Student leadership and engagement are vital to the success of the student experience at HES, and we invite all students to join with the entire HES community in getting to know the candidates for student organization leadership roles. Please see a complete list of candidates, organized by student organization, below. We also invite all degree candidates to attend the Harvard Extension Student Association (HESA) Meet the Candidates night on April 1 at 9:00 PM (ET) to learn more about the individuals running for HESA Executive Board positions. You may register for that session here.

The ballot will be open from Monday, April 7th at 12:00 PM ET to Monday, April 14 at 11:59 PM ET. All fully enrolled degree candidates will receive an email with their individualized voting link, as well as Zoom information for the Meet the Candidates event no later than Monday, April 7 at 5:00pm. For more information on the 2025-26 HES Student Organization Executive Board Elections, please visit the elections details page.

*Please note: Only currently enrolled non-graduating degree candidates at the Harvard Extension School are eligible to run for elected positions and only currently enrolled degree candidates at the Harvard Extension School are eligible to vote in student organization elections. Please contact elections@extension.harvard.edu if you have any questions.

Harvard Extension Student Association (HESA)

Jess Brooks

Candidate for HESA President

Hello! My name is Jess Brooks. I graduated from Harvard Extension School last May with an ALB in Social Sciences. Currently, I’m getting my ALM in Sustainability. Over my six years at HES, I’ve witnessed numerous changes and challenges alongside opportunities to enhance the global student experience—an endeavor I am eager to address with practical solutions. Throughout my career, building communities has been my cornerstone. At HES, my goal is to continue this mission. My journey began with active involvement in various clubs and societies, leading to my current role as the Vice President of HESA and HGC Representative. I have spent the last year learning what it takes to run this organization and talking to students about their goals. I aim to incorporate institutional knowledge to provide a better experience for HES students’ success. Beyond campus, I’ve initiated HES meetups, aiming to foster communities not just on campus but globally, promoting face-to-face interactions outside of Cambridge – including meetups in London and one in Florence, Italy, coming this May. Four things are important to me:

First, there is a connection gap for those not on campus, and I would like to continue my work addressing that.

Second, I am passionate about advocating for you to Admin by executing the strategic plan that was created this year—bringing institutional knowledge to create effective change.

Third, I help foster the next generation of leaders.

Fourth, I empower our students to step into the world as Harvard graduates, supported by a network of peers and alumni.

I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for the position of President of HESA. My love for HES is profound, and I am dedicated to ensuring every student feels supported and advocating for resolutions to the issues you face. Sincerely, Jess Brooks

Miranda Childers

Candidate for HESA President

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Harvard Extension School—a milestone that reminds us how far we’ve come, and how far we still have to go. When HES was founded, someone like me—a Black woman from the South—still couldn’t sit at certain countertops in parts of the country scarred by Jim Crow laws. And yet, here I am today, not just asking for your vote, but standing on the shoulders of those who came before me—ready to make history as the first Black woman to serve as HESA President, and to lead our student body into a future that stretches far beyond expectation.

But this campaign isn’t just about making history—it’s about making space. As Director of Communications, I’ve led with heart, clarity, and consistency—not to spotlight myself, but to empower others and help them thrive. My greatest strength is connecting with people: building trust, creating community, and amplifying voices that are too often left out of the room. Under my leadership, we expanded HESA’s reach and brought more students into the conversation than ever before.

We are a brilliant, global, multilingual student body—and I reflect that too. I speak English, Spanish, French, and AAVE, and I know how to meet people where they are. As President, I will launch an interactive and impactful monthly newsletter, build a virtual and on-campus resource hub, and provide access to practical life support—from meal planning and budgeting to time management and career prep. I will also work to embed HES students into the broader Harvard ecosystem—because we belong in every room.

I’m not here to play politics. I’m here to serve people. All people. And I’m ready to do that with compassion, courage, and vision.

Let’s make this year unforgettably historic. Let’s make it ours.

