Statements of Purpose for Student Government Candidates

At Monday night’s first Senate meeting of the year, first-year students running for senator and officer positions presented their Statements of Purpose. Each student and their unedited statements are listed below:

Candidates for Class of 2023 Senators

Anna Benson

Anna Benson, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Anna Benson, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

My High School has always had a reputation for lacking school spirit, however throughout my four years I was revered as a person who was able to bring positivity back into the halls of my school and build a stronger sense of community within my class. In my school of 2,600 people I was chosen to be one of 16 peer leaders, a group of students who were recognized for being a positive influence and community builder within the school. I was also elected into the leadership position of Swim Team Captain my senior year. I was not elected for my swimming talents, in fact I am proud to say I was one of the slowest on the team, but rather I was chosen as captain for the way I was able to cultivate a team culture of inclusivity and spirit. I would like to continue my legacy of passion and positivity as Senator for Gettysburg Class of 2023. I’m not going to build my campaign on the foundations of “One and done” promises such as Iced Coffee in Servo or extra Bullet Bucks. Trust me, I’m all for ideas as such, and as Senator I will work to accomplish these things, but most importantly I want to emphasize that I will be a senator who continually works to cultivate and inclusive and positive atmosphere in the class of 2023. I am a very friendly and outgoing person, I make an active effort to get to know everyone so I can serve the needs of every group at Gettysburg, making sure this is a place where everyone can thrive and be happy.

Ziv Carmi

Ziv Carmi, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Ziv Carmi, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

I have never served in student government before. I have never even run for a position in it. I am running in the Gettysburg College Student Senate race because I want to meet new people, because I think it will be fun (I am a firm believer of the philosophy that people perform at their best when they are having fun), and, most importantly, because I want to get involved and make a positive change here on the campus I have grown to love. I have come to Gettysburg College from California to learn new things- whether that is in the classroom or in the Student Senate and I am confident that I will be able to be a great representative for the Class of 2023. While I have never held public office, I do have a talent for public speaking. I have won several prizes for my public speaking skills, in county-wide competitions, and I have had over two years of experience, as a Ronald Reagan Presidential Library Docent, not only speaking to people but also listening to them and coming up with solutions. I plan to be the same way as a representative for my classmates- I want to be someone whom people can approach with any concerns, and I plan on making myself as easy to find as possible if somebody does wish to speak with me regarding a matter here on campus. So, why should you vote for me? Because I’m friendly, I’m intelligent, I’m a quick learner, I’m enthusiastic, I’m devoted to bettering my new home, I’m a good speaker, I’m an experienced negotiator, I’m a good listener, I’m a living meme, and I am extremely excited to be the senator representing the Gettysburg Class of 2023!!!

Ziv Carmi is also a candidate for Class of 2023 Officer.

Thomas Cassara

Thomas Cassara, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Thomas Cassara, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

For as long as I can remember I have always wanted to make the world a better place. I enjoy being in a position where I can create real change and positively impact others. I have dedicated much of my extracurricular time to improving my community through various forms of community service in the past. I served as the vice president of my student council for all four years of high school. I gained valuable experience during this period of my life. I am dedicated to continuing to serve others while I am here at Gettysburg on and off campus. Although I haven’t been here for long, I already have a few ideas that I believe will make our school an even better place. My primary goal heading into fall will be hosting a mental health fair here at Gettysburg College. My goal would be to have a warm environment where people can have honest discussions about this rather sensitive topic. I plan to work with the school to make this event count towards an optional CYC credit and maybe even count as a make up for a mandatory CYC event. Other ideas I have include:

– An option for paper straws in all dining areas

– A point tracker on Gettysburg Great with a schedule of events which could help students work off their points.

– And I plan to hold weekly office hours for students to voice their concerns, pitch projects, etc.

If you allow me the opportunity to serve our community, I will prove just how dedicated I can be. Put your faith in me, and I promise to lead our class to greatness. Thank you for your consideration and remember the name Thomas Cassara: the right choice to be your voice.

Thomas Cassara is also a candidate for Class of 2023 Officer.

