2024-2025 Election Candidates

Esteemed Graduate and Professional Students, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for your unwavering support throughout the 2023/2024 executive year. Your dedication and commitment have been instrumental in the successes we achieved together. I am deeply thankful to the exceptional Executive and Assembly members who have served tirelessly in their respective roles. Each of you has contributed uniquely, bringing your skills, passion, and dedication to the table. It is through your collective efforts that we have been able to accomplish so much and make a positive impact on our graduate and professional student community. Together, we have overcome challenges, embraced opportunities, and worked collaboratively to bring about meaningful change. Your contributions, whether big or small, have played a pivotal role in our achievements, and I am truly grateful for each one of you. Again, I say thank you! As we approach the upcoming elections for the leadership of the Graduate Professional Student Congress (GPSC), I am excited to announce my candidacy for a second term as your President. Over the past term, I’ve had the honor of serving you and advocating for our collective interests, and I am eager to continue this vital work. During my tenure, we’ve made significant strides in enhancing the graduate and professional student experience. From amplifying student voices in university decision-making processes to spearheading initiatives that promoted graduate students well-being and belonging, we have worked tirelessly to create a more vibrant and equitable campus community. I am committed to building upon our achievements and tackling new challenges head-on if re-elected.

Together, we will: Continue advocating for resources and support services tailored to the unique needs of graduate and professional students and foster collaboration and partnerships across disciplines to drive innovation and excellence in research, scholarship, and creative endeavors. Advocate for policies that prioritize student well-being, mental health, and work-life balance. Strengthen connections between graduate and professional students and the broader university community through networking events, workshops, and social gatherings. Your vote is crucial in determining the future direction of GPSC and shaping the university experience for all graduate and professional students. I humbly ask for your support and vote in the upcoming elections to allow me the opportunity to continue serving as your GPSC President. Together, let’s build a future where every graduate and professional student at the University of Arkansas thrives.

Thank you for your consideration. Yours truly Kolade Olatunde PhD Candidate Public/Health Policy

I want to serve as GPSC president to be in the best position to help as many people as possible. I want to hear the concerns and needs of the grad students. One of the prime responsibilities of the president is to meet with the University administration to communicate the concerns of the students. I will listen and relay your messages to the people who need to hear it the most. I feel as though graduate students are some of the most overworked and underpaid employees on this campus, and it is so much worse for international graduate students. Food insecurity is a giant issue that plagues many grad students, the GPSC has tried to address this issue but together we can improve systems such as the grocery giveaway. I have 10+ years worth of teaching experience, and I formerly was the President of the Latine Graduate Student Organization (LGSO). While The GPSC has grown in the last few years, there still appears to be an overwhelming amount of students who have never heard of the GPSC. We can improve our promotion of the GPSC to more graduate students so that more students are represented in our general assembly, and so that we can provide aid to even more students than before.

I want to serve as the Vice President of the Graduate Professional Student Congress to help create an equitable and diverse experience for every assembly member. I hope to be a sounding board for the President as well as promote an inclusive and safe space for RSOs that are traditionally overlooked, and programs that are less active in GPSC. My goal is for everyone to feel included, seen, and heard, and as a result, conquer overarching problems that graduate students face such as food insecurity, low funding, mental health, and lack of support. When students are comfortable in a space, they feel supported enough to ask for help. GPSC typically does not have that reputation, so I want to change the narrative.

My desire to work as a graduate student secretary stems from my desire to support my community and the graduates, especially by being there for them during challenging times. People around me are not apathetic about me because of my warm, inviting, and amiable disposition. I’m committed to continuing my leadership journey, building upon the successes I’ve achieved in the past. Leading isn’t just a role; it’s a responsibility and a privilege that I’m determined to uphold and advance. I will learn and hone my skills in this role just as much. Graduate students face many challenges, including advisor-student interactions, work-life balance, diversity and inclusion, and financial strains. I aspire to amplify the voice of graduate students, advocating for their perspectives to be a driving force in our progress. Collaboration with my superiors will be instrumental in ensuring that their support is integral to our shared success (the president and the vice president). I also aim to elevate student engagement in Congress and meetings, championing their needs while fortifying support systems and fostering diversity and inclusion through dynamic activities and enhanced professional opportunities.

