By Ella Cobb

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — On Wednesday, April 30, RJ Ware was sworn in as Middle Tennessee State University’s 94th Student Government Association president, elected to represent the best interests of MTSU’s student body. 

As a local of Hermitage, Tennessee, a suburb of Nashville, Ware has always been involved and connected to the Middle Tennessee community. 

He chose MTSU for various reasons: he wanted to be far enough from home to move, but close enough to drive home quickly if needed. MTSU’s scholarship opportunities also led to his decision.

In the fall of 2022, Ware made his first 45-minute drive to Murfreesboro to start his college experience at MTSU.

He was a part of the MTSU Scholars Academy. It is the two-week early arrival program. At Scholars, students are paired with a mentor with whom they will spend most of their time during the two weeks.  

“We truly are the University of Opportunity. I like how everyone can chase their individual dreams and ambitions here.”

Ware’s mentor was 93rd SGA President Michai Mosby. At that time, Mosby was the SGA Chief of Staff and had just finished his SGA Freshmen Council President term. He befriended Ware and encouraged him to join SGA. 

Ware decided it would be a good way for him to get involved and meet new friends. He joined the freshman council and was elected president. 

Ware ran for the Senate for the next academic term and was elected. As a senator, he really enjoyed the position and felt he would be a good fit for the role of SGA Vice President. 

He was elected and served in that role for the 2024-2025 academic year. While vice president, Ware made some of his closest friends on the SGA Executive Board. After an incredible term, he decided to run for president. 

At the end of April 2025, Ware started his term as MTSU’s 94th Student Government Association President.

When asked about his plan for his term, he explained that he has a short time to make an impact. However, he is determined to enhance current programs and create positive change. He is specifically passionate about mental health awareness and care for students. 

Ware said, “I want to be remembered for standing up for students and representing their interests in rooms that they can’t be in.” He believes it is important to remember the importance of his work and position. 

“The best advice Michai ever gave me is that you cannot fit 20,000 students in a meeting room,” Ware said. His job is to listen to students and be their voice. 

When asked about his new executive team, he explained that everyone is passionate about helping students and innovation. He does not want his term to look like a repeat of the ones before him.

Ware truly believes MTSU is the “University of Opportunity.” There is something special for everyone here. Ware is also a returning Blue Elite Tour Guide, where he meets prospective students and parents and teaches them about campus. 

Ware is considering his options for his future after MTSU. He is a Political Science Pre-Law major. He wants to dedicate his life to public service, whether that is through law school, higher education administration or academia. 

— Ella Cobb