Position: President
Major: Political Science and Music Performance
Graduation: 2028
Candidate Statement: My name is Owen Ibey and I’m running for SGA President because I’m genuinely passionate about making our campus a place where everyone feels heard, supported, and valued. Over my time here, I already have had the chance to connect with many people, and I want to continue that into a presidency. Here’s what I offer and what I’m committed to if elected:
Building Stronger Connections: With my experience in SGA already, I’ll work to strengthen the relationship between students and the Student Government so that your voices don’t just get heard, but actually help us change the campus. I want to start with collaboration between the SGA and the numerous clubs we fund. Collaboration is the foundation of change, and it can help fuel stronger connections between groups and our university as a whole.
Advocacy: Speaking out on issues that affect our community here, and Danbury as a whole is crucial for our collective futures. The future of our university and our generation should not be hindered by lack of funding or recognition. Speaking out and advocating for issues that truly matter is a key pillar of democracy I stand with.
Supporting Student Initiatives: Whether it’s a club, movement or even a small issue, I’m here to ensure student ideas and passions have the support and platform they need to succeed in our university. I am young, but all I’m asking for is the chance to use my skills, experience, and dedication to serve you. Together, we can build a more inclusive and impactful community here at Westconn. Thank you.

Position: VP

Major: Criminal Justice

Minor: Theatre Arts

Graduation Date: 2028

Candidate Statement: My name is Gianna Ruby-DaSilva, I’m running for the role of Vice President. The Student Government is an extremely important resource for students to have, so they can be supported and heard on campus; this is why I want to take on a bigger role and contribute even more to SGA’s cause. Areas I plan to focus on in this position:

– Communication: I will provide effective communication between all students involved in SGA so we can operate efficiently.

– Outreach: I can also provide members of the SGA with opportunities to connect with students, so we can better understand what the student body cares about. – Ensuring good performance: In the role of Vice President, I can make sure that people within the organization are performing well, and that they are doing their job in a way to properly support the student body. I believe that for an organization to be strong on the outside, it needs to have strong support on the inside

– Through my experience in internal work, I’m confident I’ll be able to provide that support. I’ve been in executive positions adjacent to this one in the past, such as President of Tri-M Music Honors Society, and through my work as a senator, I’ve done a lot of the technical work that a Vice President would need to have knowledge of. I pledge to provide my best to this role if I’m elected. Help SGA help you!

Position: Director of Student Relations

Major: Social Work

Graduation Date: 2026

Candidate Statement: I want to be a part of the Student Government Association because I am passionate about representing my peers and making a positive impact at WCSU. As someone who is actively involved on campus I hear the concerns of many different communities and I believe that through SGA, I can work collaboratively to address these concerns, promote meaningful initiatives, and help create an inclusive environment where all voices are heard.

Position: Director of Finance

Major: Economics

Graduation Date: 2027

Candidate Statement: I am Abe Sari, a Sophomore majoring in Economics, and I am running for the position of Director of Finance in our Student Government Association (SGA). With experience in SGA as a senator and a finance committee member, I am committed to ensuring transparent and efficient allocation of our student funds. If elected, I will work diligently to support our student organizations and enhance campus life. Thank you for your support.

Position: Chief Justice

Major: Social Work

Graduation: 2027

Candidate Statement: As a candidate for Chief Justice, my goal is to ensure fairness and accountability within our student government. With a strong commitment to justice and integrity, I will work to uphold the Constitution and ensure that all decisions made reflect the values of our student body. I believe that every student deserves to be heard. I will be a neutral and diligent advocate for upholding our rights and responsibilities. I am dedicated to creating a fair and just campus environment where every student feels respected and represented.

Position: Senator

Major: Financial Accounting

Graduation: 2028

Candidate Statement: I’m excited about the opportunity to be a senator in SGA because I’m passionate about creating a positive impact on the WCSU community. I enjoy being involved in various aspects of campus life, from serving as an OL and RA to being a member of ACSA. These experiences have shown me how much I value connecting with and supporting others. Joining SGA would give me the tools and platform to continue fostering change, advocating for my peers, and contributing to a thriving and inclusive campus environment.

Position: Senator

Major: Music Education

Graduation: 2027

Candidate Statement: I want to make sure WestConn stays a beacon of quality education for all, and seeks to foster opportunities for personal and professional growth. Western Connecticut State University is more than a school. For many it’s a second home, a place to make friends, have fun, and grow. That’s what I’m working for.

Position: Senator

Major: Finance

Graduation Date: 2027

Candidate Statement: I want to be part of SGA because I want to be involved on campus and help student voice their opinion. I would like to student get involved and make a difference with SGA.

Position: Senator

Major: Interdisciplinary Studies in Economics & Political Science

Minor: english

Graduation: 2027

Candidate Statement: I have served in the SGA for over a year now, and I have had the privilege to be a representative, senator, and the vice president. I am satisfied with the work I have done thus far. However, my work is not done yet. I would like to continue advocating for the student body through this organization, and I would like your vote to help me do so!

