GSA Candidates

Deadline: 11/25/2025 | Election Results Announced: 12/2/2025

Please check your UofM email for the link to submit your ballot.

Presidential Candidates

Abdulwahab Alshehri

Check out his Campaign Video HERE!
What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
To let the students tell others about their experiences.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
To make their graduate journey more enjoyable and exciting.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
Abdulwahab’s Response- I worked as the international student representative for the University of Bangor, the United Kingdom in 2019. I find it very interesting that other students take the most of their journey and learn more about others’ experiences
What's one surprising fact about you?
I never give up and I care about others to succeed

Abby Watts

Check out her Campaign Video Here!
What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
Often, students find themselves only sticking to their own departments, which can limit innovation and prevent the sharing of diverse perspectives. Interdisciplinary collaboration not only fosters creative problem-solving, but also better prepares graduates for real-world challenges, which rarely fall neatly into one category. In order to make this happen, I would advocate for regular interdisciplinary creation forums, such as monthly seminars, workshops, or networking events. This can allow the departments to share research, ideas, and opportunities to collaborate on future projects. By developing structured interactive spaces, the development of a more connected and innovative graduate community can prevail.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
As a first-generation Undergraduate, and now Graduate student, what motivates me to serve my fellow graduate students is the deep understanding of how isolating and overwhelming higher education can feel when you're navigating without a roadmap or a support team who understands the challenges. I understand firsthand the struggle of not having family members who can offer guidance on academic systems, financial assistance, or the unwritten norms of graduate school. This perspective gives me both empathy and a sense of responsibility to help others who may be facing similar hurdles. Finally, I want to build this type of supportive environment that allows students from all backgrounds to feel seen, heard, and equipped to succeed in an environment that may feel intimidating.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
If I had to describe myself in three words, they would be resilient, resourceful, and empathetic. All three of these words directly showcase the aftermath of the hard work I have put into my educational journey as well as concepts I have focused in on improving through the guidance of my professors to become the best counselor in the future.
What's one surprising fact about you?
Abby Response- One surprising fact that my classmates do not know about me is that I had a stroke at birth, which left me with a disability that I have lived with my entire life. While this is not something I lead with, it has shaped the way I approach the world, with determination, perseverance, and strength. Also, living with this disability has taught me that challenges do not define what I am capable of in this life. In fact, this has fueled my drive to prove to everyone that I can accomplish anything I want. Whether it is pursuing graduate school, taking on leadership positions, or supporting my peers, I see my experience not as a limitation but as a source of power. This will always be a part of who I am, and it continues to remind me that overcoming hardships can be empowering.

Miracle Garrett

Check out her Campaign Video Here!
What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
I’d like to see a stronger sense of connection, not only across departments and programs, but also between the graduate community and the city of Memphis itself. Too often, students remain within their academic circles, missing opportunities for collaboration and engagement beyond campus. I would help bridge that gap by launching initiatives like “Grad Mixers & Mentorship Circles” to promote interdisciplinary networking, alongside “Grad Impact Days” that partner students with local organizations for service and professional growth. Drawing on my background in community relations, public relations, and event coordination, I’d work with GSA and department representatives to create spaces that inspire shared learning, civic involvement, and a lasting sense of pride in our collective impact.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
I’m motivated by a genuine desire to make graduate life more collaborative and empowering. My experience with organizations taught me the importance of creating inclusive, well-structured systems where everyone’s voice matters. Serving through GSA gives me the platform to advocate for my peers, improve communication channels, and help ensure that every student has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
I offer a strong combination of strategic communication, analytical insight, and community engagement experience. From managing production timelines and leading outreach campaigns to interpreting engagement data with the Lakers, I’ve developed the ability to turn ideas into action. I understand how to connect purpose with people, using clear communication, organization, and storytelling to inspire collaboration and deliver results. These skills make me well prepared to contribute meaningfully to a leadership role centered on connection, inclusion, and impact.
What's one surprising fact about you?
One surprising fact about me is that I am a hiker who loves exploring new trails and national parks. Hiking has become my way of recharging and staying grounded. It reminds me to embrace challenges, stay patient through the climb, and appreciate the journey as much as the destination.

