By ABIGAIL SHEARER
Tiger Media Network
Below are profiles of the Fort Hays State University Student Government Association senator candidates. Each candidate was asked the same 10 questions. Below are their answers as submitted to Tiger Media Network.
Voting will begin at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, April 2 and close at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 3. A link will be sent via email with voting information.
Cory Cimaglia (Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship)
Luke Hampl (Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship)
Jordin Myers (Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship)
My name is Jordin Myers and I was born and raised here in Hays, KS. I am a cybersecurity major with minors in business administration and political science. I will be entering my third and final year of my undergraduate program this fall when my term as a student senator begins.
I am involved in the Cybersecurity Club, Skiing and Snowboarding Club, Model United Nations, and VIP Student Ambassadors, and I am currently working with student engagement to establish Fort Hays FC as a student organization which will be a club soccer program that will compete against universities in our region like KU, K-State, University of Nebraska, and Mizzou.
My main focus would be to spread awareness of what SGA does to students and show how an involved, committed, and active student government can impact a student’s experience at FHSU in a positive way. When I first started at Fort Hays I was almost completely unaware of SGA’s existence and its role on-campus. Right now every senator is running unopposed and most seats are not being filled.
Students who would like to address a concern or issue can contact me directly at my school email (jmmyers7@mail.fhsu.edu) or on any social media platform, just reach out and we can have a conversation. I am here to listen to and advocate for my fellow students so I am always open to hearing ideas, suggestions, and concerns about how we can make FHSU a better place.
Firstly I would listen to concerns that my fellow students have, try to identify the root cause, and then collaborate with students, faculty, and staff to find a solution and foster a sustainable change that lasts more than just my term as a senator.
To build a positive and inclusive environment within the student council, I will actively listen to all voices, encourage collaboration, and ensure every member feels valued and respected. I will also promote diversity by supporting initiatives that reflect the needs and experiences of all students on campus.
I will ensure that every voice is heard by advocating for open communication, encouraging input from all members, and being an active listener. It takes everyone to ensure that all voices are heard and respected, but realistically I am only able to control my own actions and try my best to influence those around me to do the same.
I believe my leadership style is very laid-back and is able to adapt to any situation. I value the input and opinions of my peers and take that into consideration when making decisions for the group, which is very important for senators because they represent their fellow students when voting on legislation and acting in student government. I see myself as a natural-born leader and very often find myself in leadership positions, whether or not I seek them out.
I want to be a part of SGA because I believe civic engagement is important and this is a great way to get involved in that aspect. I believe that being involved in and knowledgeable about municipal and state government is more important than the federal government because municipal and state will have a more direct impact on your day-to-day lives. Presidential elections are a big deal, but when our state legislature seats are running mostly unopposed for years on end, we start to get complacent. This seat gives me the opportunity to dip my toes in the water of “local” government and foster the change I want to see in our community.
Cesar Saludes (Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics)
My name is Cesar Saludes. I am from Wichita Ks, and I am currently a freshman. My major is construction management
I am involved in AGC which is an organization for students who pursue construction that helps students build relationships with companies
My main focus for SGA is to help represent Werth College, get the programs more involved with the SGA and the university, and bring in information about the college that will help it improve.
I typically talk to my classmates and discuss problems or concerns but we never really have had a voice to act on our ideas.
I believe that being prepared for problems is always important. I also think communication and being open about hearing people’s opinions is by far the most important and effective way to deal with problems because most times problems are caused due to miscommunication.
I plan on building relationships with the current and new student council. I believe I can make a positive environment because I am hoping to learn from the current student council and respect them because they have way more knowledge about how the council is run.
I make sure that everyone’s voice is heard by considering everyone and not leaving them out. Like I said previously, I hope to be able to gain new relationships where I can have a conversation with the current and new council.
I believe that some of my strengths are my confidence and drive. I also believe that being a voice for people is a strength that will help the student council because although I’m running for the student council I know that many of my ideas and information will come from the many students I am representing so it’s not only me that will help the student council but a large group of students who I am going to be the voice for.
I want to be part of SGA not only for personal growth but also to influence more students in the college to get involved with the SGA and show them that we need to start involving our programs more with the whole university and invite and show what Werth college and its programs is about.
