The OU Student Government Association inaugurated Mercer Martin and Josephine Nicholson as president and vice president, respectively, in the Oklahoma Memorial Union Wednesday.
Martin, an entrepreneurship and economics junior, and Nicholson, a constitutional studies and professional writing junior, campaigned on the foundation of “SPIRIT.” The slogan served as an acronym for strengthening connections, promoting OU traditions, integrating resources and access, reinforcing campus fellowship, initiating partnerships with Norman and tying students to the community.
Martin said something great has been built since the university was founded.
“Some people call it ‘Sooner Magic,’ but whatever you call it, there’s an energy on this campus that permeates every corner and makes our university so very great,” Martin said.
Martin said she wants to continue that growth, and the campaign platform is part of how she and Nicholson plan to do so.
“Our platform ‘SPIRIT’ was built on a belief that real change must be tangible and meaningful,” Martin said. “It is rooted in connection, care and community. … We are fully committed to executing this vision to create an even better OU where every student can thrive.”
In closing, Martin thanked former SGA President Avery Dunlap for her guidance.
“She leaves behind big shoes to fill,” Martin said. “Her grace, heart and leadership set a powerful example, and I’m thankful to follow in her footsteps. … I promise to always lead with grace and care.”
After being sworn in as vice president, Nicholson thanked the community for its support.
“You helped us realize the positive change we can move forward with, and without your faith in us, the positions we are in now could never be realized,” Nicholson said. “To every student who voted for Mercer and I, thank you for your trust in our ideas, our visions, but most importantly, for your trust in us as leaders.”
Nicholson said her experiences at OU shaped her into who she is and that staff and faculty have been important to that journey.
“This university has given me friendships, mentors and experiences that have undoubtedly made me better in every way,” Nicholson said. “Because of OU, and because of your trust, I’m able to serve in this role, and it is a privilege I do not take lightly.”
The pair ran against two other tickets in the 2025 SGA presidential election in November, the first three-way election since 2020. The initial vote ended with none of the three tickets receiving enough votes to declare a winner. According to SGA code, a presidential candidate must receive more than 50% of the vote to win the race.
In the runoff election, the Martin-Nicholson ticket obtained 50.45% of the vote, or 1,653 votes. The pair ran against Kristen-Nicole Mitei, an accounting and economics junior, and Kendall Rench, an accounting, economics and management junior, who received 49.54% of the vote, or 1,623 votes.
Martin and Nicholson are replacing Dunlap and former SGA Vice President Joseph Harroz III, son of OU President Joseph Harroz Jr.
Harroz reflected on serving alongside Dunlap and said the past year was one that he will always be grateful for.
“Serving in this role has been both challenging and deeply rewarding,” Harroz said. “I’m proud of what Avery’s administration has been able to accomplish. Stepping into this position during a time of transition, our team remained focused on providing stability, consistency and strong representation of the student body.”
Harroz thanked the Student Affairs team, Assistant Dean of Students George Ahmadi and the SGA cabinet for their dedication to the organization.
“Mercer Martin and Josephine Nicholson, in particular, have been instrumental for our success, …” Harroz said. “It has been a privilege to watch you grow as leaders.”
Dunlap addressed the audience as president for the last time, reflecting on her experience as a member of SGA.
“Today is a moment of transition and excitement. I’ve had the privilege of serving as student government association president over the past nine months, and I cannot express the gratitude I have,” Dunlap said.
Dunlap highlighted some of last year’s accomplishments, from attending the SEC Exchange hosted by the University of Texas in July, to forming cross-campus relations between the athletics department and the food pantry.
“We were able to boost our Red River Food Fight to a record 11,000 pounds of donations of shelf-stable food,” Dunlap said.
Additionally, Dunlap thanked the university administration for continuing to support students.
“To have an administration that not only hears their student leaders but also values their experiences is something truly special and unique to the community of the University of Oklahoma,” Dunlap said.
Dunlap thanked Harroz for serving alongside her.
“You stepped up when the student body needed you, established a new foundation of leadership standards and were the best partner I could’ve asked for, …” Dunlap said. “I look up to you more than you know.”
In closing, Dunlap said that she is excited to see what Martin and Nicholson will accomplish in the coming year.
“I admire you both for your capacity for leadership, love and grit, …” Dunlap said. “Your love for this university already speaks volumes and in all things that you face in the coming year, lean on that love and protect the Sooner experience that you both enjoy so much.”
This story was edited by Macey Thaxton and Madisson Cameron. Andrew Higgins and Mary Ann Livingood copy edited this story.
