College Republicans from all over Wisconsin gathered last weekend on the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point campus for their annual state convention, granting UW-Madison their Chapter of the Year award.

The Wisconsin Federation of College Republicans had its largest attendance in recent years with more than 100 students from 15 UW System schools.

In addition to awarding UW-Madison the Chapter of the Year award, the students discussed annual business, and debated and passed resolutions.

Most notably, however, attendees elected their officers for the next year, said Ryan Wrasse, a UW-Stevens Point junior who was elected state chair.

"I'm honored to be a part of the new leadership team to help solidify our foundation as we head into the 2008 election cycle," Wrasse said.

Wrasse has been involved with the Republican Party since high school and has worked to campaign for several Republican candidates. He just finished his term as chair of the Oneida County Republican Party.

"I'm really looking forward to being a part of the statewide team that can help prepare the next generation of conservative leaders," Wrasse said.

Wrasse hopes to see the College Republicans' influence spreading across campuses and the state as well.

"Our broad-based goal is to elect Republican candidates, support our party's agenda and to help build future leaders," he added.

Two UW-Madison juniors were elected to positions on the Executive Board: Treasurer Brandon Goetzman and Secretary Jackie Goessl.

Goessl, who also serves as secretary on the Associated Students of Madison's Student Services Finance Committee, said she's excited for the change to serve.

"I think it will be a great opportunity to work at the state level with other chapters and people from the organization," Goessl said. "I guess with the 2008 elections coming up it is important to start campaigning and get everything ready."

Also elected to the Executive Board was Second Vice Chair Emily Pedley, a UW-Platteville sophomore.