Meet the Fall 2023 Candidates
Contested Elections: Click the name of each election below to view the candidates of all contested races.
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College of Engineering Representative
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Freshman Representative
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Students with Disabilities Representative At-Large
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Transfer Representative
College of Engineering Representative
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Amida Akpan
She/Her
Civil Engineering
College of Engineering
aua6
I am eager to be your Engineering Representative, advocating for increased funding for student organizations and environmental sustainability on campus. Student organizations are vital to our college experience. I'll work to secure additional funds, ensuring they thrive and continue providing enriching experiences. I would also like to allocate resources to sustainability projects in efforts to educate and reduce our environmental impact. My vision is to empower student groups and champion sustainability, enriching our college experience and building a sustainable future.
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Audrey Pinard
She/Her
Earth & Atmospheric Sciences Engineering
College of Engineering
ap825
Aspiring to be Cornell University's engineering representative, I'm dedicated to bridging students, faculty, and administrators. I prioritize inclusivity, valuing every student's perspective. I'll create an open dialogue through forums and surveys to address concerns effectively.
Academic excellence is paramount. I'll collaborate with faculty to ensure our curriculum is relevant and challenging, advocating for resources that support hands-on learning, research, and academic support.
I'll foster a vibrant engineering community, collaborating with student organizations to offer dynamic events, workshops, and networking opportunities. Strengthening our community will inspire innovation, teamwork, and leadership.
I'm committed to sustainability and social responsibility, promoting eco-friendly practices and engaging in projects addressing societal challenges.
I'll be a responsive and accountable representative, available to address concerns, offer solutions, and advocate for our engineering community's betterment. Together, we'll shape a brighter future for Cornell's engineering program.
Academic excellence is paramount. I'll collaborate with faculty to ensure our curriculum is relevant and challenging, advocating for resources that support hands-on learning, research, and academic support.
I'll foster a vibrant engineering community, collaborating with student organizations to offer dynamic events, workshops, and networking opportunities. Strengthening our community will inspire innovation, teamwork, and leadership.
I'm committed to sustainability and social responsibility, promoting eco-friendly practices and engaging in projects addressing societal challenges.
I'll be a responsive and accountable representative, available to address concerns, offer solutions, and advocate for our engineering community's betterment. Together, we'll shape a brighter future for Cornell's engineering program.
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Le-Qi Tang
She/Her
Engineering Physics/CS
College of Engineering
lt395
As a representative, my goal would be to give a voice to the people of the engineering school. I’m passionate about ensuring everyone feels heard. In the past, I’ve been a poll worker at my local voting station over the course of three years, and during that time, I spoke to many voters of different ages, political beliefs, and values. I love learning new things and seeing things from different perspectives, so I would be open-minded to any concerns brought up by engineering students. However, I am also unwavering in my core beliefs that everyone deserves to feel included and respected at Cornell, no matter their culture, gender, sexual orientation, interests, or any other attribute. As a voting member of the Student Assembly, I would approach all issues with this mindset. Thank you for considering and I hope I can count on your vote!
Freshman Representative
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Keten Abebe
She/her/Hers
Public Policy
Brooks School of Public Policy
ksa58
Hello Class of 2027! My name is Keten Abebe, and I am incredibly excited to run for Freshman Representative. I am currently a first-year student studying Public Policy in the Brooks School and can’t wait to help make Cornell a better place for our freshmen class.
As a Public Policy student, I spend a lot of my time analyzing the ways in which policies are made and want to use that skill to help our freshman class feel included and thrive in our new “home away from home”. I want to create a space where first-year students feel comfortable and supported to share their opinions and perspectives, while we collectively work towards cultivating solutions to impending issues that we may face on campus.
As a Public Policy student, I spend a lot of my time analyzing the ways in which policies are made and want to use that skill to help our freshman class feel included and thrive in our new “home away from home”. I want to create a space where first-year students feel comfortable and supported to share their opinions and perspectives, while we collectively work towards cultivating solutions to impending issues that we may face on campus.
As Freshman Representative, I intend to:
Expand Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives at Cornell.
Work towards bridging the difficulties faced by first-year immigrant/ international students regarding financial aid applications.
Create a space where students can feel heard and seen within their school.
As a fellow student, I deeply care about your voices and how you want to be represented within our university. I would be incredibly honored to hear from all of you and give us a seat at the table. I hope that I have your vote!
Expand Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives at Cornell.
Work towards bridging the difficulties faced by first-year immigrant/ international students regarding financial aid applications.
Create a space where students can feel heard and seen within their school.
