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Brady Kappelmann and Zoey Pudenz, candidates for Kansas State University's student body president and vice president, recently shared their vision for the upcoming election during an interview on Wildcat 91.9’s Evening Drive with Cadence and Delaney. The duo emphasized their passion for student advocacy and outlined their campaign platform, "Keys to Progress," which focuses on the pillars of engage, evolve, and empower.
Kappelmann, a junior from Liberal, Kansas, majoring in marketing and sales, reflected on his journey at K-State and his motivation to run for office. "I’ve really seen the benefit of what the student body president is able to do," he said. "I truly feel like with so much that K-State has given me—amazing friends, lifelong friendships, growth opportunities—I want to use my senior year to give back to the university."
Pudenz, a junior from Kansas City, Kansas, double majoring in professional strategic selling and marketing, shared similar sentiments about her decision to join the race. "At first, I didn’t know this was something I could do—it was almost a confidence thing," she said. "But after talking with Brady and my friends, I realized this is something I would really enjoy. I loved advocating for my sorority members as president of Gamma Phi Beta last year, and being able to do that on a larger scale was very appealing to me."
The pair’s campaign slogan, "Keys to Progress," highlights their commitment to addressing key issues affecting students. "Engage is about meeting students across campus and getting them involved in student government," Kappelmann explained. "Evolve focuses on initiatives like implementing four-year plans for every major and improving enrollment by connecting with high school students statewide." Pudenz added that empower centers on creating opportunities for student leaders and fostering connections with prospective students.
Both candidates credited their involvement in Greek life with shaping their leadership skills. Pudenz described how her sorority experience provided mentorship and support. "A lot of the organizations I’m in now are because of juniors and seniors who poured time into me," she said. "I’ve grown so much through those leadership positions." Kappelmann echoed her thoughts, noting how his fraternity experience pushed him out of his comfort zone.
"You’re constantly surrounded by people who are all trying to push forward and grow," he said. "That’s what’s so special about Greek life."
When discussing their hometowns’ influence on their leadership style, Kappelmann highlighted the sense of community he grew up with in Liberal. "Our city was founded on generosity," he shared. "That’s something that has stuck with me—advocating for others and caring about each other." Pudenz drew parallels between her upbringing in Piper High School and K-State’s culture.
"Even though K-State is a larger university, it feels like a smaller community where everyone is connected," she said.
If elected, the duo plans to prioritize enrollment efforts by engaging current students in recruitment initiatives. Pudenz emphasized the importance of peer connections, saying "When you look at why students come to K-State, it’s often because they met a current student who inspired them."
Voting for the student body elections will take place March 4-5 via Canvas. Both candidates expressed gratitude for the opportunity to run unopposed but remain committed to improving campus life. "Though we may be the only candidates running,” Kappelmann said, "Zoe and I are equally passionate about leaving this university better than we found it."
For more information about the 2025 SGA Elections visit https://www.k-state.edu/elections/
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