I am seeking reelection as treasurer of the GPSC because of my steadfast commitment to advancing graduate student interests, fostering financial transparency and accountability, and championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in our academic community. With my proven experience, skills, and unwavering dedication, I am confident in my ability to continue effectively serving our graduate student body and contributing to the ongoing success of the GPSC. During my previous tenure, I diligently ensured the effective and transparent allocation of our financial resources, benefiting the entire graduate student community. Recognizing the critical importance of financial support for graduate student success, I am dedicated to securing funding and resources for our diverse student body. Moreover, I am deeply invested in advancing the GPSC’s goals and mission, leveraging my role as treasurer to contribute strategically to our organization’s success and growth. Whether it involves organizing events, supporting student-led initiatives, or advocating for policy changes, I am committed to leveraging our financial resources to advance graduate student interests across all disciplines.

As a doctoral student in Materials Science and Engineering (MSEN), I am announcing my candidacy for Treasurer of the Graduate and Professional Student Congress (GPSC). With a focus on fiscal responsibility, transparency, and equitable resource distribution, I aim to foster positive change within our student community. Beyond my academic pursuits, I’ve actively enhanced the student experience. Serving as DEI committee co-chair, I’ve tirelessly worked on initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. I have created the “Sip & Vent” support group, offering a safe space for students to share experiences and seek support.

Additionally, I initiated Free Coffee Friday, fostering community and relaxation. I have promoted the GPSC name across campus to ensure our organization’s efforts are recognized. Furthermore, as the current DSO Representative of an interdisciplinary program like MSEN, I’ve represented our graduate students interests, gaining insight into the needs of the program and its students. I am steadfast in my dedication to providing regular financial updates and reports to our constituents, empowering students to actively participate in the decision-making process that shapes their academic experience. I’m passionate about equitable resource access, from mental health support to networking opportunities and food-insecurity relief initiatives. Leveraging my engineering background, I’m committed to optimizing budget allocation and reducing costs.

Lastly, my candidacy for GPSC Treasurer is propelled by a genuine desire to effect meaningful change. With dedication, transparency, and a focus on equity, I am optimistic that we can navigate the complexities of financial management and build a stronger, more resilient student community. I am excited about the opportunity to serve as your Treasurer and humbly ask for your support in this endeavor.

Transparency is key!

Thank you.

I am driven by the desire to advocate for the diverse needs and concerns of graduate and professional students. Graduate students face challenges ranging from financial strains, stress, anxiety, burnout, mental health concerns, insufficient institutional support, etc., and serving as an At-Large Representative would allow me to amplify their voices, ensuring that their perspectives are heard, and their interests are prioritized within the university community. I aim to advocate for enhanced resources and services that are tailored to the specific needs of graduate students while ensuring their active participation in the decision-making processes that impact their academic experiences and futures. Additionally, I am committed to fostering a sense of unity, belonging, and solidarity among graduate students, recognizing the power of collective action in effecting positive change within our academic and social spheres.

As the outgoing chair of the Health Committee, I would like to serve as an at-large representative for the College of Education and Health Professionals to ensure that the voices and concerns of my peers are heard and considered in decision-making processes, including advocating for resources, support services, and policies that directly impact graduate students in the fields of education and health. I would like to foster a sense of community among graduate students within the college through facilitating connections and collaboration among students, faculty, and professionals from different departments or programs. I would also like to advocate for improvements in policies and procedures that affect graduate students in terms of funding, access to resources, mentorship opportunities, or support for mental health and wellness.

As a committed graduate student, I am eager to contribute to the Graduate Professional Student Congress (GPSC) in its mission to foster a supportive and enriching environment for all graduate students. Through active involvement, I aim to represent the perspectives of my fellow graduate and professional students on the council, ensuring their voices are heard and respected. My objective is to address every student’s needs and opportunities, fostering an inclusive atmosphere.

