Student Senate applications are LIVE! Apply before September 21st!
Questions about applications, positions, or SGA at large can be sent to sga@stolaf.edu
ELECTIONS TIMELINE
Application Materials Posted – NOW!
Application Materials Due – Sept 21 @ 5:00 PM
Candidate Meeting – Sept 21 @ 5:00 PM
Campaigning Begins – Sept 21 @ 6:00 PM
Election Window – Sept 29 – Oct 1
First Senate Meeting – Oct 6 @ 6:30 PM
Application & Materials
SGA Executive Positions
Senator Positions
Review SGA Bylaws
SGA SENATE CANDIDATES
Lila Rstom 2030 – She/her/ella
First-Year Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
Hello! My name is Lila Rstom, and I am planning to be a political science and psychology major. I have been interested in being a politician for my entire high school career. I was in speech and debate throughout my high school years. I was also a competition dancer! In speech, I competed in the category of Original Oratory. I wrote my speeches based on real-world issues that I was determined to help spread awareness of. I will be committed to being a public servant and representing others.
What is your platform?
As a first-year class representative, I want to represent the new students of St Olaf and make our next four years exactly what we dreamed of! I am very interested in running for this position so that I can get a feel for how to serve the students of St.Olaf best. My main goal if I am chosen for this elected position is to allow the class of 2030 to feel welcomed into their new home and enjoy their college experience. It would be an honor to help my fellow students get to love their new home!
Ly Nguyen 2030 – she/her
First-Year Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
Hi Oles! My name is Ly Nguyen, and I plan to double major in Psychology and Kinesiology, where I plan on going toward the OT track! I was born and raised in Des Moines, IA. I have always loved helping others out by volunteering and working daily, and being highly involved in my high school. My hobbies include walks, shopping, concerts, and genuinely being anywhere where there are people- I also just love to grab a coffee and chat! Overall, I am so incredibly excited and blessed to be an Ole!
What is your platform?
I am interested in being your First-Year Representative because I want to make a meaningful impact, represent the voices of others, and help create a positive environment not just for the Class of 2030, but for our Ole community. In the past, I have loved getting to know others through this type of position and making them feel heard. If elected, I hope to strengthen communication, encourage involvement, and bring new ideas that make our organization more connected, inclusive, and successful.
Maya Wright 2030 – She/Her
First-Year Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
Hi! I'm Maya Wright, and I intend on majoring in Political Science and either Psychology or Film & Media Studies. I have always been very passionate about politics and I would like to be a politician to make the change I want to see in the world. In high school, I served on the leadership team as well as the State Steering Committee for both Youth in Government and Model UN (where I was Human Rights Council Vice President), I was Student Council Vice President, and I work at a Summer Camp!
What is your platform?
As a leader dedicated to helping others through service & representation, I want to have our whole class graduating from this school looking back with fond memories, friendships for life, & the necessary skills for success. I hope for this year to be full of fun, learning, growth, connections, & community, while I serve as a catalyst for those experiences. I will take inputs from all & turn those requests into real results, so all can be heard. I would be honored to represent the class of 2030!
Jack Bogie 2030 – He/Him
First-Year Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
Hello Oles! I’m Jack Bogie, and I’m planning to double major in Political Science and Philosophy on the pre-law track. I grew up in Minnesota and have always been involved in my community. In high school, I was captain of the debate team, a member of Model UN, and an active member of the National Honor Society. I also helped raise hundreds of dollars and collected thousands of pounds of donations for local causes, building leadership skills and a commitment to action.
What is your platform?
As your first-year representative, I want to make the voices of 2030 heard! While we may have just started, I firmly believe each of us has something to contribute to St. Olaf. That means observation, connection, and action from the student body as a whole. If elected, I will observe the state of St. Olaf, connect with my fellow Oles, and take action to make this campus the best it can be. It would be my honor to be your first-year representative. Go Oles!
Naomi Cook 2030 – She/her
First-Year Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
Hi Oles! My name is Naomi Cook and I am so grateful for the opportunity to run for freshman representative! I plan on majoring in Political Science on the Pre Law Track. In high school, I was a social media intern for my school district, a member of National Honors Society and the Speech team, as well as a peer mentor for the Debate team, and a manager at a local restaurant. With my leadership experience, I am confident in my ability to advocate for others and serve our class.
What is your platform?
As your representative, I hope to hear your concerns and make sure change happens! If elected, I will encourage engagement from the entire class, plan events that build community and belonging and implement any ideas you may have. Using my advocacy skills, I will make sure Oles have access to the resources they need, and that we have a successful year! I would be honored to represent such an amazing class.
