Alli Denison: A Woman in Power
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The Women Student Union is a place where all are welcome. The union celebrates what it means to be a woman—the struggles, the power, the growth. It’s a place of comfort and support on Florida State University’s campus for all womxn. Leading the efforts in inclusion and solidarity is executive director Alli Denison, a kind, hardworking, and powerful figure envisioning the future of WSU.
Denison entered WSU as a general member during her first year at FSU. “I have always been drawn to womxn’s spaces,” says Denison as she explains what drew her to WSU in the first place. Denison mentions her passion for intersectional feminism, a central advocating point for WSU. She states, “It’s really powerful to be a part of a space that is so intentional in its empowerment of womxn.” As a political science major, Denison has always been interested in politics, and when the position of political education coordinator opened, she applied. While WSU must remain non-partisan, she saw how an executive board worked and employed it as an instrument of advocacy rather than politics, founding the Women’s History Month coordinator position. Through that position, she found a passion for running a committee, and through her hard work, she created 18 impressive events that produced some of the highest turnouts at the union.
Image Courtesy: Alli Denison
While it was never her goal to become executive director of WSU, the previous director, Emma Daley, saw something in Denison and pushed her to take on the position. Denison shared it was nerve-wracking at first, but with her previous experience running a committee, she knew she was up for the challenge. With the support of many womxn as well as her male counterparts, Denison claims that her power within the SGA realm has not been limited based on gender. “Overall, the [SGA] spaces are seriously the best environment, and I feel so valued, comfortable, and appreciated,” stated Denison.
Image Courtesy: Alli Denison
While this is only her first semester as director, Denison has many plans for WSU and student life. One of her goals as the director is to provide “a safe space on campus where we are bettering student life and FSU culture.” She plans to do this by continuing educational general body meetings and community bonding events. Witnessing the positive impact WSU has on the womxn population at school keeps Denison determined to continue her hard work.
Her start in SGA began because she put herself out there, something she encourages everyone to do. If you are thinking about joining the world of SGA, always try to get involved. “Even if it doesn’t go your way, failure is an opportunity for growth,” Denison stated.
Image Courtesy: Alli Denison
Knowing Denison personally, I can attest that she is the hardest-working person I have had the pleasure of knowing. Her dedication to the womxn of FSU shines through her work. The countless hours she spends on WSU to ensure it runs smoothly is remarkable. She took on the executive director position and created her executive board. She has trained them and helped guide them into the impactful group they are today. Her talent for being a leader does not go without being recognized.
Strike Out,
Writer: Lauren Butrum
Editor: Noelle Knowlton
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