Konrad Ehmke

Konrad Ehmke, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Konrad Ehmke, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

As class senator, I cannot promise something like more dining dollars or less expensive laundry, but I can promise that I will do everything I possibly can to ensure that Gettysburg College is doing everything they can to help recognize and make changes of issues addressed by the student body. I believe that I am a great leader as well and can help relate to many people as well. I was the captain of both my high school baseball and football teams in South Florida, the most competitive region in the country for both sports. I also love serving other as I had about 400 hours of community service in high school. I can help service this community and connect and meet lots of new people, especially coming from such a far place such as Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It’s a great time to be a bullet.

Konrad Ehmke is also a candidate for Class of 2023 Officer.

Jenna Giordano

Jenna Giordano, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Jenna Giordano, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

My goal as a student senator is to provide my classmates with the ability to create on impact on not only our campus, but also on the community around us. It is my job to make sure that my fellow students have the ability to get involved in our campus community in order to enhance their Gettysburg experience and the experience of those around them.

Jenna Giordano is also a candidate for Class of 2023 Officer.

Audrey Glas

Audrey Glas, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Audrey Glas, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

My name is Audrey Glas and I am asking you to elect me as your student Senator. I’ve held numerous positions within my high school government including student council Vice President, and student council President. Outside of school I held a leadership position in my local branch of the Youth and Government program. I served as my delegation’s Treasurer and was elected to the statewide position of Associate Justice. I also spent several weeks volunteering on a congressional campaign. Aside from government-related clubs and activities, I was actively involved in Mock Trial, Four Diamonds, Pre-Med Club, Ski Club, and various volunteering activities. In each of the positions I served in, I was able to effectively communicate the voice of my peers while managing to balance a multitude of activities with my academics and social life. In my leadership experience, I have grown accustomed to working with and speaking to different groups of people. As a campaign volunteer field worker, I spoke with constituents one-on-one in a personal setting; as a student council officer, I discussed issues with the club and communicated with advisors; and as a Youth and Government Officer and Justice, I led large groups of people and communicated concerns through verbal and written reports as necessary. I want the student senate to continue to reflect the values and needs of the student body and bring positive change in the areas students and leadership see necessary. By electing me, you would be electing somebody who strives for excellence and a positive environment, is well-versed in communication and student government experience, and is easily approachable when you have suggestions, proposals, or any general concerns. Thank you for your attention and I hope to find myself working with you to further a successful and inclusive atmosphere in our Student Senate.

Connor Heath

Connor Heath, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Connor Heath, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Connor Heath, Hanson Hall, Student Senate I am running to to become part of the Student Senate at Gettysburg College. My purpose is fairly simple. I’m here to be a direct and honest senator and try and improve the campus. I plan on listening to the students of Gettysburg and advocating for their needs, but I’ll be honest and say if I think a goal is too lofty to achieve or if it will never get approved no matter how much it’s advocated. I’ll still do my best to push for what the student body wants as well as what I want to be implemented. I plan on pushing for an even greener and more entertaining Gettysburg campus. We have plenty of recycling bins and environmental clubs, but there are still areas we can improve on, including more recycling bins in academic buildings and various common rooms as I’ve heard people discuss. Tell me what events you’d like to see, and let’s see what we can do. Event coordination and discussion are skills I developed being part of my high school’s student council. As a former president of their school’s student council, secretary of Key club, and secretary of choral club, I’ve become familiar with the procedures of getting things approved and leading groups of people efficiently and well. I think we could make a difference and that I can be the person to spark conversations about the differences you want to see. I’ll do what I can to represent your interests.

Emily Howe

Emily Howe, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Emily Howe, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

My platform is simple: doing the right thing should be easy. Everyone likes to think they’re doing their part in sustainability on campus. Here’s the catch: people don’t do things that are inconvenient. Put someone in a room with five trash cans and one recycling bin in the corner, nine times out of ten, humans will take the easy way out, even if they feel a little bad afterwards, convenience is everything. The solution: make it easier to do the right thing. Make it easier for students to recycle (is it just plastic and aluminum in the blue dumpsters? What about paper? Cardboard??), for students to save water (dual flush toilets are great for academic buildings, but what about residence halls where they get used 1000x more?), for students to turn down single-use plastics (looking at you, Bullet Hole). The only way we can encourage students to choose to do the right thing is by making it easier than the alternative. Discounts for bringing your own containers, 10 cents off your Commons purchase for bringing in ten plastic water bottles, lights that turn off automatically when no one’s in your dorm, rewards for bringing in questionably-used solo cups to be recycled instead of tossed out with the rest of the evidence, all of these are viable options. Talking about it more and implementing little policy changes will get students thinking about sustainability. Gettysburg College is a wonderful place, but we can become more sustainable, with the right student senators in office. Elizabeth Warren said it best, “There are a lot of politicians who say, ‘We just can’t do it’…What they’re really telling you is, they just won’t fight for it.” I’m prepared to fight for it, and that’s why you should vote for Emily Howe, class of 2023.