Adwoa Atta

Check out her Campaign Video Here!
What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
I will create a peer-led mental health network so that students can openly and freely share their struggles, and I will start it by finding and training volunteer student mentors from every department
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
I want to build a collective culture of support so that every graduate student can thrive, and not just survive.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
I talk easily with all students, so I truly know I can speak for everyone’s needs.
What's one surprising fact about you?
I started a food business in my home country which is currently still working that provides free food for the young kids in my church after a hectic Sunday service.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Accessible, Listener, Problem-Solver

Executive Vice President Candidates

Keith Windsor

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
I would like to see more interactions between graduate students on campus. I would do this by creating events on campus promoting engagement in said events
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
Grad school can be a struggle. I would like to help myself and my fellow students overcome that struggle
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
Experience is the skill I bring to the table. I have years of experience in leadership roles.
What's one surprising fact about you?
I play lots of video games.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Caring, Strong, and Intelligent

Joyti Akul

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
I would help launch a Peer Mentorship Circle that matches incoming students with experienced peers based on shared interests such as academic focus, research goals, job preparation, or personal growth.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
my own experience as a newcomer navigating unfamiliar systems, adapting to a new academic culture, and often feeling unsure where to turn for guidance. Those early struggles taught me how powerful a simple conversation, a shared resource, or a kind gesture can be.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
One unique strength I bring to this position is my ability to translate complex ideas into clear, accessible communication and this comes with my years of experience clinical leadership.
What's one surprising fact about you?
One surprising fact about me is how often I’ve adapted across roles and disciplines, starting as a physiotherapist, then moving into clinical administration, senior consulting, and now public health. Each shift reflects my drive to grow and my ability to thrive in new environments.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Resilient strategic and supportive

Manso Frimpong

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
As Executive Vice President, I will champion stronger professional development and interdisciplinary networking for graduate students by fostering meaningful connections with alumni and industry leaders. I propose coordinating with the President to launch monthly “Graduate Connect” sessions—dedicated forums for mentorship, collaboration, and career advancement. Drawing on my leadership experience as Vice President of Beta Alpha Psi, I will ensure these events cultivate a vibrant, supportive community while enhancing students’ readiness for professional success.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
My dedication to serving fellow graduate students is rooted in a sincere commitment to cultivating an inclusive, forward-thinking academic community. Through leadership roles spanning both undergraduate and graduate levels, I’ve come to appreciate how these experiences foster meaningful personal growth and strengthen our collective progress. I’m inspired by the impact of advocacy, connection, and strategic initiatives that elevate both the academic and personal development of our student body.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
I bring a well-rounded combination of financial acumen, leadership experience, and collaborative strength. My roles as Vice President of Beta Alpha Psi and as a research accountant have equipped me to make data-informed decisions, manage resources efficiently, and foster a strong sense of teamwork and community among graduate students.
What's one surprising fact about you?
One surprising fact is my new found passion for creating nature and travel videos in my free time. This creative outlet allows me to capture tranquil outdoor moments, blend visual storytelling with personal expression, and share uplifting content, i.e. relaxation. It often surprises those who primarily know me through my analytical and academic pursuits, offering a more well-rounded view of who I am
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Accountable, Driven and Collaborative.

Emmanuel Mutombe

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
One change that I would like to see in the Graduate School community is an emphasis on understanding why we do the things we do. I achieve this by reaching out to alumni’s and seeing who some of the events curated by the GSA helped them reach the levels that they have reached.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
What motivates me is the pursue of knowledge. I believe that knowledge with a positive experience will empower the graduate students to have the wisdom to navigate and understand the world around them. This will enable the necessary skills to succeed in life.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
Depending on the position, believe that I can call upon my array of skills, talent, and experiences to deliver what is needed for the job.
What's one surprising fact about you?
One surprising fact about myself is that I deeply love eating food.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Driven charming maverick.

