A time for reflection

I had the whole summer to prepare and plan and think about the year. The day I got elected I started scheduling meetings so I could be prepared — so the rest of the Student Association would have a solid direction moving forward. I didn’t want ?students to see us as a representation of thought but of concrete action.

In the fall, my energy had to shift, and my focus had to be in two places. I’ve had a tough academic year. Juggling the responsibility this office holds and also my responsibilities as a student hoping to learn everything I can for a future career has been difficult. I have a great team, and as a whole, the executive team and individual committees really took on a lot to make this a successful year. I never felt like it all fell on my back, and that’s a blessing.

Our sponsors — Assistant Professor of Engineering James Huff, Assistant Professor of Math Jill Davis, and Director of Campus Life Logan Light — also were a huge reason why the year went so well. They equipped all of us to lead boldly but with the right tenor, and they helped me navigate the complexities of leading with other leaders because that’s a tough task.

I’m a pretty conscientious person, so for me, whether or not my conscience is at peace with how I have presented myself as a leader on campus affects my success in great strides. I have had such high expectations for myself, and I leaned on others for perspective throughout the year. One way I’ve tried to navigate challenges is through inclusivity, and I really value other people’s reflections. I learned as a leader the importance of seeking out mentors and leaning on those who can help you succeed in areas you understand less about.

One project I’m really proud of from the school year is the cleanup of Gin Creek. I worked with several campus areas to coordinate this project including the biology department, physical resources, the office of alumni and parent relations, and the office of the president. It was really exciting to see a project that had been in an idea phase for so long come to life through the help of 1,200 students, faculty and staff working together.

Dr. Bruce McLarty has said students should be ready to move on when they’re seniors, and if they’re not ready to move on, then there’s something wrong. We are supposed to grow out of this place, and that’s good. I love Harding, but I’m ready to move on to the next phase of my life. I hope Harding continues to be a place where people can find the ability to think critically about things in a Christian learning environment. I hope it does not become a place of division but continues to be a place where we embrace our differences and try to show love to each other.

—Student Association President Dakota Ellis, Bible and missions and premedicine double major from Harrison, Arkansas