Candidates
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
Apart from being Vice President of the Apartment Community Council, I was also the former Secretary of the Harbor Community Council. These roles helped me develop different aspects of my leadership skills. Learning how to resolve conflicts came naturally after learning how to weigh different views carefully. So when conflict arises, I make sure that I listen more than I speak. Being part of the student government during high school for two full years helped me develop good work habits during my developmental years. I believe these experiences have prepared me to serve effectively, advocate passionately, and work collaboratively to make a positive impact. I am eager to bring my skills and dedication to this new role, working towards solutions that truly benefit the community.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I plan to carry out my role by promoting communication, collaboration, and mutual respect among all the SGA members. I also believe that hearing different voices is the most important aspect in coming up with effective ideas, so I will make sure that I build effective relationships and that everyone is heard. I am committed to working in a team, where everyone will share the responsibilities and help one another in achieving the common goal, so I will make sure that I have a positive attitude in order to help in creating a cohesive environment where everyone can work together to solve the challenges we will face. My goal is to be a dependable and accessible member who promotes teamwork and makes effective progress in the community.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When dealing with conflicts, I make it a priority to listen carefully and be empathetic in understanding all the perspectives of said conflict. I believe that by creating an environment that is safe for everyone to express themselves openly, conflicts can be de-escalated easily. I try to look for commonalities and shared goals with those I’m dealing with, which makes it easier for me to come up with solutions that are collaborative. I make it a point to ask for other people’s opinions if I think that I could get more insights from them, so that it can be fair to everyone. I want conflicts to be opportunities for growth and understanding, and I’m always working towards that goal.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
My vision for SGA’s funds is to allocate resources transparently and equitably, ensuring that all student organizations have an equal opportunity to succeed. I believe that funds should be shared to initiatives that promote inclusiveness, individual development, and community involvement, representing the interests of our student population. I believe that prioritizing transparency will allow us to maximize the use of every dollar spent, encouraging proper spending and creativity among student organizations. I also envision that there should be funds allocated for new ideas and upcoming student organizations, so we can create a wide and varied environment for our student population to feel they belong to. My overall vision is that SGA’s funding decisions will enable student organizations to provide opportunities that not only enhance student life but also reflect the voices of all students.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
The Finance Board has done well with maintaining transparency and fairness in funding decisions. They have promoted responsible spending while funding a wide variety of student organizations and activities, creating an inclusive campus community.
The Finance Board could improve in the way it communicates not only with the different student organizations but also directly with all the students. This way, they will be able to understand how funds are being allocated and what exactly SGA does.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
As treasurer for the UMBC wrestling team, I manage team finances and coordinate with the athletics department to support travel, uniforms, and other expenses. This role involves working with team leadership on fundraising and budgeting for away competitions. Through my mechanical engineering coursework, I have also worked on project budgeting using Google Sheets, collaborating with teammates to allocate resources and complete projects efficiently.
Outside the classroom, I have held multiple jobs and currently work in a paid research position in Dr. Von Lockett’s EMACKS lab, which has strengthened my time management and accountability. I am also an Eagle Scout, a role that required planning, fundraising, budgeting, and organizing volunteers to complete a community project. These experiences have given me practical experience managing funds and working responsibly with a team.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I would fulfill my role through planning and outreach. Communication is ever important to the strong function of a team, and as a financial board representative, I would like to get to know both each member of the finance board, and as much as the SGA membership as possible as we gear up for the next year. Keeping meetings, attending events, and filling out formage I am ready to do, as long as it is meeting with club leaders and listening to their vision, where they want to take the club, to get a greater understanding of the possibilities each has to offer.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
I can be somewhat blunt on occasions, but I do genuinely believe that direct conflict resolution is best. This does not mean to be rude or irreverent towards an individual, but instead to adress the problem directly. Clear communication has resolved problems in planning projects with others, interpersonal problems with a significant other, and with family and friends. From small items to light, I find that clear, direct communication is key.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
My vision for the board is to support student organizations by distributing funding thoughtfully and responsibly. UMBC has a wide range of clubs and activities, and through exploring several of them I have seen how much effort student leaders put into building communities and creating opportunities for others. I would like to help these organizations achieve their goals by ensuring funds are allocated in a way that allows them to grow and operate effectively.
While funding alone does not create innovation or opportunity, it plays an important role in helping ideas become reality. By working with student leaders and understanding their needs, the board can help support initiatives that strengthen the campus community and encourage students to pursue meaningful projects.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
For those I have participated in, the club funding has come through, and so following has the benefit from the funding in those clubs. Events in relation to the rest of the SGA or the SEB also have come through, however I believe there may be some problems with transparency or frequency. I have not observed much communication from the financial board, or relization of their existence from other members of the school. Despite having known of the financial board since last year, only recently did I come to understand they exist on social media. This I would like to help. I would like to improve equitibility in funding too. I have not sat down with the budget, but I would love to be sure that each organization and club obtained fair representation even if not as known or transparent to the greater student body.
Bio
Senior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I started as Vice President of CWIT Student Council in Fall 2024 and have served as President since Spring 2025. Through this role, I have worked closely with SGA funding and seen how important the Finance Board is to student organizations. I am also connected with leaders from groups like BMS, NSBE, First Love, BCF, and more, so I understand the student side of the budgeting process and the pressure organizations face when planning events. As an RA, I plan programs, manage budgets, and ensure events run smoothly while meeting university expectations. Through my research involvements, I have developed strong attention to detail and accountability when reviewing information. These experiences have prepared me to evaluate proposals carefully, ask thoughtful questions, and make responsible decisions that directly support the UMBC community.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I plan to be consistent, prepared, and collaborative. I will attend meetings ready to review materials in advance and contribute thoughtfully to discussions. I value teamwork and understand that strong decisions come from hearing multiple perspectives. I will communicate clearly with other members of SGA and follow established policies. As someone who has worked on executive boards, I know how important it is to be reliable and respectful. I am willing to support my team beyond my assigned responsibilities if needed. I strongly believe every student can find their group at UMBC because we offer such a wide variety of organizations and experiences. In this role, I want to help create and sustain more spaces where students feel connected. My goal is to support the team while keeping student impact at the center of every decision.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
I approach conflict with clarity and composure. First, I focus on understanding the issue by listening to all perspectives without interruption. Many conflicts stem from miscommunication. Second, I separate the person from the problem and keep the discussion centered on policies, goals, and shared outcomes. Third, I use direct but respectful communication. If something needs to be addressed, I do not avoid it. I also rely on documented guidelines when making decisions. Clear standards reduce personal bias. If needed, I seek mediation or input from leadership to ensure fairness. My priority is resolution, not winning an argument. Productive conflict can strengthen decision making when handled professionally.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
My vision is responsible, equitable, and impact driven allocation. Student activity fees should directly enhance campus life and create meaningful experiences outside the classroom. Funding should prioritize programs that are accessible, well planned, and clearly beneficial to undergraduate students. I believe smaller or newer organizations should feel supported, not intimidated, by the process, because every group contributes something unique to campus culture. Clear expectations and transparency should guide every decision, so organizations understand how and why funds are allocated. I also believe funds should encourage collaboration across organizations to expand reach and impact. Accountability matters as well. Organizations should demonstrate thoughtful planning and follow through. When funds are allocated strategically and fairly, they strengthen community, expand opportunity, and help more students find connection at UMBC.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
The Finance Board has maintained structure and consistency in the budgeting process. Regular meetings and clear policies promote accountability. This stability builds trust in SGA’s financial decisions.
There is room to improve transparency and accessibility. The budgeting process can feel complex to organizations unfamiliar with it. Clearer communication, simplified guidance, and proactive outreach could help student leaders navigate funding more confidently. Strengthening education around the process would improve equity and engagement.
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I believe my experience being the Finance Board FYA and Vice Chair have prepared me to serve effectively. I have become familiar with the responsibilities of the role and how the funding process works. This experience allows me to support the organizations I serve as a liaison for by ensuring they receive clear information, helpful clarification, and fair representation.
In addition, I am involved in student organizations myself, like the Free Menstrual Product Committee and The Written With Love Project. Being part of these groups allows me to understand both the perspective of SGA and the needs of student organizations requesting funding. This helps me approach decisions thoughtfully and consider multiple perspectives.
I am also involved in roles that support causes such as mental health, menstrual product equity, and substance abuse prevention, and I am committed to supporting organizations that support good causes and create a positive impact on campus.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
In this position, I would actively share my ideas during meetings while also making sure that other representatives feel included, heard, and comfortable sharing their own perspectives. I believe the best decisions are made when multiple viewpoints are considered.
In addition, I would make an effort to share updates with other SGA bodies and stay informed about the work they are doing as well. Hearing perspectives from outside the Finance Board can bring new ideas and help us approach decisions more thoughtfully. By maintaining strong communication across SGA, I hope to help ensure that our work is aligned and that we are all supporting students in the most effective way possible.
I have also learned the importance of relying on other SGA members when I don’t know something. More experienced members often have valuable insight, and I would not hesitate to seek their guidance when needed.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
My biggest strategy for managing conflict is taking breaks when needed to calm down and think clearly. Finance Board meetings can sometimes involve stressful situations, and I understand that it is okay not to have everything figured out in the moment. Taking a short break can help everyone reset, approach the discussion more calmly, and work toward a productive solution.
I also rely on the people I trust when navigating difficult situations. Talking through an issue and hearing different perspectives often helps me better understand the situation and think through possible solutions.
Finally, I stay persistent when challenges arise. I believe it is important not to give up when things become difficult. Instead, I work hard to stay focused and continue searching for solutions so that we can reach decisions that are fair and thoughtful for everyone involved.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
The role of a Finance Board Representative is to represent student organizations and help ensure they receive the funding needed to host events that allow our campus community to thrive. I believe funds should be allocated in a way that supports organizations in hosting a wide range of diverse and engaging events. My goal is to help make funding accessible to all organizations while ensuring that it is distributed fairly and thoughtfully based on relevant factors. By doing this, we can support student organizations and contribute to a more active, inclusive, and vibrant campus community.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
This year in particular, I think the Finance Board improved its communication with organizations by sending out consistent weekly emails and being more available to answer questions. Resources were also created to make the funding process clearer and easier for organizations to navigate.
The Finance Board was also faced with making several difficult decisions. Overall, I believe we handled those decisions well and worked hard to support as many organizations as possible. However, I think we could have done a better job emphasizing to organizations that these decisions were made out of necessity and that we were still trying to look out for their interests. Moving forward, I would like to focus on increasing transparency in this area so organizations better understand the reasoning behind our decisions.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
My leadership experiences in high school and college have given me valuable experience working with budgets, planning programs, and making sure resources are used effectively to support student organizations. As a Cluster Liaison on the MCPS Student Member of the Board of Education Advisory Cabinet, I represented over 160,000 students and observed discussions surrounding the county’s $3.2 billion operating budget. This experience gave me insight into how large budgets are reviewed and how funding decisions impact a broad community.
In high school, I also served as Lieutenant Governor for Kiwanis International’s Capital District Division 3B, where I supported Key Club chapters across several states and helped coordinate service events and initiatives. At UMBC, I have served as President of both Potomac and Erickson Community Councils in Residential Life, where I worked with treasurers and staff to plan programs, review budgets, and submit funding proposals to support student programming.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
Working alongside other SGA members means collaborating to make sure the student body is effectively represented. Being an SGA officer is about advocating for and amplifying student voices, since many students do not have direct access to decision-makers on campus. Because of this, SGA serves as a bridge between students and the administration by listening to concerns and bringing those perspectives into conversations where decisions are made.
In this role, I plan to work closely with fellow SGA members, the senate, and campus partners by communicating openly, listening to different perspectives, and making thoughtful decisions together. I want to be someone other members can rely on when discussing funding requests or student concerns. By keeping the financial process clear, transparent, and collaborative, I hope to help ensure our decisions reflect the needs of the broader student body while supporting student organizations across campus.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, I focus on listening first and understanding everyone’s perspective before trying to find a solution. I also believe that acknowledging the issue is an important step, since recognizing concerns early helps prevent misunderstandings from growing into larger problems. Many conflicts come from miscommunication or different expectations, so I try to create space for people to explain their concerns openly. Once everyone feels heard, I work toward identifying common goals and finding a solution that is fair and practical for everyone involved.