Laila Obadat

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
I’d like to see stronger engagement and collaboration among graduate students across all disciplines. Too often, our work stays within our own departments, but the best innovations happen when ideas cross boundaries. As Executive Vice President, I would work to organize more interdisciplinary events, both academic and social, that encourage collaboration, mentorship, and shared problem-solving. My goal is to make graduate school a place where students not only learn from faculty, but also from one another in meaningful ways.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
I’m motivated by the passion and determination I see in my fellow graduate students. We constantly discuss how graduate experience could be more supported, through better access to resources, communication, and opportunities for growth. I want to be a voice that turns those conversations into real action. When students speak up about challenges, I want them to feel heard and represented. I’m driven by the belief that change doesn’t happen by waiting; it happens when we step up and make it happen together.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
I’m someone who naturally takes initiative, and I don’t wait to be told where to start. Whether it’s organizing a project or addressing a challenge, I’m the first to pick up the pen and start building a solution. I thrive under pressure, adapt quickly, and value learning through doing. My ability to multitask, lead with focus, and remain open to improvement makes me effective in managing teams and operations. These qualities align perfectly with the responsibilities of the Executive Vice President role.
What's one surprising fact about you?
Many people don’t realize that I sometimes doubt myself, even when I appear confident. I often look at my peers and assume they have everything figured out. Over time, I’ve learned that everyone faces selfdoubt and that vulnerability is a strength. It helps me stay humble, openminded, and ready to learn from anyone. That mindset keeps me grounded and empathetic, which I believe are key qualities for a leader.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Dedicated, Understanding, and Upstanding.

Vice President of Student Engagement Candidates

Muhammad Aslam

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
I would like to see in the Graduate School community is increased cross-departmental collaboration and networking among graduate students.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
What motivates me to serve my fellow graduate students is the opportunity to create a positive impact on their academic and personal journeys.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
Listening to everyone and proposing the best way forward.
What's one surprising fact about you?
Kingmaker
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Dedicated, Committed, and Supportive

D'Angelo Anderson

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
One change I’d like to see in the Graduate School community is stronger, more intentional engagement among graduate students across departments and backgrounds. Too often, graduate students navigate their programs in isolation (focused on research, classes, or assistantships) without realizing how much shared experience and support already exists within the larger community. Strengthening those connections would not only enhance collaboration, but also improve student well-being, retention, and belonging.

As Vice President of Student Engagement, I would work to create initiatives that bring graduate students together both professionally and personally. This could include interdisciplinary mixers that highlight different fields of study, student-led panels that focus on navigating graduate life, and wellness-centered events that connect academic growth to mental health and balance. I would also like to expand GSA’s visibility by spotlighting graduate student stories through social media and campus partnerships, showing that engagement doesn’t just happen in classrooms, but through shared experiences and representation.

Through my own involvement as a Graduate Assistant, student leader, and advocate for mental health initiatives, I’ve seen how community transforms the graduate experience. My goal is to help every student feel not just supported, but truly connected to their peers, to GSA, and to the university as a whole.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
What motivates me to serve my fellow graduate students is the belief that connection and representation can truly transform the graduate experience. As students, we face unique pressures (balancing research, work, and personal growth) while often feeling unseen or isolated within our programs. I’ve learned through my own journey, both as a first-generation college student and as a Graduate Assistant, that the difference between surviving and thriving often comes from having a supportive community that listens, advocates, and uplifts one another.

That’s why I’m passionate about creating spaces where graduate students feel valued beyond their titles or degrees. Whether it’s through mentoring first-generation peers, leading outreach through campus organizations, or facilitating leadership and wellness events, I’ve seen how small acts of engagement can lead to larger change. Serving in GSA is a way for me to continue that impact on a broader scale by amplifying graduate student voices, promoting belonging, and helping ensure that every student has access to the resources, representation, and encouragement they deserve.

