Love Lifts Us Up Where We Belong: Officer and a Pin

A New Chapter of Student Leadership in the VMA Junior Program

Being a club Officer is more than holding a title. It is a commitment to service, leadership, and one pillar we can always strengthen together: fundraising.

At its heart, fundraising in the VMA Junior Program is about learning to advocate for causes that matter. Students talk with their families and friends, explain why the VMA mission resonates with them, and raise modest yearly amounts tied to leadership roles, such as a suggested $50 for Officers. Through this process, students build confidence, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of collective responsibility.

This year marks an exciting milestone for the Junior Program. Service, fundraising, and leadership are now fully integrated into the member experience through simple, accessible online nomination and election forms at the local, state, and national levels. Students who feel called to lead are encouraged to nominate themselves and participate in VMA-conducted elections rooted in fairness, transparency, and student voice.

Those courageous enough to step forward and nominate themselves are known as Officer Candidates. An Officer Candidate is a student who has submitted a nomination form and is actively working toward meeting the fundraising goal for the position they seek. It all begins with one intrepid soul willing to be bold, generous, and open to growth.

Fundraising pathways are flexible and mission-aligned. Students may create their own shared fundraising campaigns in partnership with VMA-affiliated nonprofits, or they may participate in the annual Sweet Sounds of Service campaign. Each option allows students to connect their leadership role to real-world impact.

Once a student meets their fundraising goal, they become an Officer in Good Standing and are fully confirmed to serve in their role. Officers in good standing receive an Honorary Leadership Pin, a symbol of trust, accountability, and readiness to lead within a consensus-based student government. The pin recognizes not only achievement, but also a commitment to collaboration, service, and responsibility.

This is the beginning of a new chapter. A chapter defined by student initiative, democratic participation, and shared purpose.

Let’s light up the world together. Stay tuned for more details as we celebrate the launch of this expanded Officer nomination and election process.