As a fellow student, I deeply care about your voices and how you want to be represented within our university. I would be incredibly honored to hear from all of you and give us a seat at the table. I hope that I have your vote!
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Zhuo Qi (Joey) Chen
He/Him
Computer Science and/or Operations Research and Engineering
College of Engineering
zc492
Do you wish you could get to class faster? Do you wish there were more lights at night on campus? More power outlets at various places on campus?
That’s some of a number of things I will get for you.
That’s some of a number of things I will get for you.
I’m hoping to serve on the Infrastructure Fund Commission in the Assembly. It decides whether to approve projects such as the above. And these projects can happen. Just a while ago, 4 new lamp posts were installed in the south end of The Slope through this committee, and the entire electrical system in Ho Plaza was upgraded to allow more power outlets to be installed in the surrounding buildings.
I will initiate and approve building new walking paths that act as shortcuts to cut walking times to classes and dorms, more power outlets in buildings and dorms, and better lighting at night if elected. Later, I hope to coordinate even more improvements to our campus to make life more convenient and enjoyable.
If you have any concerns, or if you have a suggestion for something you want to see made or changed, you can always email me at zc492@cornell.edu, and I will do everything in my ability if elected to make the changes you want happen.
I’ll look out for us freshmen.
I’m grateful for your support, and will strive to serve you well.
I will initiate and approve building new walking paths that act as shortcuts to cut walking times to classes and dorms, more power outlets in buildings and dorms, and better lighting at night if elected. Later, I hope to coordinate even more improvements to our campus to make life more convenient and enjoyable.
If you have any concerns, or if you have a suggestion for something you want to see made or changed, you can always email me at zc492@cornell.edu, and I will do everything in my ability if elected to make the changes you want happen.
I’ll look out for us freshmen.
I’m grateful for your support, and will strive to serve you well.
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Zora deRham
She/Her
Agricultural Sciences
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
zpd3
The primary changes I want to make surround Food, Fun, and Facts. Food: I want to add Trillium to the meal plan as the first step in making food accessible on Central Campus. Fun: supplying fan buses to more regular season away games to truly show the extent of the Cornell fan base. Facts: the Student Assembly needs to be grounded in the reality of Cornell and Ithaca. The Student Assembly is an inefficient and controversial body at Cornell, and I aim to change that. I want to focus the Assembly away from national issues it cannot fix and instead towards tangible changes that will improve the everyday lives of all Cornellians.
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David Diao
He/Him
Public Policy
Brooks School of Public Policy
dd668
My name is David Diao, I’m running for Freshman Rep, and here’s what I will do for YOU.
1. Demand Transparency
Play a club sport? Attended any community events? Want to see a sports game? Student Assembly has made changes to funding in all these areas. These changes directly affect you.
I will fight for transparency and ensure our voices are heard in the decision-making process.
2. Service Students
Laundry: Lack of machines leads to bottlenecks and frustration. I’m committed to bringing in more laundry machines to meet our needs.
Dining: We should strive to enhance our dining experience by emulating improvements previously made on West Campus. Less salty food options, greater fruit variety, and more are all possible. We just need to fight for them.
3. Foster Community
Community is one of the most important aspects of Cornell and will likely define our college experience.
While SA can’t host events, we can still strengthen our community. I want to add designated community tables to our dining halls that provide an environment for students to connect. No one should have to eat alone.
1. Demand Transparency
Play a club sport? Attended any community events? Want to see a sports game? Student Assembly has made changes to funding in all these areas. These changes directly affect you.
I will fight for transparency and ensure our voices are heard in the decision-making process.
2. Service Students
Laundry: Lack of machines leads to bottlenecks and frustration. I’m committed to bringing in more laundry machines to meet our needs.
Dining: We should strive to enhance our dining experience by emulating improvements previously made on West Campus. Less salty food options, greater fruit variety, and more are all possible. We just need to fight for them.
3. Foster Community
Community is one of the most important aspects of Cornell and will likely define our college experience.
While SA can’t host events, we can still strengthen our community. I want to add designated community tables to our dining halls that provide an environment for students to connect. No one should have to eat alone.
Together we can strive for actionable change in improving our lives at Cornell.
Make change now, vote Diao.
Make change now, vote Diao.
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Christian Flournoy
He/Him
Biomedical Engineering/Pre-Med
College of Engineering
cef223
As the class of 2027’s freshman representative, I will be an active and accessible voice for all freshmen. As an athlete and engineer, I understand the rigor that Cornell presents to all students. However, I am committed to making our first-year experience as enjoyable and stress free as possible. Whether fighting to improve the housing selection process, working with administration to create stress free spaces on campus or creating fun and unique events; know that I am your advocate.
