Students supporting students

CEHSP's 2024-25 student senators share some insights about their leadership experience

Meet McKenna Banken and Nakila Fernandez. They are student senators serving on the Student Government Association. The duo represents students in the College of Education and Human Service Professions. They agreed to share some insight related to their leadership experience on campus.

Nakila Fernandez

Nakila Fernandez smiling in front of a sparkly backdrop

Nakila is a junior and an exercise and rehabilitation sciences major with a minor in healthcare management.

What does a student senator do?

As student senator for a CEHSP, I represent the student body for my collegiate unit by participating in decision-making processes, voicing student concerns, and advocating for policies that enhance the academic and social experience on campus. I collaborate with other senators and university officials through SGA to address issues and promote student interests. 

What got you interested in student government?

My friend Uyen, who was a past student body president, opened me up to the idea of student government. Her leadership and passion inspired me. Additionally, my involvement in various leadership opportunities within the multicultural center helped me realize how much I enjoy advocating for and supporting my peers. This combination of influences sparked my interest in student government.

How has being involved on campus impacted you?

Being involved on campus has allowed me to call UMD my home and create a space where I can truly flourish. This involvement has taught me valuable lessons, from leadership skills to teamwork, and has given me the opportunity to build lasting friendships. It’s enriched my college experience and deepened my connection to the university community.

How do you foster community?

​​Fostering community is about creating meaningful connections and a supportive environment for everyone involved. Through my roles as president of the Black Student Association and in public relations for both the Latinx/Chicanx Student Association and Black Men Serving Excellence, I focus on several key strategies:

Building Bridges Across Groups: I work to bridge gaps between different communities on campus by organizing joint events and initiatives. This helps foster understanding and solidarity among various student groups and promotes a more inclusive campus culture.

Inclusive Programming: I ensure that our events and activities are designed to be welcoming and relevant to a diverse audience. By incorporating feedback from the community, we create programs that address the needs and interests of all members.

Open Communication: I prioritize transparent and open communication within and between organizations. This helps build trust and ensures that everyone feels heard and valued.

Empowering Leadership: I focus on empowering others by providing opportunities for leadership and involvement. Encouraging students to take active roles helps build a sense of ownership and commitment to the community.

Collaboration and Support: I actively collaborate with other campus organizations and departments to amplify our DEI initiatives. This creates a network of support and resources that benefits the entire community.

By employing these strategies with the assistance of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, I aim to create a campus environment where everyone feels connected, supported, and valued. 


McKenna Banken

Mckenna Banken smiling by the lake

McKenna is a sophomore who is majoring in psychology and human biology.  

What does a student senator do?

As a CEHSP Senator, I represent the student body's interests and ensure their voices are heard within the university. I advocate for my peers by communicating the students' needs and concerns to UMD officials and Dean Jill Pinkney Pastrana. In addition, senators plan and organize events with Dean Pinkney Pastrana that promote student engagement and address issues affecting the campus. As a senator, I serve on the Academic Affairs Committee and am the Vice Chair. In Academic Affairs we discuss important topics on campus and assist in shaping policies that impact students. 

What got you interested in student government?

My journey to joining the UMD Student Government Association (SGA) began last year when a friend on my floor applied for a position as one of the SCSE Senators. I signed his application ballot, contributing one of the fifty signatures required for his candidacy. Unbeknownst to me, this friend would spend the next year encouraging me to get involved with the SGA. This year, serving as a Resident Advisor (RA) further inspired me to enhance my engagement on campus and support my peers. Due to this, at the start of the academic year, I committed to become more active in campus life. So when my friend asked me one final time to consider joining SGA at the beginning of the school year, I decided to accept the opportunity.

How has being involved on campus impacted you?

Being involved on campus has had a profound impact on me. It has allowed me to connect with my peers and foster a sense of community while gaining a deeper understanding of student needs and concerns. My journey from supporting a friend’s application to committing to a leadership role in the SGA reflects my growing sense of responsibility and engagement. This involvement has not only helped me develop my leadership skills and civic awareness but has also opened up opportunities for personal growth and meaningful contributions to my campus. Overall, being part of the UMD SGA has enriched my university experience, making me feel more connected and empowered within the community.

How do you foster community?

As a senator, I foster community by actively organizing and hosting events that bring students together, such as CEHSP socials and "Donuts with the Deans." These gatherings create informal spaces for students to connect with each other and engage with faculty, helping to build relationships and a sense of belonging. By facilitating these social engagements, I aim to enhance student involvement and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard