2025-2026 Election Candidates

Serving as Chief Justice of the Graduate Professional Student Congress (GPSC) has been an opportunity to uphold transparency, fairness, and accountability in student governance. I have led judicial reviews, policy evaluations, and governance reforms, ensuring due process and strengthening the foundation of GPSC’s decision-making. My role on the University Council and scholarship nomination committees has allowed me to engage directly with key institutional policies and advocate for graduate students at the highest levels. With over 13 years of experience in operations management, supply chain, data analytics, and healthcare quality, I bring a structured, results-driven approach to leadership. My work as a Graduate Assistant – Data Analyst in
Student Affairs has further sharpened my ability to assess data, optimize processes, and develop solutions that improve student experiences. Additionally, my leadership roles as an Executive Member at the Islamic Center
of Northwest Arkansas (ICNWA), Core Member of the International Culture Team (ICT), and Red Cross Volunteer reflect my commitment to service and community engagement. If elected, my focus will be on strengthening governance, improving financial transparency, and expanding professional
development opportunities. I will work to enhance policy structures, increase collaboration between GPSC and university leadership, and ensure graduate students’ voices are heard and represented effectively. I am eager to continue serving and advocating for my fellow students, ensuring GPSC remains an efficient, inclusive, and impactful organization.

I don’t especially want to be president, and I certainly don’t want any more responsibility. But what I do want is for GPSC to be both the best tool for social good that it can be and a pleasant organization to be a member of, even if that comes at some cost to my own sanity. If elected, I will appoint and delegate work to only the most qualified and passionate individuals, and entrust the assembly and committees to do what is good, responsible, and effective. When I’m wrong – and that may be often – I will learn and do better. Further, I will support the conscientious revisiting of GPSC’s foundational laws to ensure our institutions are stable and foolproof for future graduate students to come. I believe the most powerful tool that GPSC controls is travel and research grants. Ensuring those programs are long-lasting and as far-reaching as possible ought to be our top priority as an organization, even if that means difficult decisions like raising student activity fees or refraining from funding bills haphazardly. I believe GPSC is at its best when it is cooperative, not competitive. More than ever, we and the entire campus community need to stand as one to weather potential adjustments in the relationship between higher education and federal government. I believe in the inherent good within everyone, and the capacity of graduate students at the University of Arkansas to share that good can be second to none with adequate support from a complementary congress.

Over the past year, it has been an honor to serve as the Treasurer of GPSC. While the role hasn’t always been easy, it has been incredibly rewarding. I will bring the same passion, integrity, and responsibility that I’ve put into managing our organization’s finances to the Executive Chair. I’ve been at the
University of Arkansas for a while—earning a BS in Chemical Engineering, a Master’s in Microelectronics-Photonics, and now pursuing a PhD in Materials Science & Engineering. This University means a great deal to me. Like any
organization, GPSC has its limitations, but it also has incredible potential to make a lasting, positive impact on graduate students and the campus as a whole. With a deep commitment to advocacy and the success of graduate
students at UofA, I’ve decided to throw my hat in the ring. I know University policies, understand our GPSC governing documents, and have built strong relationships across campus. More importantly, I take pride in getting things done. I believe I have demonstrated integrity, strong character, and reliability, and I truly hope to earn your trust once again—this time, as your President.

With over a decade of experience developing large scale strategies, building high performing teams, and delivering against company goals at a large corporation in NWA, plus the skills I am gaining in my graduate studies within the Walton college, I am confident that I can help lead the GPSC, influence positive outcomes, and contribute to it’s mission.

Dear Fellow Graduate and Professional Students,
I am Md Rashedul Hasan, a Ph.D. student in the Industrial Engineering Department. I am honored to announce my candidacy for the Vice President position in the Graduate Professional Student Congress (GPSC). With a background in student advocacy as a former advisor on the Library Student Advisory Board at my previous university, Texas Tech University, I’ve developed a strong passion for creating inclusive, supportive, and forward-thinking academic environments. My experiences have shaped my commitment to leadership that reflects the diverse needs of our student body.
As Vice President, I will work to create an inclusive, supportive environment where every student feels represented. I will advocate for diversity, improved support for international students, and increased access to funding and academic resources. Promoting mental health awareness and expanding professional development opportunities will also be key priorities to ensure our community thrives academically and personally. I believe leadership means listening, collaborating, and acting with integrity. My vision is to build a GPSC that is more engaged, responsive, and connected to the needs of the graduate and professional student community. I am committed to being a representative who will work for you, stand with you, and lead purposefully. I humbly ask for your support and your vote. Sincerely,
Md Rashedul Hasan

I am passionate about fostering inclusive and informed spaces for all graduate students. If elected, I will advocate for more accessible resources, stronger cross-departmental engagement, and better communication between GPSC and the student body. I also hope to spotlight the voices of international and underrepresented students through inclusive initiatives and open dialogue.

