Meet Jakob – Who Am I?

Hello Tar Heels,

My name is Jakob Williams, and I am honored to announce that I am running to be your next Student Body President at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

My choice to run for Student Body President is rooted in my love for the Carolina community we call home. Growing up in the small town of Franklin, North Carolina, the Tar Heel community gives me a sense of belonging. The connections shaped my dream of one day becoming a Tar Heel, and now, I am proud to be part of this incredible university that offers so many opportunities for growth. As a Political Science and Dramatic Art major with a minor in Media and Journalism, I am deeply inspired by the friends and classmates who have come from all corners of the world, bringing unique perspectives and uplifting our university.

Since before I arrived on campus, I always knew that I wanted to dedicate my time as a Tar Heel to service, which led me to join Student Government. To me, service is not only a responsibility and a privilege, but it is also an opportunity. Since my beginning as a staffer for the Department of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Vann Administration, I have had the privilege of meeting and listening to many students, which has allowed me to understand what it's truly like to be a student on this campus. Through my role serving as the Executive Manager of former Student Body President Christopher Everett, I was able to gain a first-hand understanding of what is truly required of this position. As Student Body Secretary, I have been privileged to engage directly with many student organizations, gaining insights into the passions, challenges, and aspirations that drive our Carolina community. These conversations have strengthened my belief in the power of collaboration and the impact of unified action to meet the needs of all students. Through co-founding The Law Society at Carolina, I have been able to witness the importance of diverse student perspectives by providing and ensuring us students have the tools and support we need to succeed.

Carolina is truly an amazing place; however, we have seen its faults. From two acts of gun violence to the recent attack on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, we as a student body have experienced moments of profound vulnerability. These challenges, amongst others, have shown where there is room for growth and remind us of the importance of community empowerment, fostering a culture of empathy, and advocating for a campus where every individual feels protected and valued.

Now more than ever, we as a Student Body must come together to ensure that every student on this campus feels a sense of belonging and empowerment. Carolina is not just a place; it’s a community that thrives because of us, the students. From late-night study sessions with friends in Davis to Fridays in the Pit, it’s our energy, our creativity, and our collective spirit that make Carolina flourish, and that is why I love Carolina. I truly believe that together, we can build a community rooted in unity and empowerment: A Carolina We Believe In. Through community empowerment, transparency, approachability and responsiveness, diversity, accessibility, and belonging, we can forge a Carolina that is run by the students, for the students. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but that’s why it’s so important to me to ensure that our administration is shaped and strengthened by the voices of as many students and student organizations as possible. I invite you to join me on this journey to make Carolina, not just a university but a legacy–a place where every voice matters and every student thrives. Let’s come together to help shape the Carolina We Believe In!

In service to every Tar Heel,

Sponsored by Jakob Williams for Student Body President