Pierre-Jean Clausse

Candidate for HESA President

As a graduate student at Harvard Extension School with a background in international governance and academia, I’m running for HESA President to put that experience to work for our community. I’ve spent years in diplomacy, sustainability, and youth engagement and I want to channel that into strengthening student representation, expanding opportunity, and raising the global profile of HES students. I’ve worked with the United Nations Environment Programme, the European Commission, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature. I’ve built one of the largest youth-led policy networks in Europe, representing 50,000 students across UN committees and international forums. As an EU Climate Pact Ambassador, I’ve worked across Europe, the U.S., and the Global South to promote more inclusive policymaking. Now, I want to focus that same energy and experience right here, at Harvard Extension School. If elected, I’ll take action through four key pillars:

1. I’ll lead efforts to close the gap between HES and the broader Harvard ecosystem, by ensuring stronger student presence in university-wide decision-making.

2. I’ll build professional and career pipelines through partnerships with public institutions, global NGOs, and forward-thinking organizations.

3. I’ll expand student engagement with events and programs designed for both remote and in-person learners including leadership summits, virtual networking, and global collaboration.

4. And I’ll make advocacy a priority, pushing for more accessibility, stronger academic support, increased institutional backing and alumni links for every student, wherever they are.

HES is uniquely global, ambitious, diverse, forward-looking. Let’s make sure our student government reflects that. When it’s time to vote, I’d be proud to earn your support. Vote Pierre-Jean Clausse for HESA President. And let’s get to work.

Nathan Rogers

Candidate for HESA Vice President

Hello, my name is Nathan Rogers, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for Vice-President of the Harvard Extension Student Association. I am an ALM degree candidate in extension studies- field of Government. My platform for running for Vice President is growth for HESA and empowering the next generation of leaders for HESA. I started my Journey at Harvard Extension School during the pandemic, and I learned firsthand the importance of community and networking. Attending class entirely online was a new experience for me and a solitary endeavor for the most part. While I had excellent teachers and engaged classmates, I did not feel connected to the Harvard Community until I discovered HESA. After joining HESA, I felt welcomed and wanted within the community, and it has enhanced my Harvard experience. Since joining HESA, I have served several positions on the Executive Board. I am a former Executive Treasurer and Executive Secretary. I am serving as the Presidential Advisor to the current Executive Board. Before coming to Harvard Extension School, I served as the President of the Honor Council at my Law School, and I am a Past Regional President of Phi Theta Kappa. I have been honored to be a part of an organization that advocates for students, and I am proud of what HESA has accomplished over the past several years. I also know that the work is not complete. If elected Vice President, I want to continue to advocate for students who want to feel connected to HES. HESA is only as strong as the leaders who take up the challenge. If elected vice president, I hope to recruit and empower the people who will lead HESA into the future. My name is Nathan Rogers, and I would appreciate your vote for Vice President. Thank you.

Eunice Shin

Candidate for HESA Vice President

I had to pause my studies at Syracuse University due to a car accident, medical issues, and financial constraints. At the time, I could not focus solely on my education and was devastated. Harvard Extension School provides opportunities to non-traditional students like myself to continue learning. Over 100 years ago, the school was started on the value that high quality education should be accessible to students of all backgrounds, ages, and life-circumstances. Over my time studying at HES, I have met amazing students. However, I observed that the students at HES face challenges and are under-represented within the comprehensive Harvard community. Remote students are often excluded from on-campus Harvard events, class resources are hard to access for international students, and the achievements of HES students deserve more formal recognition from Harvard University. I am running for VP to offer creative leadership and solutions so that HES students are elevated and included. I am experienced in mentoring, policy, and educational leadership. I have previously created an educational platform for first gen and immigrant students to facilitate in navigating the complex American education system and college admissions. The business turned into a community and platform for students from marginalized communities to build confidence and access resources and advising. I also practice leadership in the Philadelphia region by volunteering (food pantry and English coach). In the upcoming year, I want to accomplish initiatives that align with my keywords for this campaign: non-traditional, elevate, and community. Initiatives like formal recognition of HES student achievements in Harvard media will highlight the non-traditional paths students have taken. I would like to elevate HES student representation in Harvard academic opportunities open to our student body (i.e. helping HES students start a fellowship). I want remote students to gain community by helping them connect directly to HESA.

