Campus Program Associate, Vanessa Rivera, caught up with chapter leader, Ella Biggins, president of NeW at the University of South Florida!
How did you first hear about NeW?
During my freshman year I was so blessed to meet Emily and Elizabeth, two amazing women who founded NeW at Florida State University. I got involved and loved the mission of NeW and all I was learning. After transferring to the University of South Florida, I recognized the dire need for a NeW chapter on my campus.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and why you became involved in NeW?
As a sixth generation Floridian, I am passionate about giving back to my community and being civically engaged. I am currently an Honors College student at the University of South Florida pursuing a degree in political science with a minor in mass communications. Upon graduation, I hope to attend law school. I am also passionate about expanding intellectual diversity and having open dialogue. Regardless of how strongly you feel about an issue, I believe everyone has the capacity to learn from others who may not share their own opinion. College campuses are supposed to breed free thinking and intellectual diversity. That’s just not the case any longer, and I am trying to contribute in the mission of upholding free speech and intellectual diversity on college campuses through my involvement with NeW.
What appeals to you about NeW?
NeW addresses ideas and topics that are not talked about elsewhere, but are essential to our nation’s future. I love being surrounded by like-minded women who want to empower one another and stand up in defense of their values and beliefs.
What made you want to start a NeW chapter?
Simply put, the University of South Florida needed NeW. Knowledge is fortified in an environment which unapologetically promotes free thinking and intellectual diversity. NeW strengthens this ideal.
Why is having a NeW chapter on campus so important to you?
It is important to me that my peers learn to grow and develop while they are present in the college atmosphere. NeW also offers me a place to meet and connect with like-minded conservatives, while also networking with other student leaders who may not have the same opinions I do.
How do you benefit from being a part of NeW? What is the best part of being involved with NeW?
I am able to enhance my leadership skills and be a change-maker on campus. It is so important to me that I am diligent in recognizing issues in my community and subsequently vocal and passionate about helping to change those issues. NeW assists me in this process and that is ultimately most fulfilling.
What makes you the most excited about being a part of NeW?
The National Conference! I have been twice now, and I look forward to it every time. It is like NeW on a whole other level because I get to network with women from throughout the nation, learn about leadership, and be inspired by some of the most successful women in the game. I feel so fortunate to have had opportunities like this through NeW.
