Involvement, serving students' priorities for SGC president

Camerin Hatcher, a senior majoring in professional communication, said being president of the campus’ Student Government Council is all about serving students.

“I love council,” she said. “I am so glad that I decided to become a part last semester. Being on council has encouraged me to make closer friends here on campus and become more involved with what is taking place on campus.”

Before being voted as president, Hatcher served one semester on SGC. As senator, her job was to represent the Panama City campus in Florida State Senate. She would attend weekly meetings to debate and vote on matters affecting FSU.

Now as president, she oversees all of SGC’s activities to provide a great experience for students. It’s all about serving the students, Hatcher said.

“I think it is cool that SGC gets to serve other students by having fun events and free food,” she said. “It makes coming to school more enjoyable.”

Hatcher said she hopes to get more students involved in the events on campus. She also would like to have healthier food options at events and is working to provide an on-campus counselor for students.

“I am looking for ways that we can improve the look and feel of our campus,” she said.

Hatcher said the small Panama City campus has been a benefit to her. She is able to live at home, which appeals to her more than moving to a huge university. She graduated from Poplar Springs High School ranked No. 1 and earned her associate’s degree from Chipola College before graduating high school.

In addition to her responsibilities as president, Hatcher juggles a full course load, work as a teacher aide for John Crossley, Ph.D., and life at home with her husband, Reid Hatcher.

“It is difficult most days, but it is very rewarding,” she said. “It is a great feeling to go to sleep at night knowing that you’ve worked your hardest to make A’s and to be a good friend, co-worker and wife.”

She said her work on SGC and working with other students has added to her college experience.

“It’s amazing,” she said of her experience. “When you work with other people, you constantly learn, and your perspective opens up quite a bit. I feel that is preparing me for my future.”