Jared Noble 2030 – he/him
First-Year Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
Hey! My name is Jared Noble, and I plan to major in Political Science and Economics on the pre-law track. I was born and raised in Minnesota, and I care a lot about being a leader, being inclusive, and making an impact. Throughout high school, I have held several leadership roles. I served as Vice President of the Student Body, was a leader in my school's Black affinity group, co-led my school's sexual assault awareness club, and served as varsity track captain.
What is your platform?
For some time now, I have reflected on what leadership truly means, and I have realized that it is not about titles, but about the impact you make on those around you. I want to be a first-year representative so I can ensure that your voices are heard and continue to strengthen the bridge between the student body and the administration, as well as the connections within the student body itself. If elected, I will stay true to these ideals and work to make everyone's experiences unforgettable.
Lilia Edwards 2029 – she.her
Sophomore Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
Hi! My name is Lilia Edwards, and I'm a Biology major on the pre-PA route. In my free time, I love to run, walk, read, be outside, go to concerts, try new coffee shops, and spend time with loved ones. Last year I served on the Board of Campus Affairs as the Health and Wellbeing Chair, and I had the honor of proxying for the Campus Affairs Executive in J-term. These opportunities gave me a better understanding of our campus community and what it takes to be a leader here at St. Olaf. Um Yah Yah!
What is your platform?
As a Sophomore Class Representative, my main goal is to create a space where all student voices are heard, welcomed, and encouraged. I believe The Hill is OUR space, and I want to make an effort to grow the strength of our Ole community, cultivating our campus to be as positive an environment as possible. If elected, I plan to focus on student and class involvement on campus, as well as growing physical and mental health resources to improve the overall well-being of students.
Marea Nielsen & Elsa Plocica 2027 & 2028 – She/Her/Hers & She/Her/Hers
Student Life Senator
Tell us about yourself…
Hello! Our names are Marea Nielsen and Elsa Plocica! Together, we have over two years of St. Olaf SGA Student Senate experience, with Elsa serving as a First-Year Class Representative (2024-2025) and Student Life Senator (2025-2026), and Marea serving as Junior Class Representative (2025-2026). We love St. Olaf and the community here and were both drawn to Senate due to our passion for furthering connections and advocating for positive change, and we are ready to return to do just that.
What is your platform?
We're running for Student Life Senator because we want to keep advocating for students of all backgrounds across the issues that are most prevalent when it comes to student life: parking, res life, dining, academic affairs, and overall student affairs. Through our two years in SGA, various org involvement, student-employment experience, and overall time on the Hill, we've built strong connections; if elected, we will continue to use those relations to cross-connect SGA with the broader campus.
Gunval Coulson 2027 – He/Him
Senior Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
"Hey Oles! I'm Gunny Coulson, running for Senior Class Representative. I'm a double major in Quantitative Economics and Political Science, with a concentration in Nordic Studies. On campus, I'm involved with Men's Club Hockey and Ole Recreation as a Climbing Wall employee and Outdoor Trip Leader. Off campus, I serve on the Brown County Ballot Board, helping ensure free and fair elections. My leadership and adaptability make me well-suited for this role."
What is your platform?
As a senior about to close out my time at St. Olaf, I'm running for Class Representative because I want our final year to reflect the community, adaptability, and strength that have defined my Ole experience. I encourage the people around me to engage in constructive criticism and look forward to applying that to my work at SGA.
Josie Hannah 2027 – she/her
Senior Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
My name is Josie Hannah, and I'm a senior Political Science and History major. My most relevant experience: I can confidently say I've tried everything that St. Olaf has to offer at least once. KSTO Radio show? Check. Resident's Assistant? Check. Transcribing presidential letters from the 1800s? Check! J-term travel abroad and on campus jobs? Check and check. As a senior, I want to encourage everyone around me to throw themselves into any and all side-quests.
What is your platform?
As a senior, I want to build upon the community I've been a part of for the past three years. Senior year is a year for forgiveness and building unlikely friendships, even if the only connection is St. Olaf. As a representative, I want to be a safe space to receive feedback from my classmates, and implement projects that students are passionate about, and can see themselves involved in. I love to get to know the people around me, and am looking forward to building productive relationships.
Sawyer Eastman 2028 – she/her
Junior Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
Hello! I'm Sawyer, a junior political science major with a concentration in business and management studies. As a member of the swim team, the project manager for community relations in SGA's local impact board, a co-host of a radio show, a member of the pre-law student association, and as a SOAR leader I have grown in teamwork, creativity, organization, service, and leadership. I love an early morning long run, late night ice cream trips (or any time), and dachshunds. Go Big Red and GO OLES!
What is your platform?