Alina Wang

Candidate for HESA Treasurer

I’m running for Treasurer of the Harvard Extension Student Association because I believe in the importance of financial transparency, strategic planning, and responsible stewardship of resources. With my professional experience at a Big Four accounting firm and a Master of Accounting from Washington University in St. Louis, I bring both technical expertise and real-world perspective to this role. Before entering the professional world, I served as Treasurer in high school and later as the President of Beta Alpha Psi, a business honor organization. These experiences taught me how to manage budgets, oversee event planning, and lead teams with accountability and collaboration. I understand the importance of balancing day-to-day responsibilities with long-term goals, and I’m excited to bring that mindset to our student organization. If elected, I plan to maintain accurate records, communicate financial updates clearly and regularly, and ensure every dollar spent aligns with our mission. I’d also like to make the funding process more accessible and transparent, so members feel supported when launching new events and initiatives. My goal is to help create a financially sound and empowering environment where ideas can flourish. Thank you for your time and consideration. I’d be honored to contribute as Treasurer and help make this a great year for HES.

Robel Alemu

Candidate for HESA Director of Technology

I am excited to apply for the Director of Technology role at HESA, a position that perfectly aligns with my passion for technology and service. Over the past several years, I have designed, built, and managed over 50 WordPress-based websites and led technology and product teams. Currently, I lead a technology company that provides monetization plugins for Online Games and WordPress sites, honing my familiarity with a wide array of WordPress plugins, infrastructure optimization, and digital tool integrations. Beyond my professional work, I volunteer at various community organizations here in Seattle area. As a board member and technology task force leader for a community association of over 2,000 members, I manage the WordPress platform, technology integration that aligns with the organization’s vision and goals. I have also contributed to organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters, mentoring underserved youth—an experience that continues to bring me joy and fulfilment. Currently I am enrolled in the Systems Engineering master’s program (expected graduation: May 2026), and I have been observing the evolving needs of the Harvard Extension School community firsthand. I am eager to apply my technical proficiency and systems-level thinking to enhance HESA’s digital presence, perhaps by streamlining student resources or further amplifying our online engagement. It would be an honor to contribute my expertise, strategic insight, and dedication to community service as HESA’s Director of Technology, fostering a more connected and innovative student experience.

Tim Busche

Candidate for HESA Director of Technology

As a management consultant with nearly ten years of experience, I understand how vital it is to build meaningful connections. At HESA, we should aim to create opportunities for all students to connect, collaborate, and form lasting relationships. As Director of Technology, my goal is to ensure that we have the right tools and platforms in place to support this mission. One key element of that is our website—and I’m excited to share that a brand-new version is on the way. This updated website will serve as a central hub where you can easily find information on how to organize your studies, discover student benefits, explore clubs and societies, and much more. It will also feature a helpful Q&A section to answer common questions, and if you ever need more support, our WhatsApp channels will remain open and active. Technology is here to make your student life smoother and more connected—and I’m committed to making that happen. If you’re interested in supporting the tech team, feel free to reach out. There’s plenty to do, and we’d love your help!

