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Candidate Statements
Brief candidate statements can be found below. For more information on the candidates,
you may visit their websites as follows:
House Party: http://www.umdhouse.com
Dan Leydorf: http://www.vote4danl.com
Students Party: http://www.votestudents.com
Executive Candidates
President:
Dan Leydorf
(Independent Candidate)
My campaign revolves around the COST promise. I guarantee progress on campaign
reform, off-campus transportation, student groups unity, and tuition affordability.
The campaign process grants legitimacy to the student government. As a result we
should continually work to improve the system by which we select our representatives.
With the shortage of housing, living off-campus is no longer a choice for many students.
It is important that students can find reliable transportation to campus.
The student government should encourage governing bodies to work together to represent
common interests among students. It should work with all student organizations to find
opportunities to bring these groups together.
Tuition at the University should also be affordable, but not at the cost of the University's
excellent educational quality. The student government should work to keep tuition
affordable and consistent.
These issues lie at the core of my campaign and I will address them as president.
Jonathan Sachs
Students Party
My name is Jonathan Sachs, and I am running to be your next Student Government
Association (SGA) President. I have a proven record of successful leadership on campus
and in developing relationships in Annapolis as President of the College Democrats. I
have also received the endorsement of the College Republicans in this election, which
demonstrates my ability to unite traditionally opposing groups. I plan to do the same as
your advocate next year. My first priority in office is to hear your concerns and speak on
your behalf to the administration, our local and state officials, and our federal
representatives. I plan to be available to you next year at "Your Time Tuesdays", where
each week I will visit a different residence hall to bring the SGA to you. Let's work
together to put the student back in student government. I would appreciate your support
in today's election.
Mardy Shualy
House Party
The Student Government Association is the strongest organization representing students'
interests. The university excels in many areas, but there are crucial failures that must be
rectified to improve the students' experience. I am determined to ensure that students
receive more e-mails regarding cultural unity than crime alerts. I am determined to ensure
that have increased interaction with faculty members, and fewer notifications informing
them that they have lost a housing lottery. The SGA must radically expand its outreach,
to ensure the best possible representation of the student body. Student groups must be
unified across cultural divides, to ensure that diversity becomes more than a university
catch-phrase. The student body must band together to ensure that our interests are always
the primary consideration; in housing, safety, the quality of academics, the accessibility
of education, and in unifying the student body. We must make this house a home!
Senior Vice President:
Joanna Calabrese
House Party
I envision this University as a place where students should feel comfortable, engaged,
and informed. With experience as an SGA legislator this past year, the leader of an
environmental group on campus, and a student of policy, I've come to understand what it
takes to organize, unify, and empower individuals and groups to progress. In this
upcoming year, I see the basic needs of students: campus safety, housing, and services, in
addition to the quality of academics, as issues of utmost importance. In my term as Vice
President I hope to target the innumerable resources of the SGA (which include your
money and your involvement) towards addressing the foundational problems of the
university while employing and celebrating the unique qualities of the University of
Maryland. As your student representative, I will strive to "raise the roof" and make this
great university more of a house than a home.
VOTE HOUSE!
Wanika Fisher
Students Party
Hi, my name is Wanika Fisher; I am running for Senior Vice President. I am
representation that can relate! My experience as a member of our community has left me
prepared and passionate about making change. As a member of the CIVIC US, Rawlings,
and NAACP I have the knowledge of the issues facing our university. My main goal for
our University is to spread unity among all culture groups. No matter what race, color,
religion or creed the Students party will bring people together and represent their issues.
The two areas that I will be focusing on next year will be transportation and campus
safety. I really want to improve the blue lights, provide more resources for students
during late night hours, have police presence on our campus at all times and provide a
better car ticketing system at the university. I will be a real face of change!
Vice President of Finance:
Sumia Ahmad
House Party
With over 10,000 students involved in more than 300 SGA recognized student groups,
funding largely determines the success or failure of student group programming.
Overall, funding can be difficult to understand and is particularly challenging for new
treasurers. Coming from the student group, Bridges Council, I can bring the experience
that I've had being a new treasurer to the finance process, to make it easier for all student
groups.
As VP of Finance, I want to have a transparent, fair, and equitable finance process so
everyone involved knows how exactly to compile a comprehensive budget. This can be
accomplished through a treasurer's transition meeting that I promise to have before every
funding process. I want to be a resource for student groups and I want student groups to
be able to fund their programs and I believe I will be able to do just that. So, VOTE
HOUSE PARTY!
Jason Hofberg
Students Party
Hey! I am running for the position of Vice President of Finance with the Students party.
Experience is the single most important trait in determining the success of the VP of
Finance. Combining my two years of experience in SGA as both Freshman and Denton
Community Legislator with my extensive knowledge of the finance process gained while
serving as a member of the JSU finance committee and the SGA Finance committee, I
have both an outside and inside view of the finance process. My knowledge of the
process has led me to understand the need for change - student groups must be the first
priority in the funding process and communication to student leaders is essential. The
Students party really does have what it takes to make SGA a better organization for the
student body and to make the finance process efficient and transparent.