Hannah Gideon (Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics)
Anna Briggs (Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics)
I am Anna Briggs and I am from Quinter, KS. I am a sophomore here at FHSU majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry. I am involved in a few other organizations on campus, these include Fort Hays Honor Society, Biology Club, FHSU Capernaum, and Tiger Team. If elected, my main focus will be to continue to improve the Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics by listening to student concerns, as well as fostering an inclusive and productive environment within SGA. I will keep up to date with student concerns through social media platforms, attending student events, and listening to feedback. I will deal with adaptable problems on campus by working with students and student groups to solve the issues. I plan to build a positive and inclusive environment on student council by being a very collaborative member of the team, considering all opinions and suggestions, and keeping an open mind to the ideas and issues of others. To ensure that everyone is heard and valued within a team, I make it a point to listen carefully to every team member, receive and give constructive criticism, and give everyone a chance to share their thoughts and views. My strengths as a leader are that I am organized, dependable, and always willing to help out. I will use this to benefit student council by keeping on top of projects, making sure things get done in a timely manner, and helping other members out as needed in order to keep things running smoothly. I want to be a part of SGA because I hope to be involved and benefit the student body, contribute to the positive culture on campus, and give back to FHSU.
Jadynn Doyle (Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics)
Sophomore from Holton, KS majoring in Biology with a concentration in Natural Resources with a minor in Spanish and Geosciences with an emphasis in Geography while getting a certificate in Sustainability and GIS User Certified.
Honors College, Rudd Scholarship, Biology Club, Fort Hays Honor Society, Peer Academic Leader for GoGlobal LLC, VIP Ambassador, and Women in STEM Club.
My main focus for SGA if elected would be to enhance the sustainable aspects of our campus to better the health of our community.
I feel like I keep updated with student concerns as I am involved in many different activities which help me network among my peers. By doing that, I am able to hear a lot of concerns and my peers feel very comfortable talking to me about what they would like to be seen on campus.
I deal with adaptable problems around campus by hearing the problems first and getting feedback from those with the problems and how they would like to see them be fixed. From there, I will try to think the problem through and how to get it to the correct people for implementation of action towards success.
I feel as though I build a positive and inclusive environment within the student council by encouraging participation and promoting respect and empathy for discussions.
I make sure to actively listen, provide support, and to acknowledge ideas that are given to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and valued within a team. From there, I try to give constructive feedback.
My strengths as a leader would be diligence, collaboration, adaptability, and delegation. I plan to use these in many different ways in SGA such as making sure bills are in order and make sense. SGA has many collaboration opportunities within the organization, but we also collaborate all over campus which also comes with the task of being adaptable. This skill is necessary as many plans can change at any time as we are all college students trying to be leaders on campus which gets pretty intense with scheduling.
I want to be a part of SGA again this year because I enjoyed the opportunity to understand how our university works on a deeper level and took a deep appreciation for the networking that was available. Being able to see organizations grow throughout our university brings me such joy and hope as it is through them that our university can be strengthened with leaders that will develop crucial life skills to boost them in their career.
Anthony Arial (Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics)
My name is Anthony Arial and I am a local from here in Hays
I am involved in Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and the problem solving club
My main focus is to actually address the concerns that people have and have more accountability. Often times people get sold these big plans and projects, but the people that are elected never follow through with them. My goal is to make sure that those people are held accountable.
I keep updated by asking the people that I work with as well as people in various organizations that I am in.
I would get a group of people to rally for the change that needs to be made because I believe one individual does not have to power or the voice to do it by themselves and it requires a movement.
My plan is we foster and get a diverse group of people in opinion and background and engage correspondents across the campus to come to the meetings.
I will ensure that everyone gets a designated time to voice their opinion without interruption.
I am very passionate about serving the FHSU community, and I will echo the voices of the people I represent to ensure other senators and executives hear the people.
I want to be a part of SGA because on-campus other students have issues that are very serious to them and often don’t have the venue or means of getting it addressed. My view on taking leadership and representative roles is to be driven by the people, and for the people.
Brynn Kinderknecht (Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics)
I am Brynn Kinderknecht; this is my first year at Fort Hays State University, studying as a Pre-medicine Biology Major. Even if a good portion of my time is spent on homework and staying involved with various organizations in the community and on campus, with my free time, I enjoy spending it running or gardening outside (or anything outdoorsy). I live with my family and 2 dogs at home, here in Hays. Throughout my time here at Fort Hays, I’ve grown to love the campus and the people, and I’m passionate about student advocacy, leadership, and creating positive changes within our campus.
I am currently involved in the biology club, pre-medicine club, honors society, sorority life, and the student government association here at Fort Hays. Because it is my freshman year, I decided to take this year to adapt to college life to effectively give 100% to my student organizations in the following years.
