University of Idaho leaders shine because of our students. That’s especially true for student leaders. The Associated Students of the University of Idaho (ASUI) work hard to advocate on behalf of today’s Vandals. They have a great representative in ASUI President Jacob Lockhart. Jacob jumped into student government as a freshman and hasn’t looked back. He’s continued to seek out opportunities to represent the Vandals, including as a proud leader in our Greek system and as a representative on both our Sustainable Financial Model and Student Experience working groups. Originally from Coeur d’Alene, Jacob will graduate in the spring after majoring in political science and economics. Jacob has an enthusiasm for this place that I’m excited to share. Scott Green: Tell us about yourself. What brought you to the University of Idaho? Jacob Lockhart: I always knew I was going to be a Vandal. I had a University of Idaho Homecoming poster hung in my room since I was young, and I come from a really strong Vandal Family. It really felt like I was coming home when I got to campus for orientation. SG: I know that feeling of coming home. You’ve been heavily involved in U of I activities since your freshman year. What prompted you to become such an active member of the campus community? JL: I was an active student in high school before I came to the U of I, and I knew I wouldn’t be happy with myself if I didn’t get involved. I had heard really incredible things about the Department of Student Involvement so one day I just walked up there and literally asked “how can I get involved?” The rest was history. SG: When it comes to the student experience, where does U of I excel? JL: I have always appreciated the people at this university and how I can turn to just about anyone for help on just about anything. Having that connection means the world to me as a student. SG: There are moments in college that shape us for life. What Vandal experience, so far, is that moment for you? JL: This one is actually a really hard question for me to answer. I have honestly had so many life-shaping experiences that it’s hard for me to choose. I would have to say that one moment that was particularly meaningful for me was being able to meet former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Samantha Power. Power is someone I admire greatly, and having the opportunity to meet her in person was a reality I never thought possible. SG: What do you hope to accomplish in your term as ASUI president? What are your priorities for student government? JL: We are focused on big-picture initiatives and things that will make a long-term impact for students. Right now, we are exploring options for a Vandal resource app, which would make accessing campus resources easier for every student. We are also working on securing a campus polling location not just for the upcoming 2020 election, but hopefully the next decade of elections. Lastly, we are working on ensuring the Idaho Student Union Building (ISUB) becomes the premier student space on campus. We hope to do this through the full establishment of the majority student ISUB Board and a subsequent proposal process. Ultimately, our goal is to expand student resources, improve health and safety, and reimagine student spaces to put Vandals first. SG: What are your plans after earning your University of Idaho degree? JL: After U of I my plan is to go on to law school. I really have to get focused on the LSAT, but after that I guess the plan is to start searching for where my future will take me. Thank you, Jacob. You set a great example for our students and the Vandal Family. Keep telling our story. We’re lucky to have you. |