Colin P. Hughes

Colin Hughes, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Colin Hughes, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

I, Colin Hughes, am running for the Gettysburg Student Senate to represent the Class of 2023 because I firmly believe in the core values of our college and am willing to fight tooth and nail for them. I want to improve existing policies and implement new policies to create a college atmosphere that better cherishes the priceless worth, dignity, and intellectual potential of all students; that creates a more diverse learning environment, and that directs change to the effect of the common good. My commitment to these principles, along with my past leadership positions in my high school’s newspaper and Model U.N. team, make me the best candidate for the Student Senate. If elected, I will advocate for increased and improved access for the disabled at campus buildings; the abolishment of fees at the Health Services Center; smaller cups at the Commons Marketplace; iced coffee at The Servo, Nutrition Labeling at The Servo; increased filtered water access in dorms, and toilet seat covers in all bathrooms. I advocate for these policies to increase the opportunity, choice, and health for all Gettysburg College students. There is a raging appetite for these improvements on campus and research justifying them. All students must have a just opportunity to succeed academically and do not deserve to have to deal with arbitrary barriers that impede with this opportunity. Without these policy improvements, I do not believe that the college can truly say they believe in its mission statement. These policies are essential to the continuation and advancement of the college. If you believe in a greater Gettysburg, vote for me for Student Senate on behalf of the 2023 Class.

George Malian

George Malain, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

George Malain, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Hello, my name is George Malian and I am seeking the office of Senator. Although I have spent only two weeks here at Gettysburg College, it has become obvious that this community’s incredibly rich history and tradition are central to this institution. Gettysburg College values the expression of free thought and individualism while carefully maintaining a culture of respect and warmth. These characteristics are what helped draw me to Gettysburg, and assuredly influenced many of you as well. As a member of the Student Senate, I would hope to preserve these foremost principles and enhance the already present sense of humility, civility, and leadership. As someone who greatly recognizes the significance of student government, I had the honor of serving as the President of my high school class, Vice President of the National Honor Society, a member of Congressman David Cicilline’s Congressional Youth Advisory Council, and a recipient of the 2018 Rhode Island Civic Leadership Award and 2019 Rhode Island Lieutenant Governor’s Leadership Award. While it would be naive and misguided of me to make policy promises, not having been here long enough to truly grasp the feasibility of those goals, the issues of high textbook rental costs and printer accessibility in each dorm building are matters that I would hope to raise in the Student Senate. Thank you for your consideration of my candidacy.

Harrison Moore

Harrison Moore, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Harrison Moore, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

In my short time at Gettysburg, I’ve already made incredible bonds with both faculty and students. From friendships to professional relationships, the opportunities I’ve been given are numerous and appreciated. A position on the Student Senate is the newest of these possible opportunities, one which immediately caught my interest. I, Harrison Moore, would like to be one of your representatives for the class of 2023 on the Student Senate. Many candidates will promise radical change and new policies to pander to the student body. Rather than being a “soda in the water fountain” candidate, my position is one of upholding and improving the current standards which preceded our entry into the college. We’ve been here for less than a month, is it not presumptuous to assume we know how to make policy better than those who came before us? I would interpret suggestions and proposals through the lens of the current policies of the school, rather than attempting to uproot them. This is not to say things cannot be improved upon; if the existing rules were perfect, what need would there be for a sitting senate to even exist? I simply suggest a more humble approach to campaigning and the policy-making process, one which acknowledges our position as freshman while still recognizing the importance our input holds. To summarize, I am running on a platform of foundations. As a first-year, I stand on a foundation of abundant opportunities. As a Gettysburgian, I stand on a foundation of integrity, upholding the honor code and understanding its importance. As a member of the Student Senate, I will stand on a foundation of honesty and judgement which always acts in the best interests of the entire student body. I look forward to seeing the results of the election when the time comes!