Junior year is a scary time for a lot of people so I want to bring some comfort and joy to those around me. To do this I want to work to build strong relationships with students, student-athletes, musicians, artists, organizations, and more. I aim to listen, connect, and implement actionable plans that we actually want to see happen. Only when everyone is given a voice can we then start to create positive change. I am optimistic to represent you and hear what you have to say 🙂
Nadia Iribe 2030 – She/her
Disability & Access Senator
Tell us about yourself…
I am a full-time manual wheelchair user. I love helping others and have a business for disability advocacy of my own called Roll Model! I’m very active in all things creative (physical art, choir, theater).
What is your platform?
I wish to accomplish a point where everyone who has been in my position who need accommodations, doesn’t feel overwhelmed or scared about asking for assistance. I love communicating and would love to be a safe bridge between students and staff.
Maddox LaMothe 2030 – He/Him
Interfaith Senator
Tell us about yourself…
Hello Oles! My name is Maddox LaMothe and I’m planning on majoring in Vocal Music Education here at St. Olaf. Here on the hill, I’m on the Varsity Men’s Swim and Dive Team and in Viking Choir. Throughout high school, I’ve held leadership positions in Choir, FCCLA, The National Honors Society, and Student Council. Most importantly, I am a Roman Catholic, who is actively involved in my faith through being an alter server and religious education teacher. I strive to serve, lead, and connect.
What is your platform?
As your Interfaith Senator, I want to help make faith something we can talk about, not something we simply practice. I want to turn the differences in our faiths and traditions into opportunities for conversation, curiosity, and community. I’ll work to connect students across faith communities and make it easier for Oles to share their stories, ask questions, and learn from perspectives they may not encounter every day. Different beliefs, shared campus, stronger community.
Lea Komba 2028 – she/her
International Student Senator
Tell us about yourself…
I am from Angola, and I attended UWC RCN in Norway before coming to St. Olaf. My leadership experience is vast on and off campus. On campus, I have won the Ole Cup’25 Best Social Impact Venture prize to build my non-profit (Biso) in Angola; I serve as the president of the Linux Ladies Club for women and non-binary people in tech. Additionally, I also won grants from Projects For Peace and the SGA’s Global Impact Committee to host the first Literary Festival for children and youth in Angola.
What is your platform?
As an international student, I know how heavy the anxiety gets when thinking about our present and future. I’m running for International Student Senator to turn our challenges into tangible opportunities right here on the Hill. If elected, I’ll help build our post-grad plan by creating an industry-focused prep pipeline with global career paths and international alumni mentorship. I’ll also connect us with international student groups across Minnesota so we can swap and build real time solutions.
Benjamin Wolfson 2029 – he/him
Sophomore Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
Hey Oles! My name is Benjamin Wolfson, and I’m a Mathematics and Education major. I was born in Florida and moved to Minnesota when I was ten, so I know what polar opposites really mean! I love staying active through skiing, running, and adventuring to new places. I also enjoy reading, volunteering at retirement homes, and getting involved in my community. I’m always looking for new ways to meet people, give back, and have a positive impact at St. Olaf.
What is your platform?
As Sophomore Class Representative, I want to create more resources and support for students on the Hill. If elected, I hope to develop a peer support program connecting underclassmen with students who can offer advice and guidance. I also want to make sure student concerns and ideas are heard and brought to the right people. My goal is to help make St. Olaf a stronger, supportive, and welcoming community.
Uriel Gomez Olmedo 2029 – he/him
Multicultural Senator
Tell us about yourself…
Hello! My name is Uriel Gomez Olmedo, and I'm a first-gen Latino student studying Political Science and Psychology, with a concentration in Neuroscience. I am from Minnesota, and in the future I hope to become an immigration attorney so I can advocate for people seeking more opportunities.
What is your platform?
I want to be able to work well with our multicultural organizations and students here on campus, so it's more inviting for not just those of that identity but for culture and events to be shared among all those wishing to participate, and work with the multicultural organizations as a united population here on campus in a inclusive and equitable way while working with the DEI board to accomplish those goals.
Gwamaka Mahenya 2028 – he/him/his
Student Life Senator
Tell us about yourself…
I am an international student from Tanzania, double majoring in Political Science and Film and Media Studies. In my 2 odd years here at St. Olaf I have worked in almost every single department that hires student workers, and many of you have probably seen me even if you didn't recognize my face. Whether we've crossed paths before in Stav, at the Concessions booth, or even replacing your dorm furniture. I want the students at St. Olaf to know that I love to help people in any and every way I can
What is your platform?
First and foremost, I want to make the SGA more accessible to the larger student body. I have served on an SGA board before, and while I appreciate all the quiet work the association has done, I believe the work shouldn't always be quiet. In my experience working in various departments that fall under the banner of Student Life, I have been able to not only pick up valuable experience but also to make the relationships needed with faculty to serve in my best capabilities to represent students.
