Personal Statement

I want to open student government up to more people, attack issues that we can actually do
something about, and re-enfranchise the student body. As senator-at-large I will focus on
advancing student life by improving the total UK experience. I will take an active role to include
issues that all students recognize as a problem, but will also go beyond that to include issues that
most students don't realize student government can impact.

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?

I believe that we need to make our University environment more cohesive, so that everyone feels they belong and can contribute to this great institution. I would really like to work with religious based groups on campus, as well as groups such as the King Cultural Center. Through a joint effort, I believe we can tackle the diversity issues on campus.

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

As Senator-At-Large I would love to help groups get funding to raise awareness about sexual violence. Earlier in the semester Student Government help fund a production of the Vagina Monologues, in which all proceeds went to the V.I.P. Center. We need to continue projects like this that benefit our organizations such as V.I.P. and SEEDS. Also, we need to get UK’s men more involved on the issue by teaming up with MAVARUK (Men Against Violence and Rape 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?

After being a part of Student Government already for almost two semesters, I’ve witnessed how closely Senators and the Student Government staff have worked with our leaders in Frankfort; it hasn’t been an easy task. As Senator-At-Large, I will continue to write to legislators, as well as fight for an increase of need-based scholarships. These need-based scholarships help low-income students and minorities come to our great university!

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?

SG has made it possible for voting to occur online this year; this is a great step! With voting being online now, I believe more students will vote because they can do it at the comfort of their own computer. Since most things are done online now, SG can send out campus wide emails that encourage students to vote. Also, voter guides, such as this one, help with voter education and participation.

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

As a Senator-At-Large, I can only continue what SG has already started. I want to represent the voice of UK students because we, just like other working adults in this community, contribute to the value of Lexington and need to be properly represented!

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?

Coming from a town smaller than Lexington, I have learned so much about different backgrounds and cultures this year; this diverse quality is one that makes UK great. I will attend more Diversity Dialogues, as well as interact more withstudent groups who represent different nationalities, religions, sexual orientations, races etc. By working together, we can educate each other. 

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?

I believe more publications and e-mails can be sent out to inform our students of the options they have to become greener. This would include recycling options, a map of bike routes and thebus routes. All of these things would inform students about more eco-friendly ways they can live while on UK’s campus. Also, just like this year, we should continue a huge recycling push when students move into the dorms next year. As a student living in the dorms now, the talk of recycling at the beginning of the year got me into the habit of recycling all year long. 

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 do not personally agree with the logging of the forest; it is a part of Eastern Kentucky’s beauty. However, I realize it is land set aside for research, not nature conservation. I also understand the reasons brought up of why the forest is needed for logging. If the students voice a majority opinion, even if it is opposite of my own, I will represent the students, the people who elected me!

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

I want to aid students in gaining resources needed to get the most out of their college experience. UK has countless opportunities for students and I would like to help the student body use every opportunity they can to achieve their potential while here at UK.