When Auburn University’s Student Body President Owen Beaverstock first joined campus life, he never imagined himself holding the university’s highest student office. What started as a deep appreciation for Auburn’s community and his fraternity, Sigma Nu, soon evolved into a calling to lead — inspired by the people and principles that shaped his college experience.
Finding Purpose in Service
“Running for Student Body President was never something I planned,” Beaverstock reflected. “But I’ve always had a passion for serving Auburn students.”
After joining Sigma Nu’s Beta Theta Chapter, Beaverstock became active in Auburn’s Student Government Association (SGA), where he quickly found fulfillment in building friendships and serving the campus community. “Auburn is a unique place,” he said. “I came here with no prior connection, and this university welcomed me with open arms. That sense of belonging — the Auburn Family — inspired me to give back in the biggest way I could.”
Encouragement from his Sigma Nu brothers gave him the final push. “They believed in me before I did,” he shared. “Their confidence and support made me realize that leadership is often about stepping up when others see something in you.”
Leadership Lessons from Sigma Nu
Beaverstock credits much of his leadership philosophy to lessons learned within Sigma Nu. “My time as a chapter leader was foundational,” he said. “Sigma Nu taught me the importance of servant leadership — being alongside those you lead, not above them.”
That mindset shaped his approach as Student Body President, where he emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and genuine connection with students.
Achievements and Ongoing Work
Under Beaverstock’s leadership, Auburn SGA has seen meaningful progress on several key initiatives:
- A new 680-bed residence hall, funded and approved by Auburn’s Board of Trustees, to expand affordable housing options.
- Daytime security officers deployed to strengthen campus safety.
- Infrastructure improvements, including a new sidewalk and traffic light near campus scheduled for completion next summer.
One major ongoing project focuses on solving Auburn’s parking challenges. SGA is working to redesign disorganized lots, like the “Hayfield Lot,” to improve space efficiency and accessibility for students.
Fraternity’s Role in Campus Impact
Sigma Nu played a crucial role in Beaverstock’s successful campaign. “The chapter’s support was incredible,” he said. “From spreading campaign materials to rallying the campus community, it was truly a collective effort. My brothers were there for me through every challenge — their encouragement was constant.”
Beaverstock also continues to advocate for pro-fraternity and pro-student policies, working with Auburn’s IFC to preserve fraternity self-governance in policy updates around hazing and housing.
A Legacy of Brotherhood and Inspiration
The heart of Beaverstock’s campaign — and his presidency — comes from a deeply personal place. In summer 2023, the Beta Theta Chapter lost one of its brothers, Will “Romo” Romanowski, in a tragic accident. After his passing, a note was found in his room with the message, “Be Better Than Yesterday.”
“That phrase captured how Romo lived his life,” Beaverstock said. “It became our chapter’s rallying cry, and it changed our lives for the better. Our campaign slogan, Be Better with Beaverstock, was inspired by him — by that message.”
As Student Body President, Beaverstock continues to carry that mission forward, not just in words, but in action.
“Serving Auburn is an incredible honor,” he said. “But the greatest honor of all is getting to walk alongside men like Romo and my Sigma Nu brothers, sharing a message that has made all of us — and hopefully Auburn — better than yesterday.”
Support Through ENGAGE
The NIC’s ENGAGE platform is designed to elevate fraternal voices in student government and campus leadership. Each year, ENGAGE offers a Leadership Grant to support fraternity members who are running for or serving in SGA roles. This resource is available to any aspiring leader and can be found on the ENGAGE website.
