Peeples, who is currently one of the Campus Y’s directors of development, said he was nervous during election season, but is ready to get to work at the place he is passionate about.
“I love that (the Campus Y) serves as the central conscience of the University. Part of that is that it creates a physical space for social justice, which can be very difficult,” Peeples said. “The other part of that is the people who fill that space, who are dedicated to the work of making UNC, North Carolina, the United States and the globe a more just place.”
Peeples said he and Staton want to continue a lot of the work started by Regan Buchanan and Lauren Eaves, the current Campus Y co-presidents.
“Courtney and I really want to continue a lot of the work Regan and Lauren, the current co-presidents, have been doing, creating closer ties with on-campus activist groups,” Peeples said. “That means facilitating a more engaging understanding of ethical service.”
Staton, who is currently a co-chairperson of Criminal Justice Awareness and Action, said she feels inspired and at peace.
“Right before I found out, I was just walking around and making sure that no matter what happens, I know that is what is best for the Y,” Staton said. “I wanted to make sure I knew that the results weren’t about me and Alex winning, but what is best and what the Y wants.”
Staton said she and Peeples aim to amend the Campus Y constitution.
“One goal is to propose an amendment to the Y constitution that basically says any activist group who aligns with the Y’s values, the Y will support them,” Staton said.