Executive Branch Members

Executive Cabinet

Madilyn Shaw
Student Body President

Hello everyone! My name is Madilyn Shaw, and I will be happily serving as the Undergraduate Student Body President for the 2025-26 academic year at the University of Akron! I am a third-year student with a Political Science major, Pre-Law Philosophy minor, and Manual Communications certificate. Along with entering my third year of involvement in Undergraduate Student Government, you can also find me involved with Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society, Honors Civics Club, UA's Student Hearing Board, Pre-Law Society, and the American Sign Language Association. Within USG, I have also served on the Mental Health Task Force and the Ohio Student Government Summit Committee. I am extremely excited to be working alongside a very hard working group of members to help promote USG's platform for this year, All4UA. I am also looking forward to advocating for the wants and needs of students at the University of Akron. If you see me around campus, please feel free to say hello or start a conversation with me; I would love to talk with you about any issues or recommendations you have about our campus! Additionally, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please reach out using my email linked below. I am looking forward to serving the student body this year, and I can't wait to see what amazing things we can accomplish together. Have a great year, and go Zips!

Bethel Tsige
Student Body Vice President

Hi Zips! My name is Bethel Tsige, and I am the Student Body Vice President for this academic year! I am a fifth-year Chemical Engineering student with a minor in Polymer Science and Engineering, as well as a certificate in International Business. Previously in USG, I have served as a Project Manager for two consecutive years and was a member of the Mental Health Task Force. I have previously been the President of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), class representative for the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) and am a current member of the CEPS Dean's Team. I also currently work as a student assistant at Bierce Library and as a CEPS peer mentor. I have been an undergraduate research assistant in three separate labs on-campus as well as an intern at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. For fun, I am part of an off-campus dance team, where I am also a social media editor and co-leader of our group. Through the All4UA platform, I aim to strengthen USG and the student body through academics, fostering community, encouraging growth, and elevating student voices. Go Zips!

Hannah Kelly
Chief of Staff

Hi Zips! My name is Hannah Kelly, and I am a fifth-year double major in Business Data Analytics and Economics. I am currently serving as the USG Chief of Staff. As an active student leader in UA Ambassadors, Delta Zeta Sorority, and with previous experience across campus and studying abroad, it's become a passion of mine to create opportunities for future and current Zips.

Karima Damson
Director of Finance

Hello Zips! My name is Karima Damson, and I am a fifth-year Civil Engineering student at The University of Akron, and the Director of Finance for USG. I also have a minor in Business Essentials for Engineers, Spanish, and I am finishing my certificate of Advanced Spanish for the Health Professions and First Responders. I have previously served as a Senator, the Deputy Director of DEI, and the Director of DEI in USG. Outside of USG, I founded the Francophone Student Association where I serve as the President, and I am the Pre-College Initiative chair for NSBE. I am also a Student Assistant and a Spanish Tutor on campus, and I was recently inducted to Tau Beta Pi. In my free time, I enjoy travelling, learning new languages, singing, and dancing.

Alexander Ruffin-Stcyr
Director of Campus and Community Outreach

Hey Zips!! My name is Alexander Ruffin-Stcyr (A.J.), and I’m a fourth-year student pursuing a dual degree in Psychology and Child & Family Development. I’ve had the privilege of serving in Undergraduate Student Government (USG) for the past two years—first as the Health and Safety Officer, and now as the Director of Campus and Community Outreach. I'm incredibly excited to take on this new role and work toward building stronger connections between our campus and the surrounding community. Being involved in student organizations, especially USG has given me the opportunity to advocate for the student body, and that’s something I’m truly passionate about. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, ideas, or just want to connect. Go Zips!

Kylie Cameron
Director of Communications

Hi Zips! My name is Kylie Cameron and I am a third year Computer Information Systems student on the Software Development track at UA, and the Director of Communications for USG. Previously in USG, I have been both the Senator for the College of Engineering & Polymer Science, the Facilities, Amenities, Services, & Transportation Committee Chair, and a Senator at Large. Apart from USG, I am also currently involved on campus as the President of the Panhellenic Council, the Vice President of Marketing for Alpha Delta Pi, and as a Social Media Ambassador. Apart from my involvements, I also currently work on campus as a Peer Mentor for the Office of Academic Retention & Support, as well as the Department of Student Life's Marketing & Social Media Student Assistant. Outside of campus, I also work with Sorority Social Media as their Vice President of Collaboration and Outreach. I am so excited for another amazing year serving the Undergraduate Student Government. Go Zips, Go USG!

