Why are you running for SU Treasury?

Just like the great Bruno Mars, I can make your wishes come true if you let me treasure you! In all seriousness, I believe that clubs are vital for the vibrant student life on WashU’s campus. I will work hard to balance the budget so clubs can appeal for more money next year. My goal is to make the club funding appeals process stress-free. I will create accessible tools to ensure that club leaders understand how to get the funding they need. I will strive to be an accessible resource for YOU! VOTE STUDENTS FOR A BETTER SU!

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Secure the future of club funding 

2. Pursue data-driven transparency 

3. Alleviate stress from the funding appeals process

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

I was appointed to a Treasury Representative seat for the final two treasury sessions this semester. In these sessions, I helped determine ballot questions and ensured that many clubs were able to receive adequate funding to support their programming.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I believe that transparency in treasury is key. I know that financials can be stressful, so I will be part of YOUR team in making our appeals process stress-free. I will run regularly scheduled information sessions for students and club leaders to help them create budgets, teach about the SU Treasury budget in general, and answer questions. Finally, I will ensure that students are updated weekly on Instagram so that YOU know how we allocate funds.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I’m running for SU Treasury to be a strong advocate for all student groups, especially cultural organizations that shape our diverse campus. I believe that every group deserves the resources to thrive, and I’m committed to increasing cultural funding to celebrate WashU’s vibrant community. Additionally, I want to ensure that WILD has the funding it needs to bring in a big-name artist, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Securing long-term, sustainable funding to support all student groups, so they can plan with confidence
2. Increasing funding for cultural groups to ensure they can celebrate and share our campus’s diversity
3. Enhance transparency in SU activities—something I’ve already worked on this term—so student groups are fully aware of and can engage with Treasury decisions

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

Yes, I started serving on SU Treasury one year ago and this last semester, I also served as the External Communications Chair. During my time in Treasury, I have fought for equitable and fair funding for all student groups, while also understanding the unique challenges that each and every group faces. I have also led the effort to livestream our meetings so that any member of the student body can watch and understand Treasury’s rationale without having to dig deep into our meeting notes or attend sessions in person.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I hope to build strong relationships with student organizations by actively listening to their unique needs and challenges. As a leader of a cultural organization, I truly understand the issues groups are facing, and I know how to fix those issues. My approach includes holding regular, open meetings with group leaders, providing clear funding guidelines, and ensuring their voices are heard in every decision. I will also continue live streaming meetings to improve transparency, so all groups can stay informed. By fostering open communication and support, I aim to earn their trust and build lasting partnerships.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

It has always been an honor and a privilege for me to represent my peers and fellow students. I was truly inspired by the variety of clubs showcased at the club fair, and I am committed to strengthening the relationship between the SU Treasury and these fantastic organizations. My goal is to ensure that we meet the diverse needs of each club, especially in light of the current challenges within the SU Treasury.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Maintain effective communication with all clubs. 
2. Consistently represent the student body in my role as a Treasury representative. 
3. Foster open and improved communication between the SU Treasury and the student body.

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

No, this is my first time running for SU.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

As an outgoing person who genuinely enjoys learning about other clubs and organizations, I plan to connect and communicate with student groups whenever possible. If elected, I will do my best to serve and represent the Student Union, ensuring we meet the diverse needs of student groups across campus. I am committed to being approachable and engaging, always open to discussing any concerns or challenges faced by the student body.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I am running for SU Treasury because I am passionate about empowering student organizations to achieve their goals and enhance our campus life. Having been involved in several clubs, I’ve seen firsthand how access to funding can turn great ideas into impactful events and initiatives. I believe that a fair and transparent funding process is crucial for fostering diversity and inclusion within our student community. By serving on Treasury, I aim to advocate for all student groups, streamline funding procedures, and allocate resources equitably. My goal is to make the funding process more accessible and supportive, so every organization has the opportunity to thrive. I am committed to listening to student needs, promoting open communication, and working collaboratively to strengthen our campus’s vibrant culture.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Enhancing Transparency: I will work to make the funding process clearer by providing detailed guidelines and regular updates to student organizations. 
2. Improving Communication: Establishing open lines of dialogue with student groups to understand their needs and address concerns promptly. 
3. Promoting Equitable Funding: Ensuring all organizations, regardless of size or popularity, have fair access to the resources they need to succeed.

