Student Council Election

Image

Yarik Munoz

Hi BloodHounds,

My name is Yarik Rene Munoz Dajbura, and I am pleased to announce my plan to run for President of the Student Council for the academic year 2024-2025. If elected, I intend to uplift the student experience in tangible ways. I have been involved with the student Council since My first year as a proud Junior at John Jay College. I have enjoyed working with three administrations as a freshman, Sophomore Representative, and Vice President, so I am ready for this next big step.

My Goal, if I am elected, is to ensure that we have a stable line of Transparent Internal communication not only with administrators but with all the cohorts of Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors, Transfer and Graduate students to be able to share ideas and work with one another.

As President, I also want to bring back a Committee that has been lost in previous years, the Club Planning Committee, which will get the John Jay community closer and hopefully lead to more events and collaborations, leading to a better John Jay Student Community. Another goal is to create Scholarships for students and career-oriented workshops.

Thank you and I look forward to what we can accomplish as a community

 Your Aspiring President,

 Yarik Munoz

Image

Jamella Richmond

Dear John Jay Community,

My name is Jamella Rasheeda Richmond and I am pleased to announce my plans to run for Vice President of Student Council for the academic year of 2024-2025. I have always held a commitment to service and leadership. Thus, I am passionate to serve all of you in the most appropriate and meaningful way that I can.

As someone who has been involved with the Student Council since my freshman year, I know the importance of experience. While the Student Council is a cornerstone for leadership, experience is the main driving force that will efficiently catalyze change. Working amongst three Administrations for the past two years has allowed me to understand what is expected in this role and equipped me with the necessary skills to not only exceed these expectations but also leave a considerable impact. 

I am adamant in ensuring timely decisions and transparency in my work. I hope to empower both my colleagues and the college community by bridging the gap through a collaborative environment. Accessibility will be essential for my role as vice president and I am certain that I will be easily accessible during my time of service, no matter the circumstance. My long-term commitment to the Student Council’s mission intertwined with the pride I hold towards being a John Jay bloodhound makes me confident in my abilities to—once again—represent the student body successfully.

Thank you and I look forward to what we can accomplish in this upcoming year.

Your Aspiring Vice President,

Jamella Richmond

Image

In-Deria Barrows

As a former student representative who has served two consecutive terms on council as both a freshman and sophomore representative, I have gained valuable insight into the challenges facing our social community here at John Jay. One of the most pressing issues I have observed during my tenure is the misallocation of funds and club budgets, which has caused conflicts among our student leaders. As a candidate for treasurer, I am committed to establishing a more streamlined and effective budgeting process that will reduce these tensions and bring our community closer together. Additionally, I am dedicated to creating a more supportive and understanding environment for all students, particularly during the often confusing and stressful budgeting process. With my experience and expertise in this area, I am confident that I am the ideal candidate for this role. If elected, I promise to deliver results that will exceed your expectations.

Image

David (Qingyi) Mao

Hello Everyone:

My name is Qingyi Mao but you can call me David as well. I am running for the Secretary of  2024-2025 John Jay Student Council. If I get elected as the Secretary of the student council, I will make sure that everyone in the John Jay will have a chance to meet with the student council, That the votes during these meetings will be fair and precise and the records will not be corrupted. Furthermore I want to address these issues as a member of the student council: worn-out facilities like the pool table at the first floor of the new building, the vending machines that charge more than it is supposed to and a divided John Jay student community due to factors like political opinions and ongoing wars. I hope when I am elected I can bring back a united John Jay student community, a well maintained facilities, a fair gym schedule for both student athletes and other students and regaining trust for our following students. Furthermore, together with the rest of student council we will make that the student activity fees will be spent on the necessary issues.

– David (Qingyi) Mao

Image

Lena Singh

As a Sophomore Representative, I will not only represent my class year, but the entirety of the John Jay student body. My participation in non-profits like 826NYC and Silk Coalition, school clubs like Desi Society and Law Society, and the Honors council, has equipped me with the leadership skills needed to represent you! It has come to my attention recently that many students and professors stay away from the student council for their own reasons, including disorganization and discomfort. I want to be that bridge between the council and the students, making you feel included and comfortable whenever you approach us. Many of us fear that our suggestions to make a better community or college space will never be implemented. But I will tell you to step to your foot against a closing door and open it wide so we can hear you. I want to change your idea of a student council, I want to contribute to student events as I already do through the Honors council, and I want to liven up the classrooms you are in everyday. I would like to help raise and allocate funds for our student organizations, build relationships with other CUNY’s, and hold cultural festivities where we get to be more than just students. College should be a place where you actually want to be and where you become more than an academic. With the help of you, the college administration, and the executives of the student council, we can make these changes happen.