Julie Muller
Director of Project Coordination

My name is Julie Muller. I’m a 5th year double major in A/YA Social Studies Education and History. I’m currently one of two Directors of Project Coordination. In the past I have served in USG as an Event Coordinator, Senate Assistant, and Chair of the Campus Dining Experience. Outside of USG I am the Secretary and Social Media Coordinator of Phi Alpha Theta-Delta Chi. I also work for the H. Kenneth Barker Center for Economic Education, located in Zook Hall. Outside of UA, I work as an EMT and I’m also a Volunteer Fire Fighter. I have a deep love for UA and can’t wait to serve the student body through USG this year!

Jess Cliff
Director of Project Coordination

Hi! My name is Jess Cliff, and I am one of the Directors of Project Coordination. I’m currently entering my third year, majoring in Civil Engineering. This is my first year in USG, but I am also involved in several other areas on campus. I serve as a Resident Assistant in the Honors Residence Hall and am a member of the National Residence Hall Honorary. In addition, I am the Treasurer for both the American Society of Civil Engineers and Engineering Student Council. I also work as a student assistant in the Office of Admissions. Previously, I have served as the Major Events Chair for RHPB, a peer mentor for the Honors College, the Co-Leads Chair for Sigma Lambda, and have been involved in Hall Government.

Fiifi (Harold) Eshun
Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

My name is Harold Eshun, and I am a senior majoring in Biomedical Science with a minor in Bioethics. I serve as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in USG, where I am committed to creating an inclusive campus environment where every student feels represented and supported. Outside of USG, I am actively involved in Residence Life, having served as a Resident Assistant for two years and now working as a Desk Manager. I am also a member of the Honors Dean’s Team and have served as a peer mentor in the Honors College, supporting fellow students in their academic and personal growth. I look forward to continuing to advocate for students and building a campus community that values equity, collaboration, and belonging.