Ultimately, I’m motivated by the opportunity to give back to the same community that continues to shape me, one conversation, one initiative, and one connection at a time.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
One unique skill I bring to this position is the ability to bridge creativity and community engagement in ways that make students feel seen and connected. Through my work as a Graduate Assistant, campus ambassador, and active member of multiple organizations, I’ve learned how to turn ideas into experiences that resonate, whether that’s through outreach events, storytelling initiatives, or student-led collaborations.

I’ve developed a strong understanding of how to connect with diverse student audiences, combining communication, design, and advocacy to create events that not only inform, but inspire. For example, my background in creative writing and student leadership has helped me design programs and campaigns that highlight student voices, celebrate diversity, and promote mental health and belonging on campus.

This mix of creativity, empathy, and strategic leadership allows me to approach engagement from multiple angles, bringing together graduate students who may never have crossed paths otherwise, and building a sense of community that reflects the best of what GSA stands for.
What's one surprising fact about you?
One surprising fact about me that my classmates might not know is that I’m also a writer and creative storyteller. Over the past year, I’ve been developing a series of psychological thrillers and character-driven stories centered around college life, identity, and the human mind. Writing has become a way for me to process experiences, explore complex emotions, and connect creativity with psychology and criminal justice, my academic focus.

It might sound like a completely different world from research or graduate work, but storytelling has taught me a lot about empathy, perspective-taking, and communication; all skills that translate directly into leadership and student engagement. I’ve learned how to understand people’s motivations, help them find their voice, and build community through shared stories. It’s something that continues to remind me that every student has a story worth telling and part of leadership is helping them feel comfortable enough to share it.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
If I could describe myself in three words, they would be driven, empathetic, and creative.

Anthony Calzia

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
In my first semester at the University of Memphis and in conversation with fellow students, the desire for connection and interdisciplinary engagement has been mentioned. I am a writer, but also have a degree in theology and enjoy friendships with historians, communication scholars and many other fields. I would like to shape student engagement around bringing our graduates together to build friendships, share knowledge, and develop our community at UofM to meet the challenges our Memphis community faces. The more who engage, the more who are "at the table," the more likely we as students and citizens can bring creative solutions together.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
First, my faith. God says to love my neighbor as myself. Second, my calling as a creator. As an artist and writer, the hearing/reading of stories, telling stories, and the call to make beauty drives me toward wanting to help lead engagement in a way that centers our community on our lived realities. The pedagogue Freire said, education is learning who we are, learning about our place, our land, and learning how to live well on our land, in our place. I believe I can be a part of helping.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
I have worked many jobs. I have friends who are working at Walmart, with the post office, in churches, in the hospital, at Popeye's. I name this to say I love The People, love workers and most students are workers in some way. And having the experience of folding shirts at Old Navy, trampling through the rain to deliver male, etc., helps me value all the diversity and uniqueness of our school, city, and beyond.
What's one surprising fact about you?
I lived and taught ESL in Saudi Arabia for two years.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Creator Minister Organizer

Challa Thulasi

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
I’d love to see more opportunities for students to connect outside of classes, whether through casual social events, collaborative projects, or shared interest groups. I would help by organizing small events and creating easy ways for students to get involved, like group discussions, study sessions, or skill-sharing workshops.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
I’m motivated by the idea that we all succeed better when we support each other. Graduate school can be intense and isolating at times, so I want to help create a community where students feel included, supported, and encouraged to reach their goals.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
I’m great at organizing and bringing people together. I have experience coordinating events and projects, listening to people’s ideas, and turning them into action. I’m also a strong communicator, which helps me make sure everyone feels heard and included.
What's one surprising fact about you?
I once completed a month-long solo road trip, exploring new cities, trying different foods, and meeting people along the way. It taught me how to adapt quickly, stay curious, and enjoy the unexpected.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Curious, empathetic, proactive