Thank you,

Lena Singh

Image

Halla Albukhaiti

Hi! My name is Halla Albukhaiti and I’m currently a Freshman representative for the Student Council at John Jay! As Freshman representative , I’ve helped plan events for freshmen to help better their experience at John Jay. I’m also a part of the Arab Student Union as the Treasurer. I’ve always enjoyed helping people and bringing people together which is why I’m heavily involved within my community. The Student Council is one of the reasons I’m able to do this. I hope to continue to serve on the Student Council next year but as a Sophomore representative . If there are any concerns you have that you’d like me to work on as a Sophomore representative , let me know and I’ll try my best to help you in any way I can. Thank you!

Image

David Quinteros

I am honored to announce my candidacy for Sophomore Class Representative. As a candidate, I am deeply committed to serving as a voice for us the students at this institution, advocating for your needs, concerns, and aspirations. 

If elected, I pledge to prioritize several key issues central to our class and college's well-being and academic success. Firstly, I aim to foster a stronger sense of community within our class, creating platforms for open dialogue and collaboration. I believe in the power of unity and collective action to address challenges and amplify our voices effectively.

Above all, I am committed to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in my role. I will actively seek feedback from my classmates, ensuring that your voices are heard and your concerns are addressed. Together, we can create positive change and make a lasting impact on our campus community. Currently serving in the Student Council, along with being a part of the John Jay Honors Program, My Brothers Keepers Cohort, Urban Male Initiative, and PRISM.

I humbly ask for your support and trust in this journey. Together, let us work towards a brighter future for our class and our college.

Cordially,

David Brandon Quinteros

Image

Aneesa Thomas

As a political science major deeply engaged in the John Jay community, I, Aneesa Thomas, am stepping up to run for the position of sophomore representative. My foremost goal is to champion improved access to resources, prioritize mental health support, and cultivate stronger bonds between educators and students. These are pressing issues that demand our attention, given the transformative impact they can have on student development when effectively addressed. During my freshman year, I actively contributed to securing additional resources such as graphing calculators, graph paper, and other essential materials for the Math and Science Resource Center. Additionally, I initiated the Make A Mends project, providing free winter gear to ensure the safety and comfort of fellow students during colder months. Recognizing the significance of these resources for students facing barriers to access, I firmly believe in ensuring equitable availability for all. As a sophomore representative, I am dedicated to expanding the distribution of such resources to various departments, thereby fostering academic excellence across disciplines. Furthermore, I am committed to establishing a teacher-student mental health network, facilitating understanding between educators and students regarding challenges beyond the classroom. This initiative aims to cultivate empathy and stronger bonds within our academic journey, ultimately alleviating student stress and fatigue. I firmly believe that creating a supportive environment is paramount for student well-being and academic success. In addition, I propose organizing a John Jay Pep Rally to bolster school spirit and rally support for student initiatives in promoting justice and positive change. School should be a place not only for learning but also for enjoyment and community engagement. Through these endeavors, I pledge to attentively listen to student needs and tirelessly work towards ensuring a memorable and fulfilling experience for all at John Jay.

Image

 Olami Ayebusiwa

Dear John Jay Students,

Hi, my name is Olami Ayebusiwa and I am a current freshman and Political Science major looking forward to running for Sophomore Representative for the 2024-2025 school year here at John Jay. As a dedicated member of our student body, I am committed to making the college experience here at John Jay enjoyable, inclusive, diverse, and welcoming. I am committed to making our college experience more enriching, inclusive, and enjoyable for all students.