Paul Bausemer

Candidate for HESA Director of Community & Public Service

I am interested in the Director of Community and Public Service role in the Harvard Extension Student Association because I believe leadership is the crucible for self-realization. I plan to use this leadership position in HESA to harness complexity and encourage individuals to move together toward harmony. I plan to achieve this approach by fostering connections based on love, joy, and creativity. I seek this challenge to reorient my paradigms and empower my self-perception of what is possible. To quote Khalil Gibran “Your pain is the breaking of the shell that encloses your understanding.” I believe that the problem is the solution. Identifying and understanding the root causes of a problem rather than focusing on superficial fixes creates lasting change. Therefore, I believe the challenge is the opportunity. The complexity of Harvard’s social ecosystem fascinates me. As the Director of Community and Public Service, I seek to bring local communities within Harvard together to serve the broader community outside of Harvard. The islands of coherence within the Harvard gates can be brought together to shift broader social paradigms and positively impact the world. Through this role, I plan to promote a platform that connects the dots in order to provide a healthy economy for local communities inside and outside of Harvard. My experience volunteering with a guerilla gardening group, and the Harvard Square Homeless Shelter has made a positive impact on food justice in multiple US cities. Having experienced food and housing insecurity myself, I deeply empathize with the victims of inequality that I hope to serve. My undergraduate studies in outdoor education provided me with first-hand leadership and problem-solving experience in the remote backcountry. As a classically trained fine artist painter, I plan to utilize my creativity to solve problems and provide information to make informed decisions.

Harvard Extension School Industrial-Organizational Psychology Student Club (HESIOPSC)

Angelica Reyes

Candidate for HESIOPSC President

Hello! My name is Angelica Reyes and I am thrilled to run for President for the Harvard Extension School Industrial-Organizational Psychology Student Club (HES IOPSC). I am currently serving as a Board Member for the club and it has been an honor to be part of its inaugural school year. The mission of the club is to promote professional development, support continued learning, share multicultural perspective on business, and create opportunities for HES students (past, present, and future) in the field of Industrial-Organizational (IO) Psychology to connect and improve their organizations. It would be my honor to lead the club as President in the upcoming school year and help further our mission. I currently work in the non-profit industry as a People Leader, leading one of our operations teams. I describe myself as an authentic, empathetic, and data-driven leader with a proven track record of empowering and leading highly engaged teams. As a leader, I do this by leveraging my strengths: my ability to build strong relationships at all levels and foster connections. If elected, it is my hope to leverage my strengths of building relationships with our club members and foster connections between our members, Alumni, and Faculty. I would do this by building on our current events: Professor and Alumni fireside chats and coffee chats with our peers. Working with the Executive Board, I would also like the develop programs and resources that enable students to learn more about the field of IO Psychology and career opportunities within it. Lastly, I want to ensure that both students applying and admitted students to the HES IO Psychology program feel supported. I am grateful for the opportunity to run in this election and I would be honored to serve as your President. Thank you for your consideration.

Veronica Everly

Candidate for HESIOPSC Vice President

Hello! My name is Veronica, and I am excited to run for Vice President of the HESIOPSC board. I am currently serving as the Director of New Member Relations for HESIOPSC, and I look forward to helping advance the club’s mission in the 2025-2026 school year. Despite being a newer club, we have steadily grown in membership and engagement over the last year. As your HESIOPSC Vice President, I want to build on that foundation by fostering connections among our primarily virtual community and developing programs that enable students to learn more about the field of Industrial-Organizational (IO) Psychology, as well as the HES IO Psychology graduate program itself. Over the past two years at HES, I have worked hard to cultivate community by starting and actively participating in class WhatsApp groups to facilitate discussions and foster connections that enrich our learning experience. Professionally, my team jokingly calls me our organization’s “Chief Happiness Officer” because of my dedication to making sure everyone feels psychologically safe, valued, and appreciated. However, my real title is HR & Staff Development Generalist. In my position, I strive to create a positive, supportive work environment and ensure our staff are equipped with the tools and training needed to succeed in both their personal and professional lives. Within HESIOPSC, I am passionate about helping our members feel connected, empowered, and engaged, and I look forward to developing programs to help you expand your knowledge about IO Psychology and connect with other members. I’d love the opportunity to continue making a meaningful impact on HESIOPSC and our community. Thank you for your support, and I look forward to what we can accomplish together.

