The American Vice Presidency by Jules Witcover

Smith and Jefferson’s campaign was based on three pillars: sustainability and infrastructure, unity and student empowerment. “ To get that support back means a lot to me.” “As a SEAL, that just meant the world to me because I’ve spent my whole time at Miami loving student organizations,” Smith said. Smith said the support from student organizations around campus was overwhelming, with 18 total endorsements including those from the Asian American Association, The Miami Student and Black Student Action Association. Now, the two sit as Miami’s president and vice president elect. Smith agreed and said she was told by a college planner in high school to expect a denial letter from Miami. But as a Black, female biochemistry and nutrition double major, Jefferson said the idea of being elected vice president was wild. Several of Jefferson’s family members attended Miami, including her mother, sister and cousin.

“Their combined years of experience and service in the areas they hope to improve as President and Vice President showed a commitment to progress and a passion for their beliefs,” the Editorial Board stated. Jefferson has served as secretary for Infrastructure and Sustainability in ASG, president of the Student Sustainability Council, a member of the Dean of Students’ Advisory Board, chair of Community Service for the Minority Association of Pre-Health Students and a member of the Residence Hall Association. She is an Evans Scholar, and she additionally sat on the COVID-19 Student Voice Committee. Smith’s leadership experience comes from her roles as Head SEAL Ambassador and Chair of the Armstrong Student Center Board of Student Activities. “Their slogan, “Building the Table,” sets the tone for their campaign as a pair of students who have already put genuine community work toward their goals” said The Miami Student Editorial Board in endorsing them.

The American Vice Presidency by Jules Witcover