Graduate Student Government President - John Arigbede
I am originally from Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria, and earned my undergraduate degree from the prestigious Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at UMass Amherst, specializing in the high-pressure synthesis of transition metal carbide catalysts and liquid organic hydrogen carriers. As President of the Graduate Student Government (GSG), I am committed to a people-centered approach, advocating for inclusivity, openness, and accessible leadership, with a focus on building a strong and supportive community. Outside of academics, I enjoy cooking, singing, reading, meditation, meeting people, and political analysis.
Graduate Student Government Vice President - Dhruv Tiwari
I'm Dhruv Tiwari, currently pursuing my MS in Engineering Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Hailing from the vibrant city of Mumbai on India's southwest coast, I'm also serving as the GSG Vice President. I chose to be a part of GSG because I’m passionate about fostering a supportive community among graduate students. It offers a platform to connect with peers, share ideas, and advocate for our needs, all of which enhance our academic and professional experiences. Being involved allows me to contribute to positive change and create opportunities for collaboration within the graduate community.
Graduate Student Government Treasurer - Ian Tincknell
I grew up in Westford, Massachusetts, and earned both my BA (Political Science) and MBA from UMass Amherst. Before returning to grad school to pursue my MS in Computer Science, I worked as a long-term care case manager at MassHealth for over seven years, developing a strong skill for empathetic communication. I joined GSG to connect with fellow graduate students and contribute to initiatives that enhance our community’s academic and social experiences. In my free time, I love to travel and share great food with friends.
Graduate Student Government Chief of Staff - Gaurav Mitra
I have been a consistent advocate for improving the services offered on campus to graduate students and to improve their experience of being a part of the thriving community on the UMass Amherst Campus. Previously, I served as a senator for three terms in the erstwhile Graduate Student Senate and was a member of the executive committee. I am now excited to take on the newly created role of Chief of Staff for the Graduate Student Government to improve the organizations day to day functioning.
Graduate Student Government Secretary of University Relations and Media Communications - Sarah Lapin
I recently graduated from UMass Amherst with my BS in Public Health Sciences and am currently pursuing my MPH in Community Health Education. Amherst has been my home for the past four years, but I am originally from the great city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I joined the GSG to stay connected to the University community during this chapter of my education. My role as the secretary of URMC has allowed me to grow and work closely with the entire University community. I look forward to connecting with all graduate students and university administration!