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

I have been an SU Senator for almost 2 years. Within that time, I served in the Health and Wellness (HW) Committee and Academic Affairs Committee. I focused my time on small, practical initiatives within the scope of Senate. I pushed to open dialogue between the HW committee and Dining Services administrators last year to improve allergen-free options. Additionally, I advocated for all students affected by the violence in the Middle East. I specifically conversed with ORSEL and various student advocacy groups to develop a better, more nuanced understanding of the situation to ensure that these voices were heard during Senate discussions. Throughout my time, I have seen Senate grow and evolve while developing skills such as public speaking, conflict mitigation, and the ability to see issues from multiple perspectives.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I plan to build strong relationships and trust by being approachable and responsive to all student organizations. This includes promptly answering emails and being available for meetings to discuss concerns. I also intend to actively reach out to organizations to understand their missions and needs better. By providing clear information about funding procedures and seeking feedback, I aim to create a collaborative atmosphere. My goal is to ensure that all groups feel heard, supported, and confident in Treasury’s commitment to their success.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I am running for Treasury to continue honing in on my desire to connect with and advocate for student groups and the student population as a whole. I want to be a voice of structure and consistency, allowing such groups to enjoy a stress-free pursuit of their mission goals. I wish to have a meaningful impact on WashU’s student body, which I can achieve by ensuring that WashU’s rich community of student groups is supported and bolstered during my time in Treasury.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Transparency
2. Connecting with Student Groups
3. Maximizing Impact in Allocating Funding

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

Yes. I am an appointee for Treasury, meaning that I assume all the duties of a Treasury Representative in the interim of SU elections. Serving on the Budget Committee, I engaged in Treasury meetings, and met with many student groups to review their appeals. I successfully acted as a liaison in connecting those groups to Treasury and guiding them to access the necessary funding for their programming goals. My time as an appointee has taught me the complexity of Treasury policy and exposed me to the diverse culture of WashU’s student groups, ultimately informing me of how to best serve those groups in the future.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations by making it clear that I serve as a resource at their complete disposal while obtaining funding. I will make it clear that I am an advocate for their group and not one who inherently cuts costs. I aim to improve the current outlook on Treasury’s affairs through open communication with the student population, which I will achieve through important updates/projections in collaboration with StudLife and student groups. In doing so, I hope that students will see Treasury as the gateway to fulfilling their missions, maximizing the impact of their programming, and ultimately realizing their highest potential. Finally, I would leverage Treasury social media platforms to open regular feedback channels so students can engage with Treasury operations. Ultimately, these strategies will frame Treasury to the student groups as an asset instead of an obstacle in procuring capital.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

To engage with different student groups on campus and learn more about the student body’s interests! I want to support existing and new student initiatives, as well as increase access and awareness about the funding processes and opportunities available to student groups.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Demystify student organization finances by further increasing accessibility and awareness of funding paperwork and processes
2. Increasing the visibility of Treasury Representatives and pushing for individual voting records to increase accountability
3. Advocate for your organizations and events on the Treasury floor by serving as a resource for organizations looking for assistance in funding processes.

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

I’ve served as a Treasury Representative for the past two semesters. Last spring, I served as a Budget Committee Representative and was responsible for academic and pre-professional student groups. I met with 20+ student groups to review their budgets for the following fiscal year. I’ve also advocated on behalf of 15 appeals through Treasury Team meetings. I’ve championed equitable funding efforts that emphasize consistency across appeals, trusting student groups to know what is best for their programming, and valuing cultural nuances in gray areas within SU’s financial guidelines.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I believe Treasury Representatives should have a more active role in engaging with student groups. This could be in formal settings – office hours, Treasury Teams – or in an informal capacity such as having conversations with student leaders in your clubs, classes, friend groups. I think Treasury Representatives should serve as sources of knowledge, supporting student groups looking to fund programming. I want Treasury Reps to be thought of as resources not assessors.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

As treasurer, I want to ensure financial sufficiency and inclusivity in WashU clubs, affinity groups, and community service organizations. I plan to provide monetary support that encourages clubs to accomplish their agendas, whether it be developing community through food or sports, or spreading awareness to promote inclusivity and diversity. I want to make certain that no student group is overlooked and all needs are met. I am pro-transparency and pro-consistency, desiring honest communication with all students and student groups.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Ensure equitable financial support for affinity groups
2. Strategically balance the diverse goals of student organizations with the prudent allocation of resources
3. Foster transparency and open communication between the Treasury and the student body.

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

As a serving senator on the Health and Wellness Committee this past semester, I have been actively working on initiatives such as increasing the availability of period products, extending Uncle Joe’s hours to better support the student body, and fostering a greater sense of belonging and inclusivity on campus.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

By actively engaging with clubs and organizations, I will gain a deep understanding of their goals and challenges, allowing me to advocate effectively for their financial priorities. Additionally, I will prioritize consistency in decision-making and ensure that all financial processes are transparent and equitable. I will provide clear, detailed updates on budget allocations and financial decisions to students and actively seek input from student leaders to identify innovative solutions that support the diverse needs of our campus organizations.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I’m running for Treasury because I want to support the diversity of student interests here at WashU. Serving for the past three semesters has been incredibly rewarding, and I’ve learned so much about the breadth of sports, cultural, professional, and interest groups and events on campus.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1) Improving transparency around funding guidelines, appeals, and the reason for decisions

