The BSU held a poll party Nov. 4 in Building 6, to encourage students to participate in democracy, and cheer on as Barack Obama was announced as the next president.

“As of 8:14 Obama won 297-141,” Student Danni Lee said. “I think this is the biggest moment in American History. I’m so proud and happy to be a part of it.”

As the polls closed the cheering began when it was projected that Obama was the President Elect. BSU co-advisor Murrell Green was overjoyed, and continuously walked around the room with a blue balloon and an American flag in his hands, not able to hide his happiness.

“I don’t even know what to do with myself right now,” Green said. “I am so happy, don’t try and bring me down today!”

After the announcement was made and the room came to calm the microphone was opened to anyone in the room who had something to say. Among the first to speak was one-and-a-half year- old Natolyn Houston who simply said, “Hallelujah!”

Members of the BSU and other people in attendance spoke, while waiting for Obama to give his acceptance speech.

After hearing from various members BSU secretary Clarissa Williams sang Amazing Grace, which was a request of fellow BSU members. BSU President Leslie Freeman was happy to see that the room was filled with people waiting to see the results and glad to see the camaraderie amongst everyone.

“It is just the right group of people here,” Freeman said. “All gathered for a common goal, and celebrating together, I am really happy with the turnout.”

Obama supporter Anthony O’Con was happy that he won, but says there is still much work to be done.

“Go universal healthcare, go bringing our boys home from Iraq,” O’Con said. “This is a victory for everyone, not just minorities.”

O’Con credits Obama with giving him the inspiration to return to school because he represents the victory for the slaves who were persecuted under the Jim Crow laws, and never got to see freedom.

Student Trustee Virginia Medrano-Rosales, who has been supporting Obama since the primary elections was proud to have taken part in the night, and excited with the outcome.

“This is a historical moment because Obama won, and you all participated,” Rosales said. “I encourage you all to continue participating in democracy, keep moving forward.”

Janelle Tillotson, co-advisor of the BSU was so moved by Obama’s victory that she was in tears.

“I’m really moved by what just happened,” Tillotson said. “I used to criticize a president when he did something that I didn’t like, but now I feel responsible. He needs to be the instrument of change.”

Freeman was in shock, saying that she wasn’t sure when it would hit her, but she was happy.

“It was a group effort, and now it’s show time,” Freeman said. “I’m waiting to see what the first thing he does is; he is setting the precedent for everything.”

As the night wrapped up and people were starting to head home, BSU Treasurer Brendon Peoples reflected on the night.

“I’m happy he won,” Peoples said. “It was a good night, it went really well. People were happy and excited even before he won.”