In my leadership experiences, I’ve learned that staying calm, respectful, and solution-focused helps prevent disagreements from escalating and keeps teams moving forward productively. I also think reflection is important after conflicts are resolved. Taking time to reflect on what happened helps teams learn from the situation and improve communication moving forward.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
My vision for SGA funds is to ensure they are used for the betterment of the many passionate student organizations and clubs that make up the UMBC community. I want the allocation process to be transparent, easy to understand, and supportive so student leaders feel comfortable requesting funding and know they have someone available to guide them through the process. Clear communication, accessible resources, and being available to answer questions can help make funding more approachable for organizations.
I also believe funding should be distributed in an equitable way that ensures opportunities are available to a wide range of student groups. By working closely with other SGA members and student organizations, my goal is to help ensure funds are allocated fairly and used in ways that create meaningful experiences, strengthen organizations, and support involvement across campus.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
One thing the Finance Board has done well is working to ensure funding is distributed in an equitable way, especially during times when resources were limited. Policies such as the event cap helped make sure more organizations had the opportunity to receive funding and host programs for students. That approach showed an effort to balance limited funds while still supporting a wide range of student groups across campus.
One area that could be improved is the timeline and structure of the allocation process. Currently, requesting funding a full semester in advance can be difficult because leadership in student organizations often changes and event plans evolve. I think a more flexible, ongoing application process, such as allowing requests around 60–80 days in advance, could make funding more practical and efficient. This would help organizations plan more accurately and reduce situations where allocated funds go unused and must be returned.
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I currently work as the SGA’s Student Organization Committee Representative in the Student Organization Support Team. In this position, I work to assist and advocate for new student organizations on campus, and I have gained an understanding of how student organizations are funded and supported by the wider SGA, including Finance Board. Further, I currently hold the treasurer position in three organizations that I am in: Maryland Student Legislature, Delta Alpha Pi Honor Society, and Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society. Through working as a treasurer and as a board member in other clubs, I have seen how the Finance Board interacts with student organizations and I understand the allocation process. My board positions have also given me skills in communication, time-management, and accountability which have shaped me into a proactive leader. Through these experiences, I believe that I will succeed as a Finance Board representative!
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I will fulfill my role by staying on top of my tasks and by collaborating through communication with other SGA officers. I believe that the first part of working well with others is to be able to complete your own tasks in a timely manner. I will make sure to stay organized and be proactive to complete my assigned work so I can effectively work alongside other members. When working directly with others, I prioritize communication so the process is smooth and no miscommunications occur. I am a huge fan of writing everything down during meetings and creating task checklists when I work in a group, and I would continue doing these habits as a Finance Board Representative. Another belief I have is that collaboration works best when the people involved engage in constructive and open conversation so I would encourage conversations between officers so we can work well together.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
My strategies for addressing conflict are to address it as soon as it comes up, listening to all parties in an unbiased way, and if necessary, involving a neutral person. When it comes to conflict, I make sure that it gets talked about almost immediately because it is unproductive and potentially harmful to let the conflict sit for a long period of time. I don’t view conflict as inherently negative, but as something that just happens when working with others. So when actually addressing the conflict, I always have a conversation with the people involved where I try to stay as unbiased as possible and listen to all perspectives. If I am heavily involved in a conflict and believe that it would be hard to be unbiased, then I would go to a neutral third party, such as an advisor, in order to mediate the conflict.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
My vision for the funds is to not only continue the amazing work of the current Finance Board Representatives in creating equitable allocations, but also to ensure that the process is as transparent as possible for the student organizations who are requesting and receiving funds. With the increasing number of new student organizations and other uncontrollable factors, there is a possibility that the precedents Finance Board relies on will have to change again as they did this year. In the case that this happens, I hope to make it known to all student organization board members and to hear their inputs, because I know I would have appreciated having that information and opportunity for my organizations. Further, even if the process doesn’t change again, I would still actively involve myself in promoting information and education about the current processes to help student organizations understand the sometimes complicated processes.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
I think that Finance Board has done an extremely good job at balancing the number of funding requests and ensuring an equitable allocation of those funds. This year, there were an unprecedented amount of funding requests and I know that it was hard for the current Finance Board Representatives. However, I believe that there could have been much more communication with student organizations when it came to this issue. I remember my organizations receiving last minute emails from our Finance Board Representatives about amending budget requests, but the other board members of my organizations and I found the information to be confusing at times. I am in no way trying to blame anyone and I understand it was a stressful time for everyone, but if I were to become a Finance Board Representative, I would strive to make everything more transparent and communicate the information more clearly with student organizations!
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
Growing up in a Bengali household, every Eid was marked as payday. Elders would press crisp bills into your hands as a celebration — Eidi, as it is known, the cherished tradition of gifting money to children during the Islamic festival of Eid. My friends would scatter, spending it carelessly while I saved up or projected for the right time to utilize the money. Numbers always spoke to me in a language others seemed to misread. In third grade, I won my school’s Math Olympiad — not because of the IPad the winner was supposed to receive but because the adrenaline rush of solving mental maths under the duress of time felt like a reward in itself. When I was in eighth grade, my father sat me down in front of a laptop and taught me how to operate Excel. That was the last time my Eidi was spent carelessly. From that day forward, I maintained an active tally — every note received, every pocket money deposit, every projected balance. What began as a child’s ledger quietly revealed something about how my mind worked. Numbers were not just arithmetic. They were a language. They told you where you had been, where you were, and — if you were disciplined enough — where you were going.
That instinct never left me. It only scaled. People lie, numbers don’t.
My first real encounter with institutional finance came not in a classroom, but at Sparta Luxe — a U.S.-Bangladeshi cut-and-sew manufacturer specializing in large-scale clothing operations and Department of Defense government contracts, where I serve as Executive Director of Marketing and Strategy. Government contracting is not a handshake business. It is a discipline of documents. To compete for a federal contract, one must first navigate solicitations — technical procurements spanning twenty, thirty pages — dissecting scope of work clauses, pricing structures, compliance requirements, and evaluation criteria before a single bid is submitted. I read them. I understood them. I bid on them. I failed. But then, I won. That process, repeated across multiple contracting cycles, trained me to translate the language of legislation and federal policy into operational and financial decisions that protect the business. When tariff shifts altered our cost structure, I modeled the impact. When FX fluctuations threatened our margins on cross-border production, I ran the scenarios. Policy, I learned, is never abstract — it is always, eventually, a number on a spreadsheet.
That lesson carried directly into AIM Investment, the algorithmic trading venture I co-founded, where we built an AI-driven platform that does precisely what that childhood spreadsheet attempted — except at the volatility of equity markets. AIM executes systematic equity strategies in live markets, designing and backtesting quantitative signals using Python, integrating time-series models and machine-learning classifiers to translate socio-political, macroeconomic and market policy shifts directly into portfolio decisions. When the Federal Reserve signals a rate trajectory, or when trade policy introduces new friction into global supply chains, AIM’s models are built to read that signal and act. Policy becomes numbers and the numbers become positions. It is, at its core, the most sophisticated iteration of what I was doing as a child— tallying reality and making it legible. This coming summer, I carry that same disposition to Jefferies as an Investment Banking Intern in Manhattan, supporting live M&A execution, building DCF and LBO models, and conducting due diligence on public and pre-IPO biotech companies.
And yet, for all the complexity of live capital markets and federal procurement, some of the most demanding financial stewardship I have exercised has been here — on this campus, for these students. As Treasurer of the Economics Council, the Consulting Club, and Flow for All simultaneously, I sit on the other side of the very aisle I am now seeking to join. I draft budget requests, navigate Finance Board compliance requirements, and submit funding proposals on behalf of three distinct organizations — each with its own mandate, its own constituency, and its own consequence if the numbers are wrong. I know what it feels like to have your organization’s funding scrutinized, questioned, and contingent on the judgment of this board. I have built the justifications. I have defended the line items. I have felt the weight of returning to a club empty-handed. That perspective is not a liability — it is a credential earned from the other side of the table.
The past cannot be changed, the future remains uncertain — but the present is mine to act on. When institutional funding falls short, I refuse to accept the shortfall as a ceiling. For Flow for All, I am actively pursuing external fundraising strategies and forging collaborative partnerships outside the university to bring new capital into an initiative that serves a basic necessity — because when the budget is cut, it is not a line item that disappears, it is a student who goes without. The finances of this student body deserve someone who has read federal solicitations and submitted government bids, built quantitative models for live capital markets, and governed the budgets of three organizations simultaneously — someone who understands this board not just from the chair, but from the floor. I am that person. And I intend to bring every measure of that experience to this board.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
“With you there is no us, and with us there is no you” – A quote that is often said in my family. Collaboration is not merely a soft skill but rather a necessity. At Sparta Luxe, decisions required alignment across U.S. and Bangladeshi teams navigating different regulatory environments, cultural expectations, and institutional norms simultaneously. At AIM, building a trading platform meant reconciling competing analytical frameworks under the pressure of live markets. As Treasurer of three organizations concurrently, I have learned that the most consequential financial decisions are never made unilaterally — they are made through deliberation, backed through evidence, and executed through collective trust within each respective board.
I am not new to this board. As a First Year Ambassador, I have spent the entirety of the last semester shadowing the Finance Board — observing its processes, understanding its legislative compliance, and learning the institutional rhythm of how SGA allocates its resources. I do not intend to reimagine the table – I am here to contribute meaningfully to it.
But perhaps what I bring that is less visible on a resume is this — I grew up between worlds. Born and raised in Bangladesh, immigrated to chase the American dream as a teenager, I carry a firsthand understanding of what it means to navigate the red tape of institutions that were not originally designed with you in mind. That experience sharpened my instinct to read a room, understand unspoken norms, and recognize when a process — however well-intentioned — is failing the spirit of the constituency it does not fully see. For cultural organizations on this campus operating at the margins of institutional visibility, that perspective is not incidental. It is directly relevant. I know what it means to build community outside of the mainstream, to request budgets creatively when formal channels fall short, and to advocate for legitimacy within a structure that requires you to prove your worth before it extends its trust.
Within SGA, I intend to fulfill this role the way I have fulfilled every responsibility I have held — with transparency, rigor, and the understanding that my judgment serves the board, not the other way around. I will bring the analytical discipline of someone who has read federal procurement solicitations and built live trading models, and I will apply it in service of a deliberative process that is stronger for every perspective at the table. The diversity of that table is not a complication to manage — it is the whole point.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
Conflict rarely announces itself before it hits. Nor does it arrive as a disagreement across a table — it surfaces as a quiet tension between what is being said and what the numbers actually show. I learned that lesson earlier than most.
Many afternoons of my childhood were spent sitting in my father’s office, Sparta Luxe — fruit bowl, math homework, and an earful of conversations I probably should not have listened to. But the more you hear a language, the more you learn it. By the time I was eight, I had absorbed everything from supply chain terminology to workplace politics. It was an informal education in how institutions actually function — not as the org charts suggest, but as the people within them decide.
That education was tested when I found myself back in my father’s office years later, working alongside a team of West Point graduates, procurement specialists, and seasoned contractors as we pursued our first Department of Defense contract. They were brilliant, capable, and entirely unconvinced that I belonged in the room. I was young, inexperienced, and in their eyes, an inevitable product of nepotism. They kept me occupied with surface-level tasks while they handled what they considered the real work. I did not confront that dynamic directly. I prepared.
During the bidding process for a $14 million contract — 640,000 training shorts — the team priced the bid at $11 per unit using imported fabrics. I had read the documents carefully and identified a critical clause they had missed: Berry Amendment compliance, which requires every component to be domestically sourced. I did not interrupt. I did not escalate. I waited, built my own file, and on the final day presented an alternative bid at $18 per unit using compliant materials. The reaction was immediate and harsh. They insisted sourcing that volume of U.S.-made fabric was impossible. I left that day humiliated and on the brink of tears.