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Davian Gekman
He/Him
Industrial and Labor Relations
School of Industrial and Labor Relations
dsg247
Let's make every day a great day at Cornell!
That's my motto. Hello everyone, my name is Davian Gekman, I'm from New Jersey, and I'm running to be your freshman representative. There's a reason why I say "your representative". I believe that this election is about the voice of every single freshman, and I am going to make sure each of them is heard.
That's my motto. Hello everyone, my name is Davian Gekman, I'm from New Jersey, and I'm running to be your freshman representative. There's a reason why I say "your representative". I believe that this election is about the voice of every single freshman, and I am going to make sure each of them is heard.
I have an active Instagram page (@gekman4sa), where during the election campaign you will be able to see my ideas for Cornell. My DMs will be open to all messages, whether it's ideas you have for the campus or if you simply want someone to talk to.
Two of the many ideas I am running on are
-Improve Cornell Spirit: SA resources to further promote athletic events as well as create new and innovative events : Improve Mental Health Resources
- Have more service dog events, more relaxation events, etc
Two of the many ideas I am running on are
-Improve Cornell Spirit: SA resources to further promote athletic events as well as create new and innovative events : Improve Mental Health Resources
- Have more service dog events, more relaxation events, etc
My qualifications for this position come from my previous experience, where I was National President of the Jewish Student Union (an organization of 300+ chapters and 16,000+ members), as well as my position as Treasurer for 4 years in high school. In these positions I led revolutionary changes coming up with innovative ideas, as well as created a sense of comradery with the people I worked with.
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Cion Kim
She/Her
CS or Mechanical Engineering
College of Engineering
ck758
Hi Class of 2027! I am Cion, running for Freshman Representative!
I would define us like this: “ The Stranger in a Strange Land”
I would define us like this: “ The Stranger in a Strange Land”
College is definitely an adventure, and in this Strange Land, I expect some hidden traps, villains and obstacles. But what’s the moral of all fairy tales? It's incredibly fascinating!
This year, I am running to make sure your journey is so too. I hope every freshman gets to have the best first year memories in college. For that here are my statements:
1. Boost campus experiences: I would like to work on allocating more funding to events such as Slope Day, Freshmen activities, and clubs.
2. Improve utilities: such as dorm facilities, campus lightings, and printers.
3. Have Diverse Dining options: Food is a source of enjoyment. I am willing to bring in more cultural special dishes to the dining hall, having food trucks near the central campus, and so on.
4. Improve transportation systems: Late buses, walking 20 min to class, - this is all too much work to think of. I would like to set a better system and more innovation on these systems. We could plan work such as electric scooter renting, increasing bus rides.
I’ll be the tour guide, and we could have the most amazing journey ever. Vote for Cion Kim!
This year, I am running to make sure your journey is so too. I hope every freshman gets to have the best first year memories in college. For that here are my statements:
1. Boost campus experiences: I would like to work on allocating more funding to events such as Slope Day, Freshmen activities, and clubs.
2. Improve utilities: such as dorm facilities, campus lightings, and printers.
3. Have Diverse Dining options: Food is a source of enjoyment. I am willing to bring in more cultural special dishes to the dining hall, having food trucks near the central campus, and so on.
4. Improve transportation systems: Late buses, walking 20 min to class, - this is all too much work to think of. I would like to set a better system and more innovation on these systems. We could plan work such as electric scooter renting, increasing bus rides.
I’ll be the tour guide, and we could have the most amazing journey ever. Vote for Cion Kim!
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Ilana Livshits
She/They
Biological Sciences; Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
College of Arts and Sciences
il292
The T-shirt “Eat, Sleep, Belong” from O-Week is my iconic PJ fit. That sense of belonging—or community in general—is what needs work at Cornell. When O-Week ends and classes begin, where do you fit in?
Here.
Here.
To build community, we need to re-establish meaningful conversations, with new forums (past the open mic at SA meetings) for communication. Instead of listing issues that I’ve personally experienced, there should be constant dialogue about what could be done to improve the freshman experience. This is not to disregard the numerous issues at Cornell that play into community: Cornell’s increasingly antagonistic relationship with Ithaca, the lack of living wages for dining hall workers, the focus of CAPS on short-term mental health counseling, the constant emails you get about arson in your dorm. These have to be addressed.
Now, some things about me. I crochet for fun, thrift too often, and hope to play the untouched guitar in my room. I love reading and writing, specifically about women’s rights, and comment a little bit on that in my opinion column “Live, Laugh, Livshits” in the Cornell Sun!