My main focus for SGA, if elected, will be to create and support an environment where students can grow, engage, and voice their concerns to make an even better campus environment, not just for senators and students, but for the entire campus and surrounding community. By doing this, I aim to help make Fort Hays State a place where everyone can thrive.
I stay connected with student concerns through direct conversation—whether in class, around campus, or at events—to ensure I hear and understand the needs of those around me. Additionally, my involvement in various student organizations gives me a broader view of the concerns and opportunities our campus community has.
I would deal with some adaptable problems around campus with a proactive approach by identifying problems relatively early, getting input from constituents and students alike, and working with the appropriate people to find possible solutions. Adaptable problems require adaptability, and I am committed to responding to those problems efficiently and effectively in whatever way I can here at Fort Hays.
I plan to build a positive and inclusive environment within the student council by creating an environment of respect and open-mindedness within SGA. By ensuring individuals can share their ideas, it’s possible to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued.
I ensure everyone’s voice is heard and valued within a team by simply talking to them. Usually, I’ll check in on the group, encourage participation or small discussions, and allow them to state their ideas freely. For everyone’s voice to be heard, it’s important to create a space where everyone feels comfortable sharing their concerns and perspectives.
My strengths as a leader include previous and current years of leadership experience with communication, adaptability, and being able to work as a team with a diverse group of individuals. I listen to different viewpoints, try to understand the situation, and find solutions that can work for most, if not everyone, with SGA.
Fort Hays State University has become more than just a campus to me—it’s a community that I’m proud to be a part of after this first year. I want to be a part of the Student Government Association because I believe that student opinions and voices matter. I want to bridge the gap between students and university leadership to ensure that every voice is heard and every concern is addressed. I am committed to leading with integrity, listening with empathy, and working tirelessly with those around me to create a better college experience for all.
Corbyn Marquess (College of Health and Behavioral Sciences)
Star Parham (College of Health and Behavioral Sciences)
Hi, I am Star Parham, a Junior here at Fort Hays majoring in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. A little about me is that I am from Salina, ks, and graduated from Salina Central High School. In regard to my campus life, I am super involved in the community and love all things Fort Hays. But when Im not running around campus I love to go to the gym, hang with my friends, chill in my room, and watch TV.
I am currently involved in Circle K International where I serve as the social chair, Black Student Union where I serve as President, Alpha Kappa Psi where I serve as Ritual Chair, also a member of the Society of Human Resource Management, VIP Ambassador, RUDD Scholar, FHSU Running Club, and Admissions office (Tour Guide).
My mine focus for SGA if elected is to continue to support my constitutes and to help them voice their concerns. I want to see more students get involved and feel more free to voice their opinions. I truly believe that with this we can have a more united and involved student body.
I keep up with student concerns by staying involved on campus and speaking to all types of constituents. By being involved in so many things I have been allowed to hear about different issues and even help to resolve some. Also with me being a very social person I have been able to talk to people from all walks of life and hear their take on things hear at FHSU.
I will deal with some of the adaptable problems around campus by being open to input from my consitueents and taking things one step at a time. By getting my constituents involved in some of these changes this makes for smooth transitions, ideas that will help the progression, and those constituents feeling like they are needed here and that they are apart of this new experience.
I plan to build a positive and inclusive environment within the student council by making an environment that is open and talkative. With an open environment that will allow people to feel like they can discuss things and feel valued. This then will pull more people to the table and produce some new ideas.
I ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and valued within a team by making sure that everyone is on the same page before anything is 100% decided, communicating in small groups when needed, allowing all types of ideas to be thrown out, and I make sure there is all types of avenues to get everyone involved wether it be in person, zoom, text, email, etc.
My strengths as a leader are my strong communication skills, work ethic, and ability to work under pressure. I plan to use these to benefit the student council by using my communication skills to articulate my ideas and thoughts to others, and my work ethic will benefit the council by allowing us to get things done quick and efficient, and my ability to work under pressure will also come in handy because regardless of the task I will always give it 100%.
I want to be a part of SGA because I have been in it for the last two years and have had such an amazing experience. Between voicing concerns for my constituents and networking, it has been so beneficial to me. And with next year being my senior year, I would like to go out with a bang and give my campus my last run and put out some more of my ideas.
Benjamin Wilkerson (College of Health and Behavioral Sciences)
I am a sophomore student double-majoring in Criminal Justice and Psychology here at Fort Hays State University. I am originally from Lawrence, KS, where I grew up for the majority of my life. I really enjoy reading science fiction, using my green thumb with my house plants, and spending quality time with my girlfriend.
