2025 Graduate School Senate Candidates

These are the candidates for the Graduate School Senate Seats in the Spring 2025 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 the following. I wish to graduate further students’ needs for GTA and GRA stipend increases and clear and straightforward residency requirements so that graduate students can reach their goals.

Rebecca Rose Lutonsky Headshot

I think that the degree from The University of Alabama that each graduate student will hopefully receive will be made much more valuable by extending the rights of graduate students, as mentioned above. It is also essential that graduate students have an open forum and 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. I will also let the administration know our requirements so we can optimistically meet them. I also believe in collaborating with Undergraduate Senators and students so that there will be strength in numbers at the negotiating table and more collective bargaining through our collective voice can be realized. 

Scott Ratchford

My name is Scott Ratchford, and I am a graduate student in the STEM/MBA program. I graduated from UA in 2024 with a B.S. in Computer Science. 

I am a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Northport. In my free time, I like to write code, 3D model, play video games, and read. 

I am running for SGA Senate in order to provide my fellow graduate students with a voice. If elected, I will attempt to reduce unnecessary spending and keep the SGA as efficient as possible! 

Scott Ratchford Headshot

Mohammad Mohi Uddin

“The woods are lovely, dark and deep, But I have promises to keep, And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep.”  -Robert Frost 

My name is Mohammad Mohi Uddin, and I am a second-year Ph.D. student in Instructional Technology. As a dedicated spokesperson for students’ welfare, I am committed to fostering meaningful change within our university community. 

I am running for the Senate because I believe in the power of collective voices to address the unique needs of graduate students. I aim to serve as a bridge between students and the administration, ensuring that our concerns are heard and addressed. I want to take initiatives that enhance academic experiences and pave the way for students to become legends in academic settings and beyond! 

Mohammad Udin Headshot

My platform is rooted in two key pillars: 

  1. Advocacy for Resources and Support: I will work to secure increased access to funding, research opportunities, mental health services, transformative facilities, enhanced Medicare services, improved daycare facilities for graduate students’ children, and tailored legal support for graduate students. 
  2. Fostering Inclusion and Diversity: I am dedicated to creating a campus environment where everyone feels valued and represented. I will ensure that students from all backgrounds have equitable access to resources, recognition, and decision-making processes. 

Lastly, I value your opinion. Remember, your vote is not just for me; rather, it’s for a future where every graduate student thrives. Let’s work together to make our university a hub of opportunity, innovation, and excellence.