Born to Lead
Since Kansas State University was founded in 1863, the College of Agriculture has had many student body presidents. Paige Vulgamore, a junior agricultural economics student from Scott City, was sworn into office on March 26 for the 2024-2025 term.
Paige always knew K-State was the place for her. “I grew up coming to basketball and football games with my family. My grandpa and dad came to K-State and always had stories to tell,” Paige says. “I always loved the family feel of K-State growing up.”
Even though Manhattan was a big city to Paige, it still felt small, yet big enough for her to experience countless opportunities and experiences. Paige has been involved in the Student Governing Association since her freshman year and loves how SGA brings students together from all areas of campus to support a common goal.
“I really enjoyed my role in student government, representing students, especially when I was a senator representing College of Ag students,” Paige says. During her sophomore year, Paige switched to the executive branch of SGA to see what being the Student Body President was like and if she wanted to run for the executive role.
“I wanted something to put my passion into for K-State and I felt there was no better way to do that than this route,” Paige says. “Maybe I can look back in 10 years and still be proud of something I accomplished and still see the effects of the changes I’ve made.”
With the support of mentors, academic advisors, fellow students and her older brother, Parker, Paige decided to run and on February 21, Paige and Jack O’Malley, sophomore in business administration, were elected by K-State students for Student Body President and Vice President.
“It is such an honor, and I am so proud. Helping K-State be a next-generation land grant university is monumental,” Paige says. “I am proud to be a K-Stater and two of the best decisions I’ve ever made were coming to K-State and choosing the College of Agriculture.”
Paige is also a member of the Gamma Phi Beta sorority, where she just finished her term as chapter president, and is involved in the Student Alumni Board and College of Agriculture Ambassadors.
When asked if she had any advice for her younger self, she said she would tell her high school self to be comfortable being uncomfortable, be a good listener, be intentional with the people you meet and intentionally diversify your perspective. Paige believes all these things have helped shape her into the leader she is today.
Paige is the third Ag Economics student in a row to be elected K-State Student Body President. “The College of Ag cares about leadership,” Paige says. “I am just so proud.”
Listen to Paige’s interview on the K-State Alumni Association podcast “The Scoop at K-State”!
Photos taken by Reagan Geisbrecht