Serving as Chief Justice of the Graduate Professional Student Congress (GPSC)has been an opportunity to uphold transparency, fairness, and accountability in student governance. I have led judicial reviews, policy evaluations, and governance reforms, ensuring due process and strengthening the foundation of GPSC’s decision-making. My role on the University Council and scholarship nomination committees has allowed me to engage directly with key institutional policies and advocate for graduate students at the highest levels. With over 13 years of experience in operations management, supply chain, data analytics, and healthcare quality, I bring a structured, results-driven approach to leadership. My work as a Graduate Assistant – Data Analyst in Student Affairs has further sharpened my ability to assess data, optimize processes, and develop solutions that improve student experiences. Additionally, my leadership roles as an Executive Member at the Islamic Center of Northwest Arkansas (ICNWA), Core Member of the International Culture Team (ICT), and Red Cross Volunteer reflect my commitment to service and community engagement.
If elected, my focus will be on strengthening governance, improving financial transparency, and expanding professional development opportunities. I will work to enhance policy structures, increase collaboration between GPSC and university leadership, and ensure graduate students’ voices are heard and represented effectively. I am eager to continue serving and advocating for my fellow students, ensuring GPSC remains an efficient, inclusive, and impactful organization

Dear Fellow Graduate and Professional Students,
My name is Arnold Ssali, a Ph.D. student at the University of Arkansas, and I am excited to run forSecretary of the Graduate-Professional Student Senate (GPRS). With experience in student government and a passion for clear communication, I am eager to strengthen engagement and transparency within our community. Previously, I served as an Executive Officer of the Graduate Student Senate Office at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, where I managed communications, maintained records, and ensured students had access to key information including approval of funding. That experience has prepared me to serve effectively in GPRS.
As Secretary, I will manage GPRS social media to keep students informed and engaged, update the GPRS website with meeting minutes, events, and resources and ensure accurate record-keeping for transparency and accountability.
I believe that a well-informed student body leads to a stronger, more connected community. By improving communication channels and making information more accessible, I will work to ensure every student feels heard and involved.
I would be honored to serve as your Secretary and appreciate your support. Let us work together to make GPRS more accessible, transparent, and effective!
Arnold Ssali
Ph.D. Student Candidate for Secretary, GPRS

Listening to you and making things happen is my passion. Facing challenges and seeking innovative solutions guide my way of thinking and leading. I am Tony, a Master’s student in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management. I’m eager to be part of the transformation of GPSC, enhancing communication, transparency, and advocacy for my peers. Together, we will represent our interests as graduate students and leave a legacy for future generations.
With experience in student leadership and nonprofit governance, I have successfully managed documentation, coordinated large-scale projects, and facilitated collaboration among diverse stakeholders. As a former Project Coordinator Officer at a network of NGOs in Latin America, I ensured transparent record-keeping, streamlined communication, and improved organizational efficiency. If elected, I will prioritize:
Expanding GPSC’s visibility by developing a strategic outreach plan to ensure all graduate students know about GPSC’s mission, resources, and opportunities. Building a stronger graduate community by creating structured initiatives to connect graduate students, fostering collaboration, support, and shared experiences beyond the classroom. Strengthening the link Between students & the Graduate School office with clear communication channels to ensure student concerns and needs are actively addressed. Organizing engaging events & networking opportunities, we want to bring GPSC directly to students through creative events and community-building initiatives. We will not wait for students to come to us; we will go to them to create meaningful engagement. I would be honored as an international student to serve and work alongside my peers to improve our academic and professional experiences at the University of Arkansas.
Thank you.

I am passionate about fostering inclusive and informed spaces for all graduate students. If elected, I will advocate for more accessible resources, stronger cross-departmental engagement, and better communication between GPSC and the student body. I also hope to spotlight the voices of international and underrepresented students through inclusive initiatives and open dialogue.

