From the president
An exceptional student hailing from Hays, Kansas, Grace McCord is a Political Science major with a pre-law emphasis. She is minoring in History and Sociology and pursuing a certificate in Women’s and Gender Studies. Growing up in rural Kansas instilled in her a profound appreciation for civic engagement, inspired by the state's rich history of political and social insurgency. She is a Senator in the Student Government Association (SGA) and Coordinator for the American Democracy Project (ADP) where she has organized voter registration drives, hosted open forums for political candidates, and advocated for a polling place on campus. Additionally, she served as the Epsilon Mu Chapter of Alpha Gamma Delta Vice President of Academic Excellence, Vice President of Operations and Standards for FHSU’s Panhellenic Council, and FHSU Pi Sigma Alpha Vice President. Grace also volunteers with Save the Kids (an FHSU organization), a Quilting Ministry, Tim Tebo Night to Shine, Trick-or-Treat so Others Can Eat, and the Ellis County Ministerial Alliance Thanksgiving Meal. The recipient of myriad honors and scholarships including the Dane G. Hansen Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship, Grace McCord is a dedicated and accomplished student leader who embodies Fort Hays State University’s tenacious Tiger spirit.
Personal Statement
Growing up in rural Kansas instilled in me a profound appreciation for civic engagement, inspired by our state's rich history of political and social insurgency and witnessing the way neighbors take care of each other; advocacy has been ingrained in me from a young age. At Fort Hays State University, I've been fortunate to connect deeply with my community. As the American Democracy Project Coordinator, I've organized voter registration drives and hosted open forums for political candidates while advocating for a polling place on campus so students can more easily engage with democracy. Serving on the executive board of Alpha Gamma Delta, I've spent time fighting against food insecurity in my community, and as an FHSU Student Government Association senator, I've helped students advocate for themselves. Volunteering as a youth softball coach and in my college ministry has further deepened my ties to the community. Each role I've held has reinforced my commitment to fostering change and building a stronger, more inclusive, and civically engaged community. Rural America faces unique challenges, but I believe in our resilience. Inspired by Kansas's spirit, I aim to continue advocating for rural Americans in the nonprofit sector after graduating from FHSU.