Candidates for 2024-2025 Student Leader Elections

Nisttha Ray

I am Nisttha and I am running for Junior President. I am a person who's known to take on any opportunity where I can showcase my leadership skills and qualities that have been instilled from such a young age. As a Biology student in the Pre-Medical Program, Student Engagement Coordinator, current SAGE Representative, and former Bonner student, I like to devote my time and energy to making an inclusive environment here on campus. From being interviewed by The College Tour Production Crew, the International Argus News Station, the Catholic Review News Outlet, the Endowed Scholarship Luncheon Team, and the Spring Open House Panel, it is fair to say that I enjoy sharing my positive experiences here at NDMU, and what, from a student's perspective could be improved upon. I have a good rapport with the school as I create thorough connections through my many roles between the student body and faculty/staff. With your vote, we can all advance to a better future by building a strong present!

Taif Ibrahim

Hello! I'm Taif, and as SGA President I'm excited to keep building SGA! I hope to see through the foundation constructing of the student government through my work on the previous board, and prepare a solid base for student advocacy. As Senior Council Treasurer, I hope to cultivate a stronger community for senior students and provide a respite from the stress of graduation through supporting the senior council in providing resources, fun events and anything needed!

Grace Ekalle

Hi everyone, My name is Grace Ekalle and I am running for Vice president of SGA, CAB social media manager, And junior class Vice President. I am currently a sophomore here at NDMU Majoring in Biology. I participate in various things on campus as I love to stay active in things that interest me and my peers. You may know me from BSU, or have seen me at ASA's dance classes, or maybe we've talked at a campus event. Either way, I am always interested in gaining multiple experiences and connecting with people to create better ideas and enact honorable solutions to problems. I want to cultivate a better community and experience here at NDMU and I will listen to you in order to do. I am an active listener, resourceful, creative, and I have experience in positions of leadership that has created a change on this campus. "With Grace, anything is possible."

Rita Agala

I would make a good candidate for SGA Treasurer and VP for the Residence Hall Association because I will use my position to expand awareness on issues that affect students. This role provides me the opportunity to inspire and positively motivate my peers.

Leanna Blackman

I'm running for the Student Government Association Secretary because I'm committed to serving our student body with honesty, hard work, and a strong belief in student empowerment and advocacy. I am well-suited to carry out the duties of this position successfully because, in addition to my experience in communication and desire for community involvement, this will be my second year serving as the Student Government Association's Executive Board Secretary.

As your secretary, I promise to put diversity, accountability, and transparency first in all that our student government does. I'll do my best to make sure that each student's needs are met and that their voice is heard.

Moreover, I understand the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving our shared goals. I am eager to work closely with my fellow Executive Board members, student representatives, and campus stakeholders to develop innovative solutions to the challenges facing our community. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant campus environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Isabelle Montes

Hello! I am Isabelle Montes, and I am running for Secretary for the Student Government Association and Secretary for the Sophomore Class Council for the 2024-2025 Academic school year. I believe that together we can make a real difference on our campus. As secretary, my goal is to ensure open and effective communication between the student body and the council. I will be your voice, in actively listening to your concerns and ideas, and working hard to address them. I will keep everyone informed about any events, meetings, and important decisions. I believe I will bring strong organizational and communication skills and making sure our records are accurate. You can count on me to be reliable, responsible, and a dedicated member. Vote Isabelle Montes for Secretary of Student Government Association and Secretary for Sophomore Class Council. Thank You!

Amir Gordon

I believe that all students and faculty in the NDMU community deserve quality and health-benefiting meals in an ideal environment every day. So, the reason why I’ve decided to run for SAGE Representative is because I feel as though this school needs a confident, dynamic, and flexible representative ready to speak on behalf of all the student/faculty body to ensure that dietary needs are being fulfilled to the best of SAGE’s ability. I also want to ensure that SAGE is offering a warm and welcoming environment so that students/faculty do not feel as though they are isolated, unseen, or unheard but rather welcome and satisfied.

Mariam Alzubaidi

Hello! My Name is Mariam Alzubaidi and I am running for the Academic representative position for the upcoming year, fall 24- spring 25. I have always looked at academics as the greatest weapon any nation could have, since with excellent academics we can build empires and assure a flourishing future. Therefore, it is crucial to make sure our academics at NDMU are being well understood by us as students so we can become the basic building blocks of our astonishing future. I am planning to claim this by firstly, being your voice in any academic hardship no matter the size of the issue. Secondly, ensuring that resources are being provided in order to achieve a full academic experience for undergraduate students here at NDMU, enhancing our skills and preparing us for our upcoming steps. Lastly, holding monthly meetings or surveys to discuss our progress and if there's any suggestions or issues that need to be discussed. Remember that our future tomorrow is a reflection of who we are today, thus let’s work the hardest on what we plant today and our harvest shall be the best.

Aubrey Mbimba

Hello, my name is Aubrey Mbimba. I am currently a freshman (class of 2027) majoring in criminology. I am campaigning for the President position of the Campus Activities Board (CAB). I believe I will be fit for this position because I am a great planner and will make sure the activities on campus will be on days available for most people, if not everybody, and ensure that people attend the events as well. I am an active participant on campus already and I try to attend almost every event. I am great with people, and I am a great problem solver. I am also open minded to new ideas or thoughts on activities and when it comes down to it, everything will be done ON TIME. I am in BSU and ASA; I do not uphold an official position on the board, but I would like to have the opportunity to run something instead of just being a participant. I am used to being a background character, and I hope getting the position as president will help me get out of my comfort zone and learn to lead others.

