SGA Treasurer Candidate #2
Harley Valdez
Graduate Business Administration
Austin, TX
“I am committed to revolutionizing the SGA funding processes to bene t the student body in ways never seen before and provide full transparency of your SGA’s inner nancial workings.
rough this past year, many improvements have been made to RSO and Division funding, however, the work is far from over. I plan to increase overall funding for RSOs, create additional direct funding programs for students to access, and facilitate the creation of brand new Division & RSO Financial
Systems that will redistribute the SGA budget equitably and e ciently.
I will also ensure full transparency and e ective communication of the full workings of the SGA budget are, so that every student may see how every dollar of their SGA Fee is spent each semester.
Every step of the way will include opportunities to take direct input from students, so we as a collective are guiding the decisions and agendas made rather than a select few individuals.”
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“Innovation. Precision. Execution.”
Student Treasury Board: Angelina Buysse
“My name is Angelina Buysse, and I am a junior studying Aerospace Engineering with a concentration in Astronautics and minoring in Computer Science and Computational Mathematics.
I am a current Treasury Board Member and am rerunning for this position to continue making a positive impact on the student body, supporting our diverse student organizations, and ensuring the proper allocation of the SGA budget.
The current Treasury
Board made history with the highest collections rating in history of 91.05%, which perfectly sums up all the hard work, dedication, and improvements our team has made this year. The current board has been working towards revolutionary ideas to reshape the distribution of the SGA budget to eliminate the volatility occurring today.
Going into next year, I will carry on these new concepts and continue to grow this project with the board while supporting all in this transition.”
Year:
Major: Hometown:
Junior Aerospace Engineering Allentown, PA
Student Treasury Board: John Setford
Year: Major: Hometown:
Sophomore Homeland Security West Milford, NJ
“Hello! My name is John Setford, and I am from West Milford, NJ. I am a sophomore majoring in Homeland Security with a double minor in Cybersecurity Applications and Management, and Terrorism Studies.
Treasurer for the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, so I have experience handling money. I also work as a Student Assistant in the Student Leadership Suite here on campus and will be promoted to Assistant Student Lead in April.
I am running for this position because I want to get more involved with the SGA and feel that this position will give me the best opportunity to do so. I believe that I am qualified for this position because I am the current
My goals as a Student Treasury Board Member are to improve transparency and establish better communication between the Student Treasury and the Student Body, especially the RSOs here on campus.”
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Student Treasury Board: Joshua Daugherty
“Born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, I am Joshua Daugherty. This term, my goals and efforts will be to continue bringing transparency and education through the Student Treasury, ensuring success for all RSO leaders, and guaranteeing the growth of small and large clubs!
I have been on the Student Treasury Board since November of 2022 and have also seen the Student Treasury calculate and accomplish the most accurate estima-
tions for RSO allocation collections and allocation disbursement. I am also a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity, and a member of an RSO. I have also been a member of committees in High School that were in charge of overseeing the income and expenses for specific departments.
As an incoming junior in the Aeronautical Science major, I ensure to have free time for answering questions and assisting any RSO that approaches me.”
Year:
Major: Hometown:
Sophomore Aeronautical Science Trophy Club, TX
Student Treasury Board: Eric Suarez
Year: Major: Hometown:
Junior Mechanical Engineering Miami, FL
“I was born and raised in Miami, FL. In the Fall of 2019, I attended Stetson University as a business major and served on the finance committee for a few semesters. I realized my passion for engineering and found myself at Riddle. I first transferred to EmbryRiddle in the Fall of 2022, and I immediately wanted to make an impact on campus.
In Spring 2022, I applied to fill a vacancy position on the Student Treasury Board and have
been making suggestions to the board to improve the funding process for RSOs. Since my time in the treasury, I voted to reduce and remove many penalties that would negatively impact many RSOs.
I am currently working with the new RSO tier system to ensure that we don’t just look at the numbers when determining how to make the tiers. Each RSO is unique and should be accommodated as such within reason.”
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Student Treasury Board: Diego Cordero-Rios
“My name is Diego Cordero-Rios, and I am a second-semester freshman pursuing a degree in Aerospace Engineering –rocket propulsion with a minor in human factors.
I was born in Puerto Rico, but being in a military family, I only stayed a short while. My true home is in Washington state, where I resided in a medium-sized town called University Place. In my free time, I would often go mountain biking, launch high-power rockets, and run intense space simulations in Kerbal
Space Program.