2) Supporting events open to all students

3) Balancing empathy with fiscal responsibility

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

I’ve served on Treasury for three semesters, specifically serving in the Budget Committee for two semesters and the Activities Committee for one semester. On Budget, I helped review club budgets for this fiscal year. I met individually with ~20 groups, then helped evaluate all 200+ budgets with the full committee. Currently, on Activities Committee, I’ve met with ~10 groups seeking SU recognition or category changes and discussed findings with the committee for final decisions. I also attend weekly sessions on Tuesday evenings where I see appeals from hundreds of groups and make funding decisions with the entire Treasury body.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student groups by prioritizing clear, open communication so that students feel comfortable sharing their concerns. This might look like updating the current system to document Treasury’s meeting minutes and maintaining one database with statements detailing the reasoning behind funding decisions, as well as continuing to expand SU’s presence on social media.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I am running for treasury because I want to see student groups equally and adequately represented. The student activities fee is part of everyone’s tuition, so I want to see it put to good use for every students’ respective interests. Additionally, I think student groups are integral to campus culture and college experience, and I want them to be a place where students can find community. Proper funding is one step towards that.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Complete Transparency in funding rationale to improve communication and bridge the gap between treasury and student groups 
2. Ensure funding and create better relationships with cultural/affinity and creative groups 
3. Make Treasury feel more approachable! I’ve heard many execs from student orgs say they are scared or nervous to present an appeal, but I feel with better communication and a treasury body who is dedicated to fair and equitable funding, student orgs will feel prepared and excited to come present for us.

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

I was appointed as a treasury representative in early October, and in that short time alone I feel I have made strides toward my goals as a Treasury Representative. I have given merit and listened empathetically to all student groups, particularly cultural/affinity and creative groups. In an All Student Theatre appeal for new lights, I advocated (along with fellow treasurers) for the club to receive the lights. During an appeal from Black Men’s Collective, I successfully argued for the club to receive higher funding than what they initially requested so they could have a more successful event. In another appeal from Association of Black Students (ABS), I argued against fellow treasury reps who wanted to move the group’s skating event to a cheaper rink in a less safe area instead of the rink ABS consistently used for the event years prior.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I plan to work on Treasury’s transparency first and foremost. I think our rationale should be clear and understandable but also employable. Groups should be able to learn from their successful and unsuccessful appeals as well as those of others. Additionally, I plan to continue to lead empathetically by asking questions and fostering understanding rather than judgment. Lastly, I plan to stick to my commitment to student groups. As a treasury representative, I have been sensitive to and understanding toward all groups, but particularly cultural and affinity groups as well as creative groups, and I plan to continue fostering those relations as I think these groups are crucial to campus life.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

Being in Treasury has allowed me to meet with several student groups and best represent their missions while forging connections and promoting financial equity. The most rewarding aspect of Treasury is seeing student groups’ events in fruition after seeing their plans and budgets on paper, and I want to continue contributing and helping the student body in this manner. As a representative, I want to continue promoting fiscal equality and responsibility so all student groups and their missions can thrive on campus.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Communication: As a Treasury representative, I continue to be the bridge between student groups and Treasury. Lack of communication with Treasury can make it difficult for clubs to function effectively, and thus as a representative I will ensure that each group’s needs are heard and met.  
2. Club Equality: No club should be left behind and finances play a large role in this aspect. I will make it my duty to improve these inequalities and for student groups to feel comfortable in their activities. 
3. Organization and Approachability: As a Treasury Representative, I will prioritize making the process of group funding more approachable through greater simplification and communication.

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

I’m a sophomore incumbent who is currently serving as SU Treasury’s Budget Committee Chair. In my time serving on SU, I’ve spent nearly 100 hours dedicated to Treasury where I helped fund 200+ CAT I groups during the budget cycle (and met nearly ~20% of all CAT I groups), presented student groups’ budgets weekly for appeals, and served on the Social Programming Board team which was responsible for budgeting WILD. As chair, I’ve been creating guidelines for the next budget cycle, which aims to prioritize the student groups’ interests first while preventing a similar financial situation as last semester.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I plan to continue prioritizing three aspects (communication, club equity, and approachability) to bridge student groups and the Treasury together, enforcing fiscal equity, and having groups feel comfortable when approaching Treasury. As a Treasury representative, I will make it my mission to ensure that student groups will feel advocated for and have their missions succeed, while also seeking to improve communication and equality every day. In doing so, I will make it a priority to meet with all WashU student groups on a frequent basis, hear their concerns, and implement solutions to best represent their missions.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I want to help balance the budget so Treasury has enough money for appeals later in the year for clubs to cover unexpected expenses. Also, I want to make sure that every constituent knows how SU Treasury is spending their student activity fees by ensuring that easily digestible graphics are made every week.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Fix WashU Dining
2. Secure the future of clubs’ funding
3. Data-driven transparency

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

Yes, I was just appointed for the last two meetings of Treasury because there were some vacancies. I wasn’t able to do much having only two weeks of Treasury experience, but I have identified problematic practices in allocating funds.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations by meeting with their treasurers when approving club’s budgets for the following fiscal year or evaluating whether their clubs should be moved up in their funding level. In these meetings I hope to work with the treasurers to best fulfill the needs of the club while balancing their needs with all the other clubs’ needs.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I loved the budgeting and communication work that my roles as New York State Key Club Treasurer and Morgan Stanley finance intern entailed. I cannot wait to become more involved with and supportive of your amazing student organizations and inspirational initiatives on campus.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

(1) Raise awareness of where your tuition is going

(2) Allocate funds to reflect the causes the student body believes are truly significant

(3) Foster connections between Treasury representatives and student organizations.

