HATTIESBURG - University of Southern Mississippi students showed a marked increase in participation in Tuesday's Student Government Association elections compared to recent years, according to school officials.

Dr. Eddie Holloway, dean of students at Southern Miss, said more than 2,000 voted in the election. "We've never ordered more than 1,200 ballots since I've been associated with the dean's office," said Holloway.

"I commend the students who gave their time and effort to campaign and work toward this election," Holloway said, adding that he was impressed by the amount of enthusiasm displayed in the campaign. "For many of them, it was an introduction to the government process. These experiences can lead to greater heights."

Winners in Tuesday's election include Jared Loftus, a junior from Sumrall, president; Sarah Spigener, a sophomore from Gulfport, vice president; Chad Cornett, a junior from Brandon, attorney general, and Alex Thames, a senior from Florence, election commissioner.

Holloway credited Assistant Dean of Students Mike Mitchell and current election commissioner Kenitra Barnes for their efforts in this year's election. "We made a valiant effort to increase our student participation in student government and in the election process," Holloway said, noting the increase in voting locations and hosting a debate among candidates. He said that plans are being made to televise next year's debate among SGA candidates, as well as to add a third location for voting.

-30-