That night, I found Everest Textiles — a Taiwanese-owned factory in Forest City, North Carolina producing military-grade domestic fabric. By 4 AM, my father and I were on the road. By afternoon, we had a supplier partnership that not only saved us from a multimillion-dollar compliance failure but opened an entirely new business pipeline for Sparta Luxe.
That experience defined how I approach conflict to this day. I do not meet resistance with resistance — I meet it with preparation. When the tension in that room was at its highest, the most powerful thing I could do was not argue, but return with evidence so airtight that the argument became unnecessary. Conflict, at its core, is often a crisis of incomplete information. My instinct is always to complete the picture before I raise my voice.
Within SGA, I will bring that same disposition. When funding priorities compete — and they will — I will not advocate through volume. I will advocate through analysis. I will listen to every side of a disagreement with the understanding that each perspective carries information the other side may be missing. I have sat in rooms where I was not taken seriously, and I have learned that the quietest person with the most thorough preparation tends to determine the outcome. Credibility, I have found, is not inherited. It is earned — one line item, one compliance clause, one stubborn fact at a time.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
As one of my favorite Professors on campus, Professor Luigi Pollio says, “Money, at its most fundamental level, is a policy instrument”. The Finance Board’s power to approve, restructure, or defer a funding request is, in effect, the power to determine which communities on this campus thrive and which ones quietly disappear — And I do not take that lightly.
UMBC faces an existential challenge that no amount of administrative optimism can obscure — student engagement is eroding. The organizations that fill that gap, that give a freshman from a different country or a first-generation student from Baltimore County a reason to belong, are not amenities. They are the connective tissue of this institution. When those organizations are underfunded, under-communicated with, or left to navigate a compliance process they do not fully understand, the consequence is not a failed budget request. It is a student who never finds their community. It is a campus that becomes a place you attend rather than a place you belong to.
My vision for SGA’s available funds begins with a principle — equitability over equality. Equal distribution sounds fair until you account for the fact that large, established organizations arrive at the Finance Board with institutional momentum: existing sponsorships, alumni networks, and years of precedent working in their favor. Smaller cultural organizations, newer initiatives, and identity-based groups do not have that runway. A funding philosophy that treats every organization identically will, by design, systematically disadvantage the ones that need capital the most. I have experienced that asymmetry firsthand — not as an abstraction, but as the treasurer of organizations that have sat on the receiving end of this board’s judgment.
Equitability, however, does not mean uncritical generosity. It means rigorous, transparent, and consistently applied criteria. Every organization that submits a budget request deserves to understand exactly what this board is evaluating, what compliance requirements govern the process, and what the reasoning is behind every decision rendered. Right now, there is a communication gap between the Finance Board and the organizations it serves — policies exist that organizations are not fully aware of, compliance requirements surface as surprises rather than expectations, and the process can feel opaque to the very people it is designed to support. Part of my vision is closing that gap. Clear, proactive communication of Finance Board policies — properly marketed to the student body, not buried in a portal — is not administrative housekeeping. It is a prerequisite for a fair process.
I will also play devil’s advocate when the room requires it. Consensus is comfortable, but it is not always correct. When a funding request arrives with institutional weight behind it — a large organization, a familiar name, a precedent of approval — I will ask the same questions I would ask of a first-year club submitting its inaugural budget. What is the return to the student body? How does this deployment of capital serve the broader community? Is this the highest and best use of funds available? I have sat in rooms where I was the youngest, least credentialed person at the table, and I have learned that the most valuable contribution one can make is often the question nobody else is willing to ask.
I will be honest about one thing — I have not yet completed a full budget season. I am a freshman, and I carry that limitation with transparency rather than pretense. But I arrive with something that experience alone does not guarantee — a genuine philosophy of capital allocation forged across federal procurement, live capital markets, and three sets of organizational books. I know what it means when the numbers are wrong. I know what it costs when the process fails the people depending on it. And I know that the Finance Board’s credibility rests not on how efficiently it processes requests, but on whether the students of this university trust it to make decisions worthy of their investment.
That trust is what I intend to earn. One allocation at a time.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
I will answer this question with the advantage of having actually been in the room.
As a First Year Ambassador shadowing the Finance Board, I did not observe this process from a distance — I watched it unfold in real time, including during one of the more demanding moments this board has faced. When funding requests came in nearly $200,000 over the board’s total allocated budget, the pressure in that room was not abstract. Every organization waiting on a decision represented students, programming, and community infrastructure that depended on the outcome. I watched this board rise to that occasion.
What they did well deserves to be said plainly — I was genuinely proud of what I witnessed. The board scrutinized each budget with equal rigor, gave every organization the same deliberative attention regardless of size or reputation, and held a consistent standard of precedent across approvals and denials. In a crisis of that magnitude, procedural consistency is not a small achievement. It is the difference between a process that commands institutional trust and one that invites grievance. The current board maintained that standard under real pressure, and that is something I have tremendous respect for.
But consistency of process is not the same as completeness of judgment. And that is where I believe some work still needs to be done — not to redefine what this board has built, but to refine it.
What I observed, at times, was a board evaluating budgets in isolation — line items scrutinized against compliance criteria without sufficient context for what the organization actually represents on this campus. Not every organization arrives at this board equal in institutional visibility. A cultural org serving a minority community that has no other home on this campus occupies a fundamentally different position than a well-resourced organization with external sponsorships and an established alumni base. When both are evaluated against the same criteria without accounting for that context, the process is consistent — but the outcome is not necessarily equitable. The organizations that are most foundational to student belonging are often the ones least equipped to make that case in a budget document.
My vision is not to introduce subjectivity into a process that rightfully values precedent and structure. It is to build a layer of contextual intelligence into that structure — so that when this board deliberates, it does so with a fuller understanding of what each organization means to the students depending on it. The framework this board has built is something to be proud of. What remains is ensuring that the decisions it produces reflect not just what was submitted, but what is at stake.
Bio
Senior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I would bring a combination of financial knowledge, leadership, and real-world professional experience to the SGA Finance Representative position. As a Financial Economics major with an accounting background, I have developed a strong understanding of budgeting, financial responsibility, and how careful decision-making can affect an entire organization. But more than that, I know that money in student government is not just about numbers on a page. What does a budget really mean if it does not serve students? What is the point of financial planning if it is not transparent, fair, and intentional?
My experience working in accounting has strengthened my attention to detail and taught me the importance of accuracy, accountability, and professionalism when handling finances. I have also worked in spaces where communication, problem-solving, and advocacy matter, which has helped me understand how to listen to different perspectives before making decisions. These experiences have prepared me to approach financial matters with both logic and fairness.
I would also bring a student-centered mindset to this role. As someone with long-term goals in finance and law, I care deeply about making responsible decisions that help people and create trust. Students deserve a representative who will not only manage funds carefully, but also ask important questions: Who is being impacted by this decision? Is this allocation truly benefiting the student body? Are we being responsible with the opportunities and resources we have?
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to fulfill my role by working collaboratively, professionally, and with an open mind alongside other members of SGA. I understand that strong student government is not built by one person making decisions alone, but by people who are willing to listen, communicate, and work toward the same goal of serving students. As Finance Representative, I would make sure to be dependable, transparent, and respectful when discussing budgets, funding, and student needs with others. I also believe it is important to hear different perspectives before making financial decisions, because every organization and student voice matters. By staying organized, communicating clearly, and focusing on what is best for the student body, I would help create a team environment where SGA can work effectively and make responsible decisions together.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, I try to stay calm, listen first, and understand the full issue before reacting. I believe most conflict gets worse when people only focus on defending themselves instead of actually hearing each other out. My strategy is to approach disagreements with professionalism, ask questions, and look for the root of the problem so the solution is fair and productive. I also think respect is important, especially in leadership settings, because even when people disagree, they should still feel heard. If I were in SGA, I would handle conflict by focusing on communication, compromise when appropriate, and always keeping the larger goal of serving students in mind.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
My vision for SGA funds is that they should be allocated in a way that is fair, transparent, and truly beneficial to the student body. Student organizations do a lot to build community, create opportunities, and make campus life more meaningful, so funding should support groups that are actively contributing to that mission. At the same time, I believe funds should be handled responsibly, with careful consideration of need, impact, and accountability. It is important that organizations understand that SGA funding is not just money to spend, but a resource meant to help create programs, events, and initiatives that serve students in a real way. Overall, I would want SGA funds to be used as a tool to strengthen campus involvement, encourage student leadership, and make sure opportunities are accessible across a wide range of organizations.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
I think the Finance Board has done well in creating a system that gives student organizations access to resources that can help them grow, host events, and stay active on campus. A board like this plays an important role because it helps make sure funding is not just handed out randomly, but reviewed through a structured process. That kind of oversight matters because it promotes responsibility and helps student groups understand that funding should connect to purpose, impact, and student benefit. I also think the existence of the Finance Board itself shows a commitment to supporting student involvement and making campus life more engaging.
At the same time, I think the Finance Board can always improve in the areas of transparency, communication, and consistency. Student organizations should clearly understand how funding decisions are made, what standards are being applied, and what they can do to strengthen future requests. Sometimes the biggest frustration is not even the decision itself, but not fully understanding the reasoning behind it. I believe the board should continue working toward making the process feel more open, approachable, and student-centered, so organizations feel supported rather than confused. Overall, improvement comes from making sure financial decisions are not only fair, but also clearly communicated and trusted by the wider student body.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I believe serving in two different roles on the Finance Board has given me valuable experience that prepared me for this position. When I was serving as Finance Board Secretary in SGA, I gained a strong understanding of how the board operates including how meetings are conducted, how legislation is handled, and how funding decisions are documented.
I am now serving Finance Board Representative this semester where I’ve been able to build on that experience by actively reviewing funding requests, participating in discussions regarding precedents and decisions being made and working with student organizations as they navigate the budgeting process. Having seen the board from both an administrative and decision-making perspective has helped me better understand the responsibilities of the role and how to support organizations while ensuring student activity fees are allocated fairly and responsibly.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I plan to carry out my responsibilities by cooperating with other SGA members while maintaining open communication open with my fellow board members. I think it’s important to learn from the experiences of other team members and to seek for assistance or direction when necessary. I also want to be someone that my members can rely on. If someone needs support or assistance with something I’m always willing to step in and help where I can. By supporting each other and communicating clearly, I believe we can work together effectively to make thoughtful decisions and better serve the student body.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When dealing with conflicts, my first response is to listen and understand all the perspectives before I make my response. I attempt to do this with patience and an open mind since everyone has their own way of looking at things. After understanding the issue at hand, my next step is to have a calm and respectful dialogue with the person to help resolve the issue in the most reasonable way possible. If I feel that I’m not in a position to resolve the issue I’m also comfortable taking the issue to someone in a higher position to have it addressed accordingly.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
My vision for the funds provided by SGA is to make sure they are distributed evenly and without any bias, and all student organizations have an equal chance to benefit from the funds provided. Since the funds are collected from the student body,I believe it is importantl to make sure the funds are well utilized and provide the best benefit to the student body. These funds should help the student organizations turn their ideas and events into reality through programs, initiatives, and activities.I believe the process of budgeting and utilizing the funds provided to the student organizations should remain transparent and easily understandable to the student organizations.
From my experience with the UMBC Student Government Association, I believe I can help make sure the student activity fees are utilized well and provide the best benefit to the student by communicating clearly with my organizations and finance board members.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
One thing the Finance Board has done well is maintaining a well structured process for reviewing funding requests. Members take the time to thoughtfully question requests before making an evaluation to ensure that funds from student activity fees are handled responsibly. Another thing the Finance Board has done well is the Priority Feedback Form, which I believe is a strong initiative that should be continued. With the Priority Feedback Form, student organizations are able to receive feedback from their liaison before submitting their final budget request.
However, the Finance Board could do a better job of communicating with student organizations. I think we could improve this by extending liaison office hours and having more events other than meet and greet. I also think we should do better in terms of letting the organizations know about the Priority Feedback Forms (promote it better) so student orgs can take full advantage of the opportunity.
