Personal Statement

I am running for Senator at Large to make a difference here at the University of Kentucky.  I realize and understand that everyone on our campus is extremely unique and different and by realizing that I want to strengthen and unify our campus as a whole.  I look at the University of Kentucky as a melting pot, one with wonderful students, great ideas, and vast amounts of change.  I want to and am eager to listen to the voices of the people and let their ideas be heard.  I am pushing for and striving for excellence!  Thanks!

1. As a student leader, you are aware that there is an emphasis on diversity issues at UK. What are some issues related to diversity that you believe are apparent on campus, and what do you plan to do to create change?

With being a part of such a big university, it is easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  Every single student here at the University of Kentucky is vastly different and I see and recognize that.  I want to be able to get all of the diverse leaders, followers and students involved in the issues that we have going on and happening here at UK.  I think that no one’s voice is too small to be heard and I want to ensure to get everyone’s thoughts, opinions and voices heard. 

2. What are your plans to help create an end to sexual violence and promote safety on campus?

SEEDS and The Violence and Intervention Prevention Center are two programs here at UK which I think are very important and fully support.  I feel that all students here on campus need to be educated on the precautions they must take to ensure their safety on campus.  Not only do I want to end sexual violence but I want to know that all students are safe at UK.



3. In light of the recent budget issues in state government, what action should Student Government take to help maintain affordable higher education?

Student Government is a main organization which is able to have their voice be heard with the state.  We are able to make a difference all over the state because of our empowerment and strive to take action.  Thus far we have had the rally in Frankfort, which was a step in the right direction to get our voices out there.  Student Government must be persistent in representing the college and keeping the cost affordable for all.  We want higher return rates and even higher success rates.  With the President being the only student on the Board of Trustees, it is very vital that we hold our ground and keep stepping in the right direction.

4. What action, if any, do you believe is appropriate for Student Government to take to increase voter education and participation both in on-campus elections, and general elections?

Thus far I feel that Student Government has done a great job with voter education and participation.  Not only is there representation on campus, with passing our fliers, setting up tables with information and offering rides to polling locations for the general elections, we are also offering plenty of information online including on the SGA website, facebook groups and on the UK website.  Not only that, but Student Government had Steve Brashear come and talk in the fall and Mayor Newberry is coming next week to talk to UK students about the issues that are going on statewide.

5. What are your plans with working side by side with landlords and the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government on off campus student housing?

Student housing is something that I find extremely important.  Most students live in the on campus residence dorms their first year and then search for an apartment or house that is off campus.  My plan in working side by side with the landlords is something that I will encourage and do to the best of my ability.  For I feel that it is vital that all students are given substantial information to be able to make an informed decision when choosing a residence to live.  Not only is location important but also cost, convince, and other accommodations. 

6. Leaders often face the struggle of understanding the people they represent. UK has a very diverse student body in terms or race, class, gender identity, culture, ethnicity, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, and ability status. What measures will you take to educate yourself on these issues? In what ways will you commit yourself to better understand and represent this diverse student body?

This past year I have made it my goal to get involved in as many activities as possible and get to know as many people as possible.  I feel that attending the different club meeting, including Leadership Development Program and the Diversity Dialogues; I recognize all of the different aspects that the University of Kentucky has to offer.  I feel that our diverse campus only makes us stronger because we truly are a melting pot of people, ideas and opinions.  I will continue to remain well versed on the differences that each student possesses and will do what I can to understand and represent the student body.

7. What are your thoughts on improving sustainability on campus? Considering current green issues such as recycling, renewable energy, and biking. What plans do you have to make UK a more green-friendly university?

The campus’s efforts thus far have been great, but I feel that improvements can still be made.  One of my goals for the upcoming year is going to be more recycling readily available on campus.  For example, recycling in every dining facilities and more recycling in the work out centers will make a big difference.  Not only that, but we should also have the residence halls, classrooms and library be more conscientious with lighting, heat and air conditioning, which will help and save energy.

8. What is your response to the recent research proposal to log sections of UK-owned Robinson Forest? Would you be willing to voice a student opinion different from your own to higher administrative positions at UK?

I feel that logging the sections that are owned by UK of Robinson Forest is not the best idea.  Whenever it comes to nature and especially a forest, regardless of who owns it, I do not think that logging it would be the best decision.  However, if it were being presented fully, I would take all sides into consideration and would be open to all points and opinions.  I feel that it will be my duty to voice all students’ opinions, even if they differ with my opinion.  I am going to be for whatever will better the campus, the university and the community and make sure that all voices at UK are heard.

9. Use this space to address any additional ideas, plans, concerns, or platform ideas you have.

No response