Contact: Maridith Geuder
To be politically active, Jenny Reeves didn't need to become president of the state's largest student body.
The Oxford native readily admits, however, that the office gives her unparalleled opportunities to focus on issues she believes are important to all Mississippi State students. A senior political science major, she is only the second woman to lead the university's Student Association. (Laurie Rosenbaum of Meridian was the first in 1978, the school's centennial.)
Since being elected in April, Reeves has been busy delivering on campaign promises, including increasing involvement of the campus' 16,000 students in the Starkville community.
"I realize how important participation in the political process is because of my coursework as a political science major," she said. "Being in college at a time when students are recognized for political apathy has made me work to encourage getting involved."
An Ottilie Schillig Leadership Scholar--MSU's highest student honor--Reeves puts her energies where her rhetoric is. A series of voter registration drives she spearheaded recently brought several hundred students onto the voter rolls for the first time. More drives are planned.
Last week, she invited Starkville Mayor Mack Rutledge and other leaders to campus for a community forum. Improving the city's infrastructure, including streets and roads, and uses of a 2 percent food and beverage tax are among issues she identified to be of interest to students.
"I think it's important for elected officials to know that students are aware of issues and are paying attention," she said. "It's also important for students to be knowledgeable and to engage in a dialog with community leaders.
"There are obvious economic benefits to the city of students spending money here, but there are longer-term intangible benefits if there's a continuing dialog," she added. "It becomes much easier to accomplish mutual goals and projects and to confront issues."
Reeves' administration also has worked with Starkville's Chamber of Commerce to implement a "Bulldog Bash" before MSU home football games. Appealing both to families and students, the various booths and games have proven to be a popular activity. "We hope it will become a city-university tradition," she said.
A strong believer in public service, Reeves was the first to sign up to be a mentor when Starkville's Overstreet Elementary School called the SA office to request volunteers.
"At least once a week, I meet with an Overstreet student who has special needs such as language or math skills," she said. "I also hope to establish a relationship that will allow me to continue to be available as needed."
As she nears the halfway point of her presidential term, Reeves can look back on many new experiences and life-lessons gained during the tenure. Does any one stand out?
"I've learned that I'm probably not doing my job if someone isn't criticizing our actions," she replied with a smile.
Despite the constant challenges of a diverse student body, Reeves sees continued interest in politics in her future.
"Because of my classes in public service, I'm really interested in policy issues such as health care," she said. "I see a real need in Mississippi, especially concerning women and healthcare, and I hope to be able to serve my state."