Afua Asante | Running for President

Studying: Masters of Cybersecurity

In 300 words or less, what would you say to grad students for them to know you are the right choice for an eboard position?

Dear Graduate Students,
I am honored to announce my candidacy for President of the Graduate Student Association (GSA), and I invite you to join me in shaping a stronger, more inclusive, and impactful graduate community at Grand Valley State University.

As a first-year Cybersecurity graduate student, my journey with the GSA began in Fall 2024 when I was appointed Administrative Officer. In this role, I worked diligently to improve efficiency, ensuring that every meeting was documented, every action item was followed through, and every voice was heard. I introduced innovative tools to streamline GSA operations, eliminating inefficiencies and creating a functional document management system that has become a cornerstone of our organization’s workflow.
Recognizing the importance of accountability and transparency, I developed a peer evaluation tool that empowers executive board members to assess performance and efficiency, fostering a culture of responsibility and continuous growth. My commitment to operational excellence extends beyond administration—I played a key role in the Fall 2024 Professional Development Event, designing a signature card system that enhanced student engagement with career advisors and expanded professional networking opportunities.

When the Vice President position became vacant, my peers and faculty advisors unanimously entrusted me with the role. In this capacity, I have had the privilege of representing graduate students at critical forums, advocating for improved systems (especially for international students), increasing access to campus resources, and addressing issues that impact our well-being. My leadership has always been centered on ensuring that every graduate student at GVSU feels supported, valued, and empowered.

Now, as we approach a pivotal moment for the future of the GSA, I am ready to take on the responsibility of President. With my institutional knowledge, proven leadership, and deep commitment to student advocacy, I am fully prepared to lead our community forward. In my tenure as President, I intend to work more closely with the Padnos Center for International Students, strengthening support systems for international graduate students and ensuring that they have access to the resources they need to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

I am not just prepared to take on this role, I have already been excelling in it. My work speaks for itself, and my dedication to this community is unwavering. I am asking for your support to continue the momentum we have built together.

Francis Xavier Monari | Running for Finance Officer

Studying: Master’s in Biostatistics

In 300 words or less, what would you say to grad students for them to know you are the right choice for an eboard position?

I am excited to run for the Finance Officer position on the GSA E-Board. Having served as the Admin Officer, I have actively participated in Funding Board meetings, gaining valuable experience in the financial approval process and understanding how funds are allocated to support student initiatives.

With my background in biostatistics and data analysis, I bring strong analytical and financial management skills to ensure transparency, efficiency, and strategic resource allocation. My experience with GSA finances gives me the insight needed to advocate for responsible budgeting and ensure that funding decisions align with the needs of our graduate student community.

If elected, I will work to enhance financial accountability, improve accessibility to funding for student organizations, and streamline processes to make financial decisions more transparent and effective. My goal is to maximize GSA’s resources to support professional development, networking, and student success.

I would be honored to serve as your Finance Officer and contribute to strengthening GSA’s financial impact. I appreciate your support and look forward to the opportunity to represent you!

Devendhar Sangraj | Running for Vice President

Studying: Master’s in Data Science and Analytics.

In 300 words or less, what would you say to grad students for them to know you are the right choice for an eboard position?

Hello Students,

I am Devendhar Sangraj, currently pursuing my master’s in Data Science and Analytics. I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Vice President position in the 2025-2026 GSA Executive Board elections. My passion for leadership, student engagement, and problem-solving makes me the right choice to represent you. My goal is to create a more connected and engaged graduate student community at GVSU.

As an international student, I understand the challenges of adapting to a new environment and striving for success. I want to strengthen the GSA as a support system where every graduate student international or domestic feels valued and empowered. Based on my observations, we can improve and enhance the graduate student experience. Professional Development programs where we can plan to introduce more networking sessions, and mentorship programs to help students connect with industry professionals and explore career opportunities. Internship and Job Support where Many students struggle with finding and applying for internships we work to set up dedicated weekly sessions where experienced professionals guide students effectively. Cross-Cultural Engagement like A strong, diverse community is essential. we aim to foster cultural exchange events where graduate students can connect, learn from one another, and build meaningful relationships. We can also advocate for increased scholarships and funding opportunities, helping students collaborate on innovative projects that can receive financial support.

My leadership experience during my undergraduate studies as the President of the Cultural Club and a member of the Technical Club has equipped me with the skills to drive impactful initiatives. I am committed to making your concerns a priority, improving student engagement, and working towards a better experience for all of us. I would love your support to make a real impact on our graduate community.

Vote for me, and let’s build a stronger, more connected GSA together!
 

Ranjith Kumar Patil | Running for Vice President

Studying: Masters of Data Science and Analytics

In 300 words or less, what would you say to grad students for them to know you are the right choice for an eboard position?

I am committed to making the graduate student experience at GVSU more enriching, inclusive, and impactful. As an international student, Teaching Assistant, and Mental Health Ambassador, I understand the academic, professional, and personal challenges we face. If elected to the GSA e-board, I will work to ensure every graduate student feels supported, connected, and empowered.

