Meet one of our candidates, Yoryi, running for Student Government Inclusivity Officer!

Yoryi Roque ‘28 (he/him)

Major: Math

Describe your vision for the position you intend to run for.

Our motto of Lafayette College, Cur Non, can be extended to the students’ understanding of other groups around them. How will I complete that as an Inclusivity Officer? With many minor tasks and 1 long-term goal. At the beginning of my term, I will send out surveys to all students to understand their position on how they connect to inclusivity on campus. Then, I will increase communication between all multicultural and awareness-based programs and clubs through the Intercultural Development Office to better understand these students on campus and increase visibility for these organizations. Then, through student government and my own social media, I will provide regular updates on DEI decisions made at the student government and Lafayette College levels, and advocate for these programs through budget appeals or student government representation. Finally, my long-term goal is to address Lafayette College’s inclusivity issue by working with faculty, student government, and Lafayette College executives to partner with student organizations and make it required for all Lafayette College students to learn about the different groups on campus during their time here. I firmly believe all of Lafayette College has a responsibility to not dismiss our diverse student body, and I will go to any means to ensure the inclusivity of all students.

Describe why you are the right person for this role.

I have strong experience both inside and outside Lafayette College that demonstrates my initiative for this role. First, as Co-President of the Salsa Club, I have the experience needed to lead and take initiative, along with being part of a group tied to multicultural clubs on campus, which is something this role should inquire. From there, my involvement in the McKelvy Scholars program initiates my creativity and awareness mindset, as discussions about national and international situations fuel my passion for this role. My gateway to Lafayette College through the Posse Scholar Leadership Program and my involvement in it showcases my eagerness for change, even before I arrived on this campus. As a non-profit worker at a Lafayette College start-up called Amazolar, I also understand the difficulties awareness-based clubs face in growing their outreach to this student body, demonstrating my current. Finally, as a 3rd-year student with involvement in multiple multicultural and awareness-based clubs and organizations, I understand the struggles these clubs and organizations face. This familiarity is why I can be an excellent liaison between these groups and student government, Lafayette College executives, and faculty.