President's Blog: From the Heart

By Ben Thomas and Molly Potter

I asked Ben Thomas and Molly Potter — president and vice president of the UD student body since last May — to pick up my blogging pen and provide you with thoughts about serving as visible student leaders on campus, including the joys and challenges that they have experienced, as well as any lasting lessons they have learned over the past 12 months.  Take it away, Ben and Molly… 

BEN:

Red-and-white necklace beads, among other UD college memorabilia, sat on my desk in the Student Government Association (SGA) office from day one during my time as president. Members were handed beads at the start of the academic year to represent the responsibility we each have as student leaders to cheer on the student body. Throughout the year, during every conversation, meeting, or phone calls, the beads remained in the office as a reminder of why we are doing our jobs: for and with others.

Within our roles, we noticed that this outward spirit exists everywhere on campus: in the intentional outreach and strong leadership shown by administration, outside organizations’ willingness to collaborate on initiatives and projects, the deep care and commitment of our advisers to us, and, internally, members both trusting in and giving the organization a chance. UD cultivates such an environment, and as a leader, you must offer the same environment in return.

The lessons? Give credit to your constituents and take the blame when due. Have an “open door policy” to simply listen. Always give your very best effort. And in return, those around you will give UD a chance, too, and you will see the lasting impacts made.

I treasure what the beads represent and will continue to wear them proudly in the future. 

MOLLY:

In 2023, when Ben and I first began to embark on our journey as student leaders, I had no idea what was to come. Serving as the SGA vice president has been quite the journey, filled with joys and challenges that have profoundly shaped me.

I found it rewarding to serve as a visible leader on campus. Being able to represent students, advocate for their needs, and contribute to positive changes within our university has truly been an honor. Whether hosting a town hall meeting on campus safety, drawing attention to the Food4Flyers pantry, or cheering with the Red Scare at Dayton Flyer games, I’ve cherished every moment of my time as vice president.

Through meeting other students, faculty, and staff and building strong relationships with every member of SGA, I created lasting relationships both internally and externally. However, through this leadership role, I quickly realized that not everyone can be pleased. It was my goal to always work in favor of my constituents, but as the liaison between the students and faculty, I learned valuable lessons in diplomacy and compromise — and choosing my words carefully.

I am eternally grateful for everything that I have learned. It’s been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and an incredible journey, and I am so thankful to have worked alongside Ben as we led SGA during the 2023-2024 academic year.