerns of their class are being addressed.”

One of Lai’s roles is to be the Chair of the Elections Committee, approving candidates’ flyers and posters as well as making sure that everyone is following U.N.H. policies during the campaigning and election process.

The Elections Committee and USGA also play a part in campaign week as well as the Center for Student Engagement, Leadership, and Orientation (CSELO).

Work starts early to prepare for elections during Summer Orientation, Advising, and Registration (SOAR), and the Freshman Leader Experience (FLEX), which allows for freshmen to move in early and receive leadership training.