It was a good day for Shelbie Konkel and Jessie McGown. 

On Friday at 5 p.m., the Washburn Student Government Association announced the winning candidates in the president and vice-presidential race. Students gathered in anticipation as current WSGA President Eric Benedict made the announcement. Benedict thanked the Election Board and Student Activities and Greek Life for making this a “smooth election process.”

First, the Senate candidates were announced, 27 in total. Next came the President/Vice-President announcement. With 53 percent of the votes–282 to be exact–Konkel and McGown secured the positions of President and Vice.

“It feels great,” said Konkel. “I’m excited to get started working on some new ideas.”

Konkel’s family was in attendance, handing her a bouquet of flowers as she accepted her win. 

“There’s supportive families, and then there’s my family,” said Konkel. “I’m very fortunate to have them.” 

After the announcement, refreshments were served. Sonnich and Konkel shook hands, with Sonnich congratulating her and wishing her “the best of luck” as President.

With the weekend approaching, there are no breaks in sight for Konkel. A member of Washburn’s award-winning debate team, she leaves for two national tournaments over Spring Break. Preparation for those tournaments begins Friday evening, while most presidential winners would be celebrating 

“I don’t like sitting still,” said Konkel. “There’s always lots of work to be done.”

The Senate and President/Vice-Presidential winners will be officially certified in one week. Konkel and McGown will officially be sworn in as President and Vice at 6:30 p.m., April 17 in the Kansas Room.