> I am involved in:
– Criminal Justice Club (Member)
– National Criminal Justice Association (FHSU Chapter)
– Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity (Executive board member)
– Big Brothers Big Sisters
– Bigs on Campus
– Student Research Cluster: Combatting Gender Based-Violence
My main focus while serving as a representative within SGA, if elected, is to cultivate a livelier embodiment of campus connectivity and pride while aiming to promote a stronger sense of belonging to students and campus organizations that often feel and may be underrepresented.
I believe that being a member within Greek Life and a student in two different academic colleges provides me with a stable and diverse network of people and their voices on concerns that they have throughout several different areas of the university.
When it comes to dealing with any challenge or problem that occurs on or around campus, I believe that my priority in addressing such issues is remaining consistent in matching my actions with my words, ensuring that transparency of my involvement in addressing issues is provided, and being open to learn from my mistakes and listen to those in who I attempt provide a solution to.
I plan to help support the structure of a positive and inclusive environment within the council while recognizing the strengths, values, and contributions of others to become a better collaborator and individual people can feel safe being open to.
When it comes to ensuring everyone on a team’s voice is heard, it is my plan to do so by listening with intent, not just hearing.
I think that as a leader throughout several different aspects of my life, one of my greatest strengths is the ability to step back when necessary and be a follower, or at the least a listener. Sometimes, that is all people need from you, and when some of the most exciting growth and innovation can occur.
I want to be a part of the Student Government Association to inspire the growth and strengthen the resilience of this same community in which I am a part of, ensuring that the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion are reflected in every decision made on the council, all for the sake of providing for the student body in which I would represent.
Daniel Bechle (College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences)
I am Daniel Bechle, a student at Fort Hays State University majoring in Political Science and Criminal Justice. I am also a FHSU Cross Country and Track & Field team member. I am passionate about ethical leadership, public service, and building a campus environment where every student feels seen, heard, and empowered.
What other organizations are you involved in?
Fort Hays State University Track and Cross Country Team
Former President, Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC)
President, Student Research Cluster: Combating Gender-based Violence
Leader Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
Vice President Model United Nations
Vice President Grace Evangelism
Criminal Justice Club Member
Pre-Law Club Member
FHSU Capernaum Member
Bigs On Campus Member
Pi Sigma Alpha Member
My main focus is to be a strong advocate for all students—especially those who may feel underrepresented. I want to promote transparency, mental health awareness, and ensure that student needs are actively reflected in campus policies and initiatives. I have seen how funding can be a significant concern—often clouded by a lack of transparency or apparent biases. I aim to confront those challenges directly and push for fair, accountable, and student-centered funding practices.
I stay informed by engaging in regular conversations with students across campus, attending student organization meetings, and staying involved in both academic and athletic communities. Listening is key—when students feel safe and heard, meaningful change can happen.
Adaptable problems require flexible, creative solutions. I plan to approach each challenge by understanding its root causes, gathering student input, and working collaboratively with SGA members and campus leadership to find effective and timely responses.
Creating a positive and inclusive environment starts with empathy and mutual respect. I’ll encourage open dialogue, uplift diverse voices, and make sure that all members feel like they belong and have a meaningful role to play.
I prioritize active listening and intentional engagement. Through structured check-ins, anonymous feedback opportunities, and direct outreach, I’ll ensure every team member has a platform to share their thoughts and ideas.
My core strengths include empathy, communication, and the ability to build bridges across diverse perspectives. I lead with integrity and humility, and I believe these traits will help foster trust, unity, and productivity within the student council.
I want to be part of SGA because I truly care about our campus community. I believe student voices should be central to university decisions, and I want to help shape a more inclusive, transparent, and empowering experience for every student at Fort Hays State.
Elyssa Rucker (College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences)
I am Elyssa Rucker and I am currently in my first year at FHSU as a History major with a Music minor. I am running for senator for the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. I am currently a Freshman senator and would like to continue being a part of SGA. I am in the Honors College and am an active participant in activities. I recently joined Alpha Sigma Alpha, a sorority on campus, and I have been loving it. I am also in Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Winds, Horn Choir, Pep Band, and Marching Band playing the French Horn and the Mellophone. So I am extremely active on campus in many sections from academics to social life to music which provides me an unique perspective with many more people able to come up to me with their issues. This will help my constituents know my face and will feel comfortable around me.