Vice President of Academic Affairs:
Sterling Grimes
Students Party
As a current BSOS Legislator, I am well aware of the academic issues students face at the
University. As a result, resource allocation, advising and student/faculty relationships are
all areas that I intend to improve significantly if elected as YOUR VP of Academic
Affairs. Additionally, I intend to work with the Provost to ensure that the Strategic Plan
focuses on providing STUDENTS the quality education we deserve. I will work to
enhance programs like the Academic First Look Fair and the Student/Faculty Dinner to
increase access to and communication with academic departments and faculty. Large or
small, every school and college should be able to adequately equip its students for
intellectual life outside of the University, and as your representative, I will create and
cultivate strong relationships with the administration to make your education work for
you! Vote Sterling Grimes as YOUR Vice-President of Academic Affairs!
Laura Johnson
House Party
If elected, I would like to focus my efforts on streamlining advising on campus. I'm a
junior, studying computer engineering and government and politics; I have seen first-
hand and heard from many how different the advising experiences across campus can be
and how they keep students from taking the classes they want, getting the minors they
hoped for and even graduating on time. I served on the University Senate and was on its
Executive Committee. Those positions afforded me the opportunity to be on the Provost's
Student Advisory Committee, a committee which I would be responsible for chairing if I
were elected. I was also able to build relationships with many of the faculty, staff and
administrators I would be working with. We are all here ultimately for our education and
I would like to see that component of our college experience run as smoothly as possible.
umdhouse.com.
Academic Legislators
College of Agriculture and Natural Resources:
Zachary LeMel
House Party
When dealing with school policy little attention seems to be paid towards the
Agricultural School. As a freshman landscape architecture major I have noticed the
lack of resources and funds the agricultural school receives compared to the
bigger, more popular schools. If elected, I intend to be the voice for all AGNR
students. I will listen to your individual problems and fight for them in the student
government legislature. Just like agriculture is the backbone of our American
economy, so too I want the agricultural school to be the backbone of this
incredible university. If you need any more information regarding my ideas, or my
party's ideas please see the House Party website, www.umdhouse.com.
College of Arts and Humanities:
Brittany Harrison
House Party
Hello, my name is Brittany Harrison. I am currently a Freshman English major in the
Honors Humanities Program. As an ARHU student I have come in contact with many
excellent professors and advisors however, there is always room for improvement. I have
spent time in the advising office, waiting for hours to arrange my schedule and it is really
disheartening. As an ARHU legislator I hope to truly advocate for better and equal
funding amongst the various colleges. In addition, I desire to make diversity an
important part of every student's experience at the University of Maryland. College is
about learning new things and opening your mind to any growth possible and I believe
that striving for unity will better the campus climate. I love being a Terp and I hope to
make a major difference on our campus. Please vote for me!
Kevin Tervala
House Party
We are the Terps! This is our house! I am so proud to be a Terp but I also recognize that
this campus can be changed for the better. That is why I am running for a second term as
the SGA Legislator for the College of Arts and Humanities. Over the past year I have
worked to represent you on every important issue that came before the SGA: academics,
housing, transportation, and so much more. Next year I will do even more for you. I
promise to make sure that the funding inequality for ARHU and other colleges is
addressed. We need to be getting our money's worth out of our education. I will also
ensure that a Good Samaritan Policy and other life saving measures are adopted. Finally,
I will ensure our degrees translate into jobs. Vote for me, Kevin Tervala, and for the
HOUSE Party!
Danny Weininger
Students Party
Hi,
I'm Dan Weininger. I am from White Plains, NY and am an English Literature and
Language Major. I am running for Arts and Humanities Legislator as part of the
Student's Party because I want to better serve the University of Maryland community.
My goal is to provide all students of the Arts and Humanities School an accessible and
warm representative, one who wants to listen to them and wants to enhance and enrich
their experience.
College of Behavioral and Social Sciences:
Kameahle Christopher
Students Party
My name is Kameahle Christopher and I am a Sophomore Government and Politics &
African American Studies double major. I am in the School of Behavioral and Social
Sciences (BSOS) running for the position of BSOS Legislator. As a member of the
CIVICUS Living and Learning Program and the Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership
Program, I have mastered voicing my opinion to large groups. My passion is to work
with faculty and staff to get the voice of the students heard in the BSOS Department.
Many are frustrated with the lack of accommodation to the students when picking classes
and many other issues. It is my duty as BSOS legislator to stand up for the students and
make decisions in their best interest. Never will I put myself before the students when
making decisions and I ask you to allow me to be your BSOS Representative and vote for
the Students Party.
Arnell Limberry
House Party
My name is Arnell Limberry and I am running for BSOS legislator. I have chosen this
position to run for because I wish to represent the students of one of our
university's most populated academic colleges within the university at large. I also
want to increase funding for the college of behavioral and social sciences in order
to allow the college to effectively serve all of the students in it.
