Hello! My name is Simran Kulkarni, and I am excited to introduce myself as one of your Board candidates for the University of Pittsburgh’s 2025-26 Student Government Board (SGB). I am a sophomore majoring in Bioengineering with a minor in Chemistry, and I am actively involved in student organizations such Pitt’s Biomedical Engineering Society, Friends of MSF at Pitt, Mastana Fusion Dance Club, and Pitt’s Science Olympiad. I am passionate about advocating for student organizations and working to create a more connected, transparent, and representative student government.
During my time at Pitt, I have seen the challenges that student organizations face when interacting with SGB. Students often feel disconnected from the governing body that should represent them, and many clubs struggle to access necessary resources. Funding, event support, and guidance on SGB policies can be hard to find and complicated to navigate. As a result, student organizations especially smaller ones—are left feeling unsupported.
I aim to bridge the gap between student organizations and SGB by improving accessibility, ensuring better representation, and fostering stronger communication. SGB should be a supportive and approachable resource that actively empowers students. If elected, I will work tirelessly to ensure that every student has the opportunity to engage with SGB, make their voice heard, and access the resources they need to succeed.
My Experience & Leadership:
I have gained valuable insights into the challenges student organizations face by serving as an executive board member in several groups:
~Public Relations Officer of Friends of MSF at Pitt – Supporting the humanitarian efforts of Doctors Without Borders while engaging Pitt students in global health discussions.
~Business Manager of Mastana Fusion Dance Club – Encouraging cultural expression through dance.
~Public and Social Relations Officer Pitt’s Science Olympiad – Helping organize STEM competitions and events.
These roles have provided me with a deep understanding of student organizations' needs and how SGB can improve. I will use my experience to advocate for your needs and work toward meaningful change.
Key Areas of Focus:
Strengthening the Connection Between SGB and Student Organizations
-Create a Student Organization Liaison System where each SGB member is assigned a group of student organizations for direct support.
-Develop a simplified guide to help student leaders request funding, plan events, and navigate university policies.
-Host quarterly roundtable discussions with student leaders to gather feedback and ensure SGB provides the necessary support.
Improving Transparency and Accessibility
-Overhaul SGB’s documentation system to make information clearer and more user-friendly.
-Implement an improved digital resource hub with guides, FAQs, and direct contact information.
Enhancing Communication and Student Engagement
-Improve on how we release updates on SGB decisions, initiatives, and ways for students to get involved.
-Organize open forums and town halls for students to voice their concerns directly to SGB members.
-Use social media effectively to provide real-time updates and increase engagement.
By focusing on these priorities, we can build a more inclusive and responsive SGB that meets the needs of every student.
Why Synergy?
The name Synergy reflects my belief in collaboration, connection, and collective progress. True progress happens when students, organizations, and SGB work together. With Synergy, we can create a campus where:
1)Student organizations have consistent access to SGB.
2)Resources are clear and available to all.
3)Communication between SGB and students is transparent and responsive.
A Vote for Me is a Vote for a More Connected Campus
If you believe in a more connected, representative, and communicative SGB, I ask for your support. Together, we can build a student government that listens, responds, and empowers every student to thrive.
Vote Simran Kulkarni. Vote Synergy. Let’s build a stronger, more engaged campus—together.