Bio
Senior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
The most relevant experience I would bring to this position is the fact that I have served as a Finance Board representative for the 2025-2026 school year. So, I have had a year to learn about my duties, take care of my responsibilities, and make a difference on the board with not only my voting but my voice. I feel as if by being an active member of student organizations on campus, I have adequately brought real-world experience as an organization member to advocating for my fellow student organizations at Finance Board meetings. I have also worked as a cashier at a retail job for the past four years, so I am also bringing the experience of handling money and depositing checks and cash into business accounts.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend on fulfilling my role with other members of SGA by encouraging them to be active members of UMBC’s campus life with me. By attending the events of organizations that I aided in funding this past year, as a representative, has given me the opportunity to see where precious funding is being allocated. So, engaging in student life with fellow SGA members by attending events and speaking to students gives us the ability to understand what is wanted and needed on campus directly from the heart of UMBC, its students. This way, I can fulfill my role of aiding the other representatives in funding events by having the knowledge of what the students really want from leadership. Also, other members of SGA who are on other boards, such as the Senate, can determine which initiatives to take to change campus life for the better.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
Strategies I use to address conflict as a current Finance Board representative often consist of remaining neutral, respectful, and fair. The value in remaining neutral when there is conflict is that neither side of the opposing parties feel as if I am against them. I also believe that it is extremely important to be respectful, not only during conflict, but especially then in order to not escalate tense situations irresponsibly. Additionally, remaining fair in circumstances where I eventually have to pick between two sides is very important to ensure that both parties have equal chances of obtaining what it is that they want.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
From experience, my vision for the funds SGA has available to allocate to student organizations consisting of regulating commonly funded line items. For example, oftentimes student organizations request funding for food since they would like to order Papa Johns pizza. But, sometimes two organizations with the same amount of attendance will request significantly different amounts for pizza. While I do understand that perhaps the organization that requested more money intends to purchase sides with their pizza, I would like to find a way for organizations to communicate exactly what they will want to buy. This way, the Finance Board can standardize the amount of funding a certain amount of attendance will receive for pizza. We are working on making this happen, but I think it will be valuable to continue this with other line items because we will then have more of SGA’s available funding to allocate to other organizations.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
I believe that the Finance Board has done a great job at funding as many events as possible under the four event cap and recognizing our fault in not communicating with organizations last semester so that we could work on it. I believe the Finance Board needs to work on creating a better way to obtain ECS invoices and reservation numbers from student organizations in their budget applications. I have found that it is a constant question that we, as Finance Board representatives, are asking student organizations and it causes an unnecessary amount of confusion while we are trying to smoothly go through applications during budget season. One way I believe we can solve this issue is that when we ask for the invoice in the applications, we should be able to see the invoice actually attached to every application when we are opening and reviewing them during the meetings.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I bring experience in both financial processes and organizational decision-making that would allow me to contribute effectively to the Finance Board. During my time as a Finance & Accounting Intern at the Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation, I worked with senior finance staff on reporting, auditing, and purchase order processing while managing vendor data and improving reporting efficiency through Excel analysis.
Additionally, through internships in government offices, I developed strong research, organizational, and communication skills. Working in a congressional district office and for a Maryland state delegate required careful documentation, analyzing policy information, and supporting administrative operations.
Beyond professional experience, I also serve as a treasurer for student organizations and have been involved with SGA as a Finance Board member and First-Year Ambassador. These roles have given me direct experience with student organization funding processes and the needs of campus groups. Together, these experiences have prepared me to evaluate funding requests responsibly, communicate clearly with organizations, and help ensure that allocations are handled fairly and transparently.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to fulfill this role through collaboration, transparency, and accountability. The Finance Board works best when members communicate openly and carefully review funding proposals together.
I plan to contribute by thoroughly evaluating requests, asking thoughtful questions, and ensuring that funding decisions align with SGA guidelines and student impact. My experience working in teams through internships and student organizations has taught me the value of respectful discussion and collective decision-making.
I also want to maintain strong communication between the Finance Board and student organizations so groups understand the process and feel supported when applying for funding. By working closely with other SGA members, we can ensure that funding decisions are fair and beneficial to the entire student community.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, I focus on listening, clarification, and problem-solving. First, I make sure to understand all perspectives so that everyone involved feels heard and respected. Many conflicts stem from misunderstandings, so taking time to clarify concerns often helps resolve issues early.
Second, I try to redirect discussions toward shared goals. In the context of SGA, the shared goal is supporting students and allocating funds responsibly.
Finally, I work toward solutions that are fair and practical for everyone involved. My experiences working in internships and team-based organizations have shown me that respectful communication and a focus on common objectives are the most effective ways to resolve disagreements.
What is your vision for the funds that SGA has available to allocate to student organizations?
My vision is for SGA funding to maximize student engagement, inclusivity, and campus impact. Student activity fees should support initiatives that benefit the greatest number of students while also helping organizations provide meaningful programming.
This means prioritizing events and initiatives that encourage participation, build community, and provide cultural, educational, or professional opportunities for students. At the same time, it is important that smaller or newer organizations have fair access to funding so they can grow and contribute to campus life.
Ultimately, funding decisions should be transparent, equitable, and focused on strengthening the overall student experience.
What do you think the Finance Board has done well? What do you think the Finance Board
needs to improve?
The Finance Board has done well in maintaining a structured allocation process that allows student organizations to request funding for events and initiatives. This system helps ensure that student activity fees are distributed responsibly and that organizations have the opportunity to present their proposals.
The board also provides an important level of oversight and accountability, helping make sure funds are used in ways that benefit the broader student community.
One area for improvement could be increasing transparency and accessibility for student organizations navigating the funding process. Some groups, especially newer organizations, may not fully understand how to submit strong allocation requests or how funding decisions are made.
Providing clearer guidance, workshops, or outreach could help organizations better prepare their proposals and make the process more equitable. Strengthening communication between the Finance Board and student organizations could also ensure that funding opportunities are accessible to a wider range of groups.
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
Throughout the past three years, I have been working to build my leadership skills and experiences to understand how to better lead and collaborate with others. Last year, I served as a senator and the Assistant Speaker of SGA’s Senate, and this year I had the pleasure of serving as the Speaker of Senate. Not only have I had the opportunity to improve my leadership, collaboration, and communication skills, but I have built relationships with faculty, staff, and administration that will help me engage in initiatives and SGA goals in the future. My two years of experience in SGA have given me the foundation to lead effectively and in an informed manner. In winter 2025, I attended the Center for Civic Life and Democracy’s STRiVE leadership program, which taught me how to be a flexible leader and to be open to criticism and growth.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
Through my leadership experiences and growth opportunities, I have also learned that communication and collaboration are key. I will maintain an open mind whenever having discussions with other members of SGA, even if it is concerning a topic we might have opposing views of. As a person who has moved to various countries during my life, I have adjusted to interacting with people who have differing views and have since learned how to respect and navigate that. We are each entitled to our own opinions and beliefs, so having worked on the ability to listen and make connections with others who have various backgrounds, I find it an important part of conflict resolution to keep an open mind and find common ground.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, one strategy I use is asking those involved what their concerns are so that I can fully understand the issue at hand. By understanding the full scope of the conflict, I can more easily navigate it. Another strategy is diffusing the situation by bringing the people involved together to have a civil conversation about the issue. Especially with an organization like SGA, it is important to address conflict head on and collaboratively to avoid worsening a situation and creating misunderstandings or miscommunications. Another strategy is simply active listening. I have found that people like to be heard and know that you understand where they are coming from. It is important to make sure people know they and their opinions/feelings are valid and heard.
How do your approaches to leadership complement each other? How do you navigate
disagreements between the two of you?
Through our experiences together, we have learned each other’s strengths and weaknesses and how to balance each other out, especially in difficult conversations. After speaking with each other often and understanding our stances on certain topics we have learned that we have a lot of common views, leadership styles, and the way we approach conflict. We admire each other as people who can bring each other back down to Earth and remind ourselves of our mission even when things don’t go the way we wished. We help each other view things from varying perspectives that we have not considered, allowing us to curate initiatives, and events that can be equally beneficial for the entire student body. We thrive on the idea of Inclusive Excellence set by the President, and because of our similar identities and goals, we have a multitude of experiences we do/will apply to our roles.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body? How do you intend to strive toward
this vision?
Increasing visibility of SGA across campus is highly important as we want students and faculty to understand the importance of our association. We also wish to advocate for students on the academic level. This process began by introducing proposals and resolutions to help students on their academic journey. Donna and I have experience in multiple offices in SGA, which have given us the knowledge needed to understand the main needs of students and have already begun planning ways to satisfy those needs. The student body and administration does not always see eye to eye but through our teamwork and collaboration, we hope to be able to build a stronger bridge between these two groups and effectively address hard truths. Community is one of the most important needs humans yearn for, and if Donna and I can make these communities a reality, then that is all we could ask for.
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
Together, we bring strong leadership experience through student organizations and regional advocacy. I currently serve as President of the Nu Kappa Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., where I oversee chapter operations, campus programming, and collaboration with university partners. I also serve as the Assistant District Director for the Mid-Atlantic Association of Alpha Phi Alpha Chapters (MAAC District), representing every college chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha across Maryland, Washington D.C., and Delaware. Additionally, I previously served as the Assistant Director of Communications for the Eastern Region of Alpha Phi Alpha, where I managed communications and social media for chapters across the East Coast from Maine to Virginia, as well as international chapters.
My running mate, Jaden Coffie, currently serves as Vice Polemarch of the Theta Chi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and Treasurer of the Black Student Union, where he has developed strong experience in leadership, financial management, and student advocacy.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
If elected, we intend to lead through collaboration, communication, and transparency. The success of SGA depends on strong partnerships between the Executive Branch, Senate, Finance Board, and the broader student body. As President and Executive Vice President, we will prioritize consistent communication with senators, Finance Board members, and executive officers to ensure that student concerns and organizational needs are effectively addressed.
We also believe in creating open channels of communication between SGA and the student body through listening sessions, town halls, and regular updates on initiatives and decisions. By actively engaging with all SGA members and valuing different perspectives, we can work together to develop in-depth solutions and meaningful initiatives that benefit the entire UMBC community.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, we prioritize open communication, mutual respect, and a solutions-oriented approach. We believe that most conflicts arise from misunderstandings or differing perspectives, so the first step is actively listening to all parties involved and ensuring everyone feels heard. From there, we focus on identifying common goals and working collaboratively toward a solution that benefits the broader student body.
Transparency and professionalism are also key. We aim to address concerns early, communicate clearly, and approach disagreements with respect. And if needed, we will seek guidance from advisors or other SGA leaders to ensure that decisions are fair and constructive for everyone.
How do your approaches to leadership complement each other? How do you navigate
disagreements between the two of you?
Our leadership styles complement each other because we bring different strengths and perspectives to the table. Through my leadership experiences, I’ve developed the ability to think broadly about student advocacy, connect with different organizations, and help lead initiatives that bring students together. Jaden’s experience as Vice Polemarch of Kappa Alpha Psi and Treasurer of the Black Student Union has strengthened his skills in organization, financial management, and working closely with student groups. Together, this allows us to approach challenges from both a big-picture and practical perspective.
When disagreements happen, which is completely normal, we focus on open communication and respect for each other’s viewpoints. We take the time to talk through ideas, understand each other’s reasoning, and focus on what will best serve UMBC students. At the end of the day, we are on the same team, and our shared goal of supporting the student body helps us reach thoughtful decisions together.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body? How do you intend to strive toward
this vision?
Our vision for UMBC is a campus where every student feels heard, supported, and proud to be part of the Retriever community. We want UMBC to be known not only for academic excellence, but also for a strong sense of community, vibrant campus life, and a culture where students from all backgrounds feel represented. Our campaign centers around VOICE: ensuring students have a VOICE in decisions, expanding academic OPPORTUNITY, promoting Inclusion for all communities, strengthening our campus COMMUNITY, and EMPOWERING women in leadership and professional spaces.