You should also “Live, Laugh, Livshits” to “Eat, Sleep, Belong.”
Now, some things about me. I crochet for fun, thrift too often, and hope to play the untouched guitar in my room. I love reading and writing, specifically about women’s rights, and comment a little bit on that in my opinion column “Live, Laugh, Livshits” in the Cornell Sun!
You should also “Live, Laugh, Livshits” to “Eat, Sleep, Belong.”
Feel free to message me! @ilana.livshits il292@cornell.edu
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Elliott Serna
He/Him/His
Public Policy
Brooks School of Public Policy
es2242
I’m going to keep it real with you: voting for Elliott is voting for someone who does more by listening to you than by preaching at you.
It’s voting not for the candidate that’ll rizz you up, but rather for a nerdy, hyper-analytical policy guy who, yes, geeks out about buses and spends way too much time on Sidechat; but listens most deeply on the issues and niches that matter most to you.
But I’m also a practical guy. As I write this, I’m saying to myself, “That’s great, but don’t tell me. Show me. Give me your plan,” because that's what matters.
So I will:
It’s voting not for the candidate that’ll rizz you up, but rather for a nerdy, hyper-analytical policy guy who, yes, geeks out about buses and spends way too much time on Sidechat; but listens most deeply on the issues and niches that matter most to you.
But I’m also a practical guy. As I write this, I’m saying to myself, “That’s great, but don’t tell me. Show me. Give me your plan,” because that's what matters.
So I will:
I’m running on a platform of common-sense solutions to (not so) common-sense problems.
I’m running to:
Provide subsidies to address inequities in access to student health insurance among international, immigrant, and Medicaid-recipient students;
Expand TCAT subsidies for all undergraduate students, not just freshmen (soon, we will be the upperclassmen without TCAT benefits… so let’s get ahead of that now); and
Change Cornell's abhorrently basic graduation gowns (look at Harvard or Columbia's undergrad gowns in comparison to Cornell’s. Nice things exist, and we can have them too).
I’m running to:
Provide subsidies to address inequities in access to student health insurance among international, immigrant, and Medicaid-recipient students;
Expand TCAT subsidies for all undergraduate students, not just freshmen (soon, we will be the upperclassmen without TCAT benefits… so let’s get ahead of that now); and
Change Cornell's abhorrently basic graduation gowns (look at Harvard or Columbia's undergrad gowns in comparison to Cornell’s. Nice things exist, and we can have them too).
So, together, please vote Serna for Service to make Cornell a better place for all.
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Christian Tarala
He/Him
Hotel Administration and Hospitality
School of Hotel Administration
ct665
I am dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity at Cornell. Recognizing the importance of feeling supported by your representative, I will ensure that your voice is heard, creating an open channel for me to help address with the Student Assembly your concerns about academic challenges, campus facilities, or Slope Day. I will also advocate for initiatives that enhance your academic experience, such as the improvement of study spaces on North.
Throughout my academic journey, I have remained passionate about student engagement and community-building, and I participate in a variety of extracurriculars and sports, gaining insight into my many different peers’ needs. My experiences have honed my ability to work effectively with teams to drive positive change, and I will leverage this to help foster a more cohesive first-year community.
All in all, I offer the Student Assembly a commitment to inclusivity, a wealth of leadership experience, and a powerful set of problem-solving skills. I will amplify your voices, promote diversity, and enhance your academic experience. I am eager to serve as your representative and request your support. Together, we can foster a campus that promotes growth, inclusivity, and success for all.
All in all, I offer the Student Assembly a commitment to inclusivity, a wealth of leadership experience, and a powerful set of problem-solving skills. I will amplify your voices, promote diversity, and enhance your academic experience. I am eager to serve as your representative and request your support. Together, we can foster a campus that promotes growth, inclusivity, and success for all.
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Stephen Yang
He/Him
Agricultural Sciences
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
sy634
Hey! I’m Stephen Yang.
Normally, I would start off by talking about who I am, but to be honest if I wanted to flex my high school resume I’d go to linkedin.
Indeed, my goal is to avoid talking about myself because my mission is to simply act as a vessel for my ideals – ideals for a safer, cleaner, more equitable, and more diverse Cornell. Why do we pay student activities fees to hyper-selective clubs that would rather disband than accept you? I’ll remove it. Why does institutional policy still discriminate against vision-impaired students like myself? I’ll remedy it. Why did a former student assembly cut our study period in half? I’ll restore it. Why does the printing software still not work? And, matter of fact, why are half the printers always jammed or broken? I’ll resolve it. Why is there no Pepsi in the water fountain and only bubly? I’ll revert it.