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

While I have not served on SU because I am a first-year, I have had experience as the New York State Treasurer of a non-profit organization called Key Club International. During my term, I oversaw 13,000 students – greater than the number of WashU students – in 200 schools and helped fundraise $175,000 for donation. Through frequent one-on-one meetings with club treasurers, I learned to understand their environment and help plan the optimal course of action. I am well-versed in assisting student groups bring their plans to fruition and allocating SU funds with my experience budgeting for city-wide Key Club events.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

Building relationships with student organizations is essential to understanding their needs and concerns. With the current financial troubles of SU, student organizations, more than ever, will need assistance from Treasury Representatives. I am here to be a resource because groups should know what is and is not possible before they spend time appealing to the entire Treasury. I will push Treasury to better publicize the feedback form to gain an understanding of what students of WashU are struggling with.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I’m a lifelong St. Louisan and grew up familiar with WashU’s proud legacy of giving back to its communities. I see SU Treasury as uniquely positioned to support and encourage this tradition by giving our organizations the funding and approval they need to provide a diverse, enriching student experience. 

WashU is a valued institution, and its value only grows as students are further included in its decision-making processes. Our values, goals, and unique experiences are our strengths, and as a part of SU Treasury, I will protect and encourage student endeavors so we may build our strength through trust.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Solving SU’s recession problems and getting us to a healthy budget for next year. Without this fix, we won’t be able to support the incredible campus organizations and events we’ve come to value so highly. 
2. Streamlining communication and resource management between groups. Previously, SU has faced issues with allocating funds for resources we already had, so I will ensure funds are managed efficiently and transparently.
3. Ensure all organizations have the resources they need to advertise themselves, accommodate new members and events, and accomplish the goals they set.

Have you served on SU before and if so what was your role and what did you accomplish?

I have not served on SU before. I have a proud record of leading and serving student administration committees, even serving as president of my high school’s admin-student conduit: the Board Student Administrative Action Committee. My prior experience and fresh perspective will help you and SU address issues and support students in a meaningful, innovative manner.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

As an American, a student, a St. Louisan, and a leader, I understand the value of honest and reliable representation. As a member of SU treasury, I will meet with student organizations individually, early, and often to build strong working relationships. I’ve adopted a similar approach in my past leadership positions, and it has made me, and my organizations, better equipped to support our peers.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I have decided to run for Treasury Representative because I am passionate about wanting to accurately reflect and advocate for the minority population of WashU, while also being a voice of sensible reasoning on the board. Once elected, as a first-year, I will bring a fresh, nuanced perspective to the table. I’m committed to not just communicating and collaborating with student groups, but most importantly, listening and aiding them as well. Treasury shouldn’t be a foreboding presence and instead have a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that gives resources and helps up-and-coming student groups obtain funding. With my dedication, perspective, and commitment to helping student groups, I bring a unique, inclusive approach to Treasury and will work hard to ensure that all students have the funding they need to be successful.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Handling the deficit. Prioritizing precedent events/activities that are recurring and funding things that will directly benefit the student body.
2. Increasing communication. Treasury didn’t put out a public statement about the deficit on their Instagram, an article in critique was written and made public. Treasury should increase transparency and keep students updated on major financial issues, especially a deficit. I would push for more social media postage related to the account and financial articles to be submitted to StudLife.
3. Aiding small groups in submitting appeals or moving up for category funds, taking a more proactive approach to the student body.

Have you served on SU before and if so what was your role and what did you accomplish?

I have not served on SU Treasury before, however, I have had experience handling money, setting budgets, and allocating funds, efficiently during my senior year of high school. I effectively raised thousands of dollars through hosting school dances, selling merchandise, and having fundraisers at local chains. I know what it’s like to work hard to secure funding AND what it’s like to not have enough funds to put on an event/activity.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I believe SU Treasury should not be an institution that JUST controls the money flow. They should be your classmates, your friends, and a collaborative community. SU Treasury should host social hour events, informational sessions about how to apply for an appeal, and just general activities that bring SU and the student body together. Moreover, the most important way for Treasury to build trust with student organizations is to actually listen and to try to understand the mission of the club, and properly advocate for them when it comes to deciding funding the organizations.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I believe it is extremely important for Treasury members to be empathetic and strive to advocate on behalf of each club we work with. I have done that in Treasury, forming bonds with clubs through my detail-oriented and personal approach. For Treasury reps to handle the privilege of funding equitably and with a student-first mindset, these qualities are necessary, and I am willing to employ them and be accountable for them.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?

