Macchelssy Dinganga

USUAA senator Macchelssy Dinganga spoke with The Northern Light through email about her candidacy. Dinganga is a candidate for senator in the upcoming USUAA election. 

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Why are you running for Senator?

Dinganga wrote she believes every student deserves to have their voice heard and their concerns addressed. She wrote, “I want to help make UAA a more supportive, inclusive, and opportunity-rich environment for all students — whether they’re on campus, working full time, or learning online.”

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If elected, what are your goals? How do you plan to accomplish them?

Dinganga wrote that she aims to improve communication between USUAA and the student body, advocate for mental health resources and support student-led initiatives. To achieve these goals, Dinganga plans to hold listening sessions, collaborate with other students and use campus media to spread awareness about available resources and opportunities.

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How have your prior positions/experiences prepared you for this role?

Dinganga has been actively involved with various student organizations and volunteer leadership roles and currently serves as a senator for USUAA. Through these experiences, she has developed skills in collaboration, event planning, and advocacy for others. She has also learned the importance of balancing diverse perspectives and finding common ground.

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How do you feel USUAA is helpful to the UAA community?

Dinganga wrote that USUAA is a bridge between students and administration. “It provides students with a platform to influence campus policies, access funding for clubs and events, and get involved in leadership,” Dinganga wrote. “It also supports initiatives that make campus more welcoming, equitable, and responsive to student needs.”

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How can students be more involved with USUAA?

Dinganga wrote that students can attend meetings, join a committee, run for USUAA, or share their ideas or concerns with anyone on USUAA. Dinganga wrote that USUAA exists to represent students. She wrote that the more feedback and involvement they receive from students, the better they can serve the student body.