Solvej Graff 2028 – she/her
Disability & Access Senator
Tell us about yourself…
I am a political science major with a concentration in public health. Before St Olaf I was the director of my school’s access alliance where we focused on peer support and faculty education. In my academic work, I place emphasis on topics surrounding disability equity and healthcare. I also take an interest in accessible design, both in the built world and academic materials. The Senate needs someone with knowledge of the ADA and section 504 as it conducts its business, I can provide that.
What is your platform?
I hear from peers on campus about troubles with issues such as housing, broken accessibility tools, and frustration stemming from misunderstandings. I have a list of projects and I am enthusiastic about taking action and highlighting issues that go unseen by those who do not experience such barriers. As senator, I want students with disabilities of all forms to feel they have an advocate who is eager to listen, learn, and collaborate so that together we can work to further reduce barriers.
Spirit Sukut 2028 – they/them
Gender & Sexuality Senator
Tell us about yourself…
My name is Spirit and I'm a Junior at St. Olaf College majoring in Psychology, Social Work, and I have a concentration in Public Health Studies. I was last year's Gender and Sexuality Senator, and I have been involved in SGA (DEI board) since Freshman year. Outside of SGA I also work as Resident Assistant, I volunteer with Headstart, and I'm the treasurer for St. Olaf Trek and Tea.
What is your platform?
As Gender and Sexuality Senator I represent the interests of queer students both during Senate Sessions and other parts of SGA and outside it, acting as a representative with faculty and staff as well. I believe in working closely with other queer student representatives to create a better environment for queer and all students. My goals for the year are to make gender neutral housing more accessible, to create programs to support trans students affected by recent federal and state policies.
Egi Ruspi 2028 – she/her
Curriculum Senator
Tell us about yourself…
Hii, I’m a junior double-majoring in Psychology and Philosophy with a concentration in Neuroscience. I’m from Albania and spent two years at LPCUWC in Hong Kong before coming to St. Olaf. On campus, I lead Philosophy & Film Club, serve on the executive boards of the International Student Organization and Theology Club. Outside the classroom, I work for nonprofit disability services and enjoy art, languages, films and reading.
What is your platform?
I want to advocate for a more flexible, responsive curriculum by pushing for flexible attendance policies, greater access to online resources such as recorded lectures and more opportunities to transfer credits from outside Olaf. I’ll advocate for more courses to count toward Ole Cores, student input on AI policies, appropriately challenging courses and greater cross-departmental recognition so that interdisciplinary classes can count toward relevant majors and concentrations.
Falastin Ali 2028 – She/Her
Junior Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
I’m from Mombasa, Kenya, and I came to St. Olaf with a strong interest in leadership, advocacy, and bringing people together. Before college, I led youth projects focused on girls’ education, research, and community support. At St. Olaf, I’ve continued that work through the Institute for Freedom & Community and the Digital Scholarship Center. I care deeply about listening to people, speaking up, and turning ideas into action.
What is your platform?
I want to bring new perspectives, raise issues that may be overlooked, and turn student ideas into real projects. I’m especially interested in creating a Junior Ideas Fund for student-led projects, regular open forums where juniors can bring concerns directly to SGA, and events that connect international and domestic students. I want this role to be about action, not just meetings.
Gum Mapuol Mabior Monydit 2027 – he/him/his
Senior Class Representative
Tell us about yourself…
I am a senior studying Quantitative Economics and Psychology with a Neuroscience concentration. As a Student Representative on the Student Life Committee, I have experience listening to student concerns, engaging in conversations about campus life, and bringing student perspectives forward. As an international student, I also bring a diverse perspective and understand the importance of making sure students feel heard, represented, and included.
What is your platform?
I am running to make our senior year more connected, engaging, and memorable. I want to listen to our class, bring senior concerns and ideas to SGA, and create opportunities for seniors to connect with one another. We have a short time left at St. Olaf, and I want to make the most of it by helping build a strong senior community and creating meaningful memories together.
Dan Sterup 2028 – he/him
Environmental Senator
Tell us about yourself…
My name is Dan Sterup! I'm a Psychology and Russian double major, with a concentration in International Relations! I've been a member of the boxing club on campus, and I've served on both the Involvement Board and Senior days team! I love hiking and being outdoors, which I did a lot of this summer when I worked as a camp counselor at a summer camp! On campus, I work for the OSA, the Institute for Freedom and Community, and the athletics media team.
What is your platform?
I really love getting involved on campus, and I specifically like discovering new areas or dimensions of involvement or service to give me a broader understanding of the work that makes this campus run. This led me to the environmental senator position! As we continue to live in a world struggling with climate change and environmental challenges, it's important to be actively conscientious and proactive in thinking through Olaf's place and role in protecting the Earth we all enjoy.