These are the candidates for the Graduate School Senate Seats in the Spring 2026 SGA General Election.
Rebecca Rose Lutonsky
I, Rebecca Rose Lutonsky, seek the office of Graduate School Senator. I am running for the office of Graduate Senator because I wish to represent graduate students’ needs at this great institution, The University of Alabama, to the best of my ability. My platform includes all of the following. I wish to address graduate students’ needs for GTA and GRA stipend increases and for clear, straightforward residency requirements so that graduate students can reach their goals. I think the degree from The University of Alabama that each graduate student will hopefully receive will be made much more valuable by extending graduate students’ rights, as mentioned above.
It is also essential that graduate students have an open forum and a clearinghouse to express their opinions and needs to their senators. I will be available via email and at graduate functions to hear graduate students’ requests and express them to the Student Government Association and the student body at large. I will also let the administration know our requirements to meet them optimistically. I also believe in collaborating with Undergraduate Senators and students so that there will be strength in numbers at the negotiating table and that more of a sense of collective bargaining can be achieved through our collective voice.
Heidi Ward
My name is Heidi Ward, and I am a first-year traditional MBA student at The University of Alabama and earned my undergraduate degree in Public Relations and Communication Studies in the Honors College, graduating summa cum laude. My current involvement on campus includes Case Team, the MBA Association, and I currently serve as a Graduate Research Assistant. My academic and professional background has shaped my passion for leadership, communication, and service.
As I enter my tenth semester, I am running for Senate because I care deeply about this campus and want to be an active part of making it better for both undergraduate and graduate students. Having experienced UA from multiple perspectives, I understand how policies, resources, and communication decisions directly affect student and staff success and belonging. I believe students deserve representatives who listen, advocate thoughtfully, and follow through.
My platform centers on three priorities: advocacy, transparency, and student engagement. I am committed to amplifying student voices in decision-making, improving communication between SGA and the student body, and supporting initiatives that enhance academic, professional, and personal development. I also want to ensure that students feel informed about and connected to the opportunities available to them. Through collaboration and clear communication, I hope to help create a campus environment where every student feels supported, heard, and empowered to succeed.