To work toward this vision, we plan to create more consistent opportunities for student feedback through listening sessions, town halls, and transparent communication from SGA. We will also advocate for stronger academic resources, increased support for student organizations, and more engaging campus programming that brings students together and strengthens school pride.
Bio
First Year
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
As a first-year student, I bring a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to getting involved early in my UMBC journey. I have experience in leadership, collaboration, and advocacy through my involvement in previous clubs and academic programs. These experiences have strengthened my communication skills, accountability, and ability to represent voices from a variety of different backgrounds. As a new student, I understand firsthand the transition challenges, academic pressures, and desire for community that many students here at UMBC experience. I am proactive, organized, and eager to effectively advocate for policies and initiatives that directly impact the students’ needs.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to approach this role with collaboration, respect, and willingness to learn. As a first-year senator, I understand the importance of listening to experienced members while also contributing new ideas. I will actively participate in meetings, stay informed on campus issues, and follow through on responsibilities that I commit to. I value teamwork and believe that the best outcomes come from thoughtful discussion and shared effort where everyone can contribute. By maintaining professionalism and staying engaged with the students of UMBC, I will be a trustworthy and positive member of SGA who prioritizes the needs of students above all.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, I focus first on listening. I believe it is important to stay calm, communicative, and focused on understanding different perspectives before proposing solutions. I always make sure to ask clarifying questions, and remain unbias when working to identify common ground. Rather than avoiding disagreement, I approach it as an opportunity to strengthen collaboration and improve decision-making. My goal is to make sure all voices are heard and respected, while resolving conflict in a way that maintains professionalism and keeps the focus on what best serves the student body.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision for UMBC is a campus where every student feels supported, connected, and empowered to succeed. I want students to feel welcomed and informed about the opportunities available to them. I envision stronger communication between students and leadership, more accessible resources, and increased collaboration among organizations. UMBC is at its best when students feel heard and involved, and I want to contribute to a student government that is proactive, transparent, and responsive to the evolving needs of our community.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I plan to prioritize being transparent and dependable. I will actively engage with students through campus events, meetings, and digital platforms to gather feedback and share updates. As a first-year student, I am well-positioned to connect with peers and ensure their concerns are heard and represented. I also plan to provide regular updates about SGA discussions and initiatives so students understand how their input influences decisions. My goal is to create an open line of communication where students feel comfortable sharing their ideas, concerns, and suggestions to help make UMBC a better place.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I believe my leadership and campus involvement have prepared me well to serve as an SGA Senator. As the President and Founder of the ICNA Relief Student Chapter at UMBC, I lead service initiatives that bring students together around community impact. This role has taught me how to organize projects, work with different groups of students, and advocate for initiatives that reflect the needs and interests of the student body.
I also previously served as the Publicity Director for UMBC MSA, where I managed outreach for campus events and helped ensure students stayed informed and engaged. Through that experience, I learned how important clear communication and student feedback are when planning programs that truly serve the community.
In addition, I serve as the Creative Content Lead for Revive, a faith-based educational program at the Islamic Society of Baltimore, one of the largest mosques and community centers in the Baltimore area. In this role, I develop and manage creative content, coordinate messaging, and work with a team to communicate programs and initiatives to a wide community audience.
Together, these experiences have strengthened my ability to listen to students, communicate their concerns, and work collaboratively to develop initiatives. I would bring that same commitment to representation and collaboration to the SGA Senate while working to ensure student voices are heard.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I think good representation really comes down to communication. I would try to stay connected with students, listen to their concerns, and bring those perspectives into conversations and decisions within the Senate.
At the same time, I value working with others. Every senator represents different groups of students, but real progress happens when we share ideas and support initiatives that benefit the broader campus community. I would approach the role with openness, respect for different perspectives, and a willingness to contribute thoughtfully to discussions and the work SGA is doing.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When I deal with conflict, I like to set my expectations from the start so everyone knows where we stand. I’m big on checking in regularly with my teammates to make sure we’re on the same page, and I always try to be honest but polite. I make it a point to listen to people’s concerns and understand their perspective. I approach conflict looking for solutions, not assigning blame, and I focus on clarifying misunderstandings and keeping communication respectful. For me, it’s about finding a way forward that works for everyone involved.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
Having thrived in diverse communities throughout my life, I deeply value the richness that different perspectives bring. My vision for UMBC is to cultivate an environment where every student from international and cultural organizations to religious communities feels truly seen, supported, and included. By actively listening to the unique needs of our diverse student body, including our commuters and first-year students, I am committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring that every individual has the resources and representation they need to flourish
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I want to make sure I am always reachable and ready to listen. Whether through social media, email, or in-person office hours, I plan to stay fully connected with my fellow students. My approach is to go where the students are by attending events and checking in with various organizations. This helps me better understand and advocate for your needs during Senate meetings. I am dedicated to keeping our communication open, consistent, and respectful to ensure that every voice on campus has a meaningful seat at the table
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
My freshman year, I was a first-year ambassador for SGA, making changes behind the scenes and learning how SGA works around the school. My sophomore year, I became the Director of Community Affairs, working to try and bring deals for university students’ favorite restaurants nearby. I had two goals, which was to bring the cities around us to UMBC, and also to work with restaurants near us to make food more affordable. This is something I would also be doing as a senator, tackling issues the student body faces through new and creative means. Communication and the knowledge of how SGA operates is crucial as a senator, both skills I have honed during my time in SGA. Through these roles, I’ve developed a strong focus on listening to and addressing student concerns, something I would also be doing as a senator.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
Every SGA member has a different role to fulfill, with some managing the budget, some taking care of student organizations, and some emailing companies to work out student discounts. This is where communication between the members is vital, as everyone is on the same team, just with different specialties. As a senator, my initiative will likely overlap with an already existing branch’s goal. If I plan to tackle the lack of food options around campus, I will set up meetings with Community Affairs, as they work with companies to get us student discounts. I will also need to work with the Finance Board to get the budget needed for this task. Collaboration is important in order to fulfill the senator role alongside other SGA members, as knowing who does what and bringing them into the conversation early will be key to getting my initiative to work.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
As a Kindergarten teacher and current SGA officer, I’ve found that communication is oftentimes the most effective strategy to address conflict. When a conflict arises, my initial priority is taking a moment to myself so I can approach it with a clear head. I don’t want to insert any of my own biases into the conflict, instead I would look at it from both sides. I would communicate with the other side, explaining my side, and listen and try to understand as they explain their side of the story. Patience and sincerity go a long way towards understanding why a conflict exists, leading to a more effective resolution. Regardless of age, communication is typically always the best way to diffuse a situation and resolve a conflict.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision for UMBC and the student body is for everyone to not just see this campus as a place they have to go to, but a place they want to go to. As someone who stays on campus even during late hours, I see and hear a lot of the issues students face, such as the lack of food options and the inconvenient club timings for commuter students. As a senator, I would be collaborating alongside other SGA officers to fix the biggest issues students face, such as working with Community Affairs and Finance Board to get more food options available. Through my initiative, my goal is to remove the obstacles that prevent students from enjoying their time here, so that years from now all of us can look back on our time at UMBC with fondness, not something we had to overcome.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
Communication is a two-way street. I will absolutely have set office hours for students to come see me, but not everyone can make those times. That’s why my main strategy would instead be to meet students where they are. As the Director of Community Affairs, I’ve utilized short accessible surveys to get an idea of where the student population stands on issues, and if something isn’t broken, no need to fix it. As a senator, I would be using the same method, sending out surveys regularly throughout the year to gauge what issues are arising as the year goes on. This ensures I’m constantly aware of new challenges and can work to eliminate the biggest obstacles to student success.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I was a part of my high school’s student government association and served as the presidential advisor in my junior year. As the presidential advisor, I served as the bridge between the president, the teacher advisor and the rest of the students. My duties also included filling in for the president or vice president if they were absent. On top of this, I was the public relations officer for ACASC (Allegany County Association of Student Councils.) As the public relations officer, I was in charge of communicating state and county events with the student council associations in the county. I was in charge of the ACASC instagram where I was required to post important information about general body meetings, volunteer opportunities and showcasing student talent and achievements.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
In order to fulfill my role, I can guarantee that I will attend every meeting and do my best to contribute to each conversation meaningfully. In addition, I am confident in my ability to communicate my ideas with other SGA members.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
In general, using logic that seems rational doesn’t always help solve a disagreement. There is almost always an emotional component when it comes to arguments, and it’s important to address these elephants in the room to insure that all parties leave feeling satisfied. With that being said, I try to rationally assess the disagreement as gently as possible, in order to keep everyone’s emotions in check. If I happen to get into an argument, I always take a step back and assess my situation. I know I am a stubborn person, which means I need to take accountability when I get too impatient or militant. Oftentimes, I realize that what I am so pressed about isn’t worth fighting for, and the argument can be dropped and/or a compromise can be made.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision for UMBC is one where there is full transparency between the student body and staff. I want to represent my fellow university students, and make them aware of what is happening in and around campus. Likewise, I want UMBC as an institution to listen to student concerns, complaints and opinions that otherwise go unheard. I envision the SGA to be an organization dedicated to democracy, education and welfare; the bridge between the student body and UMBC staff.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
As a senate member, I want to communicate with my constituents in good faith. Presenting myself as approachable and easy to work with. I frequently check my email and try to answer all important calls, emails and text messages within a timely manner. This also means that I am open to negotiating with others and listening to their requests and opinions when it comes to communication.
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
My leadership and advocacy experiences have prepared me to continue serving as a senator. I first became involved as a First Year Ambassador, where I learned about the inner workings of SGA and how different roles work together to support students. That experience led me to serve as a senator, where I’ve focused on addressing food insecurity on campus and advocating for stronger support for vulnerable student groups. Outside of SGA, my role as a STRiVE Coach with the Center for Democracy and Civic Life helped me better understand how to create inclusive spaces and how to empower others to be leaders too. I also work with the Mosaic to help plan multicultural events that celebrate the diversity of our campus community. Through these experiences, I’ve come to better understand the challenges many students face, and I want to continue advocating for initiatives that make UMBC more supportive for everyone.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
As a senator, I plan to work closely with other SGA members by maintaining open communication, actively contributing to discussions, and ensuring that our initiatives genuinely reflect student needs. I believe teamwork is most effective when everyone feels heard, so I prioritize listening to my peers, offering thoughtful ideas, and supporting initiatives that improve campus life. During my previous term, I collaborated with Senator Sethu Gokulakrishnan to develop a survey assessing the prevalence of food insecurity on campus and identifying ways to strengthen resources like Retriever Essentials, the free grocery store for students. That experience showed me how effective collaboration can lead to meaningful action, and I plan to continue building on this work. By strengthening partnerships within SGA, I hope to help turn student concerns into initiatives that create real, lasting improvements for the UMBC community.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When it comes to conflict, I see it as an opportunity to strengthen ideas rather than a setback. I approach disagreements with empathy and intention, taking the time to listen and understand the perspectives and experiences that shape others’ views. In diverse spaces like UMBC, differences in opinion are inevitable, but they can also lead to more thoughtful and effective solutions when approached with respect. Through my leadership and advocacy experiences, I’ve learned how to deescalate tense conversations, find common ground, and guide discussions back toward shared goals. At the same time, empathy does not mean avoiding difficult conversations. It means engaging with honesty and respect while remaining firm on issues that impact students. By fostering open dialogue and mutual understanding, I hope to help create an environment where differences are not barriers, but opportunities to collaborate, problem-solve, and move our community forward together.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision for UMBC is to be a welcoming and safe space that truly reflects the vibrancy of our diverse community. While our campus is incredibly multicultural, we currently lack campus-wide events that meaningfully brings these identities together. I envision establishing Golden Records as a lasting UMBC tradition: an annual multicultural event where students can share their cultures through music, storytelling, food, and art. Inspired by the idea of preserving voices and histories, Golden Records would highlight the traditions, stories, and lived experiences that shape our campus community. More importantly, it would create opportunities for students to learn from one another and build connections across cultures. By establishing Golden Records as a legacy event, we can celebrate the cultures that shape UMBC while building a tradition of unity, pride, and belonging for future generations of Retrievers.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
As a senator, I will ensure students feel heard and know that their concerns actually lead to change. I plan to stay connected with my peers by being accessible, transparent, and proactive. This means making my senate office hours more accessible and staying available through email and social media. I also want to create anonymous feedback boxes so students who may not feel comfortable speaking up in public still have a way to share their concerns. My experience in advocacy has taught me that real change starts with listening, so I won’t just wait for students to come to me, I’ll actively seek out their perspectives. I also plan to provide regular updates on what’s being worked on and how students can get involved. At the end of the day, I want to help bridge the gap between students and SGA so we can push for real change together.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I currently serve as a UMBC SGA Senator, where I have successfully advanced my initiative and worked collaboratively to represent student interests. As a Senator so far, I have created and established the Director of International Student Affairs position, the first-ever role in SGA dedicated specifically to advocating for and supporting international students at UMBC.
