by Caitlin Johnson, Communications & Development Specialist

Hello all,

I am excited and honored to be writing to you as the newest addition of Students United, an organization dedicated to supporting students as they make waves of change all around them.

My passion for higher education began as an undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota. For the past three years, I have had the privilege to advocate for students through campus organizations and on-campus jobs. During this time, I collaborated with neighborhood stakeholders, powerful student leaders, and university officials on issues regarding sustainability, safety, and off-campus community engagement.

As I connected with my fellow classmates, a common theme arose: college students are constantly getting the short end of the stick. Predatory landlords, lower than minimum wages, and increasingly high tuition are just a few of the common issues students are dealing with today. There is an expectation to accept these conditions as “the way that it is.” I encourage students to reject this mindset, to advocate in the interest of themselves and their peers, and strive for equitable, fair spaces around them. I am grateful to continue this work as I transition from student to alumni. My hope is to provide students with the confidence, resources, and tools to excel as powerful change agents at their campuses.

Outside of work, you may catch me riding my bike, talking about music, or advocating for service workers.

Please feel free to reach out to me at anytime cjohnson@studentsunited.org. I look forward to collaborating with you all soon!