Matthew Lyons
Students Party
My name is Matthew Lyons and I want to serve as your BSOS Legislator. I believe it is
ridiculous that BSOS has the most students of any college at Maryland, yet is the second
least funded. Maryland needs strong, well funded social sciences in order to compete
with top tier public institutions. As your legislator, I will push for more BSOS funding as
discussed in the Strategic Plan recently completed.
Admittedly, such a big picture issue will take years to solve. However, in the interim
we can work to build stronger student-faculty relations by expanding the BSOS student-
faculty dinner, which will happen for the first time ever this spring. As well, I will work
to ensure prerequisite courses for BSOS majors do not overlap, so that students can take
the needed courses to graduate on time. If you have any questions or issues you want
SGA to address, please contact [statement truncated due to word limit]
Margo Nagel
House Party
Hi, my name is Margo Nagel. I'm a sophomore Government & Politics major with an
Arabic concentration from Columbia, Maryland. I'm a dedicated member of Sigma Delta
Tau Sorority and I love teaching fifth grade at Congregation Beth El Religious School in
Bethesda. I'm excited about the opportunity this position offers to bring change, while
serving your interests as the student body! Anyone who knows me will tell you that I'm
not only committed to my responsibilities, but I always look for ways to improve and go
beyond what is asked of me. I wholeheartedly believe that a legislator's job is to listen to
your opinions, which is what I promise to do. Thanks for taking the time to read about
me! I hope you make the right choice and vote for me!
Victoria Silva
House Party
My name is Victoria Silva and I'm a rising sophomore Economics Major. I'm running for
the Behavioral and Social Sciences Academic Legislator position as a part of the House
Party d in effort to change some of the weaknesses of BSOS. I would like to change the
advising system in BSOS to having an advisor assigned to each student as opposed to the
current walk-in advising. Additionally the size of the classes in BSOS needs to be
reduced. The extremely large classes do not allow for developing relationships with
professors, getting to know classmates, and promotes standardization. BSOS is the
largest school on campus and changing the weaknesses to strengths is of vital importance
to the University as a whole. Vote for me, Victoria Silva for BSOS legislator and the
House Party.
Shira Silver
Students Party
Hello, my name is Shira Silver and I want to be one of your new BSOS legislators! I am
currently a freshman majoring in Government and Politics and Psychology. For the past
year I have served on the SGA Campus Affairs Committee and with your vote I will
continue to be involved and further improve our university! One major problem at the
University of Maryland is that the average student lacks the belief that they can create
needed change in their school. All Maryland students should feel comfortable working
with their SGA toward results that they want. As a student in BSOS, fitting in the classes
you want can be overwhelming. I want to help push for smaller classes by adding
sections, and restrict gateway classes to those with less credit. This year is about making
you, the student, a priority and putting the needs of the student body first.
School of Business:
Jessica Abramovici
Students Party
Hello fellow Business students! My name is Jessica Abramovici and I am currently a
junior Finance major and I hope to serve as your legislator next year. During my tenure in
the SGA I have gained a lot of insight and skills that I could bring to the Business School.
The Robert H. Smith School of Business has a plethora of amazing professors and so if
elected I plan on promoting more faculty-student relationships through various social and
networking events. I am also very interested in seeing changes in this university as a
whole and working on improving the students' experiences. But more importantly I want
to put your interests and ideas first! I want to hear what you have to say and what changes
you want. So, please vote Jessica Abramovici to serve YOU as your Business legislator.
Lola Koiki
House Party
Although I am a freshman here at the university, I am more than ready to take hold of the
challenges facing the students of the business school community. During my two
semesters here at the University of Maryland, being a part of the honors program and
getting involved in on-campus groups have given me a chance to broaden my horizons
and learn the power of leadership. With elected officials not actively making themselves
visible and accessible to their constituents I felt it was time for me to step up and move
for change. In the position of Business legislator I hope to bridge the gap between the
student and the decision makers of this campus. Interaction between a legislator and their
constituents should be a familiar element of college life rather than an uncommon one.
Pat Savoy
Students Party
Pat Savoy is a junior General Business major from Paoli, Pennsylvania. As the Smith
Undergraduate Student Assembly Representative for the Finance, Banking, and
Investment Society he has drafted legislation on topics that include providing easier
access to freshman students interested BMGT367 Career Search Strategies and increasing
the relationship and integration of the SUSA Assembly with the SGA Business School
Legislator. Also, he is working on collaborating with the USA Today Collegiate
Readership Task Force in an attempt to provide Smith School students with daily access
to paper editions of The Wall Street Journal. When Pat isn't in the business school he can
be found at the Comcast Center, where he is a student supervisor for the Operations
Department of the Athletics Program, giving tours of campus through the Images
organization, or training for triathlons.