Benjamin Aaron Simon

Benjamin Simon, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Benjamin Simon, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

For me, helping people has always been a given. It is counter to my character to not intervene in a situation in which I know I can bring about good. Whether in my National Honors Society Activities or in my capacity as an Assistant Leader for a local volunteer group or in my simple day-to-day life, I have always ensured that I do not fall back into the shadows in a time of need. Considering all this, I knew what I wanted to do when I arrived at Gettysburg College. I wish to represent the people of Gettysburg College fully and respectfully, serving as the voice of all within the freshman class. To truly represent a group, one needs to listen, whether that entails listening to grievances, simple requests, unanswered questions. To do any less is to be disingenuous. I believe myself to be impartial, content with hearing out what the freshman class has to say. If a student thinks that the College is not satisfactorily eco-friendly, I will raise that at the Student Senate. If a student has complaints about Servo’s selections, I will raise that at the Student Senate. If a student wishes to create a club of any sort, I will raise that at the Student Senate. I truly care about the contentment of the student body, and I recognize that the root to a happy and fun year lies in peace of mind. Therefore, by voting for me, I wish to alleviate any such issues that may arise, ensuring that the freshman class need not worry, and I promise that I will attempt to make this first year in this unfamiliar place as comfortable as possible. If you believe that that kind of year can be possible, please consider voting for Ben Simon for Student Senate.

Pierce Susco

Pierce Susco, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Pierce Susco, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

My name is Pierce Susco and it would be an honor to serve the student body. Once elected, my sole duty will be to represent my fellow classmates. If I were an elected official I wouldn’t consider myself above you, and neither should you. Regardless of my wants, my first priority is to serve you, the people. As a representative I will interact with my community, I will listen to your dilemmas, and most importantly I will address your concerns. I will never forget that it was you that put me in the position I sit and I must repay you. Truthfully, up until now I have not attained many leadership honors. This was not a result of poor presentation or being unpopular, but I never took advantage of the opportunities I was presented. I regret this past immensely. During this time I instead refined a thinking that I know is invaluable in any representative official; humility. A true public official does not fall victim to personal gains or bribery. A true public official will forever be thankful for those who aided them to the eligibility of being elected. They will not forget who brought them there and who trusted them with their voice, their vote. I am that public official. I will never forget the people who have supported me throughout the years. People have taught and aided me throughout life because they trust who I will become. It is my duty in life to repay their trust through representation. I will make your faith, your trust, your vote, a most well invested decision. Even if your ballot is not for me, I encourage you to vote. Your vote is your voice. Use your voice. Thank you for your time.

Pierce Susco is also a candidate for Class of 2023 Officer.

Abigail Roy

Abigail Roy, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Abigail Roy, Class of 2023 Senator Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Hello everyone, I’m Abigail! When I first stepped foot on the campus of Gettysburg College, I got an indescribable feeling of warmth and welcoming. Now that I am on campus as a first-year, I have witnessed that contagious passion for Gettysburg permeating the student body and faculty. As a freshman senator, I want to delve deeper into campus affairs to make Gettysburg feel like home for each and every student. I want everyone to feel that same sense of warmth from the community in which they learn, engage, and grow. I pride myself on making meaningful connections with people, and will strive to make Gettysburg an even more positive place through my contribution to Student Senate. Inclusivity and open-mindedness are critical to a successful college environment, and I will work tirelessly to bring important social and academic issues to the college’s attention. In the past, I have held numerous leadership positions and have overseen over 400 high schoolers involved in community service. Through these experiences, I have developed a strong work-ethic and am steadfast in conquering obstacles as they arise. The most invaluable part of leadership is forging connections with those who surround you, and I am dedicated to making my peers feel appreciated and acknowledged in our campus community. I take a proactive approach to all problems, remain upbeat, and think critically to work towards the best solution for everyone. To say the least, I love this school and I love this community. Everyone should be able to find their niche within Gettysburg. With your support, I will do everything in my ability to confidently address and promote student rights. College should be fun. College should be transformative. I’m all ears – whether you need to confide in a friend or simply rant, “I’ll be there for you!”