Harvard Extension School International Relations Student Club (HESIRSC)

Pat Ratanasirivilai

Candidate for HESIRSC Director of Events

​As an ALM candidate in International Relations at Harvard Extension School, I am eager to contribute to the International Relations Student Club (HESIRSC) as Director of Events. Born and raised in Bangkok, Thailand, my entrepreneurial journey in the tech and business sectors has provided me with a global perspective and a deep appreciation for cross-cultural engagement. ​Holding an MBA focused on Digital Technology from Cornell University, I have founded and led multiple global startups. These experiences allowed me to assume diverse roles, collaborate with individuals from various cultural backgrounds, and recognize the intricate connections between business, technology, and geopolitics. This realization inspired me to pursue an ALM in International Relations at Harvard Extension School. Living in Thailand, Taiwan, and the United States has further enhanced my adaptability and communication skills, essential qualities for fostering an inclusive environment within HESIRSC. ​Currently, I own and operate an international school in Bangkok that supports Myanmar refugees and children with special needs. This endeavor reflects my commitment to building diverse communities and addressing complex international challenges. My academic interests—U.S.-China relations, forced migration, and human and sex trafficking—align with HESIRSC’s mission to facilitate critical dialogue on pressing international issues.​ As Director of Events, I aim to curate programs that resonate with our members’ diverse interests and promote meaningful discussions and networking opportunities. Drawing upon my entrepreneurial background and experience in educational initiatives, I am well-equipped to plan and execute events that enrich our collective understanding of international relations.​I am enthusiastic about the prospect of serving as Director of Events and am committed to enhancing the vibrancy of HESIRSC’s programming. Together, we can create a dynamic forum that empowers members to engage deeply with global issues and contribute to the broader discourse in international relations.

Harvard Extension School Psychology Student Club (HESIRSC)

Martie Faye Agravante

Candidate for HESPSC Vice President

As a founding member of HESPSC, and the current Director of Audio Production, as Vice President, I plan on supporting the incoming leadership and ushering a smooth transition between the inaugural board and new members to ensure that our club’s standards and hard work is sustained. I also bring a myriad of qualities that will best support our new team. I am in a leadership position at work, where I ensure 20+ employees feel supported and guided, while maintaining a friendly, positive, and psychologically safe atmosphere. With my experience in the music industry, I’ve been able to assist our current President with the HESPSC podcast. In this role I supported her with the recordings, ensuring they are of quality and ready to share to our club and the public. I am also currently serving as a representative of Massachusetts through the Miss International organization, serving as the 2025 Miss Massachusetts U.S. International. Through this experience, I am role model to the community not only exemplifying grace, but intelligence and my platform is built on resilience and post-traumatic growth. Extending my role in the club beyond audio production to a supportive, executive role as Vice President will be mutually beneficial as I can grow in my leadership skills while supporting a new leadership team. With my understanding of the club’s operations, coupled with my leadership skills and supportive nature, I believe I am a great fit for the Vice President candidacy. Thank you!

Harvard Extension School Sustainability Student Club (HES3C)

Anna-Maria Wohlgemuth

Candidate for HES3C Vice President

Hello, I hope you are well! My name is Anna-Maria and I am running for the position of Vice President at HES3C. The reason why I am running for VP is that I am very inspired by the HES student community, and I enjoy working with student leaders who want to create meaningful impact for our students from all around the world. In terms of experience, I have been the Director of Events at the HES GDP Student Society, where I have had the honour of working alongside very talented and committed student leaders. Together, we were able to host monthly PowerHour sessions featuring expert guest speakers. These events have not only provided valuable insights for the students, but they have also strengthened the GDP student community by creating spaces for knowledge exchange and networking. As a Luminary Leader for the European region at HES3C, I have hosted multiple sustainable brunches in London, where students could connect with each other and engage in conversations around the topic of sustainability and student life. What I am hoping to accomplish together with the HES3C leadership team is to continue strengthening the student community, providing more collaborative opportunities between HES3C and our schools’ student clubs and societies, as well as creating more spaces where students can network, exchange ideas and build lasting connections. If elected, I would be very excited about the possibility of serving as Vice President, and using my experience and knowledge, to support the club and the student community.

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) is committed to providing an accessible academic community. The Accessibility Services Office (ASO) is responsible for providing accommodations to students with disabilities.