Em (she/they) is a student at Minnesota State University – Mankato, and is applying for the position of State Chair and Vice Chair
The responses to the application questions are unedited and are written by the candidate. Why are you interested in this specific officer position?
Being a Vice Chair is a huge leadership role as well as a critical support role to the State Chair. Likewise, being a State Chair requires supporting the team and confidence for the role. Being a support is what I have specialized in over my college career. I have learned that supporting people and communities is critical to allyship and building trust. I have had the ability to participate in DEI events, volunteerism, celebrations, community discussions, committee hearings, and more. Through my ability to commit to the work I have done, I have been able to be the support that others need for the role they are in.
I have been in internships revolving around being a legislative assistant for two nonprofit organizations; Goodwill-Easter Seals MN and Students United. Through my observations in both roles, I have been able to explore my leadership capabilities by communicating with legislators, presenting to the Community Leadership Fellow Cohort, and planning critical meetings.
I am passionate about this role as I believe being a Vice Chair or State Chair will build my ability to listen to the demands of students to serve their needs, expand my knowledge of committee work/governmental relations, and take on a larger role of advocacy for the MN State Universities.
Please describe your understanding of Students United Students United is a nonprofit group that was established in 1967 to serve the needs of the students across the seven MN state universities. The organization was set up by the legislature to be an open support, advocate, and aid to the progress of Minnesota State students. They have been able to empower the next student leaders to be voices for their communities. They have a model of inclusivity to offer every student the ability to be civically engaged, practice networking skills, voice their needs, and be a leader that plays a role in change.
I have been involved with Students United since 2024 as a Community Leadership Fellow. Students United has challenged me to critically think and analyze the current political system going on. They have also connected me to more peers with a passion for advocacy and leadership. The nonprofit has stayed true to their mission, vision, and values through their work in advocacy, legislation, community outreach, fundraising, and more for higher education students. Their impact on myself and other students is critical, and I want to continue being a part of a fantastic mission to advance the voices of students across Minnesota.
Please describe your understanding of the role officers play at Students United Officers play a role in being a voice, champion, representation, and listener to the needs of students across the MN public schools. The officers are meant to facilitate large conversations between the Board of Directors, Committee members, Students United staff, and more.
They must keep a neutral stance when conducting matters between representatives in different fields. They all must be the primary spokespeople for Students United and play a supportive leadership role for all. Their role is vital to the mission of students united as student voice is critical to advancing schools and society.
What goals do you have for this position and/or for Students United?
For this position, I have the goal to give people hope for a brighter future. There are many attacks legislatively on the power that education wields. I want to be a voice and support for those struggling in this polarizing political climate. As a potential officer I understand it is my role to be a positive representative for future, current, and past students. I plan to listen, learn, and emphasize the needs of students and continually advocate for their betterment. Fostering an inclusive place where everyone is heard is critical to my work as a social worker and possible board member. I believe through collective action that I can be an officer to serve the students.
My main goal is to simply learn from others and expand my leadership under Students United.
Is there anything else you would like the Board of Directors and the public to know? My last concluding thought is to let people know that your voice, opinions, and thoughts matter and deserve to be listened to no matter what. You have a voice to speak up and you will find the right people to listen! Remember to believe in your abilities and never doubt the knowledge, experiences, and identities you possess.