Jenna Vadinsky

As class senator, I plan to build on to the great concepts already established here at Gettysburg. It is important to me that the voices of the students are not only heard, but amplified, in a way that every student feels comfortable voicing their beliefs and requests. I have already heard requests for free laundry, more coffee options at Servo, and a reduction of CYC events. Working together with my fellow board members, I believe we can address the requests of our class and work together to make Gettysburg even more great.

Jenna Vadinsky is also a candidate for Class of 2023 Officer.

Candidates for Class of 2023 Officers

Class President

Thomas Cassara

See Thomas Cassara’s Statement of Purpose in the Class of 2023 Senator section.

Jenna Giordano

My goal as Class President is to be a bridge between the student body and the government at Gettysburg College. I want to be able to create the happiest and healthiest environment for my classmates in order to enable them to enjoy their next 4 years at the school that we all love. As Class President, I know that it is my responsibility to act in the interest of my fellow classmates and legislate in their favor, while still honoring Gettysburg College.

Audrey Glas

My name is Audrey Glas and I am asking you to elect me as your Class President. I’ve held numerous positions within my high school government including student council Vice President, and student council President. Outside of school I held a leadership position in my local branch of the Youth and Government program. I served as my delegation’s Treasurer and was elected to the statewide position of Associate Justice. I also spent several weeks volunteering on a congressional campaign. Aside from government-related clubs and activities, I was actively involved in Mock Trial, Four Diamonds, Pre-Med Club, Ski Club, and various volunteering activities. In each of the positions I served in, I was able to effectively communicate the voice of my peers while managing to balance a multitude of activities with my academics and social life. In my leadership experience, I have grown accustomed to working with and speaking to different groups of people. As a campaign volunteer field worker, I spoke with constituents one-on-one in a personal setting; as a student council officer, I discussed issues with the club and communicated with advisors; and as a Youth and Government Officer and Justice, I led large groups of people and communicated concerns through verbal and written reports as necessary. I want the student senate to continue to reflect the values and needs of the student body and bring positive change in the areas students and leadership see necessary. By electing me, you would be electing somebody who strives for excellence and a positive environment, is well-versed in communication and student government experience, and is easily approachable when you have suggestions, proposals, or any general concerns. Thank you for your attention and I hope to find myself working with you to further a successful and inclusive atmosphere in our Student Senate.

Lyndsey Nedrow

Hello, Class of ’23! My name is Lyndsey Nedrow, but a lot of people call me Z. I am running to be your Class President because I want someone in the job that will take it seriously. I have ideas and I have gained a vast amount of experience in leadership through various organizations in high school. In Scouting, I founded one of the first female troops in the Boy Scouts of America, served as Senior Patrol Leader, and I am now on track to be a part of the first inaugural class of female Eagle Scouts. Additionally, I was a two-time State Officer of the Pennsylvania Technology Student Association. I think there should be printers and coffee machines in the residence halls to make our academic lives easier and reduce the crowdedness of the library. One of my major goals, if elected, is to ensure that a group of eight people can truly represent 700. I want to create every opportunity for you to communicate your ideas to those who represent you. To do this, there would be monthly open town hall events where anyone from the class can come, eat food, and share their thoughts, ideas, or concerns with their class officers and senators. There would also be a 24/7 online version of this where any member of the class can anonymously submit their thoughts at any time. If you have any ideas before this system would go into effect, feel free to contact me! You can send any ideas through https://tinyurl.com/gburg23voteZ or find me on campus! Look to Lyndsey and I will look to you.

Michael Yin

I just want to run for president for the sake of it. It will be fun to help the student body and get to know everyone. Vote for me!

Class Vice President

Autumn Chassie

When I turned 16 and got my learner’s permit, my mom and I went on a drive that day to a parking lot near our house. When my mom said, “turn left now,” I whipped that Rav4 right onto two wheels, but also pulled into a parking spot perfectly. Like most parents would, my mom flipped, yelling “AUTUMN! Do you think that was the right way to pull into a parking lot?” Of course, me being the way I am, responded with, “Well, isn’t it?” I hope this little story gave you a look into who Autumn Chassie is, and I also hope that you want her to be your Vice President, Gettysburg Class of 2023! I am not afraid to take chances and fail, but I refuse to be unsuccessful. As your Vice President, I want to help you all with the daunting task of getting through the first year of college, whether you’re flying in on two wheels, or comfortably on all four. I think that the first year of college is a make it or break it time in our lives, so it is very important to me to make an impact on all of us throughout our first year together. I want to take all of your undervalued opinions and make them valuable. I want to be a trustworthy, comforting, and reliable source to all of my classmates. I will avidly listen to all of your ideas and ensure that something meaningful is done with them. It would be an honor to be the Vice President of the Class of 2023, and I hope that you all give me the chance to exceed your expectations of your freshman year here at Gettysburg.

