Our Team.
2025 Officers
Meet the 2025-2026 Officers
Each year, Students United's Board of Directors begins hiring our next Officers of the Board. Officers are made up of three positions: State Chair, Vice Chair, and Treasurer.
These officers fill a critical role in supporting the daily functions of Students United. From leading Board of Directors meetings to approving financial reports,
the Officers are vital positions fit for passionate student leaders.
We're thrilled to announce our 2025-2026 Officers of the Board! Congratulations, and we can't wait to get started with you in July.
Learn more about the 2025-2026 Board Officers below!
STATE CHAIR
Em Hodge | She/They
Minnesota State University – Mankato
Why are you interested in this specific position?
Being a Vice Chair is a huge leadership role as well as a critical support role to the State Chair. Likewise, being a State Chair requires supporting the team and confidence for the role. Being a support is what I have specialized in over my college career. I have learned that supporting people and communities is critical to allyship and building trust. I have had the ability to participate in DEI events, volunteerism, celebrations, community discussions, committee hearings, and more. Through my ability to commit to the work I have done, I have been able to be the support that others need for the role they are in.
I have been in internships revolving around being a legislative assistant for two nonprofit organizations; Goodwill-Easter Seals MN and Students United. Through my observations in both roles, I have been able to explore my leadership capabilities by communicating with legislators, presenting to the Community Leadership Fellow Cohort, and planning critical meetings.
I am passionate about this role as I believe being a Vice Chair or State Chair will build my ability to listen to the demands of students to serve their needs, expand my knowledge of committee work/governmental relations, and take on a larger role of advocacy for the MN State Universities.
VICE CHAIR
Javelia Morrison-Galimore | She/Her
St. Cloud State University
Why are you interested in this specific position?
When I joined Students United, I sought to make an impact that transcended a mere title or personal accolade. I aimed to add value, drive change, shape spaces, and subsequently contribute to a culture of progress and inclusivity that existed before me. My experience as a Community Leader Fellow (CLF) has provided me with firsthand insight into the impact of student leadership on policy, governance, and systemic change.
Running for State Chair or Vice Chair is not just a continuation of my commitment but a natural extension of my leadership journey in project management, grassroots organizing, and advocacy. I seek to elevate the work of Students United by expanding student engagement, strengthening advocacy efforts, and cultivating partnerships that drive sustainable change. My leadership philosophy is grounded in stewardship and collective responsibility, and I look forward to standing alongside those dedicated to service and the future of Minnesota’s higher education landscape.
TREASURER
Sam Bista | She/They
St. Cloud State University
Why are you interested in this specific position?
I’m excited to apply for both the Vice Chair and Treasurer positions at Students United because I truly believe in the mission of the organization and want to contribute in both a strategic and operational capacity. Having gained hands-on experience with the Community Leader Fellowship program in which one of my responsibilities was managing invoices and overseeing financial aspects of our organization, I feel confident in my ability to effectively serve as Treasurer. In this role, I would ensure the organization's financial integrity and transparency, helping to build a solid foundation for our continued growth.
That said, I’m equally excited about the opportunity to serve as Vice Chair. While I’ve developed a strong foundation in finance, I am eager to step into a more strategic and leadership-focused role. I’m motivated by the idea of contributing to big-picture decisions and collaborating with fellow officers to ensure Students United remains a powerful voice for students. As Vice Chair, I would have the opportunity to expand my leadership experience while still supporting financial processes and the State Chair, and I’m ready to take on more responsibility to drive meaningful change.