NE North Dakota News

President Andrew Armacost of the University of North Dakota (UND) recently interviewed Student Government leaders Jonathan Blankenship and Joslyn Sutton in a video shared with the campus community.

During the conversation, President Armacost asked about their experiences leading UND’s largest-ever student body, which now numbers 15,844 students according to last week’s census. Blankenship, who is studying Commercial Aviation and Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations as part of the Honors program, said he feels “honored and humbled to have the opportunity to lead — though it’s ‘still sinking in.’” He explained that he and Sutton campaigned on a “Voice for All” platform. “‘Voice’ serving as an acronym for vision, opportunity, involvement, community and empowerment,” Blankenship added.

Sutton is pursuing studies in Air Traffic Management, Atmospheric Sciences and Space Studies. She discussed her responsibilities supporting Blankenship and chairing the Student Senate. Sutton also highlighted ongoing efforts to promote safety among students.

Among their initiatives is a “Safe Ride” program designed to offer free rides home for students, particularly on weekends. The team has also partnered to provide cup stickers aimed at deterring beverage spiking.

The interview provided an introduction of these student leaders to the UND community and outlined some of their current projects under way this academic year.