I am also currently interning in the Maryland General Assembly with the Maryland Legislative Latino Caucus, where I am gaining hands-on experience in bill writing, policy research, and public speaking.
Prior to UMBC, I served as Senate President in a competitive mock legislature program, where I led debate, managed legislation, and strengthened my understanding of parliamentary procedure.
These experiences have prepared me to navigate UMBC’s Senate processes effectively, build successful initiatives, and advocate confidently for the UMBC student body.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to fulfill my role by leading with collaboration, accountability, and respect. SGA works best when members actively listen to one another, share ideas openly, and approach challenges as a team. I will continue to build strong working relationships with fellow senators and all SGA officers to ensure our efforts are aligned and student-focused.
I value preparation and clear communication, whether that means thoroughly reviewing legislation, contributing thoughtfully during descussion, or following through on initiatives. I also believe in being adaptable and open to feedback, recognizing that the best outcomes often come from collective input.
By staying engaged, dependable, and solutions-oriented, I will work alongside my peers to advance meaningful initiatives and effectively represent the interests of the UMBC student body.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, I prioritize understanding before responding. I begin by listening carefully to all perspectives involved, ensuring each person feels heard and respected. Active listening often de-escalates tension and helps clarify the root of the issue rather than just the surface disagreement.
I rely on open and direct communication to create space for honest dialogue. By asking thoughtful questions and restating concerns to confirm understanding, I work to identify common ground and shared goals.
I also use mediation strategies. I remain neutral, setting clear expectations for respectful conversation and guiding the discussion toward solutions rather than blame. I believe most conflicts can be resolved when people feel acknowledged and when the focus shifts from “winning” an argument to collaboratively solving a problem.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision for UMBC is a campus where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed academically, socially, and professionally. I want our university to be inclusive, not just in words, but in action, where policies, programming, and representation reflect the full diversity of our student body.
An equitable UMBC means recognizing that students start from different places and ensuring resources are accessible to those who need them most, whether that is academic support, financial advocacy, or identity-based spaces.
Most importantly, I envision a thriving student body that feels connected to campus life and confident that their voices matter. SGA should be transparent, approachable, and proactive, always willing and ready to improve in response to student feedback and the evolving needs of our community.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I believe communication should be clear, consistent, and welcoming. I have an SGA Instagram account, @sofia.umbc.senate, where I share updates on my initiatives, important SGA information, and relevant UMBC news so students can easily stay informed.
I am always just an email away and truly value when students reach out with ideas, concerns, or questions. I also hold office hours at 2 PM in the SGA office for anyone who would like to stop by and talk in person!
My goal is to create multiple accessible ways for students to connect with me and to ensure they feel heard, respected, and represented.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
During the 2025-2026 school year, I had the pleasure of being a senator in the SGA. In this position, I have worked to increase sustainability and environmental stewardship at UMBC. I worked with another student to create the “Plastic-Free Gum Initiative,” educating students on the plastic ingredients in gum and offering a sample of a plastic-free alternative. I am in the process of reopening the Landscape Stewardship Committee. Going forward, I would like for this committee to serve as a general “Sustainability and Climate Committee” to create a space for conversations about sustainability and further develop my initiatives with the support of other students, faculty, and staff. In addition to my position as a senator, I work as an Eco-Ambassador with the Office of Sustainability, where I serve as a peer educator and plan events to support UMBC’s campus ecosystem.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
As a current senator, I have been involved in senate meetings, committee meetings, and discussions. Going forward, I hope to involve other senators in my initiatives where applicable, so that I can approach the problem solving process from a more diverse perspective. I would also like to have more of a connection with the executive branch so that I can strengthen my understanding of the wants and needs of UMBC students.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, I typically seek to understand the other person/people by listening and trying to see things from their perspective. I ask questions when something confuses me, and I clarify details about my own perspective.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision is for UMBC to be a leader in sustainability, and for UMBC students to be environmental stewards. I hope to encourage students to make changes that they are passionate about, both on and off campus.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I would like to make the senate more visible to all undergraduate students, so they know that they have a place to come to if they have ideas for improvements at UMBC. While I believe that surveys are a useful and convenient way to gain information about what the student body wants, I think I would benefit from interacting directly with students to hear more perspectives and establish a deeper connection. To accomplish this, I plan to table on Commons Mainstreet during my SGA office hours and host a few informational meetings to showcase my initiative ideas and open the floor for others to share theirs.
Bio
First Year
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
Throughout my first year at UMBC, I’ve attended nearly every Senate meeting as a student and obtained an incredible amount of experience participating in their discussions, procedures, and initiatives. In my first encounter with the Senate, I presented the issue of a lack of ability for non-music majors to exercise their musical hobbies due to the drought of practice spaces on campus, propelling talks with the music department on how the issue could be solved. Additionally, this spring, I’m serving as a First-Year-Ambassador to the Senate, allowing me to have an even deeper insight into each Senator’s initiatives and make efforts towards contributing to their causes.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
Based on my experience witnessing the wide variety of circumstances that are presented in each Senate meeting and how the Senate handles them with the SGA’s assistance, I will commit to maximizing outreach with the student body, faculty, and members of the SGA as partners in obtaining resources and moving the SGA’s initiatives forward. By working in parallel with these 3 bodies, By working in parallel with these 3 bodies, I believe I’ll be able to help maximize the efficiency of the Senate as a whole.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When I’m in a situation where conflict is present, I aim to understand both sides that are presented and the fundamental reasons behind why each side has their opinions. From my prior experiences witnessing conflict, each side will have genuine feelings and beliefs that lead them to one opinion or another, and it’s important to acknowledge that rather than jumping to conclusions. I try to consider where each side’s beliefs overlap, think actively and critically, and forge a resolution based on those factors.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
I envision a future for UMBC where the university’s student body community is connected, enjoying the pursuit of their college experience and degree as actively curious students, and able to use a variety of resources to bring each other together. I believe that in order to ensure that goal is attained, the quality of life for the student body must be enhanced, and we must be able to provide those very opportunities and resources to one another.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I will communicate all the information I have in its most accessible and straight-to-the-point form. Recently, I’ve summarized some of the important resources discussed during the Senate’s initiative planning meetings into an email for the Senators’ future reference, and I’ve additionally provided comprehensive tips and tricks for team members in my classes’ group projects. On top of continuing this practice, I plan to consistently respond to all email and WebEx communications sent to me in a timely manner.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I bring several years of student leadership and advocacy experience. At Baltimore City Community College, I served as President of the Student Government Association and then as an SGA Senator. In those roles, I worked with administrators, faculty, and students to address concerns, improve campus resources, and represent student voices in institutional conversations.
In the Genders and Sexuality Alliance, I served as the treasurer, helping create programming that supported inclusion and student engagement. In addition, I served as Secretary of the Student Leadership Club and am an inducted member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, where I participated in leadership development programs. Through TRIO Student Support Services and mentoring opportunities, I have learned from students with many different backgrounds. As a transfer student at UMBC, I hope to continue listening, building connections, and supporting thoughtful solutions that strengthen the campus community.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
While working alongside other members of SGA, I plan to approach the role with respect, collaboration, and open communication. I want to be someone my fellow members can easily talk to when they are developing ideas, addressing concerns, or working through challenges. I believe strong working relationships help the student government function more effectively. I intend to listen carefully to the perspectives of other SGA members and contribute thoughtfully during discussions so that decisions reflect a range of viewpoints.
I also want to support the initiatives and projects my peers are working on when they benefit students and strengthen campus life. When members feel respected and supported, it becomes easier to work together toward shared goals. By encouraging open conversation and cooperation, can all contribute to a positive and productive environment within SGA where members feel comfortable collaborating and working together to represent the student body.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When conflict arises, I try to step back and focus on understanding the situation before reacting. I start by listening carefully to everyone involved so that each person feels heard. Often people simply want to know their perspective is being acknowledged. Once everyone has had a chance to speak, I try to help identify where people agree and what the shared goal is. From there, it becomes easier to talk through possible solutions together.
I try to keep conversations calm and respectful so the focus stays on solving the problem rather than assigning blame. I have learned that patience and understanding go a long way. When people feel respected and included in the conversation, they are usually more open to working together and finding a solution that benefits the group.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
Sometimes small changes can have a meaningful impact on students’ daily experiences. For example, adding more microwaves across campus could help students who spend long days between classes. I would also like to explore creating private spaces where students can attend virtual doctor or therapist appointments, since telehealth has become an important part of healthcare.
My vision for UMBC is a campus where students feel supported, connected, and comfortable being part of the community. Student government plays an important role in helping students feel that their voices matter and that their concerns are taken seriously. I also believe accessibility should remain a priority, including digital accessibility and clear communication about campus resources, so that all students can participate fully at UMBC.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
One of the most important parts of student government is making sure students feel comfortable sharing their concerns and ideas. Therefore, I believe communication should be open and easy for students. I want students to know their voices will be heard and that their perspectives will be brought into conversations within SGA so their concerns are represented in decision-making.
I enjoy attending as many campus events and student organization activities as I can because it helps me stay connected to what students are experiencing and talking about. Being present in those spaces helps me keep a pulse on the campus community and hear directly from students.
I also want to help communicate campus resources via social media so students know what support is available to them. Clear and accessible communication about services, opportunities, and support programs can help more students benefit from what UMBC offers.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I served as an SGA Senator during the 2025-2026 cycle, leading two key initiatives: the True Grit’s Healthy Dessert Corner Initiative and the Ride to Bike Initiative. Through these projects, I gathered and analyzed student feedback, met with campus partners, and worked to translate student concerns into actionable proposals. This experience has strengthened my ability to advocate effectively, communicate professionally with administration, and follow through on long-term initiatives.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I plan to fulfill my role by maintaining consistent communication, actively listening to updates from fellow members, and contributing thoughtful feedback as necessary. Collaboration works best when everyone feels heard, so I prioritize clarity, accountability, and mutual respect in team settings.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, I focus on understanding each person’s priorities and goals before forming conclusions. I ask direct but respectful clarifying questions and think through possible compromises before responding. By staying calm and mindful of tone, I aim to move discussions toward productive and mutually beneficial outcomes.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision is to create an environment where UMBC students feel comfortable remaining on campus beyond their classes, rather than feeling the need to commute home immediately. I hope to contribute to a campus atmosphere that supports students’ physical, academic, and social comfort throughout the day.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I plan to prioritize active listening by creating approachable opportunities for students to share feedback, whether through direct conversations, surveys, or campus events. I will ask clarifying questions to fully understand concerns and ensure transparency by providing updates on my initiative’s progress.
