By Leyla Mercado, Staff Writer
Manhattan College’s newly elected members of Student Government for the 2024-2025 academic year intend to take over MC’s Student Government in an even more impactful way than years before, with the inauguration happening Wednesday, April 24.
The 2024-2025 Student Government consists of President Jazi Riley and Executive Vice President Colin Ratner, alongside Olivia Corsino as vice president of Finance and Monserrat Nicasio as vice president of communications. All of these students have been a part of the Jasper Coalition since the year prior, with the exception of Martina Eichhorn, Rosa Taormina, Audrey Daniels and Vaiden Ferraro. Elizabeth Kalaj has also been introduced to the board as well.
Ferraro, a double major in political science and English with a minor in Spanish, has become a part of Student Government for the first time as vice president of commuter affairs. Ferraro is excited to enlighten the MC community about the importance of commuter and campus connections through her plans for the upcoming academic year.
“This position allows me to utilize leadership qualities and provides a platform to speak to the challenges that commuters sometimes face in feeling like they are a part of an inclusive environment on campus,” Ferraro said. “So to provide activities that mimic the experiences that those living on campus have for commuters would make them feel as if they are part of a more inclusive environment.”
Her first-hand experience through periods of isolation due to being a commuter alongside a lack of activities for socialization on campus has led Ferraro to advocate for the commuter community.
Nicasio, vice president of communications, is also a double major in political science and psychology and has recognized the importance of student voices on campus. She has made it her mission to promote a simple yet accessible environment for all students.
“I hope to increase all sorts of transparency about the college to all students so they can continue to be well-rounded individuals,” Nicasio said. “Additionally, I hope to create a safe space for students to be able to share any questions or concerns about student life that they want to see student government focusing on.”
Nicasio feels the responsibility of student life being put in the hands of real-life students is the best approach to student government.
“What excites me most about being a part of an organization such as Student Government is the possibilities it holds,” Nicasio said. “There are so many changes and opportunities that we can embark on to make the college the best that it can be. Putting the responsibility of student life in the hands of real-life students is the best approach in my opinion. We are a representation of all Jaspers.”
Riley, a double major in political science and philosophy, who is also pursuing a minor in international studies, has been elected president of the Student Government once again. Her experience with the previous Student Government board is a guiding force for her current term as president.
Riley’s objective is to do more outreach and connect with students and clubs. Her initiative to achieve success and do better has not only become a vital factor, but a permanent one for the board, and MC’s student body.
“This year being president, I was thrown unexpected curveballs,” Riley said. “We weren’t able to do what years prior have done or bring back the initiatives we hoped for. My hope is that next year, I am able to strengthen our bond as a community … This year was rough and we want to implement and develop different events and activities that bring the spirit and good energy back to campus.”