Hayden James on Leaving a Legacy

Hayden James didn’t come to McMurry University to build a legacy. But by the time he leaves, his fingerprints will be on nearly every major aspect of student life from the past four years. From launching the Wingmen hype squad to reigniting the yearbook, Hayden has led by filling gaps others overlooked and building organizations he hopes will outlast him.

“I don’t really care much about recognition,” he said in a recent interview. “I just want to come back in five years and still see the Wingmen cheering. I want to see the yearbook still functioning. The clubs I put work into, still serving students. That’s the legacy.”

James’ leadership journey began early. Elected Freshman Class President, he quickly joined the Makona Men’s Fraternity, where he served as Pledge Master, President, and unofficially as graphic designer and media coordinator.

From there, his influence grew. As Student Body Treasurer, then Traditions Chair, and finally Student Body President, James became a prominent student advocate. His term as MSG President marked a turning point in McMurry’s history, coinciding with the university’s centennial and the transition from social clubs to Greek Life. He also personally petitioned for a more parent-friendly campus environment.

Many of James’ contributions reflect a single principle: if something is missing, build it.

He restarted McMurry’s yearbook, run by student group McMurry Capture, and serves as Co-Chief Editor. He also founded the Wingmen, a high-energy student section that functions as both an athletics hype squad and a campus culture driver.

“Sixty percent of our students are athletes. Their experience matters.”

As Wingmen Captain, he coordinated chants, events, and MSG partnerships to boost attendance and school spirit.

“Creating the Wingmen and Capture allowed me and other students to bridge the gap left by COVID in both student engagement and campus record keeping. A yearbook allows us to capture moments made during our time at McMurry and enshrines them as a timeless physical memento that will last beyond social media.”

He even found time to run cross country and track, competing for two years before transitioning to team manager. For James, it seems every initiative ties back to a student-centered purpose and he takes leadership in stride.