Here are some of the things I look forward to contributing to our student body:

Promoting Student Wellness:

• Encouraging students to take charge of their mental and physical health by bring awareness of resources on campus such as the Wellness Center and LGBTQ+
• Create an open-minded, safe, and welcoming environment on campus allowing for deep conversations to be had
• Collaborate with staff members and students to create mental health days dedicated to events to promote student wellbeing

Promote Student Diversity and Inclusivity:

• Encourage and uplift the voices of marginalized groups in our class no matter the background bringing their voices to the forefront
• Support, programs, events and incentives that would help foster cultural acceptance and celebrate the different backgrounds of our student body
• Platform marginalized groups, and bring their issues and concerns to the school

 Advocate for Student Justice:

• Follow the principle of John Jay by ensuring students’ concerns are heard and addressed
• Advocating, and conducting research for better solutions to improve student conditions
• Ensure that students, staff, and others understand that John Jay’s advocacy for justice by uplifting student social movements

Bridge Communication and Transportation:

• Take part in town halls and create other forms of communication between the student body and the Student Council through Google surveys
• Create an anonymous form of communication for students who cannot directly approach the Student Council
• Establishing newsletters to address actions done by the Student Council to address issues and hear feedback

 Foster Community Involvement:

• Collaborate with other student clubs and organizations to create community fun and interactive student events
• Create systems to take student feedback and recommendations to improve future events
• Take into consideration for students to share event ideas  

“I want to affect people like a clap of thunder, to inflame their minds with the breadth of my vision, the strength of my conviction and the power of my expression.” - Rosa Luxemburg

German Economist Rosa Luxemburg’s quote highlights the importance of sharing commonality despite differences and an impact on our world. As your Sophomore Representative, I am committed to following up on this quote by making an impact on the lives of our student body by advocating and being dedicated to the interest and concerns being a dedicated advocate for our collective interests and concerns. As a student body, we can look to the future and come together to make our school a place for everyone.

 Thank you for your time, and consideration, and humbly ask for support for me in the upcoming election.

Sincerely,

 Olami Ayebusiwa, Sophomore Representative Candidate

Image

Najmul Islam

 “What I Can Contribute to Our College as a Junior Representative?”

I’ve always been more than happy to take the initiative because I know that taking the lead can be something overwhelming to even think about let alone taking action. Having leadership experience is something I find very valuable and it is something I wish to continue to do during my following college years. Words of wisdom and a sense of strong leadership will take anyone further in life, as a current sophomore representative in the student council, I have already demonstrated my commitment to enhancing our college community. Building upon this experience, I am poised to contribute even more as a junior representative. My multifaceted background allows me to bring unique perspectives and skills to the table. As a Police Cadet at the 20th Precinct, I've honed my communication and organizational abilities, crucial assets for effective leadership within the student council. Additionally, my role as a soccer coach underscores my passion for mentorship and community involvement. By dedicating my free time to nurturing young talents, I not only foster teamwork and discipline but also exemplify the importance of giving back. This is why I'm running for the position of Junior Representative—to further develop my skills while actively shaping the landscape of leadership. I am deeply committed to not only being a part of the student council but also to ensuring a secure environment for my peers to voice their ideas for college improvement. I believe the student council serves as a conduit for student voices, addressing concerns and enhancing the college experience. Through active student outreach, I will listen attentively and implement meaningful changes. By electing me as a junior representative, I will bring not only my experience but also unwavering dedication to making John Jay students proud of their college choices.

Image

Yanira Rivera

As a prospective junior representative for John Jay, my motivation stems from a deep-seated commitment to fostering inclusivity and amplifying the voices of all students. My own initial year at John Jay wasn't without its difficulties, and I empathize with those who may feel marginalized or unheard within our community. It's this first-hand understanding that drives my passion to enact positive change and ensure that every student feels valued and supported.

My primary goal is to create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. I aim to accomplish this by actively listening to the concerns and ideas of my peers, especially those who may feel overlooked. Through open communication and collaborative efforts, I believe we can implement initiatives that address the diverse needs of our student body.

Furthermore, I am dedicated to actively engaging with the student population beyond my role as junior representative. I envision myself as a proactive member of various student organizations and initiatives, volunteering my time and expertise to contribute positively to campus life. Whether it's organizing events, participating in discussions, or offering support to fellow students, I am committed to being a visible and accessible presence within the John Jay community.

In essence, my candidacy for junior representative is fueled by a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my peers. By prioritizing inclusivity, empathy, and active participation, I hope to create a more vibrant and supportive environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

--

Best regards,

Yanira Rivera (she/her)

Macaulay Honors, 2026

Image

Saja Khalil

Hello everyone, my name is Saja. I am a sophomore double majoring in English and Criminology, with a minor in Middle Eastern Studies. I currently hold various positions in ASU (Arab Student Union) and MSA (Muslim Student Association), and after working closely with these clubs, I grew more active in the John Jay community and decided to run for Junior Representative. After working at John Jay and hearing from fellow students about the opportunities they wished they had, I chose to become a Junior Representative.