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
experience that would help support student improvement and school events. Through my involvement in academic and group activities, I have learned how to listen to others’ ideas, represent diverse perspectives, and help find solutions that benefit the larger community. I am organized, responsible, and capable of helping plan or promote school events that encourage student participation and engagement. Additionally, I am comfortable speaking up for student needs, sharing feedback with administration, and working collaboratively with other senate members to improve the school environment. My goal is to help create opportunities where students feel heard, supported, and excited to participate in school life while contributing positively to academic and social activities.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to fulfill my role by staying collaborative, respectful, and open-minded when working with other SGA members. I will actively listen to different ideas and contribute suggestions that support student needs and school improvement. Communication will be a priority, which would mean attending meetings prepared, sharing updates, or helping solve problems as a team. I will also take initiative in assigned tasks, follow through on responsibilities, and help organize or promote school events. When challenges arise, I will focus on finding solutions rather than conflicts, ensuring decisions benefit the student body. My goal is to support SGA’s mission by being reliable, accountable, and willing to work with others to create a positive and engaging school environment.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
To address conflict, I focus on communication, understanding, and finding solutions that benefit everyone involved. First, I listen carefully to each person’s perspective to make sure everyone feels heard and respected. I try to remain calm and open-minded, even if opinions differ. Then, I encourage respectful discussion so that the group can identify the root of the issue. Once the problem is clear, I work with others to find a fair compromise or solution that supports the goals of the group. I believe that addressing conflict early, maintaining professionalism, and focusing on teamwork helps resolve disagreements in a productive way.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision for UMBC is to create a more connected, inclusive, and supportive campus community where every student feels heard and empowered. I want the student body to feel represented in decisions that impact their academic and social experiences. This includes strengthening communication between students and campus leadership, expanding opportunities for student involvement, and supporting events that bring diverse groups of students together. I also hope to help promote resources that support student success, including academic support, wellness services, and professional development opportunities. Ultimately, my vision is for UMBC to be a place where students not only succeed academically but also feel a strong sense of belonging, community, and pride in being part of the university.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I plan to facilitate communication with my constituents by being approachable, accessible, and proactive in gathering student feedback. I will encourage open dialogue by regularly checking in with students through conversations, meetings, and campus events to understand their concerns and ideas. I also plan to use digital platforms, such as email and social media, to share updates, provide information about SGA initiatives, and create opportunities for students to voice their opinions. Additionally, I will make an effort to represent student perspectives accurately when working with other SGA members and university leadership. By maintaining consistent communication and actively listening, I hope to ensure that students feel informed, represented, and comfortable sharing their thoughts.
Bio
Junior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I have multiple experiences I can bring to this role I am seeking. In high school and college, I held multiple leadership positions, such as president of the Muslim Student Association, class rep for sisterhood, member of my high school SGA, president of the class of 2024, RSA director of communication, etc. The most aligned experience I have is that I am a current senator who is currently working on two initiatives. The free menstrual product initiative and the accessibility walkthrough initiative. Being in the Senate has given me experience on what to expect and what to aim for in the coming years. Being in the Senate next year will allow me to continue my initiatives as well as work with my fellow senators to better UMBC.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend on fulfilling my role by making sure I’m attending all office hours, going to my weekly senate meetings, and having good communication with other senators and the advisor of the senate. I also plan to continue to use my SGA campaign page to promote SGA events as well as communicate with the student body. It’s important to have not just good communication but also to build friendships with the people you work with. As a current senator, I can say I have made the best friendships through SGA, not just by going to senate meetings. But by office hours, tabling, and SGA events.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
Strategies I would use to address conflict are talking to them one-on-one; if it’s too tense, I would rather speak in person so they can hear my tone. Sometimes texts or emails could be misunderstood. Sometimes, all conflicts just don’t get resolved because there’s too much in it, but as long as I can work with the person peacefully, I think that is important. Having boundaries and setting ground rules helps make things move smoothly.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body is to be a more social and active campus. I know it’s a commuter school, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have any liveliness. Another would be making sure students feel included; it’s all about inclusivity within all communities and having a diverse population.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I plan to facilitate communications with my constituents by having my office hours either in the SGA office for more one-on-one private talks or in the commons. I will also continue to use my Instagram page because most students don’t always have the time to come in for office hours. Having multiple options would bring convenience to the constituents as well.
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
As a student at UMBC enrolled in a STEM program, I regularly collaborate with classmates during labs and group projects, which has strengthened my ability to work effectively within a team. Additionally, as the secretary of a student organization at UMBC, I help manage communication within the club by organizing meeting notes, ensuring that team members stay on task, and helping make sure responsibilities are fulfilled so the club can move forward toward our shared goals.
This role has strengthened my organizational and communication skills while giving me valuable experience working within a leadership team. Combined with my academic experience in a STEM program, I believe these skills will allow me to contribute effectively to the Student Government Association and serve the student body.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
To fulfill my role in SGA, I intend to prioritize collaboration and open communication. I believe in the power of teamwork and the importance of representing the student body by actively listening to the ideas of not only other SGA board members but also the broader student community.
By working closely with fellow student representatives and staying, I hope to contribute to initiatives that support the school and encourage student involvement in campus organizations and activities. Through teamwork and constant communication, I want to help ensure that student voices are heard and that SGA continues to create opportunities that strengthen the UMBC community.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
As the eldest sibling growing up, handling conflict has been something I have dealt with often. Because of that experience, I have learned how to stay calm, listen carefully, and help find solutions when disagreements arise. As a student body representative, applying those skills on a larger scale is something I feel confident about.
When conflict occurs, I focus on making sure every party feels heard by listening to all perspectives. From there, I work toward finding a solution that benefits the entire group and helps move everyone forward.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
I envision UMBC as a campus where every student feels heard, supported, and connected to the community. Students are the backbone of this campus, and UMBC should continue to bridge the gap and strengthen the relationship between students and university leadership.
I would also like to see more opportunities where students can grow not only academically but also socially. While every student is here to earn their degree, student leadership and involvement can make the journey along the way more meaningful and enjoyable by promoting an inclusive and engaging environment where students can truly thrive.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I plan to facilitate communication with the student body by continuously being dependable, approachable, and proactive in seeking student feedback and engaging with the UMBC community. I want students to feel comfortable sharing their ideas and suggestions in whatever way they feel most comfortable.
I am willing to go the extra mile to ensure that student voices are heard while also maintaining the integrity of the Student Government Association. My goal is to ensure that student perspectives are represented in decisions that impact campus life and the UMBC community as a whole.
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I am currently a Senate First Year Ambassador, which enables me to assist Senators with their initiatives and get an insider look into what goes on within the Senate early on. This semester I am working with the Speaker of the Senate and two other Senators on their initiaves so expect some big things to come out soon! I was also part of the STRiVE ‘26 cohort, where I learned more about how I can use my unique skills to best lead in any role I step into. One of the activities at STRiVE allowed me to meet Faculty leaders on campus who could help me with my role as a Senator. Using my experience at STRiVE, I will dedicate myself to representing the needs of the student body to create a better campus for everyone.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to emphasize collaboration in whatever work I do and with people within SGA. I plan to utilize all the resources (students and faculty alike) I can to best serve the student body. I believe the best way to do this is by approaching the role and people as an open book, as someone willing to work hard. Collaborating with other members of SGA will directly benefit the students, helping to breathe life into my work so they don’t stay in the discussion stage and move towards execution.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
I take on a Mediator role when it comes to addressing conflict, seeing the situation from all points of view, and keeping an open mindset when listening to both sides of the situation. I make an active effort to emphasize that I am there not to take any sides, but to help both sides identify common ground and ensure all voices are heard to guide the conversation toward a respectful outcome.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision for UMBC is one where all students can confidently identify their place within campus, whether this be through a club, community, or friend group. I will work to ensure that everyone feels like they matter and belong at UMBC, and have the voice to make a change within the larger community. My main focus for my role is to make this vision a reality by influencing the path UMBC takes to achieve that vision.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I plan to maintain direct outreach with all students, ensuring they have the channels to share concerns and feedback. By prioritizing open communication, I will keep students informed of any initiative progress and respond promptly to any concerns or input. My main forms of communication will be through my office hours and online platforms such as Instagram or Gmail. My goal is to create a way for students to use their voice and feel informed/empowered to engage with SGA decisions.
Bio
Senior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I bring experience as a current SGA Senator and former Senate secretary, where I have actively represented my peers by working on initiatives that benefit students, voting on legislation that affects campus life and collaborating with fellow senators to bring positive change to campus. One initiative that I have been working on is the resting space initiative for commuter students where I am working towards creating a space for students to relax and recharge. I have also worked with other senators to advocate towards free menstrual products by restocking menstrual product dispensers in the dorms and planning an event that provides free menstrual products to students. Additionally, as a Resident Assistant at Erickson Hall, I have developed skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. I am committed to continuing to serve the students at UMBC and implementing initiatives that make a real impact.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I am a strong believer in the importance of teamwork. As a current Senator, I collaborate closely with my peers to ensure student needs are represented in every decision. Whether we are voting on legislations or working on our initiatives, the final goal is to benefit the student body. A lot of the initiatives that Senators have taken on wouldn’t be possible if there weren’t collaboration and teamwork. Through collaboration and open communication, we can create meaningful change that directly benefits students and strengthens the UMBC community.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
I address conflict by addressing the situation with empathy, logic and professionalism, with my main goal being to understand all perspectives before I come to a solution. Most of the Senators currently come from different backgrounds with differing perspectives. During our meetings, we have had differing opinions, and I have always made sure to hear every side actively, ask questions to clarify concerns, and consider feedback thoughtfully. When I strongly believe in an idea, I advocate for it respectfully, but if I realize that my perspective has flaws, I remain open to feedback and adjust accordingly. This approach has helped me collaborate effectively with peers, find compromises and make decisions that are fair and student-centered.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
UMBC has a huge commuter population. Commuting to campus can be exhausting and stressful, especially in a heavily academic campus like UMBC and many commuters struggle to find a comfortable space on campus to relax and recharge. I believe that resting spaces are essential for supporting mental well-being, reducing stress, and increasing productivity. My vision for UMBC is to create comfortable and accessible resting spaces to support student well-being. Ultimately, I hope to create a campus culture where students feel supported, cared for and empowered to thrive academically, socially and personally.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I plan to facilitate communication with the students at UMBC through multiple different ways, including social media, surveys and in person office hours at the SGA office where they can drop by anytime to share their concerns and ideas. I will actively seek student feedback on initiatives and campus issues and ensure that student voices are heard and considered in SGA decisions. For example, during Senate’s initiative day this semester, I was able to talk to a lot of commuter students and get their opinions on my resting space initiative and get feedback on ways I can improve it. This allowed me to gain perspectives that I hadn’t considered. By maintaining open and accessible communication, I aim to ensure that all students feel represented.
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
As a current SGA Senator for the 2025-2026 academic year, I’ve developed a passion for advocating for student voices. I’ve engaged with students on a daily basis about their concerns on campus, participated in Town Halls and Senate Initiative Day, where I directly discussed with students, and ways they want to implement their ideas on campus, and had the opportunity to tell students about my initiatives and the work I am doing as a Senator. As I run to be an SGA Senator again for the upcoming year, I want to continue working to bridge the gap between the SGA and the student body. Being an SGA Senator has shaped me into the leader and advocate I am today, and I want to utilize those skills to consider not only my voice, but also the voices of the entire UMBC community.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to fulfill my role as SGA Senator through outreach, communication, and community engagement. As an SGA Senator, I will prioritize attending all meetings, representing student’s voices before staff and faculty, and communicating with other members of SGA in order to promote student advocacy. I want to be able to interact with students, whether through town halls, office hours, or through social media, where students do not feel afraid to express their concerns or ideas, but rather, empowered, respected, and heard. My goal is to advocate for student voices in SGA Senate meetings, work with other Senators, and SGA members to make sure students’ perspectives are taken into account.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
Strategies I use to address conflict are identifying the issue, communicating with necessary stakeholders and individuals, and finding a middle ground to the conflict. In a time of conflict, I would reach out and discuss with other SGA officers, students, and faculty to gain insight and multiple perspectives around the issue. Additionally, I would use active listening and be open to different perspectives. There may be disagreements during the process due to different ideas or proposals, but I want to understand where each perspective is coming from and how that contributes to the solution. Additionally, I would work to create a middle ground that everyone mutually agrees on and is satisfied with.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body is to allow a space for students to express their opinions and thoughts. Every student has a voice, and every voice deserves to be heard. In addition, I do not want to work by myself, but work with students, and create my initiatives and projects based on students’ voices. This year, I had the opportunity to work on my Senate initiative, which focused on improving bathroom signage across campus, especially in older academic buildings. I want to continue working on new initiatives, whether it is trying to find a solution to parking, expanding library hours, or expanding food options over the weekends. I want to work based on student desires.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I plan to facilitate communication with my constituents through outreach, both by face-to-face conversation and on social media. I want students to be aware that SGA Senators have office hours, we hold Senate meetings every Monday at 5:30 pm, and students are always welcome! I would like to promote many Senate-related events on social media, whether through a video or a post, so students are aware of all SGA events or meetings. For students who do not use social media, I would like to host more in-person SGA events, such as an info session, where students can ask any questions they may have about SGA. Additionally, I would like to improve promotions of the SGA website on MyUmbc, for students to know where they can find information and resources in relation to SGA.