Amanda Schreier
House Party
My name is Amanda Schreier. I am running for the Business School Legislator position
on the House Party ticket. I am originally from Redondo Beach California. The question
I always get asked is "why Maryland?" Why not Maryland? There is no other school
that has a great athletics, challenging academics, and a student government that invokes
change on campus. I would like to be a part of SGA because I feel that I could
effectively voice the concerns of the business school students and act as a lesion between
SUSA and SGA, better connecting the business school with the rest of the University. I
am involved with CIVICUS, Freshmen Fellows, and Freshmen Council and a majority of
my leadership experience comes from my time as Student Body President in high school.
Hopefully I will get to help make "this house a home" by serving on the 2008-2009 SGA
Legislature.
College of Chemical and Life Sciences:
Alice Ku
Students Party
Hi! My name is Alice Ku and I am running for Life Sciences legislator! For those who
are in the CLFS college, you probably know many students who have changed their
majors because of the difficulty of some classes. I believe that there is no need to do that
if he/she really wishes to keep the major. Like how there is the Physics help center, the
Slawsky Clinic, there should be a Chemistry/Biology/Biochemistry help center for a less
personal tutoring. If there were more help centers and improvement in the quality of
classes, students would be succeeding in their classes and retaining their original majors.
I want to stand for YOU in getting YOUR opinions and thoughts across. There is no
boundary in the changes we can make together-none! This is, after all, OUR VOICE,
OUR TIME.
Tram Ton
(Independent Candidate)
As an accelerated Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics majoring student, I strongly feel
it is exigent that I take an active political role in the SGA to represent my fellow students
in every way conceivable. If elected to the SGA, I would not "bark from the bench" so to
speak, but rather involve myself with my constituents and implement changes that reflect
my college as well as the entire students body. Concerning academics, my goals include
reducing class sizes to ensure every students get the maximum learning experience and
also to bring about as much activities and demonstrations in the science classes as
possible. After all, most students learn better through visual aids rather than the
textbooks. Dedicated to representing the student body and enhancing classroom learning
experience, vote for me as the voice of the College and Chemical and Life Sciences.
Thank you.
College of Computer, Math, and Physical Sciences:
Olga Kuznetsova
Students Party
Hello, I am Olga Kuznetsova and I am a 1st year senior double major in Computer
Science and Russian with a minor in Physics. I have been at the university for a while,
and have gotten to know a lot of faculty and have participated in a large array of
programs the university has to offer including College Park Scholars-Science Technology
and Society and Semester Abroad in London. Currently, I am an active member of the
co-ed service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega as well as a facilitator at the Challenge Course.
I want students to be aware of the opportunities on this campus as well as the fact that
the purpose of SGA legislators is to serve as a voice of the STUDENTS to the rest of the
university community. I will find out what students want, and make it happen. Vote for
The Students Party!
College of Education:
Jennifer Hill
Students Party
My name is Jennifer Hill and I am currently a freshman here at the University of
Maryland as a Special Education major. If elected, this would be my first term serving in
SGA; however, I would like to help make informed decisions in the best interest of the
students in the College of Education and also throughout the campus. As I have been at
the university I have noticed a variety of issues come to debate such as the purple line,
tuition, and student housing which immediately affects students. If elected, I will vote in
the interest of the students and also voice concerns that are brought to my attention. I feel
that the campus working collaboratively together, towards strengthening the community
created here on campus, and also the overall educational experience of students, is very
important.
School of Engineering:
Jenna Aidikoff
Students Party
I am running for re-election to continue representing and working hard on behalf of the
students of the College of Engineering. This year I have listened to student concerns
about the quality of our classes and worked closely with the Provost to improve them. In
addition, I support his Strategic Plan to raise the standards across campus. I have also
worked on improving student group outreach by organizing a leadership conference, and
developing traditions at Maryland such as supporting a Maryland Mural on Knox Road
and various programs like Crab Feast and Wild-and-Crazy Terps Field Day. Next year, I
feel there is much more work to be done from continuing to improve safety and security,
fighting for lower textbook prices, promoting student friendly services and ensuring that
each student feels more involved and informed. Vote for the STUDENTS PARTY
because its time your voice was heard!
Kate Bodner
Students Party
Kate Bodner is a sophomore mechanical engineering major who has long ago given up
the need for sleep. Last year Kate decided to take on the role of SGA Legislator. One
year later, she has eagerly joined Jonathan Sachs and the Students' Party in order to run
for Engineering Legislator. This year, she plans to work on creating a students-only-
website that focuses on homework help. In a message board format, students would assist
other students at all hours on all assignments.
Outside the engineering community, Kate plans to assist those students that are/were/will
be forced off campus due to the housing crisis. Safety and transportation especially
concern her. She plans to assist College Park in their hope for a student-police force,
improve the Shuttle UM lines, and much more.
In conclusion, vote Kate Bodner for Engineering Legislator, so that she may put her
insomnia to good use- for you.