Samuel Nii Kapkpo Brown

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
One change I’d like to see is a stronger sense of connection between graduate students across programs. Too often, students engage mainly within their departments, which limits collaboration and support networks. I would initiate cross-departmental mixers, wellness events, and professional development sessions that bring students together in informal and inclusive settings. These initiatives would help foster belonging, enhance peer support, and make the graduate experience more vibrant and connected.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
I’m motivated by the opportunity to create spaces where graduate students feel seen, supported, and valued. Graduate school can be demanding, and having a community that listens and engages can make a real difference. I want to serve because I believe that engagement isn’t just about events, it’s about building relationships that sustain us academically, professionally, and personally.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
I bring a strong background in event planning with few years of experience in the job market. My experience in event planning has taught me how to plan inclusive events, manage logistics effectively, and communicate with diverse groups. I also bring a sociologist’s perspective, an ability to understand group dynamics and use that insight to foster meaningful participation.
What's one surprising fact about you?
I’m an amateur photographer.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Engaging. Strategic. Approachable.

Angela Fynn

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
I must say the current team is doing very well with student engagement activities and its related communications. However, one improvement I would like to see is more structured opportunities for graduate students from different programs to connect outside of academic settings. Many of us spend most of our time within our own departments, which can limit collaboration, support networks, and the sense of a broader community.
As part of the Events, Engagement, and Awards Committee, I would advocate for more cross-disciplinary events—such as designated "writing" times, cultural celebrations, wellness sessions, and informal “coffee and conversation” meet-ups—designed to help students build relationships organically. I would work with the committee to gather student feedback on what formats and times work best, ensuring the events are inclusive and accessible. Another important improvement i would like to help make better is the Graduate Students Awards. I was privileged to receive the GSA 4.0 recognition award but I was honestly not thrilled with how the event was organised and the selection process for some awardees. For instance, there are so many star students in the Biology department making significant impact in research (with national recognitions and awards) but had no idea of these awards and how to be nominated. If given the opportunity, I would love to contribute my quota in making these award events more prestigious and organised.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
I am motivated by the belief that community makes the graduate experience more fulfilling and more manageable! We can never emphasise enough on the importance of getting together and just having insightful conversations about our "love" for school and the simultaneous 'headaches' it comes with. Grad school can be isolating, and even small moments of connection can make a big difference! I am so passionate about helping to create an environment where students feel supported, celebrated, and seen! Serving on this committee allows me to contribute to that sense of belonging and help students enjoy their time here as much as they grow academically.
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
One unique strength I bring is my experience in planning and coordinating events—both academic and social—in previous roles as an Event planner (back home in Ghana) and the Event Co-Chair for the UoM African Students Association. I’m comfortable managing logistics, promoting events effectively, and ensuring that activities are welcoming and well-organised. I also enjoy creative problem-solving and bringing fresh ideas to engagement efforts, whether that’s through social media, interactive elements, or ways to highlight student achievements.
What's one surprising fact about you?
I am the CEO of a wedding planning company in Ghana and apparently a hopeless romantic.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Passionate, Organised, Creative

Nikken Malboeuf

What is one change or improvement you'd like to make?
One improvement could be to build on events that are already occurring by encouraging graduate students to attend together. For example, if there are basketball games happening, we could let graduate students know that a group is going, turning it into a bonding opportunity built around an existing event. This also helps students meet others by inviting their graduate student friends. They sit with in a "grad student section or area" and they can connect with new people and form a larger community.
What motivates you to serve your fellow graduate?
I just want to meet more people. I feel like my department is so small and woven well together but I want to meet others and just grow the community here. I also think it would help with exchange of ideas and help push research or things we are just doing here. Also help find a support base when things get rough
Share one unique skill, talent, or experience you possess.
One talent or skill I would bring to the position is the ability to expand on small ideas. I enjoy taking simple concepts and turning them into something more memorable and visible. It’s a bit hard to explain but it involves my idea on one change to the graduate school community. I like to do a lot of small things with big impact instead of trying to do one event
What's one surprising fact about you?
I have lived all over the world from the middle east to the US to Europe. And through these experiences have understood what it means to have a community that support you in a new area which is what I want to do here.
If you could describe yourself in three words?
Adaptability, Persistent, and cheerful