The NIU Black Student Union will hold elections today for next year’s executive board positions.

Votes may be cast in the Holmes Student Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and are open to all NIU students.

NIU junior Chris Obanner is running unopposed for next year’s BSU president.

Obanner said he is looking past the elections and focusing on plans for next year. He said the reason he chose to run for BSU president is because, “we need fresh leadership and a different way of thinking in the head position.

NIU junior Otis Moore and sophomore Demetricus Calvin are running for vice president. Anita Coward, BSU member and Assistant LifeLine Editor, said whoever does not win the election for the vice presidency will be appointed second vice-president.

Obanner said it seems that no one will come out a loser in the today’s elections. Everyone who is running will receive a position, he said.

Obanner said that NIU sophomore Joan Clay is running for BSU secretary. Sophomore incumbent Judy Montcrieffe is running for treasurer.

Obanner’s number one priority is to increase involvement in the organization. “We are also trying to contact freshman early on to inform them about the various organizations on campus and how they can become involved,” he said.

“The more involvement students have in campus life, the more motivated they will be to stay here,” Obanner said.

Coward said the petition deadline for candidates was Wednesday.