2023 Senate Candidates

Arunima Chaturvedi

Apartments Candidate (Seats Open- 3)

Huskies, I’m Arunima Chaturvedi and I am running to be your Senator for the Apartments district. As a representee of the voices that reside in this area, it is my duty to actively seek and advocate any concerns or views that may arise. However, that’s just the surface level. The role of Senator goes beyond being a mirror to your interests and worries; it’s fulfilling the promise that everyone feels safe, welcomed, and appreciated. In an effort to meet and expand this perspective onto our community, I am willing to do whatever it takes. Whether it’s attending and participating in events held by all aspects of student life, or ensuring that there’s a friendly face around that listens with compassion and advocates with sincerity, I’m yours to count on. My vision is one of proactivity, change, and unity. More importantly, my commitment is to you, the student body. As your Senator, I promise to inspire and embody the love, diversity, and equality that will make the University of Connecticut a kinder and safer place for all members

Sincere Valentine

Apartment Candidate

Throughout my 21 years on earth ever since i gained the ability to speak I have always been told "wow sincere for someone so young you have such strong opinions". That has always meant a lot to me letting the world get know how i feel about things. No matter the platform I never hold back and if I am in charge in making a decision I make sure that it comes from my heart. Being granted a position on the usg board I feel will let the university I have given my heart and soul hear my voice. I want the best for our students and I want to be a voice for the students who like me at one point felt their opinion does not matter. Uconn is on the path of greatness and I know by me being apart of USG I will forward that process.

Sameul Alam

Alumni Candidate (Seats Open- 2)

I am honored to present myself as a candidate for Senator for the School of Business. My journey into politics is driven by a deep commitment to our community's well-being and a passion for positive change.
If elected, my priorities will center around fostering unity, transparency, and progress. I am committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to find common-sense solutions to our most pressing challenges, regardless of concern. I pledge to uphold the principles of honesty and integrity, ensuring that our government works for and by the people. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community, where every voice is heard, and every individual can thrive.
I humbly request your support and vote to bring about the positive change our community deserves. Together, we can create a better tomorrow for ourselves and future generations.
Thank you for your trust.
Sincerely, Sameul Alam

Kanwardeep Sandhu

Alumni Candidate

Hello! My name is Kanwardeep Sandhu and I am a first-year political science student living in Eddy Hall. I am running for senator for the Alumni residential halls. As senator, I plan to be a bridge between the UConn Administration and the student body. As a student who is interested in the political space, I have first hand experience as the vice president for my high school as well as interning for US Congressman John Larson. A major part of why I am running is because I am a first generation college student. I hope to be a voice for other first generation students who may be experiencing college for the first time. Personally, I have struggled with commuting to the regional campus at Hartford as well as being an active member in various clubs and organizations here at Storrs. Furthermore, I intend to be an advocate for freshman residents and try to make the transition to higher education as smooth as possible. Being a part of the Leadership Learning Community has exposed me to various leadership opportunities, as well as teaching me valuable lessons and skills that I hope to apply in future positions that I intend to pursue.

Bailey Quigley

Buckley Candidate (Seats Open- 1)

Greetings! My name is Bailey Quigley and I am super excited to be running for the Senate seat in the Buckley Mailroom District. Like many of you, adjusting to life as a new student at UCONN has been a bit of a rollercoaster. I miss home, but I love my new friends. I miss my dog, but I love all the activities that the university has to offer. As I embrace every new experience, I am most excited for the opportunity to lead. I have a strong background in leadership, hard work, and execution. In my high school of 2,000 students, I was the Student Council President, a basketball coach, a liaison for the Big Siblings program, and the founder of a neighborhood-wide initiative to promote community spirit. Most importantly, I was open minded, responsible and dedicated. I pride myself on being a person that anyone can express their ideas and concerns to. Now as a Husky, I am still that person and hope to represent our home with those same ideals. Please elect me, Bailey Quigley, as your Senator for Buckley and Shippee halls. Thank you!

Jeff Rosborg

Buckley Candidate

VOTE JEFF, and I’ll work for YOU! As your Hall Council President, I already know so many of your ideas, concerns, and needs, as well as have been able to meet with so many of you, and so who better to advocate for YOUR needs, bring YOU what YOU need, and talk to in order to ensure YOUR voice is heard at Undergraduate Student Government meetings in order to improve our overall experience at UConn? I have performed similar work with the CT Department of Education in which I won a $20,000 grant for my high school to fund innovations such as hydroponic stations to grow our own food, purchasing a $6,000 3D printer, funding towards clubs, art supplies for murals, materials for gardens, and equipment for the weight room. I want to hear your ideas and bring them to reality! I look forward to working… for YOU!

