Candidate Profile

Ethan Lopez

(He/Him)

Hi! My name is Ethan Lopez, I’m a freshman in LAS studying Political Science and Economics, and I'm excited to be running for a seat in Illinois Student Government. I wanted to run for ISC because of a desire to help enhance the student experience in any way that I may, and believe that my experiences, perspectives, and principles position me to help not only those in LAS, but the student population at large. My platform consists of three key pillars - enhancing outreach, improving accessibility, and working to promote initiatives fostering diversity, inclusion, and equity in our campus community, but further hope to help address issues including mental health support, campus safety and sustainability, and community engagement. I believe the best student government is one that is not only responsive to the issues of the moment, but one that stands proactive in anticipating and addressing the issues of tomorrow. In terms of outreach, I recognize the importance of effective communication between ISG and the student body, and have seen firsthand the difficulties faced by a student government unable to fully reach and engage with its constituency. Should I be elected, I will work towards improving public awareness of student council affairs and initiatives, ensuring that students are well informed through various communication mediums about decisions and actions affecting their own experiences. I find it also important to work with the relevant bodies to improve student understanding of not only to its own elected government, but to other important resources campuswide that may not be fully realized in potential; this goes hand in hand with my efforts in outreach, but I hope to also usher increased collaboration between ISG and these bodies and advocate for increased integration between these and the campus conscience. Perhaps most importantly, I believe in the strength diverse voices bring to any organization, and am committed to ensuring that every student and group feels represented in decision making. My background and perspectives will always inform my work, and I will tirelessly promote policies that address the unique needs of different communities. Together, I believe we can bring positive change to this university and build a student government that truly reflects the dreams and realities of our student body. Thank you for your time and faith in considering my candidacy, and please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions, comments, or concerns (elope47@illinois.edu, @kuya.pez).