I’m not interested in performative resolutions that accomplish nothing or anything outside of Cornell. My goal is real solutions to real problems, for average students not activists. And if you elect me, I’ll resolve every Why question within my boundaries at Cornell.
Indeed, my goal is to avoid talking about myself because my mission is to simply act as a vessel for my ideals – ideals for a safer, cleaner, more equitable, and more diverse Cornell. Why do we pay student activities fees to hyper-selective clubs that would rather disband than accept you? I’ll remove it. Why does institutional policy still discriminate against vision-impaired students like myself? I’ll remedy it. Why did a former student assembly cut our study period in half? I’ll restore it. Why does the printing software still not work? And, matter of fact, why are half the printers always jammed or broken? I’ll resolve it. Why is there no Pepsi in the water fountain and only bubly? I’ll revert it.
I’m not interested in performative resolutions that accomplish nothing or anything outside of Cornell. My goal is real solutions to real problems, for average students not activists. And if you elect me, I’ll resolve every Why question within my boundaries at Cornell.
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Eric Yao
He/Him/His
Electrical and Computer Engineering
College of Engineering
egy4
I’m Eric Yao and I’m running for the Student Assembly because I want to build one Cornell, where we can come together and where every person has the opportunity to thrive. Here are my top priorities as your representative:
1. Improve Okenshields: I will work to bring the food quality at Okenshields up to par with other dining halls and focus on expanding fruit variety across all dining halls.
2. Strengthen Campus Safety: Our students deserve to feel safe on campus at all times, so I will push to install more streetlights around campus.
3. No Student Activity Fee Hikes: The Student Activity fee has increased by over 32% in the past three years, rising faster than inflation. The Student Assembly must spend responsibly so you can keep more of your money.
4. Lower Costs: It’s no secret that the cost of living is going up. To make matters worse, Cornell has the most expensive laundry in the Ivy League. It’s time we add the option to use BRBs to pay for laundry and printing.
5. Eliminate Duo Push to save time and not burden everyone with something that does not make us any safer.
We need a Student Assembly that works for you and not the other way around. I hope to earn your support so we can get to work starting on day one.
1. Improve Okenshields: I will work to bring the food quality at Okenshields up to par with other dining halls and focus on expanding fruit variety across all dining halls.
2. Strengthen Campus Safety: Our students deserve to feel safe on campus at all times, so I will push to install more streetlights around campus.
3. No Student Activity Fee Hikes: The Student Activity fee has increased by over 32% in the past three years, rising faster than inflation. The Student Assembly must spend responsibly so you can keep more of your money.
4. Lower Costs: It’s no secret that the cost of living is going up. To make matters worse, Cornell has the most expensive laundry in the Ivy League. It’s time we add the option to use BRBs to pay for laundry and printing.
5. Eliminate Duo Push to save time and not burden everyone with something that does not make us any safer.
We need a Student Assembly that works for you and not the other way around. I hope to earn your support so we can get to work starting on day one.
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Kevin Zhang
He/Him
Biomedical Engineering(Pre-Med)
College of Engineering
kz288
Hi, my name is Kevin Zhang, and I am running for your Freshman Representative in the Student Assembly.
As an aspiring doctor, student health and wellbeing is a major avenue I hope to advance and advocate for all. In the Student Assembly, my goal to create and maintain a balance between academics and health can be achieved by:
Expanding flexibility of classes by negotiating with professors to record their lectures in case of sickness.
Encouraging professors to permit up to 1 additional unexcused absence/late submission for mental wellbeing/relief.
Engaging in diversified opinions of students pertaining to their concerns along the boundaries of academics and health.
Between valued education and your mental and physical wellbeing, you shouldn’t have to choose, have both! As part of the Student Assembly, I hope to be a linkage between you and health policy.
One goal, 3 E’s. I humbly ask you to vote for Kevin, thank you.
Email me @ kz288@cornell.edu
As an aspiring doctor, student health and wellbeing is a major avenue I hope to advance and advocate for all. In the Student Assembly, my goal to create and maintain a balance between academics and health can be achieved by:
Expanding flexibility of classes by negotiating with professors to record their lectures in case of sickness.
Encouraging professors to permit up to 1 additional unexcused absence/late submission for mental wellbeing/relief.
Engaging in diversified opinions of students pertaining to their concerns along the boundaries of academics and health.
Between valued education and your mental and physical wellbeing, you shouldn’t have to choose, have both! As part of the Student Assembly, I hope to be a linkage between you and health policy.