Olivia Farina

My name is Olivia Farina and I would like to be the Vice President of the Gettysburg College Class of 2023. My experience throughout the past three years as Vice President of my high school class has provided me with knowledge of how the student government functions and it has prepared me for a very active and enthusiastic role. The times that I spend collaborating with classmates, advisors and fellow officers on ideas, setups, projects, etc. are the best parts of my week and these experiences leave a lasting impact on my life. I hope to become Vice President so that together, as a student body, we can positively influence each others’ experience here at Gettysburg College. As a freshman in college, one will grow and change beyond their own belief. We will all experience new things, meet different people and discover certainties about ourselves. As Vice President, I want to encourage that all these experiences and discoveries are dealt with optimistically and confidently. I will be a supportive leader while remaining a dynamic leader as well. If I am elected as Vice President I intend to continue the tradition of fostering growth as an individual, as a student, and as a community member as well as encouraging the exploration of new ideas and new traditions. I am personally devoted to the success and positive impact that the Gettysburg College Class of 2023 has the potential to leave behind and I guarantee that I will give my very best to help establish that.

Quentin Heise

Boy Scouts has provided me with a unique experience as a leader. I have spent countless hours working on community projects, raising money for charity, and nourishing the lives of others. The epitome of scouting is the Eagle Scout project (I helped construct a Gaga pit), an undertaking that took me over 250 hours and included the participation of 30 various volunteers. It takes dedication to convince a group of people to volunteer outside in the heat. I believe that I possess the necessary skills to both lead and influence others. As vice president, I will actively bring forth the requests of my peers to the student senate.

An important trait that I learned from Boy Scouts is humility. While I progressed through the ranks, I learned that some of my ideas were either not practical or selfish. Moreover, when I disagree with someone that does not invalidate their opinion. As vice president, I will listen to all my peers’ suggestions and concerns. When appearing before the student senate, I will not always agree on specific policies. However, I will try my best to represent the idea if a significant number of my peers request it. 

As a member of student government, I believe that I will sufficiently represent my peers in all aspects of campus life. I will help gain funding for extracurricular activities and make studying places more comfortable. I have experience leading others and communicating events and opportunities. Most importantly, I am a dedicated individual who strives to help others.

Benjamin Ropiak

Benjamin Ropiak, Class of 2023 Vice President Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

Benjamin Ropiak, Class of 2023 Vice President Candidate (Photo Nicole DeJacimo/The Gettysburgian).

My name is Ben Ropiak and I am running for the Gettysburg Student Senate. Our school already has so much to offer, but I believe together we can improve it even more. The first issue I want to discuss is meal plans. I believe for the first semester, it is smart to provide all first years with the same meal plan. The college’s goal behind this is to make Servo a social spot in addition to a dining center, and I think they have achieved this. But we are also 18 and 19 years old, and very capable of choosing how, when, and where we want to eat. That is why, by second semester, first years should be able to change their meal plan. The spring athletes, for example who have come to like Bullet Hole should have the opportunity to get meal swipes there, or split the difference between Bullet and Servo. This proposal would not impact anyone detrimentally. If you like eating at Servo, you don’t need to change your meal plan. This would give students more flexibility academically and athletically, and make life more convenient for all. Additionally, given the political and electoral importance of Pennsylvania, I believe Gettysburg College would be a terrific venue for some of the 2020 candidates to come speak at, Democrat or Republican. (It’s not like they aren’t in short supply!) The goal of Gettysburg College is to make sure it’s students and alumni become successful, impactful, and engaged citizens. What better way to increase civic engagement on campus than inviting a presidential candidate to come speak? Because the last time a particular president came to speak here, it was a pretty big deal. Thank you.

Pierce Susco

See Pierce Susco’s Statement of Purpose in the Class of 2023 Senator section.