I am running for the Student Treasury Board so I can help improve the relationship between RSOs and the SGA Treasury. I want to initiate one-onone conversations with club treasurers. I want open, helpful dialogue that provides feedback on a treasurer’s concerns.
We are all in this together. Let me help you make your club’s dream a reality.”
Year: Major: Hometown:
Freshman Aerospace Engineering University Place, WA
Student Treasury Board: Eyad Mominkhan
Year: Major: Hometown:
Junior Aeronautical Science Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
“Hi Eagles! My name is Eyad Mominkhan, a junior in Aeronautical Science, and I’m currently working for HRL as Resident Advisor. I have taken over multiple leadership roles on campus, such as serving as the International Students Senator within Student Government Association (SGA), working on several projects with different departments and organizations, and establishing an annual cultural festival with the International Students & Scholar Services (ISSS).
I’m running for Treasury Board this year to be
a voice of change and represent and advocate for minorities and underrepresented students. I believe in equal opportunities and the right to have the most out of college.
So, my goal is to help Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) allocate their budgets, improve the budgeting process, and fund and support diversity and inclusion projects on campus. I will do my best to ensure every RSO has access to all the help and support they need to succeed. Your Success is Our Success!”
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Student
“I am an AE senior. When I am not at school, I can be found shredding down some mountain bike trails in North Carolina or Tennessee. My other hobbies include backpacking, camping, running, and photography.
Currently, at Riddle, I am the President of the Riddle Mountain Biking Club and hold a position on the Student Treasury Board. I am running for reelection to the Student Treasury Board to continue working
Treasury Board: John Pesarchick
on improving the RSO funding process along with being able to help RSOs succeed in their financial endeavors.
I feel that my experience as an RSO Treasurer and President with 100% collections for the past 4 semesters and counting, along with being on the Student Treasury Board currently, makes me a good fit for the board again.”
Year:
Major: Hometown:
Senior Aerospace Engineering Hinckley, OH
Student Treasury Board: Aylin Myftija
Year: Major: Hometown:
Junior Business Administration Dobbs Ferry, NY
“My name is Aylin Myftija, and I am currently a junior pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a Marketing focus. I started my college career as a Mechanical Engineer, but as the end of my sophomore year neared, I changed majors to something I found to enjoy more.
Even though I am not an engineer anymore, I hold a position in ERAU Motorsports as the Composites Lead, where I lead the manufacturing of carbon fiber components to be used on the race car we build. I am also a Teaching
Assistant in the O’Maley College of Business.
I am running for this position because I want to get more involved with the school and ensure that RSOs are better funded by the Student Treasury Board. I think I would be a good fit for this position as I have been in leadership positions before, am hardworking, organized, and a quick learner willing to get things done. I hope in this position to deepen my understanding of finances to better help the campus community.”
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“Aviation has always been in my blood and passion. I took the lifetime decision to become an airline pilot being four years old. When I turned 17, I decided to get my private pilot license during high school summer break.
The week after graduating from high school, I was on my way to and arrived at Embry-Riddle in the Fall of 2021.
I am majoring in Aeronautical Science with minors in Airline Operations and Air Transportation and currently reaching the end of the course
College of Aviation: Ander Turueno
of my Certified Flight Instructor license.
Throughout my time here at ERAU, I have been involved in many leadership positions, such as the ALPA ACE Club, Aviation Safety Advisory Council, Flight Professional Conduct Board, created Right Rudder productions, and served two terms as College of Aviation Senator.
During my free time, I like to fly for lunch, scuba dive, explore or hike, skydive, etc. One of my fun facts is that I don’t like eating spicy food.”
Year:
Major: Hometown:
Junior Aeronautical Science Mexico City, Mexico
College of Aviation: Anthony Velez
Year: Major: Hometown:
Junior Aeronautical Science Miami, FL
“My career dream is to become an aviator and give back to organizations and individuals that have guided me to where I am today. Still, a lot of improvement is to be done, and a lot of years till I accomplish my dream. However, day in and day out, I continue to work hard with my peers to ensure our dreams come true.
ERAU has supported me tremendously in my journey there. I want to be able to give back to the ERAU community and help students with their needs and priorities.
I have participated in many aviation leadership positions throughout my college career that led to my acceptance into the United Aviate Program.