As a second-year PhD student in Public Health with a focus on women’s health, I am eager to apply for the positions of Treasurer, Secretary, and At-Large Representative within the Graduate-Professional Student Congress(GPSC). My academic journey has equipped me with skills in research, data analysis, and public health advocacy. I have experience managing budgets and financial planning during research projects, honing my skills in fiscal responsibility and strategic resource allocation. I am committed to transparent and efficient management of GPSC funds. My organizational and communication skills enable me to maintain accurate records, coordinate meetings, and facilitate effective communication among members. I aim to streamline processes and foster collaboration within the GPSC. My passion for women’s health drives me to advocate for policies and programs addressing the unique challenges faced by female students. I am dedicated to representing the diverse interests of our graduate and professional student community.

As the saying goes, “People don’t care how much you know unless they know how much you care.” I am running for Chief Justice to protect the integrity of our student government and help promote a culture of equity, clarity, and shared purpose. I am passionate and committed, as my work will attest. After 2.5 years as Graduate Student Life Chair, during which I was honored to receive the GPSC Service Award twice and the GPSC Leadership Award, I transitioned into the role of President Pro Tempore. I have served on the Policies and Procedures Committee and Campus Council, assisted in updating the GPSC website, collaborated with the library to establish our Historical Archives, and assisted in drafting over 90 pieces of assembly legislation. I share this not to boast, but highlight the work being done on behalf of graduate and professional students and to acknowledge that it was not done alone. I have been fortunate to work alongside peers who share my belief in service through collaboration and care. I believe in our values: fair representation, checks and balances, and adherence to process. Power should rest with the voices of graduate students, expressed through the representatives they elect, not in overreach by any one branch. Over the past year, I worked closely with our School of Law representatives, increasing my knowledge of constitutional compliance, policy, and interpretation. Through this work, my conviction has only grown—to uphold an ethical, inclusive, and principled student government where every voice matters.

As a second-year PhD student in Public Health with a focus on women’s health, I am eager to apply for the positions of Treasurer, Secretary, and At-Large Representative within the Graduate-Professional Student Congress(GPSC). My academic journey has equipped me with skills in research, data analysis, and public health advocacy. I have experience managing budgets and financial planning during research projects, honing my skills in fiscal responsibility and strategic resource allocation. I am committed to transparent and efficient management of GPSC funds. My organizational and communication skills enable me to maintain accurate records, coordinate meetings, and facilitate effective communication among members. I aim to streamline processes and foster collaboration within the GPSC. My passion for women’s health drives me to advocate for policies and programs addressing the unique challenges faced by female students. I am dedicated to representing the diverse interests of our graduate and professional student community.

I am excited to announce my candidacy for At-Large Representative for the College of Education at the Graduate and Professional Student Congress (GPSC). As a doctoral student in Public Health, I am deeply committed to advocating for graduate students’ interests and ensuring that our voices are effectively represented at the university level. Having previously served as a Departmental Student Organization (DSO) representative in GPSC, I have gained valuable insight into the workings of the assembly, the decision-making process, and the critical role that representation plays in addressing students’ concerns. My experience has equipped me with the skills necessary to advocate for policies that enhance academic resources, funding opportunities, and student well-being. If elected, I will work to amplify the concerns of students in the College of Education, ensuring that our collective interests are prioritized in discussions on funding, research support, professional development, and overall student experience. I am committed to fostering transparency, engagement, and inclusivity, making sure that every student has a seat at the table.
I look forward to the opportunity to serve and collaborate with my peers to strengthen our representation in GPSC. I humbly ask for your support and vote to ensure that our voices are heard, and our needs are met.

Serving as Chief Justice of the Graduate Professional Student Congress (GPSC)has been an opportunity to uphold transparency, fairness, and accountability in student governance. I have led judicial reviews, policy evaluations, and governance reforms, ensuring due process and strengthening the foundation of GPSC’s decision-making. My role on the University Council and scholarship nomination committees has allowed me to engage directly with key institutional policies and advocate for graduate students at the highest levels. With over 13 years of experience in operations management, supply chain, data analytics, and healthcare quality, I bring a structured, results-driven approach to leadership. My work as a Graduate Assistant – Data Analyst in Student Affairs has further sharpened my ability to assess data, optimize processes, and develop solutions that improve student experiences. Additionally, my leadership roles as an Executive Member at the Islamic Center of Northwest Arkansas (ICNWA), Core Member of the International Culture Team (ICT), and Red Cross Volunteer reflect my commitment to service and community engagement.
If elected, my focus will be on strengthening governance, improving financial transparency, and expanding professional development opportunities. I will work to enhance policy structures, increase collaboration between GPSC and university leadership, and ensure graduate students’ voices are heard and represented effectively. I am eager to continue serving and advocating for my fellow students, ensuring GPSC remains an efficient, inclusive, and impactful organization.