Nathan Simhai
House Party
As one of the University's largest and well-known departments, the School of
Engineering plays a vital role in the academic community. The school's engineering
students are all actively involved in many aspects of the University, and therefore require
a qualified individual who can represent their needs and concerns in the SGA. The rising
cost of tuition and textbooks as well as academic concerns such as rigorous course loads,
class sizes, and interaction between students and faculty are all issues facing students. As
a bioengineering major, I have taken the majority of the introductory courses towards an
engineering degree and I am knowledgeable about the school, its majors and programs. I
believe I am qualified enough to be the liaison between the School of Engineering's
students and administration, and the SGA. If elected, The SGA and I will work together
with the school to curb these issues and ease students' concerns.
School of Public Health:
Alyssa Litkowski
Students Party
My name is Alyssa Litkowski, and I am running for the Student Government Association
Public Health Legislator. The past SGA leaders have done a great job of upholding many
important values that we, as students, recognize as important. I hope to continue this
tradition at University of Maryland. Public Health is a field which contains a lot of
important modern issues, and it needs to be strongly represented in the UMD SGA. I feel
that I have the necessary qualities and characteristics to be successful in this position. I
am extremely dedicated and would like the opportunity to further serve my fellow
students by being part of the SGA.
Letters and Sciences:
Caroline Anderson
Students Party
I am asking you, the students of the University of Maryland, for the honor of serving as
your legislator because I absolutely believe in a student government that works for
everyone. As of now I am undecided about my major; however, I am leaning towards a
double major in government and environmental policy. I am interested in more
opportunities to look into different majors and access to literature about those majors and
other academic opportunities on campus. I am also interested in social events that would
attract and include all students. I am devoted to standing up for your interests by doing
what you ask of me and presenting it to those who are able to act on your concerns. I am
asking to represent my peers in an efficient, considerate, and responsive manner while
working hard to improve our community and university.
Kelley Chubb
House Party
My name is Kelley Chubb and I am from Crofton, Maryland. I'm a sophomore Letters
and Sciences Major who is planning on majoring in Government and Politics with a
minor in Philosophy. I decided to run for SGA because I wanted to help improve the
experience a student has while at the University of Maryland. As a Letters and Sciences
student I would like to see the advising process improved and the major change process
simplified.
As a past spring admit to the University of Maryland it is very important to me to
improve the process of introducing transfer/freshman connection students to the student
community. I feel that there is a big separation between the off-campus and on-campus
communities. There are plenty of events on-campus every week, however the off-campus
community has trouble hearing about these events. It is important to me to increase unity
across the entire student community.
Tran Hoang
Students Party
As a sophomore in Letters & Sciences, I have experienced mandatory advising, explored
major after major, and the angst that comes along with Limited Enrollment Programs
(LEP). This past year I have been serving as one of the Residence Hall Association
Senators for Leonardtown Community, Vice-Chair of the Transportation Advisory
Council, and a member of the South Campus Insight Committee. With these experiences,
I know the influence one voice can have on our campus. I want to alleviate that angst that
comes along with LEPs, whether it may be more emphasis on fulfilling the requirements
for particular programs, so that you do not become ineligible for particular programs or
creating workshops where students that have successfully transferred into an LEP provide
insight on how to apply into an LEP. I want to serve you. Please entrust me with your
vote and more importantly YOUR VOICE.
Robert Riker
House Party
There is a common perception around campus that the SGA is ineffective and fails to
truly represent the student body. Similarly there is a belief that the college of letters and
sciences does not properly advise and aid its students. I love being a student here, but I
see many ways in which the University could be improved, so I am running in hopes of
changing these negative perceptions by making positive changes to this campus and
community. I want to be your voice in the SGA, I hope to represent your needs and
interests coming from the college of Letters and Sciences. I see a specific need to
improve advising in LTSC and hope to help people find a way to succeed. It is the
responsibility of us all to leave Maryland better than when we started, so get involved.
Vote Robert Riker, and vote The House Party
Residential Legislators
Cambridge Community:
Lisa Crisalli
House Party
I am a rising sophomore psychology major who has long been an advocate for
communications, speaking on behalf of those who can not speak for themselves. As a
leader in Best Buddies International, I have experience organizing, fundraising, and
bridging gaps between communities. I will endlessly fight on the behalf of others, and
will not back down until I succeed. My main goal is to promote communication between
students and SGA legislators. This philosophy maintains that in order for a problem to
be solved it must first be addressed, publicized, debated, and then the student body be
made aware of the solution. I also support obtaining equal funding amongst the colleges,
as well as promoting affordable education by campaigning for lower textbook costs. By
voting for me and supporting the House party, you are supporting a better experience for
students.
Ashwani Jain
Students Party
Hey guys! Are you ready for a new beginning and a great year! Well, my name is
Ashwani Jain, and I am running to be your Cambridge Community Legislator. I have
lived in the Cambridge Community for one long year, and know what changes need to be
made to make your college experience the best there is. Any questions or concerns,
please contact me!