The different goals and opportunities for students that I wish to achieve as Junior Representative include providing more inclusive and diverse internships, advocating for more on-site academic advisement, and assisting juniors in any way they see fit. I am always open to new ideas and encourage collaboration to develop creative ways to help benefit the community. I truly am a person who wants to help and see students succeed, and I hope to be able to do so as John Jay's next Junior Representative!

Image

Andy Veras

Greetings, fellow students! My name is Andy Veras, and I am a dedicated Junior majoring in Criminal Justice who is passionate about making a difference within our student community. As a candidate for the student council, my primary objective is to foster greater student engagement on campus. Drawing from my experiences with the Urban Male Initiative, where I conducted preliminary interviews and assisted individuals in accessing resources, I am adept at understanding and addressing the needs of our student body. Additionally, my role as an MBK Mentor has allowed me to forge personal connections with freshmen, guiding them academically to ensure their success. Currently employed at the Fitness Center through a work-study program, I diligently maintain order and assist students with their inquiries, demonstrating my commitment to enhancing campus life. Moreover, my involvement in the National Society for Leadership and Success underscores my dedication to personal and professional development, which I aim to share with fellow students. Furthermore, my internship with the United Jewish Council of the Lower East Side and volunteer work with Reading Partners highlight my commitment to community service and educational empowerment. If elected, I pledge to actively listen to the concerns of my peers and work tirelessly to implement initiatives that truly benefit our diverse student body, fostering a more vibrant and inclusive campus environment.

Image

Jeff Mathew

Hello Fellow John Jay Students,

My name is Jeff Mathew and I am running to become a Senior Representative. As someone with current Student Council experience which includes Sophomore Representative and Junior Representative, I hope to continue that initiative as a future Senior Representative by planning interactive events that build an inclusive John Jay community. As a Sophomore Representative and Junior Representative, I was able to make enjoyable events such as a 2v2 Basketball Tournament, a Field Day event with Urban Male Initiative (UMI), and a Musical Chairs Event because I know these are the types of events that bring positivity and excitement at John Jay College. As a Senior Representative, I hope to continue that sense of inventiveness by taking the time to listen and research the type of events that allow John Jay students to enjoy their college experience. Another initiative that I plan to do as Senior Representative is to collaborate with other John Jay clubs since I want to provide a stronger interest for students to participate in all clubs. I find this goal to be important because I want students to recognize other clubs as engaging as much as the Student Council. For the same reason, I also hope to promote leadership and communication as a Student Council Representative. This is important because I want students to feel that the Student Council listens to all students and we continue to work as a community to be better as a school. Thank you for taking the time to read my platform and I hope I can become your Senior Representative during the 2024-2025 academic school year.            

Best regards, Jeff Mathew

Image

Maria Castillo Cisneros

Dear fellow students,

I am running for Senior Representative for Student Council because I am passionate about making our school community more supportive and engaging for all. Our school should be a place where every student feels valued, respected, and represented. I will work to promote diversity and inclusion through initiatives such as cultural awareness events. I am committed to amplifying marginalized voices and ensuring that all students have equal opportunities for success. If elected I hope to center my focus on key issues regarding student well-being, academic support, and inclusion. I believe that every student should have access to resources and support they need to succeed academically. I also want to prioritize mental health awareness by promoting more accessible counseling services and peer support groups for students. I hope to work together to address the issues that matter most to our class. I also plan to create more fun events to celebrate our last year as undergraduate students. I want to also increase involvement in events by working together and creating a safe space for everyone. With your support, I am confident that we can create a school environment that promotes academic success, supports mental health and well-being, and that celebrates diversity. If I am elected as your class representative, I promise to do my best to serve our class and to make sure that your voices are heard. I will listen to your ideas and concerns and work with you to make the best of our college experience. Thank you for considering me as your Senior Class Representative.       

Sincerely, Maria Castillo

Image

Brenda Tenezaca

As a Sophomore Transfer student at John Jay, I can proudly say that I don’t regret joining the Bloodhound family. As a transfer student, I can connect with other transfer students at John Jay and their struggles in beginning their student life journey at John Jay. As per collecting signatures for my petition, I met with a transfer student, and she asked me what plans I had for transfer students since she was a transfer student herself. I reminisced on my first semester at John Jay and how I was lost completely when I walked into this building. My story can be the same as many other students who are new to John Jay. I did attend a transfer student speed network event before my semester started and it was very a quick event that the resources at John Jay didn’t receive enough demonstration on what our campus has to offer. As a transfer student representative, I would like to make the transfer student community more connected and more welcomed. As well as make the community more involved in the resources our campus has to offer. I would like to be the voice of the transfer student community and aid many transfer students in following their career journey by having the support of our campus. I’ve noticed many programs in our school that in a way make it hard for transfer students to be part of. I would like to make a partnership with the Student’s Transfer Program to create events centered on opening opportunities for transfer students. My goal as a transfer student representative is to aid at the best of my ability opportunities for our transfer students and inform them of what this campus has to offer through events. Especially I would like to aid transfer students in building relationships with other peers because many transfer students come into John Jay without knowing a single student.