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
My experience as treasurer for both Potomac Hall and Erickson Hall has given me a deep understanding of student leadership and campus involvement. I managed budgets, tracked spending, and supported residents’ events and activities. I worked closely with other student leaders when it came to planning events that brought people together. At times, I took over if the president wasn’t there and led the discussion, and often presented alongside the president.
These positions gave me a great sense of organization, communication, and collaboration. While also giving me the ability to be decisive when it came to supporting our community. These leadership roles have helped me understand better how important student activities and events are for having an engaged and happy campus environment. I would love to bring this experience to the Senate and create meaningful campus activities.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to fulfill my role while working alongside other members of SGA by engaging in active, productive communication and helping out in any way I can. Teamwork is key, and in order to work as a team, I will make sure I listen to everyone’s ideas and contribute respectfully.
I will stay engaged with the student body by listening to feedback and bringing those ideas to SGA meetings. Working with other members helps me create meaningful activities that benefit the campus community. I plan to do this by being reliable, cooperative, and focused on the Senate goal.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When it comes to addressing conflict, I always actively listen so that I can understand the problem and everyone feels heard. People have different perspectives/opinions, Which is why I try to stay open-minded to keep the situation from getting worse. When I have a disagreement with someone, I try to find a solution that is fair for everyone. I always try to talk to everyone so we can find a middle ground and we aren’t just bringing each other down.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
My vision for UMBC is a campus where everyone is supported and encouraged to get involved. The UMBC student body should have opportunities that promote building new connections and creating a more engaged community. I want everyone to feel welcome and represented. I don’t want people to feel left out for any reason. Having campus events and open communication between students and SGA are happening, so we can make students’ voices shape campus life.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I plan to facilitate communication with my constituents by being approachable and engaged. I wanted students to feel comfortable to speak their mind so I will make an effort to talk with students all around campus. I will mainly use social media to share updates about SGA initiatives while also gathering input from students. I will make sure to bring the concerns and feedbacks I hear from students and bring it to SGA discussions.
Bio
Sophomore
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I am honored to serve as a current SGA senator, a role I have held for the past three semesters. In this position, I have collaborated with students and campus stakeholders on initiatives that improve wellbeing across the UMBC community. I led the Puppy Love initiative in Spring2025 and Spring2026, a popular event supporting student mental health. I also organized the Food Forest Clean Up in Fall2025 to revitalize and expand our campus orchard with partners including the Sustainability Center, Retriever Essentials, Retriever Grounds, the Garden Student Organization, the Environmental Task Force, Eco-Ambassadors, and volunteers. Currently, I am helping build a partnership between SGA and the Center for Social Justice Dialogues to expand belonging at UMBC and advance Inclusive Excellence and Social Justice. Through SGA and my roles as a Sondheim Public Affairs Scholar, Model UN delegate, Writing Tutor, and Swim Club Treasurer, I have strengthened my public speaking, collaboration, organization, and community-building skills.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to fulfill my role alongside other members of SGA by co-fostering a collective community and positive space within SGA. This will be done by continuing to be a reliable team member for our community, prioritizing communication between officers, and bringing in good energy and full commitment to our space. Additionally, I intend to maintain these values when interacting and collaborating with administrators, professors, and the entire student body; as well as with the broader community of Baltimore and Maryland.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, some strategies, or rather, core values I draw on are clear communication, listening with intent, flexibility, transparency, reciprocity, respect, and empathy. I see these values as vital to addressing conflict, as they guide my interactions with all parties involved while maintaining an open mind that is empathetic and solution/healing oriented. Additionally, I hope that such values will not only help resolve conflict, but, most importantly, work to prevent conflict all together and foster good energy for our collaborations.
What is your vision for UMBC and the UMBC student body?
I envision UMBC as a supportive and safe space for students to be innovative and feel empowered to dare to dream for the type of experience, community, and future they (we) want. As senator, student’s voices and needs will continue to inform the initiatives I propose and support. Inspired by the urgency of student’s concerns in our context of climate change and unprecedented state-lead violent times, some specific ideas include: reviving/expanding campus green spaces, such the Food Forest, making free fresh produce available, and fostering an inclusive safe environment. Hence, my stance to collaborate with the Center for Social Justice Dialogues and their goals of expanding the circle of belonging at UMBC and embodying its dedication towards Inclusive Excellence and Social Justice. I am also actively looking for collaborations in creating ways to keep each other informed and safe.
How do you plan to faciliate communications with your constituents?
I plan to facilitate communication with my constituents by not only reaching out to the networks that I am already a part of, which include the Sondheim Public Affairs Program, Honors College, Model UN, Writing Center, and the Swim Club community, but also through my senator social media platform. In such a platform I will reach a larger UMBC community by sharing SGA posts, encouraging students to share with me ideas on changes/initiatives they would like to see at UMBC, and fostering community through collaborations. Additionally, I will continue to be active on this platform, as I have been for the past 2 semesters, to use it as means to communicate and connect with students throughout my term. Furthermore, I plan to be present at as many general SGA events as possible so I can cultivate my connections/relations with our student community in person.
Bio
Senior
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
I previously served in SGA as a Finance Board Representative during the 2024-2025 school year where I worked alongside other representatives to discuss how to fairly allocate budget requests from student organizations. Through this role, I was able to develop a strong understanding of responsible budget management, building one-on-one relationships with student organizations, and providing equitable funding to the student body.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to fulfill my role as Treasurer of SGA by engaging with other SGA leaders such as the president, speaker of senate, VPSO, etc. to stay informed about SGA’s initiatives across the different branches and also contributing personal ideas to help ensure SGA effectively supports the needs of the student body. Furthermore, I am eager to work alongside Finance Board Representatives and the VPSO to review budgets and allocate funds in a fair manner.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
When addressing conflict, I believe it is important to prioritize active listening so that all members of the finance board and student organizations feel heard and respected. In Finance Board meetings, differing perspectives are inevitable when discussing budget allocations. Because of this, I think it is essential to work towards a common ground solution and reach an ultimate, fair consensus that aligns with SGA’s standards and protocols while also thoughtfully advocating for student organizations and considering how we can best support them to reach responsible and equitable funding decisions.
What is your vision for maintaining good relationships with all the people who have a stake in
how SGA spends and allocates the Student Activity Fee?
The Student Activity Fee supports many entities across campus such as the Student Events Board (SEB), The Retriever Weekly (TRW), and all other clubs that contribute to campus life. Because these organizations all have a stake in how SGA allocates funding, it is important that they feel informed and supported throughout the budgeting process. In addition to the outreach that finance board representatives already conduct, I would make an effort to personally connect with student organization leaders through email and during treasurer trainings to ensure they have opportunities to ask questions and better understand the funding process. Furthermore, I have also noticed that some long-existing, active organizations on campus sometimes do not participate in the budgeting process, because new treasurers may be unfamiliar with the treasurer training or semesterly budgeting process. To address this, I would personally reach out to organizations with active accounts to check in and confirm whether they plan to participate in the semesterly budgeting process while also making an effort to help guide new treasurers through the steps needed to request funding. By taking a more proactive approach, I hope to ensure that organizations do not miss out on opportunities simply because they are unfamiliar with the process.
How do you plan to be a resource to student organizations?
As treasurer, my ultimate goal is to ensure that organizations feel supported and informed when navigating through SGA’s funding process. When I served as a Finance Board Representative, I worked with student leaders who advocated for funding of their organizations at our weekly meetings and, in many instances, we would have students strongly advocate for their budget requests that unfortunately went against SGA’s funding guidelines. While some requests for funding were denied, the experience reinforced the importance of clearly explaining the reasoning behind financial decisions and helping organizations understand the budgeting process. Because of this, I hope to serve as a supportive liaison for student organizations by making myself available to answer questions, guide them through budget requests, and potentially host office hours where organizations can receive assistance before submitting semesterly budgets or their SAHAS application so we can advocate for as much money as possible.
Bio
Senior
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
The experience I bring to the Vice President for Student Organizations (VPSO) is the knowledge I gained from my past three years working with student organizations as part of the Student Organizations Support Team (SOST) within the Student Government Association (SGA). During my first year at UMBC, I participated in the SGA’s First-Year Ambassadors program, through which I shadowed SOST and the work they do supporting student organizations, such as with LeadingOrgs, and the Student Organization Resource Center. Following this experience, I became the Student Organization Committee Representative. While in this role, I built connections with more student organizations on campus, continued my participation and work with SOST, and learned a new role on the Student Organization Committee. This past year, as VPSO, I have continued to support student organizations through the development of the UMBC Student Orgs Instagram, the Club Debt Relief Fund, and the Student Org Memory Cabinet.
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
I intend to fulfill my role while working alongside other members of the SGA by continuing to operate as I have while currently in this position. By this, I mean maintaining an open and collaborative relationship with other members of the SGA so that the work done by the VPSO role is transparent in its goals and motivations for supporting student organizations.
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
I am someone who understands that collaborating with others can be a deeply beneficial experience for both the work that is being done and the people participating. From this experience, I also understand that conflict should always be addressed with the severity it requires. So, within my actions in this role, I intend to make a safe and collaborative environment that will allow for productive conversations to occur in instances of conflict so that issues can be properly addressed. Whether these conflicts occur within SOST or amongst student organizations, I will be an advocate for discussion to occur between all parties, as well as one-on-one conversations with me, so that an informed and collectively agreed upon solution can be made. As always, I will be open to learning from others so that I can grow as a leader and continue to properly fill the role of Vice President for Student Organizations.
What is your vision for student organizations at UMBC?
My vision for student organizations at UMBC is for them to be a more active part of the campus community and supported while doing so. I believe that everyone on campus should feel that there is a community for them here, and a major way people can find that sense of belonging is within student organizations. One way in which I support this vision is the continued growth of the UMBC Student Orgs Instagram, an SGA initiative to promote the visibility of student organizations on social media. This, in combination with efforts to create additional physical visibility of student organizations on campus, such as the Student Organization Memory Cabinet. I will continue this vision by promoting more collaboration and union amongst student organizations, as well as more student organization visibility, so that UMBC’s community can grow stronger.
How do you plan to reach out and be a resource to student organizations?
In my experience as Vice President for Student Organizations, I have on multiple occasions acted as a source of information and support for student organizations, promoting resources and answering questions so that they are successful in forming their place on campus and making sure they know the support of the SGA. As VPSO, I have implemented a Student Org Debt Relief Application system to support student organizations. I will continue developing resources, making sure current resources such as myUMBC, student org officer training, Student Organization Resource Center, and many other resources continue and grow as the needs of student organizations change. As well as establish, create, and revamp other resources for student organizations, as I have done with the UMBC Student Organization Instagram, and will continue to do so. I will continue to be an advocate for student organizations and support them as they find their space on campus by advertising for resources, communicating opportunities, and being present in this role.
Bio
First Year
Questions
What relevant experience would you bring to the position you are seeking?
Experience in customer service and working with event and conference service
How do you intend on fulfilling your role while working alongside other members of SGA?
Communicate with everyone, come to a midpoint and plot new ideas
What strategies do you use to address conflict?
Ask the person indirectly if the topic is aggressive and if it is a small normal issue discuss it with everyone and ask the person what’s wrong and find a solution together
What is your vision for student organizations at UMBC?
Make it bigger and more active
How do you plan to reach out and be a resource to student organizations?
I plan to create events and do unusual activities in campus to grab attention