Candidate Profile

Bill Liu

(He/Him)

James Yang

(He/Him)

I am Bill Liu, running for Student Body President, alongside my esteemed running mate, James Yang, who is vying for the position of Vice President. Both of us are proud Computer Science and Linguistics, united by a vision to leverage our technical expertise for the greater good of our campus community. Our collaborative journey at UIUC has been marked by a shared commitment to using innovation to address the challenges our fellow students face, fostering a more inclusive, supportive, and sustainable campus environment.

Our decision to run together stems from a mutual recognition of the powerful impact that effective leadership can have on our campus. We have both been deeply involved in various aspects of university life, from student government to leading tech-focused projects and clubs. These experiences have not only refined our leadership skills but also given us invaluable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities facing our student body.

Our platform is built on three foundational pillars: enhancing mental health resources, promoting sustainability, and fostering diversity and inclusion. We understand the critical importance of mental health, especially in demanding academic environments like ours. We propose to expand mental health services to ensure accessible, comprehensive support for all students, including increasing the availability of counselors and extending service hours.

Sustainability is a key concern for both of us. We aim to initiate campus-wide recycling programs, encourage renewable energy use, and collaborate with dining services to reduce waste. Our goal is to lead UIUC towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our campaign. We believe in creating an environment where every student, regardless of background, can feel valued and included. This includes supporting multicultural events, improving accessibility for students with disabilities, and ensuring diverse voices are heard in campus discussions.

Our combined experiences in student governance and leadership roles have equipped us with the necessary skills to effectively represent the student body and implement meaningful change. We have led initiatives that leverage technology to improve student engagement and organized events that promote cultural understanding and diversity. Through these efforts, we have learned the importance of collaboration, perseverance, and innovation.

In conclusion, our joint candidacy is driven by a vision for a UIUC where student well-being is prioritized, environmental responsibility is embraced, and every student feels welcomed and empowered. We are committed to tirelessly working to represent your interests and ensure your voices are heard in all aspects of university governance.

We, William Liu and James Yang, humbly ask for your support and vote to bring our vision to life. Together, we can tackle the challenges facing our campus and build a stronger, more connected UIUC community.

By submitting this statement, we affirm our dedication to serving the UIUC student body with integrity, passion, and a steadfast commitment to improving our university for everyone. Let's embark on this journey together and make a lasting impact. Thank you for considering our candidacy.