Alexander Efird

Alexander Efird knows that knowledge is power. As a leader in the Undergraduate Student Senate, he has devoted himself to understanding the systems that shape the student experience, while striving to serve the student body with empathy and care.

A nominator said, “Alex’s courageous leadership is transformative, empowering others in the Virginia Tech community to embrace difficult conversations, pursue informed change, and prioritize the greater good.”

As the senate’s vice president for issues and policy, he has represented the student voice with authenticity and care. Moreover, he has studied the complex frameworks of parliamentary rules, governing documents, and University Council policies so he can better use his position to address student concerns.

A nominator said that Alex’s efforts have improved the senate’s overall functionality: Meetings are more organized and productive, and discussions are smoother, especially in instances of differing opinions.

Alex serves on an ad hoc committee dedicated to revising the Undergraduate Student Senate’s governing documents. He played a pivotal role in helping the committee pass a referendum to allow the senate to express statements of the undergraduate student body based on a majority vote of those students. The project became a jumping off point for the committee to review its bylaws and constitution for clarity and accessibility.

Some of the committee’s early meetings included tense discussions and challenging feedback from constituents. Nominators said that Alex was always receptive to feedback and used it to inform his future actions.

“He has demonstrated a strong ability to have constructive dialogue and listen to the thoughts of others,” said a nominator.

Alex also attends meetings for the Commission on Undergraduate Student Affairs, where his advocacy for the student body has strengthened the relationship between the Undergraduate Student Senate and university governance.

“By proactively seeking information on policies affecting undergraduates, Alex has been able to represent student needs with greater insight and influence,” said a nominator.

“This has benefited the undergraduate community by ensuring that senate recommendations are well-informed, thereby increasing the likelihood that proposed policies will truly address students’ concerns.”

His work ensures that the student voice is directing the committee's work, setting a powerful precedent for the future.

By helping students, senate representatives, and committee members feel heard, Alex has contributed to an organizational culture with a renewed sense of purpose and agency.

“Alex’s courageous leadership has had a significant, positive impact on both the Virginia Tech community and the undergraduate student body, fostering an environment of inclusivity, transparency, and growth,” a nominator said.

Alex is a senior majoring in political science and smart and sustainable cities in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences. After finishing his bachelor’s degree, he will continue working towards his Master of Public Administration, which he plans to complete in Spring 2026 along with a graduate certification in local government management.

For taking the initiative to make student governance more fair, accessible, and representative, Student Affairs is proud to present the Aspire! Award for Prepare for a Life of COURAGEOUS LEADERSHIP to Alexander Efird.