Image

Ashley Tobar Briones

My name is Ashley Tobar Briones. I am a junior pursuing a major in International Criminal Justice and a minor in Law. I am a fierce advocate for diversity, change, and justice. If elected as a Faculty Student Disciplinary Committee member, I aspire to create a welcoming space for students to feel at ease raising issues that violate college conduct and academic policy. Solutions are fundamental when conflict arises. In a place, where every voice matters, there is a sense of belonging and responsibility that I seek to inspire. No matter how different we may be, I believe in being there for one another. Fairness should be present in the process of hearing every side of a story. I choose to abide by the college rules because I want to do what is right for

everyone and promote trust. At John Jay, every student shares the vision of striving for justice and I am on board. My distinctive roles at my previous college, Queensborough Community College provided me with an insight into the struggles students faced on campus thus urging me to get involved. Mentoring freshman students was crucial to my interpersonal development. Acknowledging that each student’s experience was unique and providing a solution to the many challenges they faced were fulfilling. Nevertheless, being the Executive Student Secretary was fascinating. Having the possibility to contribute to the student experience by maintaining a record of student-led meetings, activities, and events was unique. Now at John Jay, I want to continue what I initiated. I will stand up for those who must be heard and work alongside them to do what is right. Collaborating with a student body that is committed to bringing change is where I want to belong.

Image

Kim Lonzo

John Jay College of Criminal Justice is more than a school. It is our community. Each of us has embarked on our journey with a commitment to work towards social justice. The Faculty Student Disciplinary Committee is an opportunity to put into practice what we have learned. Our John Jay community has a body of laws and rules that we as students may violate in our time here. The Faculty Student Disciplinary Committee is one of the judicial processes afforded us.

“Each faculty-student disciplinary committee shall consist of two (2) faculty members or one (1) faculty member and one (1) member of the Higher Education Officer series (HEO), and two (2) student members and a chairperson, who shall be a faculty member. A quorum shall consist of the chairperson and any two (2) members, one of whom must be a student. Hearings shall be scheduled promptly (including during the summers) at a convenient time and efforts shall be made to insure full student and faculty representation.” (Section 15.4.K Student Disciplinary Procedures)

My name is Kim Lonzo. I am a CUNY BA student with an area of concentration in Legal Advocacy. I want to continue my journey from John Jay to CUNY School of Law.  If elected to this position, I would like to bring an element of restorative justice to the cases that come before me. Many students face external challenges and issues that may impact their academic career. The hard work and achievements should not be overlooked and overshadowed by lapses of judgement. I would work to ensure that the decisions made by the FSDC are not only what is best for our John Jay community as a whole, but also what is best for community members who have a complaint before us.  Justice should heal the community and restore an individual to a place within it so that they can continue to contribute in productive ways. I am asking for your support and I hope that the John Jay community will entrust me with the honor of representing their interests on the Faculty Student Disciplinary Committee.

Image

Tiffany Rodriguez 

Hey Bloodhounds! I’m Tiffany. I have been on council for the past two years and I am excited to be running again for my senior year! For my last year here I want to give back to the community that has given me so much.  With my experience, I have learned how to be a problem solver and look for solutions to issues that impact the community. For instance, I have helped students join student council, join student council committees, and helped facilitate relations with other clubs and organizations.

I am committed to helping students here at John Jay. In my two years at student council, I have been able to help facilitate events like the 2023 Six Flags Trip, The Junior Cookout, or more recently working towards a student art gallery event for this Spring. As a Latina, I would like to focus on helping the Latino community through student council initiatives.

As for next year, I would like to have a Know Your Rights panel for students to know their rights when it comes to protesting, interactions with the police, and for undocumented students. Overall in this representative capacity, I aim to be available to all students and address their concerns to make a difference. With your vote I would be able to make sure your voices are heard!