Former ASG Presidents Featured on ASG Presidents' Wall

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Associated Student Government presidents from the 1950s through today gathered Oct. 11 for the unveiling of the ASG Presidents' Wall in the Arkansas Union 500 wing.

Fourteen former Associated Student Government presidents attended the unveiling of the ASG Presidents' Wall, a wood-paneled wall in the Arkansas Union 500 wing.  The wall showcases nine decades of history and tradition.    

"This representation of our students' history is a testament to student leadership and the institution's commitment to shared governance," said Dean of Students Danny Pugh. "This wall represents a veritable who's who in Arkansas's history — and future!"

Researching a collection of photos from the Razorback yearbook, University of Arkansas archives, and other sources, staff members created a gallery enshrining those individuals who led the Associated Student Government for its first 92 years.

"The ASG Presidents' Wall project has been fascinating to research," said David Wright, graduate assistant for Student Government Leadership. "Learning about these past campus leaders and their accomplishments, both at the University of Arkansas and beyond, is remarkable. These individuals not only served as leaders for their fellow students but went on to become leaders of our communities, our state, and our nation. "

The wall features pictures, names, and years of terms of each former president printed on a durable acrylic surface. Pictures of the former leaders range from formal shots to group photos to candid photos. The secured display is a centerpiece for alumni visiting campus as well as young students aspiring to serve their peers as president.

"Having something like this serves as a reminder to just how far the University of Arkansas has come over time, while recognizing the very student leaders who paved that path along the way," current ASG President James "Bo" Renner said. "While each of the presidents on the wall represents diverse backgrounds and leadership styles, nothing unites us more than sharing the same passion and desire to see this university succeed for generations to come."

The Homecoming Weekend unveiling included remarks by Chancellor G. David Gearhart, Dean Pugh, and Renner. A light reception with both former and current student leaders followed. Fourteen former ASG presidents and several former ASG elected officers attended the unveiling. Attending presidents represented seven decades of ASG history.

"It's amazing to realize who led this organization and what they've gone on to achieve since then," said Rudy Trejo, assistant director of student activities for Student Government Leadership. "Former senators, business leaders, university presidents, community organizers: they all got their start in student government. It's an amazing legacy, and we're thrilled to honor those and inspire future leaders."