Executive Branch General Members

Djordje Jovicic
Deputy Director of Finance
Hello! My name is Djordje Jovicic, and I'm the Deputy Director of Finance for this year! I help support the Director of Finance in whatever financial requests student organizations submit. I am a third-year Business Data Analytics student. I currently serve as the president of the Economics and Data Analytics Club, work at the EX[L] Center in data collection, and am a learning assistant in the College of Business. Although it's my first year in USG, I am excited to help serve the University of Akron. Go Zips!
Helene Johnson-Powell
Deputy Chief of Staff
Maggie Mahaney
Membership Development Coordinator
Hey Zips! My name is Maggie Mahaney and I am a fourth year Environmental Science major and the Membership Development Coordinator for USG. I previously held the positions of Event Coordiniator and Director of Event Coordination, so I am super excited to be on a new team for my last semester in USG. I currently serve as Vice President of Environmental Action Club and am a member of both the Association for Women Geoscientists - Zips Chapter and the Geosciences Club. I also work on campus as a Student Assistant at the Institute for Human Science and Culture in the Cummings Center (free for students with a Zip Card!). I love being involved in student orgs on campus, especially USG, and am looking forward to meeting all of our members and students across campus!
Nick Senko
Deputy Director of Community Outreach
Hello Zips! My name is Nick Senko! I am a 4th year Mechanical Engineering major, and this semester I am on co-op working for NMG Aerospace in Stow, OH. I am really excited to get to work for you again this year! You may have seen me elsewhere on campus as a member of The AK-Rowdies, UA Ambassadors, the Men's Lacrosse Club, etc. If you see me on campus, please feel free to say hello!
Grace Salvatore
Deputy Director of Campus Outreach
My name is Grace Salvatore, I am a 5th year nursing major here at The University of Akron and also have a Child Development minor. This summer was at an internship at Cleveland Clinic Main Campus for my senior practicum class! At main campus I was able to care for patients, pass medications, and critically think and provide patient education. Outside of USG this year I work as a Student Nurse Patient Care Technician in the ICU for Cleveland Clinic, I am involved with the Greek honor society, Order of Omega, the Nurse's Honors Society Sigma Theta Tau, and am a 2026 class officer for my nursing class! Previous offices I have held in USG includes Project Manager and PHC Liaison.
Currently Seeking
Greek Life Liaison (IFC)
Tessa Knopp
Greek Life Liaison (PHC)
My name is Tessa Knopp, and I am a junior majoring in Exercise Science with a minor in Sports Medicine. I currently serve as the Greek Life Liaison for the Panhellenic Council and as Vice President of Member Development for Alpha Delta Pi. I am also involved in the Exercise Science Club. Through these roles, I’ve gained experience in collaboration, advocacy, and student support, which I am excited to bring to USG to help strengthen the student experience at Akron!
Abrianna Johnson
Greek Life Liaison (NPHC)
Emily Razo
Student Athlete Liaison
Hi Zips! My name is Emily Razo, and I am a fifth-year Civil Engineering student at The University of Akron, and the Student Athlete Liaison for USG. I've been a member of Akron's Cross Country and Track teams since 2021. Alongside this I am also a member of ASCE and a part of the Geo-Challenge team where I compete in the Geo-Video Challenge. In my free time I like hiking, spending time with family, thrifting, and fishing.
Jessica Greene
Health and Safety Officer
Hello Zips! My name is Jessica Greene, and I am a 3rd year student studying business-concentrated Psychology with minors in Forensic Psychology and Public Relations, along with working towards a certification in Manual Communication (ASL!). Last year I worked as a Project Manager, however, I now participate in Undergraduate Student Government as the Health & Safety Officer as well as the Mental Health Task Force Chair! With my position, I plan to use all resources as possible in order to ensure all possible areas of health and wellness, whether physical or mental, are reached! Outside of USG, I also participate in the Collegiate Mental Health Advisory of Ohio under NEOMED, act as UA Billiard’s Club Social Media Chair, participate as an Editor for the Buchtelite, and work adamantly in both the Jean Hower Taber Student Union’s Social Media & Marketing Department as well as the Dean of Students Office!
Danaka Adams
Social Media Strategist
Rylee Flickinger
Social Media Strategist
Ciel Wise
Social Media Strategist
Hello! My name is Ciel Wise and I am one of the Social Media Strategists this year! I am a first year Marketing and Sport Business major. Besides my involvement in USG, I am involved in Emerging Leaders, Asian Business Student Association, Publicity Committee, the Deans Team, Hiking Club, and hopefully many more. Outside of Campus I love spending time with my family and friends, going on walks, watching movies, and traveling to new places. Go Zips!
Isabella Sandberg
Project Coordinator
Isabella Sandberg is a senior chemical engineering major. She is excited to join USG for the first time as a project coordinator. Other involvement on campus includes Theatre Guild (co-president) and AIChE (co-president).
Riley Viator
Project Coordinator
Hi Zips! I am a 2nd year Aerospace Systems Engineering major, with a minor in Business Essentials for Engineers minor. It is my first year in USG and I am a Project Coordinator. Outside of USG, I participate in the Zips Aero Design Team, the Hiking and Outdoors club, Elevate service club, Engineers for a Sustainable World, and the GIVE volunteer organization!
Maya Allooh
Project Coordinator
Hello Everyone! My name is Maya Allooh and I'm a fourth year Criminal Justice Major. I serve as a Project Coordinator and couldn't be more excited. Last year, as a Social Media Strategist, was incredible! I was able to interact with students directly and I hope to work closely with you all again this year. Along with USG, I am involved on campus and hoping to graduate this Spring. My goal in the long run is to attend Law School and study family law (wish me luck). As for personal hobbies, you'll probably see me hiking on a random trail or snowboarding at Brandywine. If you see me, don't be afraid to say hello, I love getting to know you guys!
Lana Tamim
Project Coordinator
Hi! My name is Lana Tamim and I am a 4th year Computer Science student. I have been in USG for about all 4 years, participating as a Senator for BCAS at first and then shifting to Project Management/Coordination. Outside of USG, I am a member of the UA Ambassador program, Muslim Student Association, Association of Computing Machinery, Society of Women Engineers, and Francophone Student Association. In my free time I love to hike, play tennis, play the guitar, and craft. Go Zips!!
Alexandra (Lexxe) Parsons
Deputy Director of LGBTQ+ and Gender Equity
Hi! My name is Alexandra (Lexxe) Parsons, I am a senior history major, a minor in women’s studies, and a Museums and Archives certificate. This is my first year in USG and I am acting as the deputy director of LGBT and Gender Equity and am also on the Communications committee on USG. Outside of USG, I am in the Phi Alpha Theta history honors society, and Planned Parenthood Generation Action clubs. I currently work on-campus at the University of Akron archives on the Horace and Evelyn Stewart grant project. My goals for this year are to create a welcoming, accepting environment for all Zips!
Garrett Ngungu
Deputy Director of Racial Equity
Hey Zips! My name is Garrett Ngungu, and I am a 4th-year Biochemistry major with a minor in forensic studies, and I am this year's Deputy Director of Racial Equity. This will be my first year with USG, and I am excited to finally get involved a bit more on campus. Outside of school, you can find me at Raising Cane's in the falls, where I work as an NRO Trainer (New Restaurant Opening Trainer), which involves me traveling to help train crew at newly opening Raising Cane's to make their opening days a success. I am also an avid gamer and love playing Minecraft and Rocket League.
Julia Cunha Dos Santos
International Student Liaison
Hello! I’m Julia, an international student from Brazil, and I’m currently a junior majoring in Biology with a Chemistry minor. Last year, I was the Diversity Director for the Residence Hall Council (RHC), and I was also an active member of Sigma Lambda and the International Student Organization (ISO). This year, I’m excited to continue supporting our community as a Resident Assistant and look forward to advocating for international students and helping create an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns. Go Zips!