Election Results
Presidential Candidate
Candidate Name: Gracie Nelson
Candidate Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Candidate Major(s)/Certificate(s): Dual major in Political Science and Gender and Women’s studies with LGBTQ+ studies certificate
What qualities and experiences make you the ideal candidate for this position(s)?
As an undergraduate, I have attempted to grow my passion for advocacy, leadership, and community by becoming involved in various student groups on campus. These include holding an executive position for ASM, assisting the Dean of Students as the vice chairman on her advisory board, being the Head of Diversity and Inclusion for Gamma Phi Beta, and volunteering with the UW-Madison Police Department to review their statistics and promote equity. Having connections and experiences with students across a wide range of communities prepares me to serve our Senior Class and listen to everyone’s desires. Along with Megan, I am inspired and determined to represent the Class of 2024.
If elected, what are your plans for the Senior Class Office?
– Increase the amount of space multicultural and identity-based organizations/groups have on this campus beyond the Red Gym
– Facilitate discussions with administration on affordable campus housing and advocate for the necessity of these spaces
– Expand current mental health services at UHS to include more providers, additional availability, better communication with students, and increased remote alternatives
Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself?
Since 1885, there have only been 6 President/Vice-President duos that have been a pair of women. Out of the 138 Presidents none have, openly, identified as a lesbian and the amount of first-generation representation in the history of the Senior Class Office is abhorrent. Electing Megan and I to these positions disrupts this tragic pattern that has existed for far too long and our candidacy represents UW-Madison for what it is today: a cultivation of cultures, identities, and perspectives. We both have a background fighting for diversity on this campus and want to continue this so every member of the senior class feels heard, acknowledged, and celebrated. We each bring a different viewpoint from one another, but also from the voices that have been recognized within this position’s history.
Vice Presidential Candidate
Candidate Name: Megan Keefe
Candidate Hometown: Lakeville, Minnesota
Candidate Major(s)/Certificate(s): Neurobiology major with Data Science certificate
What qualities and experiences make you the ideal candidate for this position(s)?
Throughout my time at UW, I have actively cultivated both my leadership and social abilities through immersing myself in community volunteer work, student health initiatives through working with University Health Services, and D1 athletics by being a member of the Wisconsin Dance Team. These transformative experiences have allowed me to pursue my passion of promoting female-led activities, prioritizing student well-being across campus, and increasing a sense of school-wide community. I have consistently upheld our university’s core value of nurturing students to “realize their highest potential of intellectual, physical and human development.” Now, as we approach our senior year, Gracie and I are determined to ensure that fellow classmates are similarly empowered to achieve their full potential.
If elected, what are your plans for the Senior Class Office?
– Increase the amount of space multicultural and identity-based organizations/groups have on this campus beyond the Red Gym
– Facilitate discussions with administration on affordable campus housing and advocate for the necessity of these spaces
– Expand current mental health services at UHS to include more providers, additional availability, better communication with students, and increased remote alternatives
Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself?
As a passionate and dedicated individual, I am thrilled at the prospect of continuing our university’s trajectory of excellence and motivating others to do the same. I believe that by working collaboratively with both students and leaders within the UW community, I can make a meaningful impact on our Senior Class Office.
Together, Gracie and I possess the perfect blend of skills and qualities needed to foster an environment of togetherness, celebration, and success within the senior class. Our commitment to this mission is fueled by our deep passion for making a positive difference in the lives of those around us. We are confident that we can maximize the potential of our final year at UW ensuring that it is a time of growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences for each member of our class.