Graduate School Senate Candidates
Aviannah Brown
My name is Aviannah Brown, and I am a Family Nurse Practitioner graduate student at the University of Alabama. I earned my BSN from UA, graduating magna cum laude, and I currently work as a cardiac ICU nurse and an adjunct clinical instructor. I am also a mother who understands what it means to balance school, work, and family.
I am running for the Graduate School Senate seat because students should feel connected to UA and have a voice in decisions that affect them, whether they attend classes on campus or online. As an online student, I know that being part of the university can look different when you are not on campus every day.
My experience in nursing leadership and education has taught me to listen, speak up, and follow through. I would bring those same qualities to this role while learning from graduate students across all programs. I want to be an approachable representative who takes concerns seriously, brings them forward, and keeps students informed about what happens next.
My platform focuses on communication, access, and representation. I want to help make information about scholarships, emergency assistance, academic support, and involvement opportunities easier to find. I also want to advocate for more accessible ways for online students, working students, and student parents to participate in university life.
Anthony Willing
Anthony Willing is a fourth-year PhD student in the English Department specializing in 21st Century Queer Anglophone Literature. He is running as a member of the LGBTQ+ community to increase the visibility and representation on campus. As the former VP of Operations for the Graduate Student Association and former secretary for the House of Delegates he has experience working on legislation and policy with the university administrators. Furthermore, as the former union fellow with United Campus Workers he has consistently advocated for better pay and conditions on campus. He plans to build off the recent successes of the past administration to increase the number of senate seats so the graduate school has accurate representation from each college.
Additionally, he plans to increase the access to FAC funding to better support the needs of students who are presenting their research at conferences much in line with the work that the President has formulated to create a $150 supplement for undergraduates. Nonetheless, he wants to be a champion for all marginalized voices first and foremost and so as the current treasurer for The Spot (which advocates for neurodivergent students) he intends to help create more accessible infrastructure in conjunction with the ongoing capital developments to renovate spaces on campus.
School of Social Work Senate Candidates
Gabriella Bolling
Meaningful leadership begins with listening, not simply hearing what people say, but taking the time to understand their experiences, recognize their concerns, and turn their voices into action. Every student deserves to feel seen, heard, and represented, and I want to help create a School of Social Work where no voice goes overlooked. My name is Gabriella Bolling, and I am a second-year Social Work student at The University of Alabama, pursuing my BSW with a minor in African American Studies. As a School of Social Work Ambassador and an active participant in campus mentorship and social advocacy initiatives, I have continued to strengthen my commitment to service, leadership, and meaningful change.
I am running for School of Social Work Senator because I believe student representation should extend beyond holding a title. It should mean listening to students, advocating for their needs, and turning their concerns into actionable solutions. I want every student to feel connected to our school, supported in their academic and professional journey, and empowered to contribute to our community.
My platform, Gabi Gets It Done: Listen. Advocate. Connect. Deliver, is built on five pillars: student voice and advocacy, belonging and community, professional development and access to resources, service and civic engagement, and accountability. I plan to create opportunities for students to share feedback, connect peers with resources and professional opportunities, encourage community involvement, and provide transparent updates on the issues I advocate for.
As social work students, we learn the importance of empowering others, recognizing strengths, and addressing barriers. I want to bring those same values to student leadership. I may not have every answer immediately, but I will listen with intention, advocate with purpose, and remain committed to following through. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected School of Social Work. Let’s get it done!
Emma Grace Honer
My name is Emma Honer, and I am a student at the University of Alabama studying public health and social work. Through my involvement with the Student Government Association’s Board of Governors, Tuscaloosa’s One Place, and campus organizations, I have developed a passion for advocacy, student engagement, and creating opportunities that help students succeed. These experiences have shown me the importance of listening to student needs and turning ideas into meaningful change.
I am running for School of Social Work Senator because I want to strengthen the connection between students, faculty, and the professional social work community. I believe social work students deserve opportunities to apply what they learn in the classroom, explore different career paths, and build relationships that prepare them for life after graduation.
My platform focuses on expanding experiential learning, improving access to practicum placements, and creating more internship opportunities before students begin their required practicum. I also want to advocate for School of Social Work scholarships or financial assistance for students completing practicum placements, as many of these positions are unpaid and create financial challenges. Students should be able to gain valuable hands-on experience without financial barriers limiting their opportunities.
Additionally, I hope to increase engagement within the School of Social Work by fostering stronger connections among students, faculty, alumni, and community organizations. As Senator, I will advocate for student needs, listen to concerns, and work collaboratively to make our academic experience more connected, accessible, and career focused. I want every social work student to have the resources, relationships, and opportunities needed to succeed in order to feel prepared for their future careers.
Lily Monterroza
My name is Lily Monterroza, and I am a Sophomore here at the Capstone. I am from Nashville, Tennessee, and majoring in Social Work. Helping others has always been my passion, and I want to continue that here at UA. During my freshman year, I got involved in Freshman Forum, where I strengthened my communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. I got involved in my sorority by being the Event Planning Coordinator, which helped my organizational and planning skills.
I am running for Senate because I want to be a part of something bigger. My four platform points are student resources, professional development, student connection, and student advocacy and implementation.
I hope to give back and help my fellow Social Work students by providing them with more resources, as well as more opportunities to prepare Social Work students for their careers post-graduation. Student connection and community involvement are very important to me, and I believe we can create a better sense of community within the School of Social Work. I want to hear what the students have to say and be a direct advocate for them. I want them to feel heard and provide a place where they can share their concerns, suggestions, and ideas.