One goal, 3 E’s. I humbly ask you to vote for Kevin, thank you.
Email me @ kz288@cornell.edu
Students with Disabilities Representative At-Large
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Admir Cekic
He/Him
Industrial and Labor Relations
School of Industrial and Labor Relations
ac2499
As a first generation student, I am deeply committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of their abilities, has an equal voice, equal access, and equal opportunities on our campus. I hope to be your voice on the Student Assembly.
As I’m sure many of you have noticed, recent campus renovations have proven to be an unplanned nuisance to everyone, but for the differently abled, this is much more than just a nuisance. We must hold Cornell accountable, through Student Assembly resolutions, prioritizing renovations during campus breaks. Whether it be Ho Plaza, the “Art Squad,” or elevators, these sites should not be worked on when people need them the most.
As I’m sure many of you have noticed, recent campus renovations have proven to be an unplanned nuisance to everyone, but for the differently abled, this is much more than just a nuisance. We must hold Cornell accountable, through Student Assembly resolutions, prioritizing renovations during campus breaks. Whether it be Ho Plaza, the “Art Squad,” or elevators, these sites should not be worked on when people need them the most.
This upcoming election is about all of us. Only together can we make our campus a place where every voice is heard, and where we can even more than ever live up to our school’s motto:“Any person, any study.” I humbly ask for your trust and your vote to be your advocate in the Student Assembly. Let's write the next chapter of inclusivity and progress at Cornell together.
Thank you for believing in the power of unity and for embracing the values of equity, equality and justice.
Thank you for believing in the power of unity and for embracing the values of equity, equality and justice.
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Allison Helkowski
She/Her
ILR/Inequality Studies
School of Industrial and Labor Relations
anh54
As a sophomore in ILR, I have been an active part of Cornell’s campus community since the first week I arrived. Inspired by my research in political sociology the summer before my first year at Cornell, I served as part of the editorial board for the undergraduate philosophy journal, Logos, and recently joined the Cornell Disability Advocates Union. After being diagnosed with a chronic autoimmune condition at 17 that required me to have both physical and academic accommodations, I struggled with the concept of disability. Turning to educating myself and those around me helped change my perspective on what it means to have a disability and fueled my decision to minor in Inequality Studies. I want to make Cornell an inclusive space for all students and reinforce the importance of accommodating all disabilities both visible and invisible. No student should have to work for the help they need, assistance should always be readily available and freely given to ensure an equitable atmosphere for all students, regardless of disability status or type of disability. We can reach equality through equity, not the other way around.
Transfer Representative
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Simone Chan
She/Her/Hers
Communication
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
sc3336
As a new transfer myself, I am fully aware of the unique challenges that come with stepping into a new institution and the daunting process of essentially starting from scratch.
Becoming a transfer representative is a responsibility I genuinely understand and am prepared to fulfill. I comprehend the expectations and the hard work that come with this role. I am ready to immerse myself in the intricacies of Cornell policies and procedures to ensure that your transfer transition is as smooth and fulfilling as possible.
I'm here to tirelessly champion the needs, concerns, and aspirations of each and every one of you. Your success and well-being are my top priorities. Your voices will be heard with me.
I am also here as a compassionate ear and offer support when you face personal challenges. Your holistic well-being matters to me, and I will work to connect you with the appropriate resources and support services.
Becoming a transfer representative is a responsibility I genuinely understand and am prepared to fulfill. I comprehend the expectations and the hard work that come with this role. I am ready to immerse myself in the intricacies of Cornell policies and procedures to ensure that your transfer transition is as smooth and fulfilling as possible.
I'm here to tirelessly champion the needs, concerns, and aspirations of each and every one of you. Your success and well-being are my top priorities. Your voices will be heard with me.
I am also here as a compassionate ear and offer support when you face personal challenges. Your holistic well-being matters to me, and I will work to connect you with the appropriate resources and support services.
Allow me to be your voice during your time at Cornell. Your experiences, your challenges, and your dreams matter. Together, we can navigate the complexities of academic life, break down barriers, and build a stronger, more inclusive, and supportive transfer community.
Cast your vote for Simone.
Cast your vote for Simone.
