Freshman Forum
What is Freshman Forum?
Freshman Forum is the freshman branch of the Student Government Association. This
organization exists to provide freshman leaders the opportunity to connect across
Troy
University's campus and in the community. Freshman Forum is composed of approximately
50
freshmen and two sophomore directors. To be selected for Freshman Forum, potential
delegates must complete an application and participate in an interview process. Once
the new
members are chosen, the organization holds meetings every week where delegates learn
parliamentary procedure, grow leadership skills, and have the opportunity to make
a difference.
Freshman Forum also participates in a retreat each year that builds team bonding and
connections throughout the organization.
The two Freshman Forum directors serve on the Student Government Association (SGA)
Executive Board, and they serve as a bridge between Freshman Forum and SGA as a whole.
Directors are lead panelists in Freshman Forum interviews, and they act as mentors
for the
delegates throughout the year.
The Freshman Forum Executive Board is made up of a President, Vice President, Secretary,
Treasurer, Historian, and Chaplain. These positions are voted on by the delegation
each year.
Auxiliary leadership positions, including Chair/Co-Chair of each committee and Excellence
in
Leadership Conference Directors, are a part of the delegation as well.
Jaycie Smith, Freshman Forum Director, 2026-2027
Hometown: Scottsboro, AL
Major: Communications, Minoring in Public Relations and Advertising
Classification: Sophomore
Why I chose TROY: The first time I visited Troy University was when I attended Girls' State the summer
before my senior year of high school. I absolutely fell in love with the campus and
knew that Troy was where I was meant to be. I toured other schools when making my
college decision, but I knew that my heart was already here and nowhere else could
compare. Troy has a beautiful campus, incredible academics, and a wonderful staff,
but most of all, Troy University feels like home. The people, the atmosphere, and
the overall culture of this university are what truly drew me in from the beginning.
Involvement and Honors at Troy: Last year, I served as the Public Relations Chairwoman within Freshman Forum, which has definitely been one of my favorite experiences here
at Troy so far! Outside of Student Government, I am a member of Phi Mu Kappa Gamma, where
I serve as the Public Relations assistant, and an intern for the Troy Athletics Communication
department, where I have served as the secondary communication contact for the Troy
Men's Golf team this past year. I have also been on the Chancellor's List for academic achievement
during my time at Troy!
Josh Thompson, Freshman Forum Director, 2026-2027
Hometown: Skipperville, AL
Major: Exercise Physiology Pre-Health Occupations
Classification: Sophomore
Why I chose TROY: During my decision making process on where I wanted to continue my academic journey
I looked at a few schools, but I was always unsure. Never going on an official tour
with Troy, I trusted my brother and sister-in-law to show me around campus. Knowing
my degree path was very well done at Troy I knew I would be in a good spot to just
choose Troy and see what happens. Little did I know Troy would fit me better than
I could ever imagine. Once I came to my Impact orientation session I immediately saw
how much I enjoyed the culture. Connections felt easy and real, so I was confident
I would enjoy my time at Troy.
Involvement and Honors at TROY: Last year I served as Freshman Forum's Vice President.
Serving as Vice President allowed me to assist in many parts of Freshman Forum, so
I learned
as much as I could about the program. Now my place in Freshman Forum has opened doors
on
campus and helped me develop relationships that will last. I also work for Troy at
the University
Call Center as a customer service representative, I answer all calls that come through,
answer
questions, and direct callers to connections on campus.
Words of Encouragement: Remember everything worth doing can be difficult, but not
everything that is difficult is the right thing to do. Learning how to manage your
time wisely can
often be the key to contentment. Sometimes saying no to one obligation gives room
for you to
excel in another, and sometimes doors close and the no comes from someone else- either
way
contentment is success.
Annual Events
Excellence in Leadership Conference
The Troy University Excellence in Leadership Conference is Freshman Forum's main event. High school students from all over the state of Alabama, as well as parts of Florida, are invited to Troy University's campus for a day full of fun and impactful sessions created to foster leadership skills within young leaders. Delegates from Freshman Forum put countless hours into hosting this conference every year to make it a memorable experience for everyone involved. Throughout the day, participants will be given a tour of campus, attend breakout sessions, and hear from a keynote speaker to grow their confidence, connections, and leadership skills.
International Friendsgiving
Every November, Freshman Forum hosts International Friendsgiving, which invites all
international students on Troy University's campus to enjoy a traditional American
Thanksgiving
feast. This event creates an opportunity for delegates to connect with the international
community and learn about their cultures while sharing about their own.
Freshman Run
Before the first home football game every year, Freshman Forum coordinates Freshman
Run.
All freshmen have the opportunity to participate in this event. New students get to
run across the
football field and into the student section together, symbolizing becoming a part
of the Trojan
family.
SGA Retreat
The entire Freshman Forum delegation is encouraged to attend the Student Government
Association Retreat in the fall of each school year. This trip builds familiarity,
grows connections,
and fosters relationships between the new delegates, which sets the organization up
for a
successful year together. Although the location changes each year, the memories last
forever.
Highlights
“As Representatives of Troy University's Freshman Class, We Commit to Excellence in Leadership through Service, Enthusiasm, and Trojan Pride!”
Freshman Forum Committees
At the beginning of each year, delegates within Freshman Forum are divided into different
committees. Each committee has different tasks and responsibilities, but together,
they make
Freshman Forum a success. Responsibilities for each committee, as outlined in the
Freshman Forum Constitution, are:
Campus Life Committee:
The Campus Life & Involvement Committee is responsible for planning and organizing
events that involve student participation on Troy University's campus.
Community Service Committee:
The Community Service Committee is responsible for planning and organizing events
that get Troy University's students involved in their surrounding community.
Public Relations Committee:
The Public Relations Committee is responsible for the publication of events and activities
sponsored by Freshman Forum.
Student Welfare Committee:
The Student Welfare Committee is responsible for the creation and proposal of legislation
for the welfare of the freshman class.
Trojan Pride & Traditions Committee:
The Trojan Pride and Traditions Committee is responsible for maintaining the spirit
and traditions of Troy University.