With my leadership experience as a Quality Assurance Engineer Team Leader, I have successfully collaborated with diverse teams, improved processes, and organized knowledge-sharing sessions. These skills will help me advocate for student needs, facilitate better communication between the administration and students, and drive meaningful initiatives.

One of my key goals is to enhance career development opportunities by organizing networking events with industry professionals and alumni, ensuring students have access to valuable mentorship and job prospects. Additionally, I will focus on fostering a more inclusive community by creating spaces where students from all backgrounds feel welcomed, heard, and supported—just as I have done by actively challenging stereotypes and making new students feel at home.

I am also passionate about mental health advocacy and will work to improve resources and awareness initiatives to ensure students can balance their academic and personal well-being.

To me, leadership is about fostering a culture where people feel valued, ensuring that decisions are made with integrity, and having the confidence to take risks while considering their impact on others. It’s about listening, learning, and creating opportunities for growth. These values guide my leadership, and I am ready to serve, support, and represent you. Let’s build a stronger, more connected graduate community together!

Thomas Johnstone | Running for Vice President

Studying: Masters of Social Work

In 300 words or less, what would you say to grad students for them to know you are the right choice for an eboard position?

I am excited to run for Vice President of the board and want to share why I am the right choice to represent you. As a Master of Social Work student, I understand the challenges we face—balancing academics, fieldwork, and personal commitments. My passion for advocacy and leadership has been shaped by my experiences as an undergraduate Student Senator at GV, where I worked to amplify student voices and drive meaningful change.

I have also served as Vice President of Omicron Delta Kappa for 2024-2025 and as President of the Bachelor of Social Work Student Organization, which required strong leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to student success. These experiences have prepared me to ensure our concerns are heard, resources are accessible, and our graduate experience is enriched.

If elected, I will work tirelessly to foster community, advocate for student needs, and ensure our voices shape policies that impact us. I ask for your support so we can make a difference together!

Vincent Nyamwega Choi | Running for Vice President

Studying: Master of Public Health- Epidemiology, School of Interdisciplinary Health

In 300 words or less, what would you say to grad students for them to know you are the right choice for an eboard position?

Hi! My name is Vincent Nyamwega Choi a Master of Public Health- Epidemiology, School of interdisciplinary health. I am currently serving as part of the 2024/2025 Student Engagement Cohort in the Inclusion and Equity office. As a Public health professional my greatest ambition is appreciating diversity and wellness of the community. This background will ensure i correctly advocate Graduate student needs, foster diversity and build a cohesive GSA while strengthening networking and engagement.

Cynthia Mutua | Running for Administrative Officer

Studying: Masters of Data Science and Analytics

In 300 words or less, what would you say to grad students for them to know you are the right choice for an eboard position?

Hello everyone!

I’m running for the eBoard administrative officer position because I genuinely care about making things run smoothly for grad students at GVSU. I’m great at keeping things on track and making sure important info gets to the right people.

I understand that grad school can be overwhelming, and I want to help make mine and your experience as stress-free as possible. If I’m elected, I’ll work to keep everything clear, organized, and accessible so that you always know what’s going on and feel supported. I’ll also make sure your voices are heard and that our eBoard is actively working to improve student life in GVSU.

Most importantly, I’m here for you. I want to make sure this organization is something that truly benefits grad students and makes our community stronger. If you ever have ideas, concerns, or just need someone to listen, I’ll be there.

I’d love your support—let’s make this a great year together!

Lucy Groothuis | Running for Administrative Officer

Studying: Masters of Health Science in Biomedical Sciences program

In 300 words or less, what would you say to grad students for them to know you are the right choice for an eboard position?

Hi! My name is Lucy Groothuis and I am in the Masters of Health Science in Biomedical Sciences program. As a rising second-year graduate student, I am eager to bring my skills in organization, communication, and leadership to the role of Administrative Officer for the Graduate Student Association (GSA).

As Administrative Officer, I would aim to accomplish the following:
- Foster a connected graduate student community—ensuring that all individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to succeed.
- Promote interdisciplinary collaboration and a positive graduate student experience—supporting the Graduate Student Organizations (GSOs) that enrich the graduate student community.
- Ensure effective communication within the GSA and broader student body—to cultivate a positive, inclusive environment where all students have a voice.

I graduated last year from the University of Chicago with my degree in Biological Sciences cum laude and minor in Spanish. During my undergraduate experience, I participated on the cross-country and track teams which gave me the opportunity to develop key team-building and recruitment skills. As an All-American student-athlete who worked many jobs, I learned to balance various roles and responsibilities, which will undoubtedly be an essential quality to serve as a board member of the GSA.

From my research experiences as an undergraduate, to working as GA for the Anatomy and Physiology laboratories at GVSU and my thesis work on immunology education, my background is grounded in the hard sciences. Despite this, I am passionate about the value of a meaningful, well-rounded educational experience across disciplines. If given the opportunity to serve on the Executive Board of the GSA, I would uphold this value by striving to cultivate a cohesive and well-supported graduate student community.

I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with fellow board members to continue to better the graduate student experience here at GVSU. Thank you for your consideration!