I feel grateful for the support system that keeps me motivated, including my family, friends, and flight supervisors. Being a part of the Men’s soccer team and Soccer leadership group has exposed me to diverse cultures.
The next step is being part of the COA Senators, and we need your help. Thank you.”
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“Hello everyone! My name is Dariel Garcia, and I am a running candidate for the College of Aviation Senate. I am a sophomore in Aeronautical Science and an Instrument Rated Private Pilot. On campus, I am part of the Honors Program, Alpha Omicron Alpha, and with your help, soon-to-be COA Senator.
The student population comprises a wide variety of individuals with different opinions, concerns, and lifestyles. In high school, I was the student body president of my class for three consecutive years and the Battalion Commander
College of Aviation: Dariel Garcia
of my J.R.O.T.C program. I have the proper leadership experience to handle the duties of a senator and voice all the student body’s concerns, making me the best candidate for this position.
As Senator, I will have the power to vote on funding decisions and act as a check and balance alongside the other senators to overthrow presidential vetoes if need be.
Given this position, I will ensure that equal funding is distributed among the COA and work with students to voice their concerns.”
Year:
Major:
Hometown:
Sophomore Aeronautical Science
Boston, MA
College of Aviation: Samuel R. Schoenherr
Year: Major: Hometown:
Junior Aeronautical Science Jacksonville, FL
“Hello! My name is Sam Schoenherr. I’m from Jacksonville, Florida, and I’m an upcoming senior in the Aeronautical Science program.
I think the best part about Embry-Riddle is the sense of community, and the chance to build connections early on within our industry. I developed my passion for aviation early on as a member of the Civil Air Patrol, a volunteer-led auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force focused on Cadet Programs, Community Service, Aerospace Education, and Emergency Services. Through this program, I got to go on my first
flight in a Cessna 182 and see the world from above, and it was life-changing.
Today, I’m currently finishing my Instrument Rating and am eager to start training for my Commercial Pilot’s license.
On campus, I’m currently an active member of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. I’m very excited to work with the Student Government Association and hope to get more involved on campus, further develop my leadership skills, and give back to my Eagle Family. Thank you, and go, Eagles!”
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College of Aviation: Jameson “Connor” Brooks
“My name is Jameson “Connor” Brooks, and I am running to be your College of Aviation Senator! It would be my honor to be given the opportunity to serve you as a senator, and I believe that I have a lot of great ideas to make the College of Aviation the best college!
I love aviation, and I have an extensive servant leadership background that makes me a prime candidate for this position. I am an Eagle Scout, so leadership skills have been instilled in me from a very young age.
As a member of the Order of the Arrow, I was elected to be the Training Chair, which entailed overseeing the training of over 1,100 youth and adults, which taught me important skills like how to work with people, how to hit deadlines, and how to make my voice heard!
If given the opportunity to serve you, these skills would be the driving force in allowing your voice to be heard in the College of Aviation.
Vote for Brooks!”
Year:
Major: Hometown:
Junior Aeronautical Science
Chesterfield, VA
College of Aviation: Chad Willock
Year: Major: Hometown:
Sophomore Aeronautical Science
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
“Greetings, I’m Chad Willock, a sophomore from the British Virgin Islands pursuing a BS in Aeronautical Science and currently working on my Commercial License.
As a candidate for COA Senate, I am committed to being a voice for those who feel unheard and bringing about real change by ensuring that all COA majors are included in the decision-making process.
My utmost priority is to be an empathetic listener and a problem solver who understands the needs of the student body. My track record of service and community
engagement is something that I hold dear, and I intend to use my talents to address the concerns that students have voiced.
I promise to foster an inclusive environment where students can freely discuss their ideas and collaborate to solve problems, which will lead to constructive change. My passion for aviation, coupled with my leadership skills, makes me an ideal candidate for the COA Senate.
By voting for me, you’re investing in a promising future for the COA.”
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College of Arts & Sciences: Caelin Sergent
“Hi, my name is Caelin Sergent, and I am running for COAS Senator! I am currently pursuing a BS in Computational Mathematics and a minor in Computer Science.
I am a member of Housing and Residence Life (HRL), Tri-Sigma sorority, and am on the Dean’s List. I am an RA on campus which allows me to serve as a leader and communicate effectively between HRL and the students who live on campus. I am also the Treasurer for Tri-Sigma, a position that requires
time management and attention to detail.