Leadership Positions: President of Student Government. Workshop Coordinator for Connecticut Association of Student Councils, Mayor's Youth Council, Boys State (government program), Captain of Swim Team, President of Environmental Club, Math Team, Science Olympiad, News Media Club, DECA/Business Club, Model UN Treasurer, Multicultural Club, Equity Squad, School-wide Podcast Chair.

Ahmad Al Zouabi

McMahon Candidate (Seats Open- 2)

Dear fellow Huskies, I am honored to be a candidate for the position of Undergraduate Student Government Senator at the University of Connecticut. My passion for creating positive change and my deep love for our university drive me to serve our student body. During my time here, I have actively engaged with our diverse community and listened to your concerns. If elected, I will advocate for policies that enhance our educational experience, such as increasing accessibility to textbooks and resources, fostering a more inclusive campus culture, and supporting mental health initiatives. I believe that communication is the key to effective representation. I am committed to maintaining an open line of communication between students and the administration, ensuring that your voices are heard and your concerns addressed. As your senator, I will work tirelessly to make UConn an even better place to learn, grow, and thrive. I am dedicated to transparency, accountability, and collaboration. Together, we can make our university experience the best it can be. I kindly ask for your support and your vote in this important election. Let's work together to shape a brighter future for UConn.

Isabella Chigogidze

McMahon Candidate

I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for the UConn Undergraduate Government. My diverse experiences, strong leadership skills, and passion for positive change make me the ideal candidate to represent your interests. At UCONN, I'm pursuing a dual major in Political Science and History. My experiences give me a deep understanding of the importance of effective governance and diplomacy in our rapidly changing world. My commitment to community and leadership is evident in my involvement at Wyoming Seminary College Preparatory School, where I served as the Student ELL - Department Chair, Founder of the Let's Just Talk Club, and Class President. I also founded the Ski Club, a testament to my dedication to fostering a sense of community among peers. In addition to my academic and extracurricular achievements, I bring a global perspective with fluency in four languages, a testament to my adaptability and open-mindedness. As your representative, I will prioritize enhancing student engagement, promoting diversity and inclusivity, and advocating for progress. I am ready to work tirelessly to address your concerns and create a more vibrant UConn community. Your vote can make a difference. Let's shape the future of UConn together. Vote for positive change. Vote for me.

Giana Rotundo

Northwest Mailroom Candidate

Hello! My name is Giana Rotundo and I am running to be one of your 2023 Residential Hall Senators for the North/Northwest Mailing District. As a Residential Hall Senator, my responsibilities would be gaining input from students, address concerns of the study body, keeping in contact with the population about new developments, advocate for changes and growth, and promoting a productive, advanced, and ever changing community for UCONN's students! I am deeply passionate about advocating and leadership and I strive to properly represent every need of the student body efficiently and appropriately. I will without a doubt fight for you!

Fernanda Leffet

Northwest Mailroom Candidate

Hi! My name is Fernanda and I am an international student from Brazil. I have always been passionate about politics and my goal has always been to make politics accessible for everyone. My wish is to work with you all to make positive changes in our community and make this an even happier place to live in. As I said before, I want to make politics accessible, and that, to me, means communicating and working collectively with everybody in a fun and conversational way. I would love to dedicate myself not only to working on projects that I find beneficial to the community, but that turn your ideas and expectations into reality. If you are looking for an easily approachable, kind, and truly willing to listen to your concerns, I am your Senator. Go Huskies!

Brenda Ames

Northwest Mailroom Candidate

Hello everyone! My name is Brenda Ames. I am a first-year Political Science major here at Uconn. Student government is something I am very passionate about. I was my high school’s class secretary for three years and deciding to run my sophomore year was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Nothing made me happier than advocating for my fellow classmates, organizing events, fundraising, etc. Something that was said at the first USG meeting I attended really stuck with me. The president mentioned feeling limited in high school student government, I did, but being a part of USG I would have the resources to make a real difference within my school community. I believe in creating an environment where every student's voice is heard and you can count on me to be your advocate. I am dedicated to addressing the issues that matter most to you, whether it's improving campus facilities, enhancing student support services, or organizing engaging events that bring us all together. I will work tirelessly to make all your voices heard. I am so excited and hopeful you will vote for me, Brenda Ames, as your advocate in the student government!

