With the 2025-26 school year wrapping up, students have the opportunity to vote for their next Student Government Association (SGA) representatives.
In this election cycle, several key positions are up for grabs, including SGA President and Executive Vice President. Additionally, each board’s vice president position, along with one senate seat per board, will be contested.
To help inform and encourage the student body to vote, multiple candidates were contacted and invited to share a statement on their candidacy. Responses have been edited for length and clarity; full quotes are available upon request.
Students can cast their votes through Pioneer Life from April 13 to April 16.
SGA President Candidates
Fatimah Abbassi
Fatimah Abbassi, a current junior running for SGA president, emphasized her commitment to advocating for students and remaining accessible to all in her campaign.
Abbassi currently serves as Vice President of Student Life, where she has introduced halal food into the dining hall and food court, advocated for the celebration of Arab Heritage Month, supported the re-opening of the W-Store, and pushed for the addition of free menstrual products in women’s restrooms, which she states is in its final stage for approval.
“I want to run for President of the student government because I believe that I can successfully advocate for students … My hope is through being President that everyone feels welcome to stop by my door and talk to me about what they want to see and to hear them out,” Abbassi says.
Mark Spuhler
Mark Spuhler, also running for SGA president, has highlighted a focus on expanding access to no- or low-cost course materials, transparency regarding student activity fees, and quality-of-life improvements in his campaign materials posted on social media.
Spuhler currently serves as Vice President of Academic Affairs and holds executive board positions across multiple organizations, according to a post published on SGA’s Instagram account on April 11.
Spuhler did not respond to a request for comment by the time of publication.
SGA Executive Vice President Candidates
Idil Agbali – “Mama… an EVP candidate behind you! VOTE FOR IDIL!”
Idil Agbali, a current sophomore running for SGA EVP, emphasizes her eagerness to support the student body and foster a welcoming, inclusive environment for all students.
Agbali has served as a senator in the SGA for two years, where she’s been involved in supporting student initiatives and representing student voices. Outside of the SGA, she is the President of the Math Club, PR Chair of the Green League Club, and a volunteer tutor at the Math Learning Center.
“I’ve learned how to communicate, collaborate, and advocate for students, and I’m ready to use these skills to make a positive impact. I want the student body to know that I am someone they can always approach. I truly care about creating a supportive and inclusive environment, and I will always listen and do my best to help. I am ready to represent you to the best of my ability!” Agbali says.
Mohammed Arham – “For Fast Action and True Leadership – Vote Arham for EVP of SGA!”
Mohammed Arham, a current junior running for SGA EVP, highlights his dedication to maintaining transparency with student activity fees and being a strong voice for students.
Arham currently serves as the Vice President of Allocations and has held various other positions in the SGA over the years. Throughout his time as Senator, Vice Chair, and now Vice President of Allocations, he’s focused on being transparent, responsive, and supportive. He has also been honored to receive Senator of the Month and Vice President of the Month awards.
“As Executive Vice President, I will focus on making SGA more efficient, accessible, and student-centered. My goals include ensuring student fees are allocated in the most effective way, expanding leadership opportunities through events and retreats, and improving communication so students and organizations can navigate SGA processes with ease.” Arham says.
Izzy Aberde
Izzy Aberde, a current junior, is also running for SGA EVP. Aberde emphasizes her commitment to ensuring a collaborative, inclusive, and representative student government.
Currently, she serves as a senator for the Public Relations Board. Outside of the SGA, Aberde is a part of the executive board for the Filipino American Cultural Entity club on campus. As a member of the E-Board for the FACE, she’s helped organize several events for the club that drew strong turnouts.
“…William Paterson has shaped my college experience tremendously. If I were to be elected, I hope to be that beacon of light for people who feel like they are underrepresented at our school, as I once was,” Aberde says.
With elections opening up this week, students are encouraged to review candidate platforms and participate in the upcoming election. The outcome of this election will help shape the direction of student leadership for the year ahead.
