Hi, I’m Camdyn (she/her)! I am a sophomore Political Science, Economics, and History student here at Pitt. My hometown is Lancaster, Pennsylvania. When I’m not getting involved on campus, I love to read, watch movies, thrift, and play volleyball! Once I graduate, I plan to travel abroad to Europe and hopefully find a job in international policy or diplomacy. I’ve loved getting involved in the Student Government Board’s many committees and events the past two years. Last year, I was a part of the First Year Council. We created and implemented some of our own initiatives, which was an awesome opportunity and introduction to student government as freshmen. I served the 2024-2025 school year as a Vice Chairwoman on the Community and Governmental Relations Committee, where we held some super fun events, including the Election Fest, the Women in Politics panel, and the Global Food Market. While it was a privilege to be on these projects, I have my sights set higher for my third year in Oakland. I am running for Student Government Board because student representation and advocacy are extremely important to me. Pitt is nothing without its students. Their input and experiences are critical in creating an atmosphere where we all can flourish. I intend to bridge the gap between student interests and administrative decisions for a safer, happier, healthier campus experience.
As an active member of the Community and Governmental Relations Committee, I have firsthand experience with connecting the student body to their local and state governments. Since this past year was a presidential election year, we spent the fall preparing for our Election Fest. On Election Day, we held an event with snacks, games, and music, and engaged in discussions with students about why it is important to vote. Our goal was to emphasize civic action and intentional engagement to our fellow students, something I seek to further develop within the Student Government Board. I aim to continue close work with CGR because Pitt students deserve to be heard.
Furthermore, as a Board Member, I will work to provide LGBTQ+ students with more resources, protections, and opportunities on campus. The University of Pittsburgh has anti-discriminatory policies, but many LQBTQ+ students still feel underrepresented and even unsafe in Oakland. I strive to foster a relationship between LGBTQ+ clubs and organizations and our administration to synchronize the needs of students with the powers of Pitt’s institutions. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I experience firsthand the trials and tribulations of squeezing yourself into a social system that was not designed for you. Every student deserves to feel like Pitt is where they belong. I have a genuine devotion to enriching the beautiful and unique LGBTQ+ lives of this campus, and I believe that from the position of Board Member I can advocate for a better quality and comfortability of life for LGBTQ+ students here.
Lastly, I intend to alleviate the transition students have coming to a big city like Pittsburgh. A large portion of the student body comes from suburban and rural areas, and it is daunting moving to such an urban, fast-paced school. One of the best things about the University of Pittsburgh is its location. It isn’t just near the city - it is the city. The Pittsburgh Regional Transit bussing system can carry students from East Liberty to Polish Hills, West Homestead to South Side, and more with the tap of an ID card. It’s extremely convenient for a grocery run or afternoon adventure with your friends. Adversely, the buses can be difficult to navigate and often switch arrival times, which can leave you stranded someplace unsafe. I know I’ve hopped on the wrong bus before and ended up in no-man's-land with no returning route. Bus safety and literacy is one of my priorities as a board member. Educating students on bus etiquette and travel tips is essential to the wellbeing of any Steel City patron. I will initiate a project to research, coordinate, and distribute a comprehensive guide to bussing in Pittsburgh so that no student is left hanging out in the cold.
I am a student at the University of Pittsburgh, so I walk these streets every day just like you. I’ve grown to love it here. As a Student Government Board Member, I want to do everything in my power for you to love it too.