Courtyards:
Spiro Dimakas
House Party
I am a sophomore Biological Sciences Major. I was a member of RHA as a Senator
where I proposed legislation on matters of Housing and the Purple Line. As an
Undergraduate Rep. for the Senate Conduct Committee I tried unsuccessfully to get a
Good Samaritan Policy. If given the chance to represent you in SGA I would make all
efforts to get a Good Samaritan Policy and Lobby for students on getting more housing,
keeping the tuition freeze in place and keeping the Administration in check with the
needs of the students. Another big thing I am working on is getting Admissions to lower
their freshman acceptance rates so that juniors and seniors no longer have to look off
campus for housing. Don't forget. VOTE HOUSE PARTY!!!!
Michael Schwartz
Students Party
My name is Michael Schwartz, and I am current sophomore Aerospace
Engineering major who will be residing in the Courtyards next year.
Alongside being a member of the aerospace engineering honors society, Sigma
Gamma Tau, I am active in campus life, holding the positions of Treasurer
for the Engineering Student Council, Vice President for Finance in the
Multiracial & Biracial Student Association, and am also a team player on the
Club Water Polo team (read: waTERPolo). With these experiences in campus
activities, I would like to extend my experiences to the Student Government
Association legislature, knowing firsthand why you, my fellow students, as
well as student groups need representation in the Student Government
Association.
Denton Community:
Micah Chervin
House Party
Since you're reading this, you've already taken the first step towards taking an active role
in determining the quality of your college life. By voting for who will be elected to
Student Government Association, you determine what change is going to take place over
the next year. So what am I going to actually do? I don't want students to be concerned
for their safety when they're walking back to their dorms at night. I'm going to seek
improved safety measures so that students are more likely to look over their shoulder to
find an auxiliary police, rather than someone who's going to wind up on Crime Alert. If
elected to be your legislator and representative to SGA, I'm going to show you that when
you have a concern, from Styrofoam cups to housing, when you speak your voice will be
heard. So vote Micah Chervin and the HOUSE Party.
Andrew Steinberg
Students Party
I am hoping that if elected, I will serve your needs as your representative to the SGA. I
believe that it is important to generate change in some of the important issues that have
surfaced over the past year(Good Samaritan Policy, Purple Line,etc) as well as change
policy that has not yet been advocated for such as a change in Dining Services and the
lack of communication provided by the administration on hot student issues. These
policies must reflect the best interests of you, the constituent to serve your needs. My
current experience as an RHA senator has helped me to become informed about student
issues and work towards new policies. I believe that I would be able to serve you by
being the best advocate for your beliefs and give you a voice in the SGA legislature to
make necessary changes. OUR VOICE. OUR TIME!
Ellicott Community:
Sarah Horvitz
House Party
I love being a Terp and couldn't imagine being anywhere else. However, I recognize that
this school isn't perfect and could be improved in a few places. I'm sure everyone's
heard a horror story about dining food or has sat in the dark for a few days because 4-
WORK didn't respond. This is unacceptable. My goal next year is to make sure these
horror stories become a thing of the past. I would also like to work towards closing the
funding gap between colleges and finding a way to reach out to more students across our
campus. I am well equipped to do this. In addition to serving on my high school's SGA,
I also served as the student board member on my county's board of education. If we
work together I know we can achieve this. Vote for Sarah Horvitz for the Ellicott
Community Legislator and the House Party!
Dmitriy Portnyagin
Students Party
I am very outgoing, ambitious and dedicated to my friends and responsibilities. I hope
that I will get to know you and work with you to address any concerns that you have and
represent you in the Student Government Association. I would like to create change on
campus and within our community, which I hope will become tightly-knit and unified. I
will do my best to stay connected and informed and to be easily reachable by all.
As a freshman, I have become very involved on campus. As president of Ellicott Hall, I
have interacted with residents and worked to address their needs, as well as to promote
unity and fun within my building and the Ellicott Community. I am majoring in Business,
Economics and Russian. My widespread and diverse involvement has shown me how to
traverse departments and organizations to bring about action which will lead to positive
change.
Greek Community:
Gabriel Band
Students Party
My multi-faceted involvement with campus life--including my fraternity, various student
groups, and the University Student Judiciary--has made me appreciate the enormous role
that our Greek system plays. However, despite its invaluable positive influence on the
campus' social, philanthropic, and academic scene, it has fallen victim to many injustices.
I passionately want to represent the community, and help solve any issues that arise while
building more elaborate relationships to integrate the Greek community with the rest of
the university; in light of recent events, especially strong leadership is essential.
Aside from acting as Greek Legislator, my activities will be to attend to any situation that
is at all less than ideal. My alternate passion is to improve campus safety by working
with the university, all law enforcement agencies, as well as the city council.
Thanks, and I'm looking forward to working closely with all of you!
Leonardtown Community:
Nicholas Mongelluzzo
Students Party
I am a freshman Government & Politics major currently living in New Leonardtown.