I want to serve as your next COAS Senator to further establish connections between the student body and the SGA through outreach and engagement.
I also want to provide relevant and meaningful resources to students regularly so that the student body is constantly aware of what is happening in our college and on campus.”
Year:
Major: Hometown:
Junior Computational Mathematics Bel Air, MD
College of Arts & Sciences: Dominic Sandell
Year: Major: Hometown:
Sophomore Aerospace Physiology Tallahassee, FL
“I am dedicated to the advancement and engagement of all programs in COAS. This will be through planning a Scientist Week, getting more companies that apply to our programs at the Career Expo, and providing even more resources for students to get more involved in research and labs earlier on.
This past semester, I have engaged with several organizations on campus, such as FCA and ERT, while starting my own club, CKI. Additionally, I am a part of the Honors
program and have consistently earned a 4.0, so the additional work is not only manageable but welcomed.
It is time for COAS to get the attention it deserves. We have more programs than the other colleges and the most unique programs in the world with Aerospace Physiology and Security and Intelligence programs.
Elect Dominic Sandell for COAS Senator, and we will get the appreciation we deserve.”
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College of Arts & Sciences: Kaley Eaton
Junior Engineering Physics
North Brook eld, MA
“As a dedicated and passionate individual, I am confident that I possess the necessary qualifications for this position. With a strong background in leadership roles within Alpha Xi Delta and Business Eagles, I have developed valuable skills in communication, organization, and team management.
I am committed to representing the needs and interests of fellow students and advocating for positive change within the COB.
Moreover, I believe every person’s voice matters and should be heard, regardless of their background or experience.
College of Business: Yaritza Dieguez
Through my leadership roles, I have worked to create environments where every member feels valued and respected. Additionally, my previous college years have equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities students face, allowing me to effectively communicate and address their concerns.
If given the opportunity to serve, I hope to work towards increasing access to resources for students and advocating for policies that enhance the academic experience for all students. I am eager to bring my skills and passion for student advocacy to this position and serve my community.”
Year:
Major:
Hometown:
Senior Aviation Business Administration
Cape Coral, FL
College of Business: Chloe Christovich
Year: Major: Hometown:
Junior Aviation Business Administration Jacksonville Beach, FL
“My name is Chloe Christovich, and I am from Jacksonville Beach, FL. I’m a junior studying Aviation Business Administration, and this is my second year on campus.
I’m an RA under Housing and Residence Life, a member of Sigma Kappa Sorority, and I am the manager of the College of Business Social Media Marketing Team. I am running for COB Senator because I want to make it easier for students to communicate their wants and needs within the college. I am a good fit for this position because I spend a lot of time in the
college as a Social Media Marketing team member and then manager. I am involved with many of the students in the college as well as the administration.
I feel as though my connection between students and administration can help make the changes students want.
I hope to make the college a safe space for collaboration with faculty, open conversation about possible improvements to be made, and foster an environment within the College that promotes growth, positivity, and success.”
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College of Engineering: Teshome S. Teshome
“As a Student Senator, one must be able to represent and advocate for the needs and interests of the student body. My qualifications for running for student senator run through the following:
In terms of leadership experience, I have held various positions in student organizations, including president and secretary. These experiences have taught me the importance of collaboration, communication, and accountability, which are essential qualities for a student senator.
Additionally, I have been actively involved in campus RSOs, such as AIAA DBF, ERFSEDS, and ERPL, which has helped me develop a deep understanding of the concerns and needs of the student body.
Last but not least, I am committed to ensuring that all students have a voice and are represented in decision-making processes that impact their education and overall well-being on campus.”
Year: Major: Hometown:
Senior Aerospace Engineering
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
College of Engineering: Xavier Gorman
Year: Major: Hometown:
Sophomore Aerospace Engineering Charlotte, NC
“Hi! My name is Xavier Gorman, and I am from Charlotte, North Carolina. I’m a sophomore majoring in Aerospace Engineering with a minor in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
On campus, I am involved in Greek Life as a brother of Pi Kappa Alpha. As well, I am currently looking to join a research position at MicaPlex. Outside of school, I work at LA Fitness, enjoy going to the gym, and hanging out with friends.
