A student for students

Stephen Nushann ’27 took his first tour of Augsburg through AVID, a college preparatory course offered through his high school. He had heard about Augsburg through family members and felt comfortable when he was on campus, noting the option for small classes while being in a big city. After discovering the Act Six scholarship, which provides full tuition, room, and board for up to seven incoming undergraduate students each year, he knew that applying to Augsburg was a no-brainer.

“I first met Stephen the summer after his high school senior year. He was a leader among his peers even then, going out of his way to engage and involve the other participants in the program he was attending,” says Jeremy Myers, Bernhard M. Christensen Professor of Religion and Vocation and director of the Christensen Center for Vocation (CCV). “And now, I see him stepping up and trying on new leadership roles as a junior in college, becoming the student body president with the continued intention of creating community and a sense of belonging for all of his peers. He is an incredibly selfless and self-aware leader.”

What made you decide to run for student body president?

I hadn’t participated in student government before, so my immediate thought was “no.” Then I talked to my grandma—I really love and respect my grandma—about this opportunity. She really encouraged me to do it. My biggest fear was that I might not know enough and would make mistakes. She told me, “You’ll be great,” and reassured me that it’s fine to make mistakes as long as I learn from them. That was all I needed to tell myself that I could do this and make a change on campus.

What are some of your goals as president this year?

I want to make sure that student government is seen on campus. As a freshman and sophomore, I didn’t always know about student government and what they did. So I want the students to know us and know that we are here to represent them. We meet on Wednesday nights, and I want to encourage students to come to meetings. I want students to see me around campus and feel comfortable asking me questions.

I want to think more intentionally about dining options around campus. It’s such an important part of the student experience, and I think there are ways to improve the food and the experience for students. I’d like to see more ethnic food on the menu, but even better if we can partner with community members to bring their recipes to campus.

What would you like other students to know about student government?

We are a group of students for students. We represent the student body. If or when students want to make a change on campus, we are here to listen to them.

What are you most excited about this year, both as president and as a student?

As a student, I’m most excited about getting involved with student government, Campus Ministry, Auggie Cup, and other activities around campus. I’m excited about these experiences, the people I’ll meet, and the things I will learn.

As president, I look forward to seeing results. Last year, student government supported the Environmental Stewardship Committee to give us the Leah Mobile [the grounds crew’s new electric utility cart named for former environmental student leader Leah Tift ’25]. It took a lot of work to make that happen. I’m excited to see more ideas and plans come to life.

How has Augsburg helped you to become the leader you are today?

I have a really, really good support system here at Augsburg, whether that’s Campus Ministry, Act Six Scholars, Eve [Christensen] in Campus Life, and the CCV. I have people who are rooting for me to succeed and people who I can go to with questions and concerns. That support system has encouraged me to become the leader I am today.

What would you like the public to know about your experience here at Augsburg?

My Augsburg experience has been absolutely amazing. I could not imagine myself anywhere else. I have found my community here. Augsburg has been so welcoming, and I’ve experienced so much learning and growth. The person I was two years ago when I came here to the person I am now is completely different. The people I’ve encountered, the lessons I’ve learned, the classes and professors—it’s all changed me to be a better person.

Quick Facts About Stephen

• Favorite people on campus: Pastor John [Rohde Schwehn], Pastor Babette [Chatman ’06], Jeremy Myers, Eve Christensen
• Favorite campus event: Friendsgiving, Back to School Block Party, Taste of Augsburg
• Favorite food at The Commons: Sushi, spaghetti, and the cultural cuisines
• Favorite class: All of my religion classes and my class with Jeffrey Clement

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Top image: Stephen Nushann ’27 wears many hats at Augsburg, including his active role within Campus Ministry. (Photo by Courtney Perry)