Ryan Engels

Northwest Mailroom Candidate

A proven, experienced, politically-knowledgeable student with experience in local government and youth advocacy. Ryan intends to be a trustworthy advocate for the UConn Student Community and to drive cooperation and discussion between students, faculty, and administration. Ryan is dependable and will be easily reached by constituents and faculty alike. Ryan is currently serving as a Voting Member of the Westbrook (CT) Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission,Youth Outreach Advisor to the Westbrook Coastal Resiliency Committee, and is a member and Social Media Manager of the Westbrook Democratic Town Committee. This fall, Ryan is running for a seat on the Westbrook Zoning Commission---planning to be Westbrook's youngest every elected official, building on top of the honor of being Westbrook's youngest appointed official. Ryan is also the Founder & Executive Director of the Connecticut Youth Political Advocacy Center---a non-partisan, grassroots organization which advocates for youth affairs at the state and local level.

Daniel Hand

Off-Campus/Commuter Candidate (Open Seats- 10)

Hello Commuters, I am Daniel Hand, a transfer and commuter student looking to represent you in the Undergraduate Student Government Student Senate. My interests and goals for students like you are advocating for more affordable housing close to campus, transportation to campus, and improved access to food resources in the UConn community. I would like to open dialogue between students to find solutions to problems as a community, as well as informing commuters about resources available to them. Together, we can make a university that works for all.

Arushi Sinha

Off-Campus/Commuter Candidate

Hello, my name is Arushi Sinha and I am applying to be a commuter senator. Before I came to Uconn, I attended a university that hardly made space for celebrating diversity. I recall reaching out to my counselor who had told me how many students of color ended up transferring to UConn for a more inclusive experience. I ended up transferring and felt instantly connected to my school for the first time. However, that feeling was short-lived once I was forced to transition to off-campus living. I began to realize how easy it was to miss out on events and feel as though I was on the periphery of campus life. My personal journey of transferring to UConn and facing the challenges of off-campus living has led me to run for this position. If given the opportunity, I will do my best to represent the needs of off-campus students and advocate for initiatives where every UConn student feels engaged and valued. I am particularly excited to work with other UConn students to ensure that all students, regardless of their living situation, have better access to cultural experiences and resources available at UConn.

Destiny Mejia

Putnam Candidate (Open Seats- 3)

My name is Destiny Mejia, I am a first year undergraduate student at the University of Connecticut, and i’m running for a senator position. I’ve took an interest in USG long before arriving to UConn, and it was something I always planned on being apart of. In high school I was involved with my student government, and made sure that my main priority was getting the voices of my classmates heard and given a chance. That is exactly what I want to do here at our school.

Jourdelyn Vargas

Putnam Candidate

Hi, Putnam mailroom district! My name is Jourdelyn Vargas also known as Lyric. I am running for Residential Senator in the Putnam mailroom district. Some of the responsibilities as a Residential Senator are to represent the interest of the residential area in which I live alongside to motivate and seek knowledge of the fellow senators who have taken this role far before me. In my role I plan on actively advocating for students to access and utilize available resources to their advantage. Whether it is guiding them to the Center for Career Development to enhance their resume and cover letter skills or connecting them with SHAW for mental health services. I am passionate about empowering students to not only make the most of their university experience but to enrich their character by building a network that’ll facilitate positive change through forging meaningful relationships.

Anna Parker

Towers Candidate (Open Seats- 3)

Hi! My name is Anna Parker, and I am running to be your Towers Mailroom Residential senator. If I am elected, I will focus on changing academic policy in ways that help students and on accessibility. Some policy changes I would like to see happen would be an indicator of textbook costs at the time of registration, an updated syllabus for a class at the time of registration, as well as more transparency from the University with its students regarding new programs. I would also like to reinstate the gameroom in East Campus, get Dairy Bar ice cream in the Whitney Dining Hall, and host events that increase community within East Campus and Towers. I would like to focus more on Sustainability in these residential areas and create an environment for students that increases their quality of life and is filled with happiness and fulfillment.

Harshil Parmar

Towers Candidate

Hi everyone, I’m Harshil Parmar, and I’m looking to be one of your Senators at Towers! With your backing, I aim to be a dedicated advocate for our Towers District and drive positive changes within our community. If you choose to elect me as your Senator, I plan on leading initiatives to improve UConn's environmental sustainability and organizing community service cleanup projects that will not only foster a cleaner environment but also strengthen the bonds that make up our UConn community. As someone currently on a pre-medical track, I’m familiar with the aspirations and challenges faced by students pursuing these careers and I want to give UConn’s pre-professional population more direct representation. Consequently, one of my long-term goals is to give pre-professional students seats in the Undergraduate Student Government Senate. Whether you reside in Towers, belong to the pre-professional student community, are passionate about environmental conservation, or simply support my ideals, I am committed to being a receptive leader who will actively listen to your concerns this fall. I hope you allow me the opportunity to ensure that your voices will be used to drive meaningful change within our university.