1. Consistently informing new groups and clubs who request CAT changes of the reasoning behind the Activities Committee’s decisions so they can adjust sample budgets, sample events, etc. for more successful appeals 
2. Sending out consistent updates to all clubs with the cap limits Treasury must abide by for flight costs per person, costs per uber, costs for gas, etc. so clubs don’t mistakenly underfund themselves 
3. Assisting Budget Committee members with decisions for the upcoming budget to ensure the funding mishaps that have caused club and Treasury members excess stress aren’t repeated

Have you served on SU before and if so what was your role and what did you accomplish?

I am a Treasurer on SU, and I am a part of the Activities Committee. I am extremely proud of my advocacy for clubs, particularly my work with Mock Trial to give them more money for their flights. They assumed we had a lower flight cap per person than we do, and though they had already prepared alternative funding methods, I recognized the inequality in us knowingly underfunding them. Thus, when presenting their appeal, I gave them additional funds for flights to prevent individual students from covering the difference. I apply this type of advocacy, diligence, and collaboration in every appeal I’ve worked on, and would love to continue to do so.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?

I have built very strong relationships with multiple clubs and organizations through prioritizing attention, empathy, equity, and the club’s mission. When presenting appeals to Treasury, I make sure I am extremely knowledgeable on the importance of the appeal to the club, and consistently advocate for their needs throughout my presentations. Transparency is also incredibly important, and I believe this can be achieved through both emailing clubs with information about Treasury’s decisions as well as prioritizing in-depth communication in Treasury Teams.

Why are you running for SU Treasury?

I am running for treasury to ensure that WashU student organizations have fair and clear access to the funding they need to make their organizations flourish. I will advocate for funding to be distributed by need and impact, and ensure that every student group receives the funding and support they deserve. As a Treasury Representative, I will be sensitive to cultural differences and norms that aren’t currently represented.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected?
One of my top three priorities would be to make sure that students have transparent access to how Student Union funds are being both spent and distributed. I would also prioritize advocating for more funding amongst smaller, underrepresented groups on campus. Financial education would be my third top priority if I was elected. I would work to create workshops and webinars, as well as providing resources that teach financial literacy skills to students, as a University-wide initiative.

Have you served on SU before and if so what was your role and what did you accomplish?
No response

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with student organizations?
I would improve communication by offering workshops on budget requests and by establishing a feedback form, whereby student orgs/groups can voice their concerns and suggest improvements, making sure their needs have the platform to be heard and addressed and to make sure that as SU Treasury, we are willing to adapt.

Why are you running for SU Senate?

I am running to ensure students at WashU have a strong voice and someone to enact what they need at our school in order to have a successful learning and community experience. 

What is SU Senate’s role at WashU?

To represent the student body and ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive in our community.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected? 

1. Provide more opportunities for students to speak their minds on what they need to be successful,
2. Ensure our students have access to important resources
3. Foster a fun learning environment and community.

Have you served on SU before? if so, what was your role and what did you accomplish? 

No response

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with constituents?

 I will listen and advocate for each student’s needs and foster enactment in our student union. Listening to students and being an easily approachable member of the senate will ensure everyone have the opportunity to reach out with their needs.

Why are you running for SU Senate?

SU has gotten away from its roots. It seems these days our Senate isn’t actually there to represent students. Instead, they use fiery rhetoric to make political statements which only leads to their discredit and a negative impact on the student body. I am here to make sure we think before we act, restore our relationship with administration, and ensure SU gives actual consideration to student organizations before we approve things, such as our annual budget. Put simply, I’m here to return SU to its community.

What is SU Senate’s role at WashU?

At current, SU is seen as largely symbolic, passing resolutions that merely set the tone for how campus feels about issues. Wouldn’t it be nice if they were more than that? Wouldn’t it be nice if our Senate’s resolutions actually carried weight? I will work with our administration and have our wants and needs heard; I won’t pass foolish resolutions that get us ignored by administration like calling for our Chancellor to resign. Why would we declare war on the people that give us all of our power and can just as easily take it away? This is what SU has done; its what I won’t do.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected? 

1.  Protect future SU funding: there seems to be a misunderstanding about the Senate’s role here. Yes, the Treasury is largely responsible for our finances, but Senate has to approve the annual budget plan according to the SU constitution. This was a failure last year and needs to be remedied. 
2. 2. Re-establish respect for and from Administration: we will make detailed, data driven information available for administration to access and they are bound to listen. 
3. 3. Fix WashU dining: food on campus is too expensive and students are feeling it. We must bring relief with a dining plan that works for EVERYONE! 

Have you served on SU before? if so, what was your role and what did you accomplish? 

No, I haven’t. I have political experience working on local and national campaigns and I have leadership experience as the Vice President of a club on campus.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with constituents?

Transparency is key. We currently have SU members that, according to the VP of Finance Meris Damjanovic, didn’t want to warn student organizations about the dire financial situation SU is in. SU is running out of money and they didn’t want clubs to know that. How can these organizations trust these people? They can’t. I pledge to be forthcoming with all information that affects students.

