Junior
Major: Consumer Insights and Analytics
Minor: Management
College: LSBE
What specific issues do you see at UMD?
There is a huge amount of offerings, from clubs and organizations, that could be supported more. Whether you're a brand new org, one that's been around for some time, or a well-known organization, you deserve support. You create communities across UMD that support human connection with your peers, and there's no reason to not champion that across this campus. Spreading awareness of these clubs through a well-designed hub to engage their participants and draw in new ones, alongside having financial support from Student Gov, remains a pivotal point to consistently improve. This would help elevate the level of programming provided to students, and help them create communities.
What is ONE specific initiative that you have and how might you go about pursuing it?
I would like to help with the implementation of an updated Bulldog Connect, which would allow students to better connect with organizations as both members and those interested in joining. It's through this we're able to find connection with peers, which can certainly be leveraged post-grad for a better network as well as a strong alumni connection to help those currently at UMD.
Representatives must sit on at least one committee. How will you work with your fellow student representatives and committee members to solve problems, raise awareness, or make changes at UMD?
Currently, I sit on the Student Organization Grants committee, which I certainly would love to continue to sit on. I firmly enjoy helping students get their club into the spotlight and making sure they're well funded so they can provide good experiences for their members. I also sit on the Athletics Governance Committee, where I'm able to elevate student perspectives and voices. I would leverage my positions on these clubs to more equitably support students and clubs as they need, as well as helping connect organizations, both internal and external, to create a more cohesive community at UMD and the whole of Duluth.
Describe any leadership experience you have.
In high school, I served at the President of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board's Youth Advisory Council. While there, I aided in the creation of bylaws and event organization, spoke at Minneapolis City Hall, attended biweekly meetings, created and distributed a youth-focused qualitative survey throughout Parks and Events, acted as a youth-focused consultant for MPRB Programs, and aided in brainstorming future events. I also currently serve as the Secretary for Bulldog Powerlifting, which is getting recognized as a club sport. In this club, I've been able to help organize mock meets, network to advance club opportunities, and help promote a great community.
Describe the relationship between Student Government Association and the student body. Explain how you as a leader and a member of this collaborative organization might strengthen and/or maintain this relationship.
Student Government Association is an assembly of student representatives in order to advocate for students, of all walks of life, to receive a high-quality education and a welcoming community. We strive to serve students, and everyone in this organization should be championing UMD's growth. I plan on pushing myself to be a strong advocate for students needs by making sure organizations are able to provide quality experiences for their attendants, helping ensure student perspectives are being heard and applied.
Diversity of opinion is one of Student Government Association’s most important characteristics. In many cases, you will have individuals expressing opinions that are different from your own. How might this idea be beneficial when making critical decisions for the organization and the student body? How might you handle a situation like this as a representative?
The beauty of a public education is the ability to get exposure to students of other backgrounds, and how to navigate beyond your differences. I think this ultimately creates a better college experience because you're able to have an earlier exposure, to both people who agree with you and those who don't, and what it could mean for you. Personally, I plan on taking the time to hear all students out regardless of whether or not their views align with mine, and finding a good common ground to work with one another. After hearing them out, I'm able to work to provide a better experience for all students.
