Get to Know UVA Wise SGA President Connor Blevins

For Connor Blevins, getting involved at UVA Wise has meant more than simply staying busy. It has given him opportunities to build meaningful relationships, gain valuable experience, discover new interests and become a voice for his fellow students. Now, after serving as Student Government Association (SGA) vice president last year, Blevins is drawing on those experiences in his new role as the 2026-27 SGA president with a clear goal: ensuring students have a voice in the decisions and experiences that shape their time at UVA Wise.

A Harlan County, Kentucky, native, Blevins is a senior majoring in sociology with a minor in business administration who came to UVA Wise to compete on the track and field team. 

In a recent Q&A, Blevins shared more about his UVA Wise experience, his involvement on campus and what he hopes to accomplish as SGA president.

What made you want to become a part of SGA? You served as vice president last year. What made you want to push the envelope further? 

Having no prior knowledge of student government, I received an email my freshman year that invited students to run for open SGA positions and decided to throw my name in the mix. Once I became involved, I quickly fell in love with the opportunities it created for students. I knew then that I wanted to be president someday, not for the recognition, but because of how passionate I am about advocating for myself and others. There’s no better way to make a positive impact on the student experience than joining SGA.

What do you hope students can expect from SGA this year?

I hope that students will feel like SGA has advocated for their concerns to the very best of our ability. While we may not get to achieve every single outcome hoped for, I want everyone to know that their voices have been heard, considered and represented throughout the process. To do that, SGA is committed to building strong relationships across campus. When those relationships are strong and communication is open, we are better able to work together to create opportunities, address concerns and improve the overall experience. 

Beyond that, I simply hope that students feel valued as individuals. Every student comes to UVA Wise with a unique background and perspective, and I believe it is important that we recognize them as people first, not just members of the student body. 

Outside of SGA, what else are you involved in?

I currently work as an intern in the Office of Student Engagement and serve as president of the Darden Society, president of the Sociology Society and founding president of the Unite Club. I am also a Student Ambassador and a member of both the National Society of Leadership and Success and the Alpha Kappa Delta International Sociology Honor Society, where I am currently awaiting executive board elections. 

I compete as a thrower on the track and field team, serve as outreach and engagement chair for the Student Conduct Board as well as conduct undergraduate research on the expected population decline in Southwest Virginia, with a focus on policy, economy and government. I also work with the Karsh Institute of Democracy at the University of Virginia as a promoter of the Civic Cornerstone Fellowship at UVA Wise. 

How do you balance everything?

It is undeniably challenging, however, through the support and understanding of my amazing coaches, professors, advisors and peers, as well as keeping a pretty hefty paper calendar, I have been able to make it work. Staying organized is the key. Planning ahead and having a strong support system have ultimately allowed me to balance all my responsibilities both inside and outside of the classroom. 

What is something people might be surprised to learn about you?

While there are probably many different things I believe might be surprising to others, my favorite is that I was commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel by Governor Andy Beshear for my leadership, community service and advocacy. 

Who are some of the people that have influenced you most during your time at UVA Wise?

I could list pages and pages of names and not even scratch the surface. I would be remiss not to mention my track and field coaches, my advisor Katherine Everhart, several other professors, everyone on the third floor of the Slemp Student Center, several members of the administration and more students than I can count. While each has played a different role in my life, they all share one commonality: a positive mindset. Even when I might have let my own positivity slip, they have consistently offered encouragement, support and perspective. Their influence has helped shaped who I am as both a student and a person. 

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in governmental sociology and am currently working through the application process. I have yet to decide which institution I will attend. After earning my doctorate, I hope to pursue a career in public service as an elected official. Through my academic and leadership experiences, I have developed a passion for advocacy, public policy and serving others, and I hope to use my education and experiences to make a difference in the communities I serve. 

What advice would you give to new Cavs?

Get involved, make friends and get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Whether that is socially or academically, some of the greatest opportunities and most meaningful growth happen when you step outside of your comfort zone. 

Take the time to get to know your professors. They can become mentors, advocates and some of the most valuable connections you make during college. 

Most importantly, always remember that you matter first. Your mental health and well-being should come before everything else. It’s okay to take a step back, give yourself grace and focus on yourself and the things you need to do. 

College is about growth, learning and preparing for your future, but it is also about enjoying the journey. Make memories, build relationships and never be afraid to ask for help when you need it.