Was running for president her dream since freshman year? To be real, it’s always been in the back of her mind. While studying abroad in Turkey (very cool) Jacqueline Sutherland (’14) was contacted by a few of her student government friends on campus to encourage her to run. The big deciding moment happened while standing at the top row of a giant amphitheatre in the ancient city of Ephesus, Turkey. “I remember looking at this massive theatre and its stage,” says Sutherland, “And for some reason at that moment I thought to myself, ‘You know what I want to do this!’”
Sutherland swept this year’s student government elections with a remarkable win. It has been a long time since a president has been elected without a runoff in a race having more than two candidates. When asked about her reaction to the results Sutherland burst into giggles and says, “I was absolutely ecstatic!”
Sutherland attributes her success primarily to her campaign’s slogan and principal message, “Together. For Wake.” This message emphasized Sutherland’s hope to make student government a collaborative effort and not just a personal undertaking. Her list of endorsements, which were really impressive and diverse, included quarterback Tanner Price, HerCampus’ Campus Cutie Houston Clark, and the entire OGB staff. “I wanted to represent students from all pockets,” she says. And it’s clear she did!
Going beyond the typical presidential campaign of posting flyers and sending friends off to dorm storm, Sutherland’s campaigning also included flash mobs in public places on campus from the ZSR to the pit. Another highlight? Rather than sending her friends and ambassadors to dorm storm for her, Sutherland visited every freshmen residence hall herself to add a personal touch. “It was important for me to hear their thoughts and concerns and to have that personal interaction,” says Sutherland.
Sutherland plans to address the “issue” that happened this year regarding SG’s change of Sieze the Quad into an annual event. She hopes to revamp next year’s Seize the Quad by making an event T-shirt and bringing in more entertainment and food; it will be like a second Taste of Winston-Salem (yum!). On the record, Sutherland is also open to the idea of changing Seize the Quad back into a bi-annual event again, hurray for more quad seizing!
Another great fact about Sutherland? She represents female power! When asked what the significance of being a female president meant for Wake’s campus she responds, “I think people did want some girl power.”
This lady president is not alone, however. She has a dedicated boyfriend who has been the best First Man a girl could ask for. In addition to staying up and waiting with her for the results she says, “He has provided me with the encouragement and inspiration I have needed to pursue my goals even in light of tumultuous circumstances.” Wow! It’s refreshing to see proof of a healthy and supportive relationship on Wake’s campus these days.
Whether or not you voted for Sutherland, we together should all support her!