Additionally, I am enthusiastic about establishing effective communication between graduate students and the university administration, focusing on financial, housing, healthcare, and other essential matters. Together, we can shape a Congress that promotes innovation, supports academic achievements, and advocates for diversity and inclusivity. Let’s collaborate to create a more encouraging and welcoming environment where graduate students can thrive academically and personally through enhanced interaction and cooperation.

Let’s unite efforts to strengthen our community and make it even more dynamic.

I am fully committed to leadership through service and advocacy. I have served as the Bumper’s College At-Large Rep in GPSC for 2 1/2 years and as the Graduate Student Life Chair for 2 of those years. I work at all times to support student success, access to resources, and am committed to upholding our DEI values to the utmost standards. The most significant issues facing graduate students are long hours, low stipends, and the invisibility of the workload we take on.

As someone who recognizes the value of advocacy and vocal representation, I would be remiss if I did not strive for this opportunity to become a voice for the graduate students at Fulbright College. I hope to ensure these students have a representative within the GPSC, as I know the many connections, services, and opportunities it provides. It is essential to recognize that within any institution, the voices of graduate students often serve as a motivation for progress, inclusivity, and innovation.

As a student of Fulbright and a graduate assistant in Walton, I have seen many realms of graduate studies and I hope to use this experience and knowledge to fuel my advocacy. To be honest, I did not plan to become a graduate student. Through my job search as an undergraduate student, I found that even most entry-level jobs ask for years of professional experience and expertise, which can seem almost impossible to those on the brink of a career. It was difficult, frustrating, and, frankly, disappointing.

Despite my many internships and extensive portfolio, I found that I lacked the personal connections necessary to help me move forward. My transition to graduate studies was unexpected, born out of the stark realities of the job market. Despite the initial twist of fate, I am grateful for the experience that has given me a passion to help other graduate students who have had similar experiences. This gratitude fuels my commitment to advocating the expansion of professional opportunities for our graduate students. By advocating for initiatives such as internships, mentorship programs, and networking events, I aim to empower our students with the resources and connections necessary to thrive in their chosen fields.

Moreover, I am dedicated to bridging the gap between the classroom and real-world work, ensuring that our students are equipped with skills and experience that future employers will look for. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of transitioning from academia to the workforce, I am compelled to seize the opportunity to help others as they transition from graduate studies. With this passion and determination, I am confident in my ability to effect positive change and contribute to the success and well-being of our graduate community at the University of Arkansas.

As a candidate for GPSC Representative, I am eager to represent the diverse needs and concerns of graduate students enrolled in the Graduate School. With a strong passion for advocacy and a deep understanding of the challenges facing our graduate community, I am committed to addressing pressing issues such as mental health support, access to academic resources, and career development opportunities. My journey as a graduate student has provided me with invaluable insights into the intricacies of balancing academic pursuits with personal well-being. Through active engagement with my peers and faculty, I have identified areas where improvements can be made to enhance the overall graduate student experience. As a GPSC Representative, I aspire to amplify the voices of my fellow students and collaborate with university stakeholders to implement tangible solutions. Ultimately, my goal as a GPSC representative is to serve as a proactive and dedicated advocate for the graduate student body. By actively listening to the concerns of my peers and advocating for their needs, I aim to contribute to a positive and enriching graduate experience for all.

I want to serve as a GPSC Representative to play an advocate for professional and graduate students. In addition, I wish to develop my leadership skills, team participation, improve on my soft skills such as emotional intelligence, time management and decision making.

I’m passionate about ensuring our graduate and professional student body’s diverse voices, needs, and aspirations are effectively heard and addressed. As a professional student myself, I understand the challenges of juggling work, family, and academic commitments. I’m committed to advocating for flexible course scheduling options and working with student organizations to develop resources that promote a healthy work-life balance. I believe in fostering strong collaboration with faculty and administrators to create meaningful change.