Jessica Nirschel

Towers Candidate

Hey guys!! My name is Jess and I'm determined to enhance our school community. My focus is on transparency, honesty, and security. YOU should have a voice in your school, and I'm here to guarantee that. But I also want to make your school experience more enjoyable. Let's improve the safety of walking home at night and the dining hall’s by putting the food YOU want on the menu. Your choices DO matter. Empowerment is key. This is your school, your dining hall, your safety and your voice counts. Let's promote diversity and ensure every student has a say. I'll improve communication so you're always informed. In summary, I'm all about transparency, security, and empowerment. And yes, expect better food options and more lights in our area when walking at night. Your happiness and input are my priorities. Together, we can create a better school. Please vote for me to bring positive change to our community.

Nina Lemash

Towers Candidate

Hello! My name is Nina Lemash and I’m a freshman Philosophy student living in the Towers Quadrangle hoping to represent my community as Towers Senator. My parents were born in the USSR, and in light of recent political events, they encouraged me to get involved in a non-profit organization funding and donating to 25 different orphanages in the Lviv region in Ukraine. After my experience with the organization, I decided that in college I would like to pursue my legal interests while simultaneously working for a better residential community. I hope to utilize my position as Towers Senator to provide for a cleaner, safer, and more “homey” living space. After speaking with a few Towers residents, one of the most pressing issues I've noticed is the cleanliness and functionality of common areas. My main goals for this semester are to find a way to ensure that all laundry machines are functioning properly and regularly inspected, target more funding towards general repairs and inspections (i.e. stairwells, ceiling tiles, doors, etc.), and equip at least 50% of the study lounges with mini game-rooms. I look forward to working with my fellow Towers residents to better our community!

Deborah Kyerematen

CAHNR Candidate (Open Seats- 4)

Hello everyone, my name is Deborah Kyerematen! I am a junior majoring in Allied Health Sciences and concentrating in Public Health. I am also in the 4+1 Masters of Public Health FastTrack program. I am running to represent the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources (CAHNR) in the Senate. Currently, I am involved in the USG Academic Affairs Committee. Outside of that, I am the Social Media/PR Chair for the First Generation Society on campus, I work as a Research Assistant and sit on the Student Advisory Committee for the Allied Health Sciences Department. In each of my roles I advocate for the rights of students and promote engagement with underrepresented groups in the undergraduate student body. As a CAHNR Senator, I hope to be a voice for students and a point of contact for anyone with concerns or issues. I promise to use my skills and knowledge to advocate for the interests of students in CAHNR and the university as a whole. I am excited to learn more and help improve the experiences of students at UConn! If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to me deborah.kyerematen@uconn.edu 🙂

Kenneth Nguyen

CLAS Candidate (Open Seats- 5)

Hi everyone! My name is Kenneth Nguyen and I am running to serve in the USG as an academic senator for CLAS! With the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences making up a majority of UConn’s undergraduate students, it is extremely important to elect a representative who will strive to empower your voices. That being said, one of my most promising qualities (aside from being hardworking) is my sociability! I always try to meet and form connections with new people, and this position is perfect for exactly that. If elected, I will serve as a friendly face that you can turn to for any reason, and will advocate for the concerns of our academic college and the undergraduate population at large! Because CLAS is made up of thousands of students, at times it is easy to feel like a number or a statistic. That is why it will be my mission to accentuate your opinions, to enact the legislation you desire, and to overall make you feel acknowledged and heard. I want to offer you the best undergraduate experience possible, and I pledge to put in my best effort as your CLAS senator. Thanks for your support!

Ryan Engels

CLAS Candidate

A proven, experienced, politically-knowledgeable student with experience in local government and youth advocacy. Ryan intends to be a trustworthy advocate for the UConn Student Community and to drive cooperation and discussion between students, faculty, and administration. Ryan is dependable and will be easily reached by constituents and faculty alike. Ryan is currently serving as a Voting Member of the Westbrook (CT) Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission,Youth Outreach Advisor to the Westbrook Coastal Resiliency Committee, and is a member and Social Media Manager of the Westbrook Democratic Town Committee. This fall, Ryan is running for a seat on the Westbrook Zoning Commission---planning to be Westbrook's youngest every elected official, building on top of the honor of being Westbrook's youngest appointed official. Ryan is also the Founder & Executive Director of the Connecticut Youth Political Advocacy Center---a grassroots organization which advocates for youth affairs at the state and local level.