Below are my goals for my next term that you will be supporting with your vote:

PHILANTHROPY FOR STUDENTS When I was a senator I served on the philanthropy committee. I see a lot of potential for this committee, with its broad goal of ‘assess the areas where students need help the most in order for the SGA to help provide’, and I want to see that happen. I would like to greatly expand its efforts through organizing student polling, communicating with the CSO and residence halls, and pushing for more funding to facilitate more ambitious programs.

THE ELECTION PROCESS During my terms in SGA, elections have been a difficult balancing act at both the senator and executive level. While I agree with outsourcing our elections to CSI, I would like to work with the senate and CSI to find safe but effective methods of personal campaigning. This would increase our visibility on campus and the quality of our elected senators. I will also push for less appointments and more democratic recruitment & elections overall.

PUBLIC TRANSPARENCY The SGA is a great organization but goes largely unnoticed by the student body. I believe it is impossible to effectively govern when we are so disconnected from students. This will go hand-in-hand with my aforementioned student polling, but I want to greatly increase SGA’s presence on campus & online. I want more events with other clubs, and I want students to be aware of what goes on within the organization. Thank you for reading (I can hope), and I look forward to representing you.

Position: Senator

Major: Management Information Systems

Graduation Date: 2026

Candidate Statement: Thank you for considering my candidacy. I am excited about the opportunity to serve in our student government and to work together towards a prosperous future. I look forward to the possibility of contributing my skills and passion to our shared success. As a Senator, I would be honored to work with everyone to build a stronger, more connected student community.

Position: Senator

Major: B.S. Secondary Ed 7-12; Math

Graduation Date: 2028

Candidate Statement: Hello, my name is Briana Hernandez! I am a freshman pursuing a degree in Secondary Math Education and I will be running for SGA Senator. As a Christian Hispanic, I recognize we have multiple, beautiful, and diverse communities here on campus; communities made up of powerful voices that I would like to advocate for and represent on their behalf. As someone who aspires to make an impact through teaching, I am passionate about listening to the needs of others and working for the greater good of my peers. Being a Senator in SGA would not consist of me greedily seeking my own needs, but rather narrowing my focus to what students believe would make WCSU an overall better place for our education and well-being. I promise to use the most of my communication, collaboration and leadership skills to successfully work on behalf of all students, who have a right to be heard and cared for.

Position: Senator

Major: Biology

Graduation Date: 2027

Candidate Statement: I am running for the position of Senator in the Student Government Association because I believe in the power of student voices. I want to be a proactive advocate for my student peers. Throughout my time at West Conn, I’ve seen areas where we can improve, whether it’s increasing student involvement in campus activities, addressing concerns about campus resources, or creating a more inclusive environment for all students. I am passionate about fostering a campus community where everyone’s voice is heard, and I am committed to working collaboratively with students, faculty, and administration to make positive changes. As a Senator, I will bring fresh ideas and a determined work ethic to ensure that student needs are prioritized. I am dedicated to making our West Conn experience the best it can be, and I hope to represent you with integrity and dedication.

Position: Senator

Major: Accounting

Graduation Date: 2027

Candidate Statement: My name is Jerry Padilla, and I am a sophomore at Western Connecticut State University. I am excited to run for SGA Senator again because, in

the short time I’ve been here, I have already felt like part of something that truly makes a difference for students. I’ve had a great time engaging with the student, and I hope to continue making a positive impact.

Position: Senator

Major: Financial Accounting

Graduation Date: 2026

Candidate Statement: Hello WCSU community! My name is Miranda Martincic, and I’m thrilled to be running for the position of Senator. I’m currently a junior, majoring in Financial Accounting, a proud member of the Women’s Soccer Team, and originally from Queens, New York. Over the past few years, I’ve grown to love the WCSU community. This campus has become my second home, and I’m ready to give back by taking on a more active role in student leadership. I believe that strong communication and genuine connection between students and administration is the foundation of a thriving university. As Director of Student Relations, my mission will be to ensure that every student’s voice is heard, respected, and represented. Being part of the Women’s Soccer Team has taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, leadership, time management, and perseverance, which are qualities I’ll bring with me into this role. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or across campus, I strive to uplift those around me and create a sense of unity. If elected, I will focus on the following priorities:

– Improving transparency between students and campus leadership

– Hosting regular forums and feedback sessions to gather student input and share updates

– Working with clubs, organizations, and underrepresented groups to make sure all voices are included in important conversations

– Collaborating with other student government leaders to advocate for meaningful changes and improvements to student life I also want to make sure communication is accessible and engaging. That means using social media, newsletters, and in-person events to keep everyone informed and involved. You should never feel disconnected from what’s happening at your school, and I’ll work hard to bridge any gaps. I’m passionate, approachable, and genuinely care about making WCSU the best it can be for all of us. With your support, I hope to bring energy, empathy, and action to the role of Senator. Thank you for your time, and I’d be honored to earn your vote! Let’s work together to make sure every student has a voice, and that voice is heard.

Position: Senator

Major: Financial Accounting

Graduation Date: 2027

Candidate Statement: I want to join the Student Government Association because it will give me the chance to develop my leadership skills while being part of a team and making a change on campus. I’m excited about the opportunity to better myself/learn while also helping others from Students/Staff/Professors.