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Hasham Khan
He/Him
Global Development
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
hak77
I am a transfer student from Towson State University in Maryland. I previously served as Towson’s Student Government Association’s Freshman Council Vice President. I also used to work as a Clinical Assistant Trainer at Kennedy Krieger’s Neurobehavioral Unit. I currently serve on the Collective X’s Programming Committee, and am involved in volunteering with Vaccine Conversations and Elderly Partnership. The positions I have held previously have been an asset in developing necessary skills for the betterment of organizations I serve. I greatly enjoy working on a team, and constantly uplift and empower my peers and coworkers. In the past, I have worked and supported various organizations in different capacities and philosophies, including Johns Hopkins Hospital, World Trade Center Institute, and the Institute of Healthcare Improvement. I believe that I can contribute greatly to the Student Assembly, so that I can help contribute to the greater student body and student experience. I believe that leadership encompasses teaching, being empathetic, and working as a collective to maintain a system focused on the betterment of all.
Uncontested Elections
College of Art, Architecture, and Planning Representative
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Franklin Berry
He/Him
Urban and Regional Studies
College of Art, Architecture, and Planning
feb48
I am a 2nd year studying Urban and Regional Studies, so planning things is my specialty. I think big and I think long term. Student Assembly is one of the best avenues to make student led change on campus and I want to optimize that opportunity. Students should enjoy their time hear and the goal is to have the next generation of students enjoy their time even more.
AAP's seat on Student Assembly was empty last year and no one else ran for the position this year. I am here to represent AAP and have our college's voices heard. AAP is one of the most if not the most creative colleges on campus and I think bringing those perspectives to Student Assembly is absolutely necessary.
I can't promise the world, but I can promise that I will try to change it for the better. I look forward to getting the entire student body engaged and representing AAP to the best of my ability.
AAP's seat on Student Assembly was empty last year and no one else ran for the position this year. I am here to represent AAP and have our college's voices heard. AAP is one of the most if not the most creative colleges on campus and I think bringing those perspectives to Student Assembly is absolutely necessary.
I can't promise the world, but I can promise that I will try to change it for the better. I look forward to getting the entire student body engaged and representing AAP to the best of my ability.
College of Arts and Sciences Representative
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Divya Akkiraju
She/Her
Information Science
College of Arts and Sciences
dma232
The College of Arts and Sciences hosts a vastly diverse student body. Most famously, its enriching qualities are attributed to the wide range of intellectual and ideological backgrounds represented amongst its student body. As an avid believer in the idea that an undergraduate institution should seek to “level the playing field” for all students, regardless of their respective identities and experiences, I will ensure all students’ voices are heard and adequately represented in shaping our collective undergraduate experience.
If elected, I will work to ensure that the perspectives of Arts and Sciences students are equally represented in decisions made to better the quality of life of undergraduate students—including in actions taken to institute fair wages for student workers, make adequate access to mental health resources, and make accessible pre-professional programming (regardless of undergraduate college affiliation).
The upholding of assembly promises for the greater Cornell community is one of the only mechanisms we have for ensuring that all students are equally included and represented in a Cornell that serves as a safe, productive learning environment consistent with the university’s mission.
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David Suarez
He/Him
American Studies
College of Arts and Sciences
dts99
Hi! My name is David Suarez and I'm a Freshman in Arts and Sciences. I’ve enjoyed getting to know the many communities that make up Cornell and dedicate myself to building community ties through clubs and I will dedicate myself to you the students of A&S. I recognize the importance of this position, and know my past experiences with being a mentor, volunteer and student leader throughout highschool have prepared me for this role as representative. To me education and inclusivity are inherently connected to one another. Diversity encompasses various aspects of everyday life, from the people we meet, to how we perceive the world around us. I would like to be able to create meaningful connections between students and the Student Assembly allowing students to have strong support networks and be proud to be Cornellians. I hope to achieve this by creating a system which fosters vocalization as I think it is imperative for the betterment of any organization, especially educational institutions. Some more about me is that I have a passion for fashion and love the color pink. I’m also so Lana Del Rey coded and obviously a Swiftie, some of my hobbies are romanticizing life, thrifting and playing animal crossing!
College of Human Ecology Representative
Dyson School of Business Representative
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Yash Moitra
He/Him
Applied Economics and Management (Prospective Minor in International Relations)
Dyson School of Business
ym522
Dear Dyson,
Are you tired of having no place to relax between a long day of classes? Are you annoyed with having to walk all the way to Mann for a single printout? Do you wish it were easier to just talk to someone about the way you felt? Me too.
I'm Yash Moitra, and I think that as one of the best business schools in the country, we can solve these problems at home. As your voice in the Student Assembly, I will work with Cornell to propose:
1. Designated Resting Pods near the Ag Quad.
2. CU-Print access within Warren itself.
3. Putting a single phone number up for mental health concerns, answered by a real human you can speak with.
Dear Dyson,
I'm one of you. I've seen you slog through Case Studies, Prelims, Club Recruitment, and billions of other things all at once. You are strong, and you are resilient. In this struggle, I know we can do better to make our voices heard in 'the room where it happens': the Student Assembly.
