Personal Statement

Promote funding for student organizations that would encourage the involvement of all students of the University.
 
Work to improve safety on campus by supporting the VIP center and their programs including SEEDS and work to improve the night transportation around campus.
 
Encourage all students to be interested in their local and national government and continue programs that encourage them to vote and engage in political advocacy.

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?

One diversity issue that was made very apparent this past fall due to a cartoon in the Kentucky Kernel was the division in the Greek systems at UK.  As a member of a Panhellenic council organization I will make an effort to attend events of National Pan-Hellenic council organizations and make sure that I understand the feelings of all Greeks.  I am aware that there are many other diversity issues on campus I will work to understand viewpoints on both sides of each issue and see to it that those problems are attended to as well.

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

First, I will work to support the VIP center not only financially but also promote its purpose around campus and making a more visible organization.  I will also encourage all students to attend a workshop offered by the VIP center if they have not already.  I will encourage and promote the CATS bus and escort services offered to all students during the night. 

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

I feel like Student Government has already made significant strides in the right direction. One successful event was setting up ‘listen up legislators’, where students could send emails to their state representative in the classroom building.  Student Government also provided transportation for all students that wanted to go to the student state rally at the capitol.  I would continue these activities and look into other ways to talk to the university and state government leaders as to why it is important to keep our education affordable.

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?

I feel like Student Government should encourage students to vote by helping to register to vote.  I believe Student Government should hand out brochures or hold lectures about why their voice matters when it comes to voting in general election.  As for on campus elections, I feel like Student Government should encourage students to vote and explain to students what Student Government’s activities and purposes are so they understand why it is important to vote.

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

I plan to attend government meetings to address the importance of not putting restrictions on off campus housing.  I would stress how it could possibly cause a finical burden on students.  Finding housing close to campus harder should not be made harder.  I will also work with Lexington Fayette urban government to understand their complaints associated with student living off campus and relay that information in a fashionable way to all students.

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?

In order to understand the diversity on UK’s campus I will do the best to education myself through exposure and research.  I know however that I cannot do this completely on my own efforts. Therefore, I will encourage all students to come speak and meet with me.  I will listen and respect all students. 

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 feel like the current recycling program at UK is great but there are a few improvements that could be made.  There could be more can and bottle recycling bins located in the classroom buildings and office buildings.  Posters could be put up in the dorms as to what can and cannot be recycled.



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 am aware that the logging of the Robinson forest is a meaningful issue and major concern to many students.  I would be willing to represent and support those students in any way possible.

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

No response