Cason Kirby inaugurated as SGA president

R.B. Walker passed the reigns of SGA president to his successor Cason Kirby with a handshake and a smile Tuesday afternoon at the Gorgas House.

After a few quick remarks by Walker, the new executive officers were sworn in before Kirby made his first speech as SGA president.

"With this opportunity, however, comes an even greater responsibility," Kirby said. "I believe, as I have said so many times over the last few months, that when choosing your student leaders, experience does matter. It doesn't matter, however, if its not accompanied by a commitment to serve.

"I am making this commitment to you today, that this experience, this know how, this talent that stands before you today will not go to waste."

Following the brief inauguration was a dinner at The Zone in Bryant-Denny stadium to look back on the last year and look forward to the next.

"I couldn't be prouder of the student government's sterling example of empowerment this year. This year has always been about the students, and I am so excited about Cason's term as SGA president. He's going to do so wonderful," Walker said.

An array of awards was handed out during the dinner, thanking those who helped the Walker administration and served the SGA during the past year.

"I've never been so proud of anything in my life as what the Walker administration has accomplished, and I can honestly say that we can go to bed at night not saying we wish we had," said SGA Press Secretary Emily Crawford.

UA President Robert Witt said Walker's term has been one of the best he's seen.

"I think the best way I can answer that question is this is my 40th year in higher education, and I have never worked with a more dedicated or effective SGA president in 40 years," he said.

Kirby said there was little that could have been done this year without Walker.

"I think R.B. has had one of the most successful administrations that I have seen on campus, and I can honestly say that not one other executive officer or senator could have had the accomplishments they had without R.B's leadership," Kirby said.

Outgoing Senator and incoming Executive Advisor Jesse Woods said he thinks Kirby will follow the hard act Walker has left.

"R.B. has been more dedicated to making every student involved in the government then I ever thought possible. His tireless efforts have ensured that all students are represented," Woods said. "I think Cason's going to continue the work of R.B. in insuring the needs of students are brought to the table for every issue and will make sure that all of the ideas created are brought to fruition."

Kirby said his administration's work is already underway.

"The responsibility is a very humbling thought, but we have already begun work with university libraries and the provost office on university student committees and I'm sure that the very talented people that I will have the privilege of working with will be able to accomplish much this year."