Throughout my time here I have become well acquainted with the benefits and
drawbacks of living in the Leonardtown community, and believe that I will be able to
effectively represent East Campus throughout 2008-2009. I am aware of the many
problems students face, as I encounter them myself on a day to day basis. Problems such
as insufficient bus connection to main campus and lack of blue lights in many key areas
are just few of the issues I will address as the Leonardtown Legislator. I am aware that
one bus stopping through East Campus every thirty to forty-five minutes is not sufficient.
As the residential legislator in the Student Government Association, I will convey the
feelings of Leonardtown Residents to the administration, and work on legislation
benefiting the community as a whole.
Neighboring Commuter:
Jamie Bean
Students Party
[No statement received]
Brittany Schuetzle
House Party
Safety on and off campus is a significant problem and in recent years crime has
skyrocketed in College Park. If elected one of my top priorities is making sure that
students are not only safe, but feel safe, at any time of day; whether it can be done by
creating more liaisons between the police and students or making a student-run policing
system. Parking and the UMD bus system are also two concerns of many off-campus
students and should be addressed; getting on campus should be easily accessible to all
students. The various leadership positions I have held include being a Vice President in
my sorority's chapter, serving as a PHA representative, being a delegate of Model United
Nations, and a member of the International Studies Scholars Program. These
qualifications and my experience as a neighboring commuter have well-prepared me to
be successful in representing commuter students in SGA.
Dave Shaughnessy
House Party
I am running for the SGA to "be the change you wish to see in the world" as Mohandas
Gandhi once said. I am currently a Junior Environmental Science and Policy major
concentrating in Politics and Policy, a minor in Geographic Information Science, and an
Undergraduate Research Assistant with the Agricultural Resource Economics
department.
As I have lived in learned in our livable community of College Park, I have noticed a few
things that I would like to see changed with both the University and the City. I would like
to work with the City to increase student safety in the surrounding area, because it is
sickening how many off-campus crime alerts we get. I would like to work with the
University to increase sustainability measures concerning energy and material use, it
pains me to see Styrofoam in the diners and rampant electricity waste from lights on in
unused classrooms.
Kate Shoemaker
Students Party
Hi! My name is Kate Shoemaker; I am a Sophomore Psychology major and Spanish
minor with a Certificate in LGBT Studies. I am running with the Students Party for the
position of Outlying Commuter Legislator. I have been a commuter for 3 semesters,
living both in Greek housing and in the University View, my current residence. I want to
work with you to better your college experience by making Maryland more accessible to
all off-campus Terps! As a commuter, you face distinct challenges in regards to campus
involvement, parking and much more. I share these concerns, and I would like to
continue to learn more about your thoughts and experiences in order to be the best
candidate to represent your voice to the SGA. Thank you for considering me as one of
your Outlying Commuter Legislators, and please do not hesitate to contact me at any
time!
North Hill Community:
Nina Anziska
House Party
I am a freshman government and politics major, and a member of the CIVCUS living and
learning program on campus. In my first year here, I have learned that our campus is
made up of such a diverse group of people with incredible ideas on how to make our
school the best it can be. A chance to represent all of these ideas would be an invaluable
opportunity. I strongly believe that the opinion of each and every student matters most,
and I will work hard to make your voice heard. As a member of the House Party, assuring
that our campus is safe, dealing with the housing crunch, and developing a strong
community outreach are all at the top of my list. As North Hill Legislator, I will reach out
to the students of North Hill and work hard to better our community.
Nehama Rogozen
Students Party
As your North Hill Legislator, I will aim to make your experience living on North Hill
the best that it can be. North Hill is a unique community that has much room for
improvement. If elected, I will work for YOU! Think your dorm needs renovations? Feel
that our community isn't as strong as it could be? That's where I come in. With the
necessary connections as an SGA member, and plenty of enthusiasm and ideas, I will be
able to represent you to the administration and make sure that your time spent living on
North Hill is the best that it can possibly be. It's time to put the "student" back into the
Student Government Association, and to make sure that your voices are heard. By having
office hours, informal chats, and lots of programming, I guarantee that I will work for
YOU next year if elected your representative.
Outlying Commuter:
Elyas Abi-Antoun
Students Party
[No statement received]
Omri Arens
Students Party
As a President of a student group, I have noticed a disparity on our campus between
various constituencies; between religious groups, Greek and non-Greek, cultural groups,
etc. The University of Maryland prides itself on its diversity yet there is a lack of
communication between student group leaders and the members involved. Moreover, the
disconnect between the Student Government and the students has been a leading
component of the rift on campus.
As a result, I have chosen to run with the Students Party because I am confident that we
will be representing the students and ensuring that we seek out to our respective
constituents to hear their concerns. As your outlying commuter legislator, I will work to
bridge these gaps on our campus with the intent of enhancing our undergraduate
education. VOTE STUDENTS PARTY!
