SVP POSITION OPENS
During a recent leadership transition within Biola’s Student Government Association (SGA), SVP Kyah Kang stepped down from her position and Andrew Ambrose stepped into the vacant role. Having previously served as Hope Hall’s senator for three terms, as well as holding the SVP position in the past, Ambrose brings several years of experience to the role.
Ambrose wasn’t initially planning on running in the elections again.
“I feel incredibly blessed to step into this role,” Ambrose said. “I did not originally plan to rejoin SGA this year. However, when the Hope Senator position opened, I felt strongly led to apply. One opportunity led to another, and when the SVP position became available, I felt that same calling again.”
To step into a role in SGA, an election takes place where candidates advocate for themselves and bring awareness to issues they want to fix. With Kang leaving half-way through the school year, Ambrose explained how the role was filled “through an application and interview process…SGA elections are held only for positions in the following year’s administration.”
As he stepped into the new position, it had also left an open spot for the Hope Senator position.
“The Hope Senator application was open for a week, and the only applicant was my brother Loren Ambrose,” said Ambrose. “Loren has watched me for years and is more than qualified to step into the role. He is excited and ready to serve the Hope community.”
WHAT DOES SGA DO?
SGA is an organization of students who serve to represent the student body. These students are elected by the student body to advocate in their stead for changes across campus. According to Ambrose, the organization works alongside campus departments and administration to provide support for clubs and programs, funding for Student Initiative Proposals and to offer student insights and perspectives.
“Our goal is to listen to student concerns and work alongside campus departments and administration to create meaningful change,” said Ambrose.
During his time in SGA, Ambrose contributed to many improvements on campus, including the renovation of the student gym, lifting the ban on skateboards, and even revisions to SGA’s Constitution and Bylaws for the first time in more than a decade. Although he emphasized that these improvements were collaborative, Ambrose stated how these experiences helped shape his approach to leadership.
At the same time, Ambrose had the opportunity to work alongside three different SVPs. He explained how he would observe and learn from them, and that they helped influence his perspective as he stepped into the new role.
“That mentorship and experience,” said Ambrose, “taught me how to lead effectively, listen intentionally, and engage thoughtfully with students who want their voices heard regarding SGA, campus life, and the broader Biola community.”
ANDREW’S VISION
Looking ahead, Ambrose hopes to increase SGA’s strength in its ability to advocate for students and organizational operations.
“This semester, SGA is taking intentional time to evaluate how we can operate more effectively for students,” he said. “While SGA already supports impactful initiatives such as Deck the Haven and the Woven Conference, we believe there is more potential to do even more. Our focus is to identify ways we can expand student advocacy and create deeper, more meaningful institutional change at Biola.”
Although he only has a semester to bring about change, Ambrose is pushing for stronger collaboration with administration to make a greater presence for SGA on campus. One of the outlets SGA uses to give back to students is through their Student Initiative Proposals. Through this fund, students are given the opportunity to submit a proposal for a project or event that not only shows their creativity but also gives back to the Biola community. After that, it is up to the discretion of the Senate on the following steps.
ELECTIONS AND STUDENT INVOLVEMENT
As SGA began preparations for upcoming elections starting March 15, Ambrose encouraged students to get involved in student leadership. He emphasized the role students have in shaping Biola’s campus and supporting student organizations. He also provided key insight for those interested in running for office.
“Start by building genuine relationships with people across campus so that students recognize and trust you when election season begins,” he said. “From there, develop a clear vision for what you want to represent. Students should understand not only who they are voting for, but what values and goals you want to bring to life.”
Ambrose added how student leadership is an opportunity to leave a lasting impact in their community and campus life.
“Even when students may not immediately see the work being done,” said Ambrose, “SGA plays a significant role in shaping many of the events, improvements, and opportunities students enjoy on campus. I want students to know that they also have the ability to create lasting change…they can leave a meaningful legacy that benefits future generations of Biola students.”
Elections will take place on March 23 – 27 and 30 – 31.