Why are you running for SU Senate?

I am running for Senate because I believe that students should have a voice at WashU. I hope to make meaningful change for the student body in my years here.  I believe that my openness to new ideas and my ability to see all sides of an issue will benefit all students.

What is SU Senate’s role at WashU?

I believe the Senate should represent the entire student body and advocate for their concerns. It is essential for the members of the Senate to understand pressing issues with respect to how the University meets the needs of students. Should the University fall short in addressing these needs, it is the duty of the Senate to inform the administration of students’ complaints and work towards addressing them.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected? 

1. Address issues with student dining. Many students believe that the current options are insufficient and too expensive to meet their needs
2. Redirect its focus towards issues that impact students based on data collected regarding their needs, rather than focusing on resolutions that do not impact student well-being
3. Enact policy that improves transparency of the Senate’s votes and actions so that students better understand how this body works for them.

Have you served on SU before? if so, what was your role and what did you accomplish? 

I have not previously served on SU before because this is the first time that there have been elections while I have been at WashU.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with constituents?

I believe that communication and transparency are essential in establishing trust and good representation of the constituents. I hope to hold regular town halls so that I can understand the concerns of my constituents and so that they can feel informed about my position on matters brought before the Senate. In addition, I would like to establish an email hotline or other outlet where students can voice their concerns if they are uncomfortable or unable to do so in another forum.

Why are you running for SU Senate?

I would like to join the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee who, alongside the Native American Student Association, is developing a Native Studies Department at WashU. I am also running for SU Senate because I want to bring forward programming ideas that could reshape recycling at WashU, and in general prioritize sustainability. WashU was doing a great job with recycling in 2019 and 2020, but a few weeks ago Student Life released an article, in mid October, detailing recycling at our university and it is bleak.

What is SU Senate’s role at WashU?

It is my purpose to spend my free time, as well as make time, to get done what the student body wants to see as well as push the WashU community for transformative change; to bring out the best we can be.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected? 

1. Revamp recycling efforts at WashU
2. Aiding SU with the development of Native American studies
3. Collaborating on the interactions with dining services

Have you served on SU before? if so, what was your role and what did you accomplish? 

N/A

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with constituents?

Check out my Instagram account martin_for_senate. Click on the google drive link in my bio to access google docs where you can get to know me, read my yapping and look more in depth at my sustainability plans for WashU.

Why are you running for SU Senate?

I see many unmet needs among people, like lab applications, GMAT/GRE/MCAT, school research, application plans etc. I’m running to advocate for resources that support students and empower everyone to achieve their academic and professional goals.

What is SU Senate’s role at WashU?

The SU Senate represents student interests and works with administration to address student needs and enhance university experience.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected? 

1.  Establishing a one-stop office to centralize career, grad school, and advising resources.
2. Promoting fairness and transparency in grading and academic policies. 
3. Creating more direct communication channels between Senate and students for stronger representation.

Have you served on SU before? if so, what was your role and what did you accomplish? 

I haven’t served on WashU’s SU before, but I have extensive leadership and class representative experience. I will bring a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to advocacy.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with constituents?

I will hold more office hours, giving students regular opportunities to speak directly with their representatives, share concerns, and provide feedback face-to-face.

Why are you running for SU Senate?

I care immensely about the wellbeing of WashU and the many people within it who have great ideas. I know I can serve as a liaison between the Senate and the student body, ensuring the best interest of our community is heard by other members of SU and campus leadership.

What is SU Senate’s role at WashU?

SU Senate’s role at WashU is to serve as the most effective pathway to turn issues regarding the student body into specific action and change for the betterment of our community.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected? 

1. Working with the Academic Affairs Committee to ensure our academic calendar reflects the values of our school. That would include moving for no homework over parents weekend and days off for elections and federal holidays such as Veterans’ Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day. 
2. Ensure that feedback regarding dining services continues to be taken into strong consideration by campus administration.
3. Create an initiative for increased supply of hand sanitizer and tissues across campus.

Have you served on SU before? if so, what was your role and what did you accomplish? 

No response

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with constituents?

I plan to move for the creation of a new position called Senate Communications Chair who will serve as the point person between the Senate and the general student body to increase transparency regarding the actions taken by SU. As an individual, I am open, accessible, and willing to interact with any member of the student body should they have concerns or requests regarding campus life or SU processes.

Why are you running for SU Senate?

I’m running for reelection to continue the work I’ve been doing to improve our campus dining situation. We’ve made significant progress, like pushing for the AYCTE dining option, which was a great step forward, but there’s still much more to accomplish. Our ongoing collaboration with Dining Services has been impactful, and I’m dedicated to seeing these efforts through. The work’s not done, and I’m committed to pushing for more affordable and accessible dining solutions for all students.

What is SU Senate’s role at WashU?