Dear Dyson,
If you elect me to be your voice, I will make sure that we are heard. A resting pod, a printer, or a phone number may not change your experience here, but I know it will make your life a little easier when you need it. I promise, Dyson, I will be there, in the room where it happens, for you.
I'm Yash Moitra, and I think that as one of the best business schools in the country, we can solve these problems at home. As your voice in the Student Assembly, I will work with Cornell to propose:
1. Designated Resting Pods near the Ag Quad.
2. CU-Print access within Warren itself.
3. Putting a single phone number up for mental health concerns, answered by a real human you can speak with.
Dear Dyson,
I'm one of you. I've seen you slog through Case Studies, Prelims, Club Recruitment, and billions of other things all at once. You are strong, and you are resilient. In this struggle, I know we can do better to make our voices heard in 'the room where it happens': the Student Assembly.
Dear Dyson,
If you elect me to be your voice, I will make sure that we are heard. A resting pod, a printer, or a phone number may not change your experience here, but I know it will make your life a little easier when you need it. I promise, Dyson, I will be there, in the room where it happens, for you.
School of Hotel Administration Representative
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Lizzie Barrett
She/Her
Hotel Administration
School of Hotel Administration
eb737
The Hotel School Representative must ensure issues of the Hotelie student body are heard and addressed. These past 3 years, I have committed myself to our community and understanding every organization. Having served as the President of the Cornell Hotel Society CC, an Assistant Director for HEC, and a Dean’s Student Advisory Board representative, I can leverage the range of my organizational understanding to vote on resolutions that not only abide by, but embrace the core values of our Hotelie community.
Yet, actions speak louder than words. My commitment to improving student life becomes tangible in my Hotelie Weekend execution. I have devoted years to negotiations between administration, clubs, and alums for a NYC trip open to any undergraduate seeking exposure to career opportunities and Hotelie industry achievements.
If elected, I will push for higher SAFC allocations, host weekly Club Presidents’ meetings to address concerns, and continue integrating Hotelies’ unique skills into the broader community (slope day event planning, paid student bartending, etc). Hotelies provided my dream college, my dream career, and most importantly, my dream community. It would be a honor to give back and serve as our voice to Cornell.
Yet, actions speak louder than words. My commitment to improving student life becomes tangible in my Hotelie Weekend execution. I have devoted years to negotiations between administration, clubs, and alums for a NYC trip open to any undergraduate seeking exposure to career opportunities and Hotelie industry achievements.
If elected, I will push for higher SAFC allocations, host weekly Club Presidents’ meetings to address concerns, and continue integrating Hotelies’ unique skills into the broader community (slope day event planning, paid student bartending, etc). Hotelies provided my dream college, my dream career, and most importantly, my dream community. It would be a honor to give back and serve as our voice to Cornell.
Undesignated Representative At-Large
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Kassandra Jordan
She/Her
Computer Science
College of Arts and Sciences
klj64
Hello all! I am running for the Undesignated Representative At-Large. I am a senior in Arts & Sciences majoring in computer science and minoring in Science & Technology Studies (STS). During my freshman and sophomore years, I worked part-time in clerking for the University Assembly (UA) and developed a passion for sustainability and employee advocacy. I believe my unique background in the administrative processes of university legislation will help me develop and push effective policies for you all. During my time petitioning and talking to the larger student body, I have received a lot of great ideas and feedback. My first action would be to address your concerns about sustainability initiatives on campus and the inaccessibility of some dining hall payment systems. I am looking forward to representing your voices!
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Flora Meng
She/Her
Environment and Sustainability
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
zm264
Hey, my community!
As an international student, I love to talk and listen to everyone on campus, to see our diversity while strengthening our similarities. I learned from my passion for sustainability that only when community and authority work together can impactful changes be made. Indeed, working with authority can be disappointing, but any tiny chance is hopeful for me. With this belief, I feel determined to serve in SA and make the Cornell community better.
In my term, I would continue to call for free laundry for everyone and seek ways to fund dental and vision care for low-income students. Acknowledging these issues' complexity, I’d go through past resolutions to identify the biggest challenge and bring the call to another stage.
Still, I will always be the ear that is open to anybody’s perspectives and stories to bridge the student body and the administration better. Also, facilitating in an empathetic mind between the admin and us students will be a core value of my work to bring changes to the community.
Cornell students' opinions will be my opinions. Please support me to be the rep that grows with our community! My email and ig will be always open for suggestions: zm264@cornell.edu / ghostymeng