Nayonika Singh

CLAS Candidate

Hi! My name is Nayonika and I’m a sophomore, double majoring in Political Science & Human Rights. Government and advocacy has always been a huge part of my life, growing up in a small, predominantly white town in Massachusetts. Over the years I have gained lots of experience as a leader, community member, and a member of political organizations. Ensuring people are heard, regardless of background, is incredibly important to me. By being a part of the USG, I hope to bring underrepresented voices from every corner of UCONN to light. As a first-generation Indian-American woman, there is not much representation of people with similar backgrounds in politics and it is my personal goal to change that step by step, starting with the USG. Keeping an open mind and having compassion are the most important parts of being in a role like this and as someone who has experienced the other side of it, I want to put in my best effort to make sure others do not feel similarly. The USG's mental health and women's health advocacy are some of the most admirable tasks I have seen and I hope I can be a part in continuing forward!

Amaree Love

CLAS Candidate

Amaree Love: A Voice for Change at the University of Connecticut. I am Amaree Love, a dedicated journalism major, and I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for the University of Connecticut Senate. My journey in journalism has equipped me with the skills to seek and communicate the truth, and I believe it's time to bring this commitment to transparency and advocacy to our university's governance. Throughout my academic career, I have witnessed the power of information and the importance of diverse voices. As a senator, I will tirelessly work to ensure that all students' perspectives are heard and valued, fostering a more inclusive and equitable campus environment. My journalism background has taught me to ask tough questions and dig deep for answers, skills that I will utilize to hold our university administration accountable. I am deeply committed to improving the student experience. I pledge to advocate for increased access to resources, mental health support, and affordable education. Together, we can make UConn a place where every student thrives academically and personally. I invite you to join me on this journey to create a brighter future for the University of Connecticut. Together, we can build a campus community that prioritizes transparency, diversity, and the well-being of every Husky. Vote for Amaree Love, your advocate for change, in the upcoming Senate election. Together, we can make our university a better place for all.

Vita Munoz

CLAS Candidate

My name is Vita Munoz, and I am a senior. I transferred here my junior year, but I added a extra year for an extra degree. Some problems I've noticed is that the transfer students don't really have a voice. My year consisted of listening by word and I missed a lot of opportunities. Now that I am a senior it is about the same. Such as, Nutmeg I didn't know about it until my friend told me. I want to run because I want to help get the word out about things and involve transfers into community life and not feel left out.

Ava Paquette

Nursing Candidate (Open Seats- 1)

Hi! I’m Ava and I am running as a senator to represent the School of Nursing. I am a first-semester freshman and I’m already so excited by all of the opportunities so far on campus! Throughout high school, I was extremely involved and held multiple positions, on both district and state levels, that pushed for student representation and leadership advocacy. From my extensive experience, I gained skills that I believe have more than prepared me to advocate on behalf of the nursing school on the senate level. In addition to my leadership skills, I am a very diligent and hardworking student. As a first generation college student, I always strive to learn more in and out of the classroom. I’ve joined numerous clubs since being here, including Husky Ambassadors, the Daily Campus, and SNA. I will continue to grow a healthy, diverse, and positive environment for all and I am committed to furthering our opportunities, the educational experiences available to us, and carrying out initiatives on behalf of the SON. I look forward to hopefully working with all of you, and would sincerely appreciate your vote to represent the School of Nursing on the senate!

Azucena Zecua Herrera

Nursing Candidate

Hi everyone! My name is Azucena Zecua Herrera and am a current Sophomore enrolled in the Nursing Program hoping to serve as the second academic senator for the School of Nursing. I am active in a variety of clubs and organizations across campus such as TEDxUConn, a mentor with the Student Nurse Association and METAS through the PRLACC Center, volunteering with UCAELI as a Conversation Partner, and an active member of the HealthCare Management club. My whole Freshman year and this past summer have been great periods of growth, both academically and socially, as well as eye opening experiences to prompt and act in advocacy for my society. My objective this year is to be able to enhance independent inquiry from the nursing student body to allow them to express their needs, and magnify their involvement in the UConn community. I want to serve as a liaison between my nursing peers, administrative staff, and every USG member. I look forward to collaborating with everyone, learning from one another, building relationships, and working together towards improving UCONN, our Husky home! Please do not hesitate to reach out, my email is azucena.zecua_herrera@uconn.edu!

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