SU Senate at WashU serves as the voice of the student body, advocating for meaningful changes that improve campus life. We work closely with university administration to address key issues, from dining and housing to student safety and well-being. Senate members gather student feedback, develop initiatives, and ensure transparency, aiming to create a supportive and inclusive environment where all students feel heard and valued.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected? 

Dining, Dining, and Dining

Have you served on SU before? if so, what was your role and what did you accomplish? 

Yes, I’ve served as an SU senator, representing student concerns in meetings with university administration. I’ve focused on issues like dining services, collecting over 500 survey responses that highlighted high stress related to meal prices. Currently, I’m preparing to present these findings to administrators to advocate for more affordable options. Additionally, I’ve supported my peers on projects such as increasing access to essential health products across campus and optimizing emergency crisis responses to better ensure student safety and well-being.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with constituents?

I plan to build strong relationships and trust by enhancing transparency and communication. This includes continuing open forums and regular updates while increasing the visibility of Senate’s work. We’ll better publicize our initiatives, collaborating with Student Life to amplify our message and using social media and campus-wide emails to showcase our impact. By making our accomplishments and challenges more accessible, we can engage more students and ensure they feel connected to our efforts, fostering greater trust and involvement.

Why are you running for SU Senate?

I’m running for SU Senate because I’m passionate about making WashU a place where everyone, regardless of background, feels they have access to all opportunities. I believe accessibility is essential to fostering a vibrant, inclusive campus community. I’m also committed to making SU more transparent, ensuring that students know how decisions are made and how resources are allocated. I want to bridge the gap between SU and the student body, advocating for initiatives that reflect our community’s real needs and priorities. By representing our collective voice, I hope to bring about meaningful change that benefits all students.

What is SU Senate’s role at WashU?

The SU Senate at WashU serves as a bridge between the student body and university administration, ensuring students have a voice in how our campus operates. As an SU senator, I aim to be a strong link between each WashU student and the decision-makers who serve us. Senate also acts as a vital space for campus-wide conversations, addressing concerns and fostering discussions on issues that matter to us all. I’m dedicated to bringing forward any topics the student body wants addressed, advocating for transparency, accessibility, and an inclusive environment where every student feels their voice is heard.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected? 

1. Increase Accessibility on Campus
2. Make dining hall food cheaper and have more options
3. Make WashU more environmentally friendly

Have you served on SU before? if so, what was your role and what did you accomplish? 

No

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with constituents?

I plan to build strong relationships and trust with constituents by creating accessible and open channels for communication. I aim to hold regular open forums for all WashU students, providing a platform for everyone to voice their concerns, share ideas, and discuss issues affecting our campus. By addressing topics that matter to students and actively seeking out their perspectives, I can better represent their interests within SU. Additionally, I will engage with the student body whenever possible—whether through events, outreach, or informal conversations—to ensure I’m consistently in touch with their needs and can advocate effectively on their behalf.

Why are you running for SU Senate?

As an incumbent and FGLI(First Gen/Low Income) student, I’m rerunning to continue advancing key initiatives: improving WashU Dining, expanding study spaces, and enhancing student life. I’ve served on the Academic Affairs Committee and now work on the Campus & Residential Experience Committee, focusing on food options and extended study hours.

What is SU Senate’s role at WashU?

I believe the role of Senate is to advocate for students’ needs to the WashU Administration, listen to student groups, and create tangible changes that positively impact student life. As a FGLI student, I understand the challenges students face and see Senate as a place where those concerns can be heard and change can happen.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected? 

1. Extend building hours
2. Lower meal point costs and improve transparency with Dining Services
3. Extend the Add/Drop deadline for class registration.

Have you served on SU before? if so, what was your role and what did you accomplish? 

I’ve served on the Academic Affairs Committee, working with administrators to try to extend the Add/Drop deadline. Currently, I’m on the Campus and Residential Experience Committee, focusing on increasing building hours, improving access to menstrual products on campus, and finalizing plans for a communal fridge in Sam Fox for students.

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with constituents?

As an FGLI student, I bring a unique perspective on key campus challenges, enabling me to advocate effectively for student needs. Throughout my term, I’ve listened to constituents, affinity groups, peer leaders, and administrators when they’ve presented to the Senate. I plan to keep collaborating with these groups to stay informed on students’ biggest issues, build trust, and bring these insights to administrators to create positive change for WashU students.

Why are you running for SU Senate?

I’m running for Senate because I want to see tangible change for students! There’s been a lot of complaints about how the school handles many issues, but little in terms of solutions. Even though SU is supposed to represent our interests, it looks more like a government roleplay club for PoliSci students than an actual body that can bring meaningful change. I don’t even know how I’m supposed to give input to my senators which shows a severe disconnect between the Senate and the student body. I never really wanted to run for the Senate because I have enough work and it kind of seems elitist honestly, but I want representation other than someone who’s preparing for their future run for Congress.

What is SU Senate’s role at WashU?