I, Konkon, a Master’s student in Industrial Engineering, am running for At-Large Representative in GPSC to advocate for all graduate students. With a strong academic background, leadership experience, and active involvement in multicultural and professional development initiatives, I aim to enhance opportunities for networking, skill-building, and inclusivity. I aim to amplify diverse student voices and create a more supportive graduate experience.

I am eager to continue serving our diverse graduate community and ensure that our collective interests are represented. As a dedicated advocate for graduate-professional students congress representing the College of Engineering, I am committed to ensuring that our voices are heard, our concerns addressed, and our academic and professional experiences enriched. Having previously served as an At-Large rep for the College of Engineering and DSO representative for the Chemical Engineering Department, and GPSC committees, I have firsthand experience navigating student governance and working collaboratively to foster a supportive academic environment. As a graduate researcher in the College of Engineering, I understand the unique challenges faced by students in our field—whether in travel grant funding, research support, or professional development. If elected, I will work to amplify the concerns of engineering students within GPSC while also supporting initiatives that benefit the broader graduate and professional student body. Thank you

I am interested in serving in the GPSC as an At-Large graduate student Representative (Engineering) because I’m passionate about advocating for the needs and concerns of my fellow graduate students. I believe that by being involved in this position, I can make a positive impact on the graduate student community and contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

Hello, my name is Will Plunkett and I am running to represent the College of Engineering as an at large representative. Throughout my time at the University of Arkansas, I’ve been involved in ASG, rugby and Theta Tau. My office is in Bell 4134A, and I want to hear your ideas on how I can help make your graduate school experience at the University of Arkansas better! Go Hogs!

Driven by a passion for student advocacy and interdisciplinary collaboration, I am seeking to represent the student body as an At-Large Representative in the Graduate Professional Student Congress. My journey as a Ph.D. student focused on Agricultural Systems Technology Management and work experience has equipped me with a unique blend of academic, professional, and leadership experiences that I’m eager to channel into meaningful service for our graduate Community. Currently, I serve as a Senior Graduate Assistant, where I mentor students, develop academic curriculum, and lead outreach initiatives that bridge agriculture and technology. My research in UAV-based precision agriculture has earned national recognition through grants and conference presentations. I’ve also co-founded an agri-tech startup and managed nationwide agricultural systems, experiences that have sharpened my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. When elected, I will advocate for stronger student support systems, inclusive engagement ,and expanded opportunities for research and professional development. I’m committed to amplifying the voices of all students across disciplines, backgrounds, and cultures and ensuring GPSC remains a powerful platform for positive change.
I’m ready to listen, lead, and serve so we move forward together.

I am passionate about fostering inclusive and informed spaces for all graduate students. If elected, I will advocate for more accessible resources, stronger cross-departmental engagement, and better communication between GPSC and the student body. I also hope to spotlight the voices of international and underrepresented students through inclusive initiatives and open dialogue.

I am excited to apply for the GPSC at-large position, as I am deeply committed to enhancing student experiences and advocating for the diverse needs of our graduate community. I understand the importance of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all graduate students, regardless of discipline. Throughout my academic journey, I have actively engaged in various leadership roles, working alongside peers and faculty to promote academic success, well-being, and professional development. My passion for advocating on behalf of my peers, paired with my strong communication and problem-solving skills, will enable me to represent graduate students effectively and efficiently. If elected, I will focus on improving resources for professional development, enhancing mental health and wellness support, and ensuring that graduate students’ voices are heard in key decision-making processes. I will also prioritize creating an open dialogue between the administration and the student body to ensure that graduate students’ unique challenges and needs are addressed. I am eager to collaborate with fellow GPSC members and engage in meaningful conversations to drive positive change. With your support, I will work tirelessly to make a tangible difference for all graduate students.

With over a decade of experience developing large scale strategies, building high performing teams, and delivering against company goals at a large corporation in NWA, plus the skills I am gaining in my graduate studies within the Walton college, I am confident that I can help lead the GPSC, influence positive outcomes, and contribute to it’s mission.