Cassie Alsfeld and Josh King started Moving Forward on Friday afternoon. Alsfeld and King were sworn in as Student Government president and vice president on the steps of the Memorial Tower. University Court Chief Justice Thu Vu installed Alsfeld and King into their new positions as they pledged to uphold the SG Constitution. Former SG President Chris Odinet offered advice to the new administration. “The first thing is to always remember the big picture,” Odinet said. He also said the job of SG president is not for the “thin-skinned.” Odinet ended his speech saying, “You only come this way once, so do it right.” Chancellor Sean O’Keefe said the purpose of the inauguration was not only to recognize the incoming administration but also to recognize the accomplishments of the outgoing administration. “Chris and Christen [Heaton] have done an extraordinary job,” O’Keefe said, who called the former president and vice president “models of respect and leadership.” O’Keefe also congratulated Alsfeld and King. “We are about to see yet another extraordinary chapter of student leadership on this campus,” O’Keefe said. After the formal inauguration, Alsfeld and King addressed the crowd of students, family and administrators about their goals for the upcoming semester. King offered advice to the student body and SG. “You don’t need a title to make a difference at LSU,” King said. He said SG’s only job is to serve the students. “If we focus on our peers, we will truly make an impact,” King said. Alsfeld expressed her excitement as she thanked her grandmother, her supporters and Odinet and Heaton for their example. Alsfeld said she is looking forward to serving the University. “We are not just the Flagship University,” Alsfeld said. “We are Tiger Stadium on Saturday night. We are picnics on the Parade Ground. We are impassioned speeches in Free Speech Alley on Tuesdays.” Alsfeld said it was important for SG to dismantle “party banners” and work together for the good of the University. “It’s going to be a great year,” Alsfeld said.
—–Contact Caitlyn Scott [email protected]