Class Secretary

Jenna Vadinsky

As class secretary, I plan to build on to the great concepts already established here at Gettysburg. It is important to me that the voices of the students are not only heard, but amplified, in a way that every student feels comfortable voicing their beliefs and requests. I have already heard requests for free laundry, more coffee options at Servo, and a reduction of CYC events. Working together with my fellow board members, I believe we can address the requests of our class and work together to make Gettysburg even more great.

Class Treasurer

Ziv Carmi

I am very good at handling money. I have experience with writing checks and balancing checkbooks, making budgets (I made a budget for myself prior to attending Gettysburg College, for example), and know how and when to spend money wisely and when to save it. As the Class of 2023 Class Treasurer, I will make sure that our class’s money will be spent on items and events that will be enjoyed by everyone. Before spending our money or organizing fundraisers, I will poll people and ensure that I will be a faithful public servant, truly listening to my constituents and doing what they want. Government, and really, everything in our society, is driven by money- it is the most important aspect of any community to manage, and I am confident that I will do a great job as the Class of 2023’s Class Treasurer.

Konrad Ehmke

As class treasurer, I cannot promise something like more dining dollars or less expensive laundry, but I can promise that I will do everything I possibly can to ensure that Gettysburg College is doing everything they can to help recognize and make changes of issues addressed by the student body. In terms of budgeting and finance, I come from a mathematical background. Both of my parents are accountants and I have worked for my dad in accounting before. I have always been in the highest math class possible my whole life and I am currently taking multivariable calculus here at Gettysburg. Additionally, I plan on becoming a mathematical economics major. I believe that I am a great leader as well and can help relate to many people as well. I was the captain of both my high school baseball and football teams in South Florida, the most competitive region in the country for both sports. I also love serving other as I had about 400 hours of community service in high school. It’s a great time to be a bullet.

Christine Lombardino

My name is Christine Lombardino and I believe that I will be the best fit for the Class of 2023’s Treasurer! I plan to double major in Spanish and Italian while following a pre-law track. During my fall semester I am taking Calculus, Spanish 301, Italian 201, and Crossing Borders. When I am not in class, I can be found with the cheer team, library when studying, or third floor Paul Hall if you ever want to meet me! Here’s why I believe I will be the best candidate: one does not need to be skilled at mathematics such as Algebra, Calculus, or Geometry to succeed in this position, he or she must know how to save and spend money wisely. Throughout high school I took on many leadership roles such as Italian Club President, Spanish Club Vice President, National Honor Society World Language Chair, End Racism and Sexism Secretary, and Peer Buddies Secretary. Most importantly, I was a Class of 2019 Officer and a Girl’s State delegate. Though seeming like an exhausting list, I have learned how to lead large groups that ultimately become a family, how to collaborate with peers, organization, and listening skills; because how can a politician be a good one without collaborating with the needs of his or her people? With my little time here at Gettysburg I have already taken initiative for our class such as starting the Class of 2023 instagram page, where students can meet other students of their class and be alerted of campus activities and updates. Vote me, Christine Lombardino for Class of 2023 Treasurer!

Cole Meier

Thank you in advance for considering me and my strong desire to successfully serve as your Class Treasurer. Throughout High School, I was very interested in becoming part of Student Council but knew I could not commit the time necessary to participate successfully due to the fact I was involved in sports, jobs, and other extracurriculars. Since arriving at Gettysburg, I’ve been struggling to best utilize the overwhelming amount of free time we are given and find myself asking “how and where should I best contribute while at Gettysburg?” After looking at many clubs and extracurriculars available, the position of Treasurer allures me most. I promise to work closely with students while contributing my many related skills to the position. I may not have Student Government experience, however, I know that I have enough related experience, ability, drive and desire to excel to be very successful. I have worked several jobs that have each provided imperative skills. My first job was working at my family’s farm stand. This opportunity allowed me to become very good at handling money quickly and precisely without the need for technology. I scaled produce and priced items for sale all the while keeping profit and a budget in check. My second job was working maintenance at a local day camp where I learned important life skills of hard labor and time management. This last summer, I supervised 9 other employees, both older and younger than me learning leadership skills that included priority management. I believe that my wellrounded experience and dependability makes me the best fit for our class Treasurer. If elected, I will move forward with spirit to make your concerns my goals. I am dependable, persuasive and will work extremely hard for all to achieve the desired results.

Author: Gettysburgian Staff

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