Jaeden Kennedy, Columbia State Community College’s Student Government Association president, encourages his classmates as the new semester begins.

A Marshall County resident, Kennedy is serving as SGA president for the 2022-23 academic year. He was a dual enrollment student at Columbia State when he realized he wanted to attend for his freshman year.

“After dual enrolling at Columbia State during my senior year of high school, I knew I had to attend for my associate degree,” Kennedy said. “The enrollment process was so easy, and every staff member I spoke with was amicable and welcoming. My experience at Columbia State has been unique, and I’m happy I pursued my degree here first. Everyone here is one big family, which I feel is hard to attain at any other university!”

Prior to serving as SGA president, Kennedy served as secretary/treasurer. He has also served at Columbia State as vice president of leadership for Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and treasurer for Sigma Kappa Delta Honor Society.

As a business administration major, Kennedy hopes that the education he’s earning will help strengthen his small business, Jaeden Kennedy Films, where he helps non-profits tell their stories to the world.

“I wanted to attend Columbia State to learn how to manage my business more successfully,” Kennedy said. “All of my professors have helped ensure I am getting the correct curriculum to learn how to budget, crunch numbers, speak with clientele and so much more. I am confident my business will be more successful because of my time here.”

After graduation, Kennedy plans to transfer to Trevecca Nazarene University to complete a bachelor’s degree in business administration.  

As for his time as SGA president, Kennedy hopes to bridge a gap between student engagement and retention on campus for his peers.

“Students are the most influential people on campus, and I am excited to host new events and visit all of our campuses within my term,” Kennedy said. “I am confident I can help increase retention levels and participation from students of every group, whether it be adult students, veterans, online or in-person students; I believe we are more effective together.”

To his fellow students, Kennedy remarks, “Students, get ready, this year is going to be amazing! I am confident that our programming will be highly engaging for everyone. Make sure to get involved in your student clubs and organizations over the next semester. These people are truly family, and I feel your experience will be much grander if you become actively involved within the community here at Columbia State. I look forward to serving as your SGA president!”

For more information on other Columbia State student clubs, organizations and programs, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/CampusLife.