Nyssa Bryant
House Party
From the first time I saw the University of Maryland I fell in love. But when I started
attending The University of Maryland last fall some of my expectations were not met.
I've decided that instead of complaining I should actually do something about it. One of
the most important things I would like to see change is the crime rate in Prince George's
County. As a student who'll be living off campus next year, crime and violent crime, is a
major issue to me. From living on campus this year I also know the issues close to the
hearts of on-campus students; for example the awful food at the diner. I also strongly
support the Good Samaritan policy, because student safety should always come first. I
hope to implement positive changes while and make this school the university I wanted it
to be. So, vote for me, Nyssa Bryant!
Seth Clute
Students Party
[No statement received]
Steven Glickman
Students Party
As a fellow commuter, I will work to create a more open and a more inclusive leadership
where every student has a say regardless if they live on campus. This legislative body is
built upon the students, and I will see to it that the agenda for the leadership of the SGA
is built on the ideas of the students as well. What we need in our student government now
is a leader who can adeptly move this organization forward on the students' terms. We
need someone who can take the ideas of the constituency, not the few controlling leaders,
and make those the goals of the organization. I plan to create a culture of cooperation in
the SGA so that all student voices are heard, and so that the leadership of this SGA is but
the manifestation of the desires and goals of each individual student whom I represent.
Mehveen Riaz
House Party
My name is Mehveen Riaz, I am a freshman Government and Politics major, and I'm
running with the House Party. The reason I'm running for election is to represent the
outlying commuters on campus. There are many of us and I feel that we are not as
represented in SGA as other groups. If elected, I will try my best to bring forth any
concerns or requests to SGA regarding matters dealing with not only outlying but all
commuters. I hope to get involved in many aspects of SGA including campus safety,
funding, and housing. Please vote the House Party and Mehveen Riaz for outlying
commuter!
Jun Wang
Students Party
Hello, I am currently serving as your outlying commuter legislator and need your help to
extend my term another year. As a current legislator, I have been involved with many
SGA initiatives, such as Good Morning Commuters. If elected, I will work on the
following issues:
* Increase the voice and visibility of the Off Campus Student Association (OCSA)
* Improve campus security (feasibility study on issuing panic buttons for students)
* Support more commuter events like Commuter Appreciation Week
* Streamline bus routes
* Assist student with finding safe and affordable housing
I am also an Executive Board member in the OCSA, as well as the president of the
Honors Student Society. These experiences make me an excellent candidate for the
position.
Chris Wilhelm
Students Party
I am a junior Government and Politics Major who has spent my three years at UMD as a
commuter. There are two main reasons why I would be an effective advocate for
commuting students within the SGA:
First, I have spent two years working in the state legislature in Annapolis. I personally
know the three State Delegates who represent College Park, and I know that advocacy on
behalf of commuting students cannot take place only within the SGA, but must extend to
the body that appropriates funds and makes important decisions effecting transportation
and safety issues in our area.
Second, as I mentioned above, I have been a commuter since my first day at UMD. I have
a personal understanding of the frustration and subsequent needs of commuting students,
and I look forward to hearing more about the personal needs of my fellow commuters.
South Campus Commons:
Greg Baesa
Students Party
I'm Greg Baesa, a junior Economics and Finance double-major, and I am running for the
South Campus Commons Legislator position. As your legislator, I would strive to
improve your on-campus living experience by strongly advocating for the following:
better security, a more accessible transportation system, and parking options that make
sense.
I will seek for your opinions and personally reach out for your voices. As your legislator,
it would be my duty to champion your interests and fight for the issues most important to
us.
I believe that a potential for greatness lies within our very talented student body. As your
legislator, I will tap into and harness that potential so that we could accomplish
extraordinary things for ourselves and our university.
Henry Sheller
House Party
I thought I would try to express myself in Haiku form.
Hi my name's Henry
Sophomore in Commons 2
Please Vote for me... yes.
Henry will work hard
He also has quite long arms
Will reach things for you.
Play Basketball please?
Only courts on north campus
I'll try to change that.
Renaming Commons?
A good possibility
Snuffleupagus...
I want barbeque!
All of us want barbeque!
I'll make more free ones.
Got A.C. problems?
Something broke in your kitchen?
Henry will fix it.
Who should I vote for?
Why Henry Sheller of course!
Pencil Sharpener.
Thanks for your time. If you need any more information about me, check the House Party
website.
South Hill Community:
Brittany McGrath
Students Party
My name is Brittany McGrath. I am a sophomore Government and Politics major. As a
South Hill Legislator I would hope to be an advocate for the students, and make
improvements to campus safety as well as other issues effecting campus residents. I
chose to run for the position because I am committed to helping all students and trying to
make this college experience better for the student body.
Mario Richards
House Party
My name is Mario Richards. I am a sophomore Government and Politics Major. I as
South Hill Legislator I will be receptive to student wishes and do my very best to act on
concerns of the community. To find out more about myself and The House Party visit our
Web Site at www.house.umd.com