Hey! My name is Vel Shan! I am a current sophomore studying Global and International Studies and Criminology. I am running for reelection to represent you within Penn State’s student government!

This past year I was privileged to serve as an At-Large Representative for the UPUA. I also had the privilege of serving as a leader within the organization as the Chair of the Committee on Government and Community Relations. During this time, I led a committee dedicated to fostering civic engagement as well as fostering a greater connection between Penn State students and the State College region. This past year, I coordinated countless bipartisan events that emphasized the importance of voting. This included debates between candidates for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, debates between Penn State’s College Republicans and College Democrats, and events connecting students to legislators. The goal was to get as many Penn State students involved in the Presidential election as possible! My committee contributed greatly to raising voter participation in the Centre County region to its highest point in 20 years!

Additionally, my committee facilitated greater connections with the State College Borough. This was evidenced through our participation in Light Up Night. This event is facilitated by the State College Borough emphasizing winter holiday cheer across the town. My committee handed out copious amounts of plushies and hot chocolate to residents of State College and Penn State students free of charge!

If re-elected, my journey to serve Penn State students will not end there! I will seek greater accountability from Penn State faculty and administration and directly advocate for Penn State students. I will continue to assist in offsetting the rising costs of tuition by supporting Penn State students through community events and other projects. If re-elected, I will, once again, dedicate my term to serving you in any way imaginable! I will do my best to continue addressing the problems that plague you all in your Penn State journeys. Here is my email: vjs5445@psu.edu! If you have any concerns, ideas, or just simply want to talk, do not hesitate to reach out! I would be happy to serve in any way I can!