Christina Dargakis

I am running for CAB President because my passion lies in creating fun and engaging experiences for the campus community to enjoy. I strongly believe in the significance of fostering a sense of community and belonging through enjoyable activities and events so that individuals can make fond memories at NDMU. I am an ideal candidate for CAB because not only have I been an active member of CAB since my first year, but I am also organized, cooperative, creative, and reliable. If elected as CAB President, my goal for the next school year is to continue to collaborate with student-led organizations and to plan a free of charge large-scale event such as a formal dance. Overall, my dedication, experience, and personal attributes make me an exceptional candidate to consider voting for as CAB President.

Kayla Brice

Hi everyone! My name is Kayla Brice and I am running for Vice President for CAB. I am running for this position because I want to ensure that within the future years on campus, there are activities for everyone, and people feel included as well as have a fun and wonderful time. Having me as Vice President will allow me to use my voice to advocate for everyone, and work with the President to make sure that we cater to both residents and communities. 

Disomi Okie

I am a dedicated rising junior and biology pre-med student. As your next CAB Vice President, currently serving as President of NDMU's Black Student Union (BSU), I've demonstrated dynamic leadership by leading strategic initiatives and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. Under my guidance, the BSU has flourished, organizing empowering events that promote unity, cultural awareness, and social advocacy. Now, I'm eager to utilize this experience on a larger scale as your CAB Vice President. With a passion for connecting with students and a commitment to amplifying their voices, I'll work tirelessly to plan engaging events that enrich campus life and foster a sense of belonging for all. Together, we'll make a lasting impact on our college community! 

Shangwe Stephens

My name is Shangwe and I have been nominated for President of the Sophomore class as well as Public Relations Chair for CAB. I believe I deserve your vote because I possess the necessary skills to effectively represent our class. I am committed to making sure that NDMU is an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and heard. By voting for me as Sophomore class president and your Public Relations Chair for CAB, you are not only choosing a leader, but a collaborator who will strive to make our time spent at NDMU memorable. 

Joe Cruz

I believe that my ability to become senior class president is achievable, make your vote count towards the only option (me).  As a student engagement coordinator over the past 2 years, I have gained skills in programming that have helped me bring different school communities together by knowing how to reach out to others who are eager to engage in the community. 

Nicole Self

Throughout my three years at NDMU I have been an active participant in the community through my positions as SGA Executive Treasurer, Student Engagement Coordinator, Summer Orientation Leader, and more. I have experience in event programming and community engagement. Throughout my three years at NDMU I have been an active participant in the community through my positions as SGA Executive Treasurer, Student Engagement Coordinator, Summer Orientation Leader, and more. I have experience in event programming and community engagement. I am prepared and excited to be an active listener and advocate for the senior class as your Senior Class Vice President. 

Rosemary O’Brien

Hello, my name is Rosemary O'Brien, and I am running for Vice President for the rising Junior Class. I am running for this position because of the voice I am able to have here at NDMU. For the last two years, I have been a part of our university’s volleyball and lacrosse teams, as well as maintaining my position as Vice President for the class of 2026. I am also a part of some organizations on campus like SAAC and Gator’s Teach. I have been lucky enough to build strong relationships with the faculty and staff here on campus. I believe I can continue to be that link for students to have that student point-of-view when it comes to important meetings. I am determined to keep the class of 2026 successful and fulfill our academic years with support.  

Tiara Valentine

I would make a great candidate for the Sophomore Class Vice President because I have been in various leadership positions before and understand the importance of having someone that is committed to fulfilling the responsibilities of their position in SGA. 

Jillian Seay

Hi everyone! My name is Jillian Seay and I am running for sophomore class treasurer. I served in this position last year and was able to help set up a lot of events for our class, like the first 100 nights and Valentine's Day interviews at lunch. These fun events would continue next year, as we want to do events like last year and new ones such as a Fun Run/Color Run to raise funds for organizations like Stand Up to Cancer, movie nights, and even class trips! If you elect me, I will continue to ensure that your voice is heard and that we grow closer as a class and community! I hope I can continue to do more for our class, and if you have any suggestions or things you want to see please reach out and I will work my hardest to make it happen! 

Katelyn Stephenson

My name is Katelyn Stephenson and I am running for the RHA Communication Coordinator. I believe that I am an excellent candidate for this position as I am very passionate about great communication. It is truly important for communications about events and other information to be communicated to the residence in a timely manner. I believe I would excel at this since, as a resident, I know how necessary receiving communication well in advance of events and deadlines is. 

Hannah Santos

My name is Hannah Santos, and I am running for Sophomore Class President and SGA Executive Treasurer! As of now, I serve as the Freshman Class President and helped create NDMU’s First 100 Nights, Valentine’s Day interview, and plan to do many other fun events next year! I have very involved on campus, recently co-founding the Asian Student Union, and I plan to still be involved! My vision is to make our community feel like a safe and welcoming space, I plan to create a space you feel welcomed at NDMU, a place where voices are heard. I want to be your megaphone, someone you can reach out to whenever you have a problem or if you have great ideas! Your voice will be the most important to me if you vote for me. I hope to make next year another memorable time here! Go Gators!! 

Simone Sharma

Hi everyone, I'm Simone Sharma! I'm running for Sophomore Class Secretary. I feel like I'm a great fit because I am an incumbent secretary who has experience dealing with the ins and outs of student government. I helped plan the First 100 Nights Event that we held last year, which was a great hit. In the future, I plan to have more community-based events to strengthen our Notre Dame spirit, some of which include a Color Run and volunteering at an animal shelter. As a person who has held various leadership positions in the past, I can utilize the valuable experiences towards bettering our class experience.