The Senate’s role should be providing students a voice powerful enough to compel the administration to implement the changes we want as students. Because of Senate’s more direct connection to the WashU admin, it’s the Senate’s job to make sure this connection is used to benefit students to the maximum degree through making student concerns and suggestions clear to relevant administrators, and applying pressure if necessary.

What are your top 3 priorities if you were elected? 

1. Food – Sodexo is an awful company that’s made food quality so much worse, quantity of food has gone down (I saw a post where someone got 2 chicken tenders in their Half & Half), Subway is our only semi-notable food chain, and the platinum meal plan can barely handle 3 full meals/day. 
2. Academics – Professors shouldn’t be allowed to schedule exams/major projects on holidays like Halloween (students deserve to have fun sometimes!). Students should also be able to change from Pass/Fail to credit anytime in the semester because if you’re putting in the work, you deserve to be rewarded. 
3. Mental health – Extend free therapy sessions with Habif from 12 to 15 so a whole semester is covered and mandate that all classes allow students to have at least 2 mental health days which they can use to miss class without penalty (this excludes tests and major assignments)

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish? 

Yes! I served on the Treasury briefly and I voted for several funding requests because I want every club to have the opportunity to succeed since they’re the backbone of the student experience here at WashU

How do you plan to establish strong relationships and trust with constituents?

We need to have more well publicized events to get feedback from students. We did have a town hall back in November of last year, but only 5 people came (3 of whom were candidates!). That’s nowhere near enough to actually understand the concerns and suggestions of the student body. Additionally, there should be regular “office hours” where people can show up, ask questions, and give input to a senator available during that time. Lastly, we should send out more surveys regarding important issues in order to get more clarity on students’ stances before passing major resolutions.

Why are you running for ArtSci Council? Why are you running for your specific role?

I’m running for Vice President of Administration because I believe I can help maintain a strong, connected council that can truly enhance our campus life. My passion for organization and community-building motivates me to take on this role as I love bringing people together and making sure things run smoothly behind the scenes. I envision a council where every event feels meaningful, from exciting events to curriculum updates, as we help shape an inclusive, informed student body. With my attention to detail and commitment to collaboration, I want to help create a council that genuinely listens to students and works to make their college experience fulfilling and memorable.

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

I have not served on SU before, but I’m eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to the council. I am excited by the chance to support our student voices and help make tangible improvements on campus. Although I am new to SU, I have a strong background in organizing events, managing projects, and collaborating in team settings, all of which I believe will be valuable assets and I look forward to learning from experienced council members, contributing fresh perspectives, and working hard to support SU’s goals.

What experiences do you have that have prepared you for the position you are running for?

Growing up in a small town taught me the true value of community and staying actively engaged as I was involved in several initiatives in our local government to improve access to resources for students, which gave me hands-on experience in organizing and advocacy. This experience made me realize the importance of creating inclusive spaces and supporting everyone’s voice and I believe these skills align well with the role of Vice President of Administration, where coordination and collaboration are key.

What specific actions/programming do you hope to pursue should you be elected?

If elected, I would focus on building connections and strengthening council efficiency. Beyond organizing community events like themed study nights and career panels, I would introduce streamlined administrative practices, such as creating a shared digital platform to simplify event planning and budgeting with other VPs. I would also push for regular feedback sessions, where students can voice concerns directly to the council which would help the council to respond quickly and effectively. My goal is to make decision making more transparent and efficient, ensuring that students feel not only represented but also actively engaged in shaping their campus experience through accessible council initiatives.

Why are you running for ArtSci Council? Why are you running for your specific role?

The relationship between the administration and student body has become especially relevant in wake of campus protests. With conflict between students and administration over free expression policies and their subsequent punishments, a transparent channel of communication is needed to reflect the concerns and needs of the student body. I am running for Vice President of Administration because I want to represent a variety of student grievances to the administration and address these issues in council meetings. Additionally, I find that there are a multitude of simple quality-of-life improvements that can be made to students’ lives which I can implement quickly and effectively.

Have you served on SU before? If so, what was your role and what did you accomplish?

N/A

What experiences do you have that have prepared you for the position you are running for?

I have helped organize and promote several political action initiatives and engagement projects within my community. This experience will aid in my role to garner student and faculty engagement within SU projects. Additionally, I have worked directly with refugee organizations to raise money for migrant populations from Venezuela to Myanmar. These projects emphasize my ability to make actionable change in projects, making sure that I follow up on the promises I make to my constituents.

What specific actions/programming do you hope to pursue should you be elected?

As Vice President of Administration, I want to specifically address the issue of inconsistent WiFi coverage on campus. The SU senate has already passed legislation addressing our WiFi issue, but without timely and effective execution of this, the weekly FaceTime calls with our long-distance friends will remain interrupted. Additionally, I want to expand Social Programming Board events to host events that engage more with the broader St Louis community. Finally, I aim to support initiatives focused on mental health and wellness, expanding upon the existing resources for students dealing with mental health issues to make appointment scheduling easier and decrease wait times.