My goal as your COE Senator is to expand the quality and quantity of events, such as forums and
company visits, to promote student success in the classroom and following graduation. It’s really cool to come on campus and see a Gulfstream Jet on display for the COA. Implementing similar events in our college with companies such as Lockheed Martin, SpaceX, and Boeing, to name a few, will be one of my top priorities.
I am also looking forward to leaning on office hours and visits with RSOs to listen to suggestions from students to improve their academic experience as best I can.”
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College of Engineering: Papa Abdoul Sene
“My name is Papa Abdoul, and I am excited to be running for the Senator position at the College of Engineering.
Born in a FrenchSenegalese family, I have lived in 11 countries so far, which has given me exposure to various cultures and allowed me to speak French, English, and Spanish fluently.
I am committed to improving the college experience for all students, regardless of their background. I believe in promoting sustainability, offering solutions to the college’s student retention rate, and providing assistance to low-income students for
their textbooks and other important school supplies.
I am confident I can fit this position well because of my persistence, critical thinking skills, and problemsolving abilities. I am realistic, pragmatic, and I understand the importance of finding viable solutions. I am dedicated to improving academic advising to ensure all students have the necessary resources to succeed.
As a senator, I hope to work with all College of Engineering student body members to make positive changes and create a better future for all.”
Year:
Major:
Hometown:
Junior Aerospace Engineering
Paris, France
College of Engineering: Prabhsidak Singh
Year: Major: Hometown:
Sophomore Aerospace Engineering Jalandhar, India
“My name is Prabhsidak Singh, and I am currently a sophomore in the BS Aerospace Engineering program at Embry-Riddle.
I have always been highly involved in clubs and organizations on campus. Through my experiences, I have developed policies that aim to address the current problems in the infrastructure and education system within the College of Engineering.
As an international student, I have faced numerous challenges, including socializing and time management difficulties. These challenges have inspired me to help improve the college experience for minority populations, which may face similar ob-
stacles. Everyone should have access to a supportive and inclusive learning environment, regardless of their background.
Moreover, I aim to initiate a collaborative mentoring program for engineering undergraduates, helping them to succeed with better grades.
As a university specializing in engineering, Embry-Riddle has the potential to become a leader in the field by renovating the College of Engineering. This can be achieved by pursuing more externally funded projects to improve the infrastructure and enhance the college’s reputation.”
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“My name is Dylan Sowma, and I am from Miami, FL, majoring in Aerospace Engineering. I’m extremely excited to announce my candidacy for the position of Senator in the SGA.
I have experience from being the past COE Senator, and I helped establish tutoring for classes. If elected, I plan to work closely with the student body and administration to ensure that the needs and concerns of engineering students are discussed with people of the proper authority to take action.
This includes advocat-
College of Engineering: Dylan Sowma
ing to keep upper-level tutoring going while adding more classes and tutors to make it more efficient.
As a Senator, I will also strive to seek out different ideas and hear all voices in our college. Also, I am committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.
I am confident that, with your support, I can be an effective representative for our college and within the SGA. Thank you for considering my candidacy, and I look forward to serving you as your Senator.”
Year:
Major:
Hometown:
Junior Aerospace Engineering Miami, FL
College of Engineering: Sharif Adepetu
Year: Major: Hometown:
Junior Computer Science Lagos, Nigeria
“Since I arrived at Embry-Riddle, I’ve been actively involved in campus life, particularly within the international community. I’m proud to have served as an international ambassador and event coordinator for the International Students Organization, where I had the opportunity to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
I truly enjoy working with others and believe that the best outcomes are achieved through teamwork. In my experience, collaborating with others leads to better ideas and, ultimately, more successful projects. I believe this approach can also be applied to improving the College of Engineering.
I’m running for Student Senator because I’m passionate about fostering a tight-knit community among engineering students. I believe that having a strong sense of community is key to students’ satisfaction and success in college.
As a Senator, I’m committed to bringing students together, creating meaningful interactions and engagement opportunities, and promoting a more inclusive campus environment.
I’m excited about working with my fellow students to create positive change on campus and enhance the overall student experience.”
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College of Engineering: Jet Stevenson
Freshman
Aerospace Engineering
Morgan Hill, CA
President: Salim Roig Senior Aerospace Engineering Miami, FL
Vice President: Callum Mann
Junior Aerospace Engineering Toms River, NJ
Vice President: Isaac Fischer
President: Michael Dipierro Senior Business Administration Munroe, NJ
Vice President: Bryce Farnham