My main focus for SGA will be bringing concerns that my constituents bring to me to a level where someone might be able to help fix it, whether that’s me, my committee, or another senator in SGA will depend on the issue, but I will make sure that the problems get the proper amount of attention.
I will stay updated on student concerns by talking to a multitude of students from different backgrounds and sections of my college and FHSU as a whole. I will also be living in the dorms again next year with a meal plan which will keep me updated on the issues in dorm life at FHSU.
Each problem is different so the response will be different. I will likely ask a more senior senator for help if I do not know the direction the solution needs to head. I will communicate and look for a solution for any issue, whether or not I agree with the issue.
I try to build a positive and inclusive environment in every activity I am in and SGA is no different. I have encouraged people this year to attend SGA meetings and open forums if they have any issues or just want a look into how SGA works. I am very open with what I do with SGA and what SGA is doing as a whole, especially if someone asks first. I always try to include people in the conversations and have even gotten thanks after events for making them feel a part of my friend group, even if they only hung out once or twice.
I always try to ask the quieter people in groups what they think of whatever is currently being discussed. The best way to include people is to be conscious of who is talking and who is not.
I have learned most of my leadership skills from Scouts BSA as an Eagle Scout. I ensure that people’s voices are heard and that when a plan is put into motion that it is stuck to unless there are circumstances where it starts to fall apart. I may not always agree with what the group decides but I will help it along if it is decided that it is the best or most agreed upon plan. I will continue these actions in SGA.
I want to be a part of SGA as it is an important thing that I enjoy being a part of. I get to make sure my constituents’ issues are heard and that their issues are fixed to the best of our abilities. I get to learn and be a part of the inner workings of the university and get to understand how it is run and how FHSU clubs get and use their funding. I enjoy being a part of SGA and I feel like I do a good job as a senator and I would like to continue doing that job next year.
Cade Becker (College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences)
I am Cade Becker, I am going to be a junior at Fort Hays. I am a History major interested in law and have been in SGA every year since I came to FHSU.
I am in the social fraternity Sigma Phi Epsilon, the Honors College, Tiger Team, and many others. I also work at Student Engagement alongside all the other organizations.
Allowing my peers to have a voice within our senate and creating a more diverse culture of ideas.
I am highly active and very social. I have a large network and know who to contact or talk to.
I will talk to people who can get it done or fixed. If someone comes to me, I am always able to make sure I can answer their concerns as fully as possible.
By being friendly, supportive, and kind towards anyone who attends our meetings, joins senate, or I see around campus.
By noting every concern I receive or hear.
I am extremely communicative and social, I also have lots of connections and know about the inter-workings of the university. These allow me to make better decisions and get more done quickly.
Because I have been for years and I am highly involved. I enjoy senate and have barely missed, been on committees, and even chaired a committee.
Lucina Parsons (College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences)
Hi, My name is Lucina Parson and I am from Palco KS. While in High School, I was involved in many Leadership positions, including being the FFA Treasurer for four years, Cheer captain, and Scholar’s bowl captain. I was also a representative for my high school in the Heartland Community Foundations Youth Action Council. Currently, on campus, I am involved in Campus Intramurals and Recreation and the Opportunities Through Education LLC. If elected, my main focus will be to advocate for student concerns and ensure that SGA is working to improve campus life. I want to focus on accessibility, and student engagement so that every student feels heard. I plan to stay up to date with the students by discussing in person what people want out of SGA while also collaborating with other student organizations and attending student events to stay as up-to-date as possible. I believe in approaching adaptable problems with flexibility, and communication. By working closely with students, and faculty, I want to find practical solutions to help with short-term and long-term problems. I aim to create a positive and inclusive environment by encouraging open communication and embracing diverse perspectives. I will help build a welcoming space where everyone feels respected and empowered to contribute. I will encourage participation by creating opportunities for members to speak and share their ideas. I will also put in feedback options, such as anonymous suggestion forms and discussions, to ensure that all perspectives are considered when making decisions. My strengths as a leader include strong communication, problem-solving, and organization. I plan to use these skills to build connections, and advocate for student needs effectively. My ability to listen and adapt will help ensure that SGA continues to be responsive and effective. I want to be part of SGA because I am passionate about making a meaningful impact on campus. I believe student government is a powerful tool for change, and I want to use my voice to represent the student body. Through this role, I hope to help build a campus environment where all students feel heard, and supported.
Shreethika Reddy Vangala (International)