Bern Bennett

Bern "Tre" Bennett has held multiple roles in Student Government Association (SGA) at the University of North Georgia (UNG) and used his experience to lead through teamwork.

For the 2021-22 academic year, the Lavonia, Georgia, native held the office of SGA vice president on the Gainesville Campus. Prior to that, he was communications chair for SGA.

Bennett pursued a degree in kinesiology with a concentration in health and fitness and defines leadership as a complex notion.

"Oftentimes we hear the word leadership and can visualize an individual in our heads," Bennett said. "However, I've grown to realize that effective leadership relies on the dedication and determination of numerous groups. Essentially, leadership is the process of engaging and supporting others, with a central common goal."

His leadership style focuses on teamwork. He designates positions within the organization so that everyone is working together.

"As a team, no role is too big or too small," Bennett explained. “We are all working together toward a better student body."

Bennett’s career aspirations include obtaining a master's degree in either occupational therapy or physician assistant studies. He plans to use the professional network he's building to land a job. Networking is something he believes is a benefit of leadership.

"Oftentimes leadership roles come with responsibilities, dedication, and use of time," Bennett said. "Students may fail to realize that networking and establishing connections for jobs and internships can even be done working alongside professors and administrators."