Cleveland State University (CSU) students can now participate in the current Student Government Association special election, with races underway for vice president, treasurer, secretary, and various senator positions.
Four students are running for vice president:
Yesha Thakkar is a health sciences major hoping to improve student wellness, career opportunities and campus diversity. Her goal is to foster a campus environment where students can thrive and make the most of their campus experience.
Brett Phenicie is a fourth-year student majoring in sociology and philosophy, who previously served as a senator. He believes strongly in the importance of student voices and wishes to empower and protect them.
Sandra Alshakhaetreh is a junior biology major and transfer student from Cuyahoga Community College, where she was involved in Tri-C’s student government and sustainability initiative.
Laurel Paul is a senior majoring in computer science who believes strongly in problem-solving, critical thinking and collaborative leadership.
The treasurer race consists of two students:
Surabh Saxena is pursuing a master’s degree in information sciences. He described himself as a community-driven student who values transparency and problem-solving.
Antonio Ghantous is a sophomore finance major and has been involved in several organizations, including the Lebanese Club, TRIO and medical student groups. He hopes to use his analytical skills to strengthen CSU SGA.
For secretary, senior computer engineering major Abhinav Siri is the lone candidate. He currently coordinates the Engineering Peer Teachers program and said he wants to apply his human-centric approach to supporting the broader student body.
For residence hall representation, candidates are Krysie Tran, Kayla Moore Adams and Pari Kathuria.
Graduate student Tyler Hatch, a PhD candidate in mechanical engineering who previously served in student government at North Carolina State University, is seeking a seat as a graduate representative.
Candidates for undergraduate representatives include freshman Urwah Yasser, health sciences major Afhan Taha, liberal studies junior E.J. Wendt, and business majors Ngoc My Duyen Le, Nicholas Jankus and Gisela Cortez.
Voting is open through VikesConnect, and students are encouraged to cast their ballots by Oct. 1.
