The Electoral Commission

ELECTORAL COMMISSION

The mission of the Florida A&M University Electoral Commission (EC) is to administer fair, transparent, and accessible student elections that uphold the integrity of the democratic process while empowering students to engage in leadership, civic participation, and shared governance within the university community and beyond.

ELECTED POSITIONS: OVERVIEW & RESPONSIBILITIES

“Know the role before you run.”

FAMU SGA Overview

The Student Government Association (SGA) is the official governing body of the student body, structured into three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial

SGA exists to:

Represent student interests
Advocate for student needs
Allocate resources and funding
Uphold student voice in university decision-making

ROYAL COURT (AMBASSADORIAL LEADERSHIP)

The Royal Court is one of the most visible and celebrated traditions at FAMU, serving as the official ambassadors of the university. This role blends leadership, service, image, and representation.

Positions include:

Mister & Miss FAMU
King & Queen of Orange and Green
Miss Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior, Graduate
Royal Escorts (appointed)

Royal Court is formally recognized within SGA governance under Student Body Statutes

Key Responsibilities

Represent FAMU at:
- University events
- Community engagements
- Recruitment initiatives
Promote school spirit, tradition, and excellence
Serve as the face of the student body
Work closely with:
- SGA Executive Branch
- Department of State (hosting & protocol)
Maintain a high standard of character, professionalism, and visibility

What You Should Know Before Running

This is a public-facing leadership role
Requires time, presence, and consistency
You are expected to embody “Excellence with Caring” daily

STUDENT SENATORS (LEGISLATIVE BRANCH)

Senators serve in the Student Senate, the legislative branch of SGA, and are responsible for creating and shaping policies that impact students.

The Senate holds all legislative power within SGA

Key Responsibilities

Draft, propose, and pass legislation
Advocate for student concerns
Approve budgets (Activity & Service Fees)
Confirm executive and judicial appointments
Investigate issues affecting students
Represent academic colleges or classifications
Work with various university departments and offices
Work with various university administrators, faculty, and staff

What This Role Actually Means

You are a policymaker
You are a voice for your peers
You are a researcher
You must understand:
SGA Statutes
University regulations, policies, and procedures
Budget processes
Student concerns across campus

Expectations

Attend Senate meetings regularly (multiple per month/weekly)
Engage in committees and legislative work
Be informed, prepared, and vocal
Write and collaborate on bills
Review bills

CLASS REPRESENTATIVES (CLASS LEADERSHIP)

Class Representatives serve as leaders and advocates for their academic class, working alongside Senators to support class identity, engagement, and programming.

Each class elects:

Class President
Class Vice President

(Classifications: Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior, Graduate)

Key Responsibilities

Represent the needs and concerns of your class
Plan and execute:
Class programs
Engagement initiatives
Spirit-building activities
Collaborate with:
Senators
SGA Executive Branch
Campus Activities Board (CAB)
Various Academic and university departments and offices
Serve as a direct connection between students and SGA

What This Role Actually Means

You are a community builder
You are responsible for creating class identity and experience
You must be visible, accessible, and engaged

Expectations

Strong collaboration and communication
Event planning and execution
Active engagement with your peers
Strong leadership skills

SGA EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP (PRESIDENT & VICE PRESIDENT)

The Executive Branch provides overall leadership and direction for SGA and represents the entire student body at the institutional level

SGA PRESIDENT

Key Responsibilities

Serves as the chief executive officer of the student body
Sets the vision and agenda for SGA
Appoints cabinet members (subject to Senate approval)
Represents students to:
University administration
Board of Trustees (sitting member)
External and internal stakeholders
Oversees all executive departments and initiatives
Speak at various on-campus and university recruitment events

SGA VICE PRESIDENT

Key Responsibilities

Serves as a key advisor and operational leader
Serves as a member of the FAMU Faculty Senate to represent the students' interests as it relates to academics. – Refer to Article III, Section 2 of the Student Body Constitution
Serve as the Student Chairperson of the Homecoming Steering Committee
Works closely with:
Senate leadership
Executive Cabinet
Often plays a role in:
Coordination
Student engagement
Internal SGA operations

What Serving as SGA President and Vice President Means

You are the face and voice of the entire student body
You must:
Lead at a high level
Make decisions that impact thousands of students
Understand policy, budgeting, and governance

Expectations of both positions

High visibility and accountability
Strategic thinking and leadership
Ability to manage teams and initiatives
Make well-informed decisions
Act in the best interests of the student body (at all campuses)

ELECTORAL COMMISSION (EC)

The Electoral Commission is responsible for administering, overseeing, and protecting the integrity of all student elections, and bringing awareness about local and national elections.

This body ensures elections are conducted in accordance with Chapter 600 (Election Code)

Key Responsibilities