By Marcus Sanchez
Bergen Community College’s Student Government Association has a new executive board, aiming to make an impact on their community of students and achieve their goals during their term. But who are they? Let us delve into their achievements, goals, and passions by getting to know them.
President Hanieh Kachooee
President Hanieh Kachooee studies Computer Science at BCC. She joined the Student Government Association to work towards a common issue amongst her and her classmates in an IT class. Soon after, she was elected as the Committee Chair for Academic Affairs. After her first year in SGA, she ran for this position to initiate systemic change, some of which include making the student transfer process more student-friendly and a feminine hygiene initiative that would provide menstrual products in the bathrooms. As president, she serves as the official representative signatory and the chief executive of SGA.
The E-board’s recruitment plan brought in 52 eager members, emphasizing diverse representation. With over 130 feedback forms collected from BCC students last spring semester, the executive board and SGA members aim to work on data-driven initiatives that directly address trending issues. Alongside presiding over Student Government, Hanieh tutors, academic coaches, and works as a Student Fellow for the Disability Alliance Fellowship. Her academic goals include pursuing a master’s in AI and machine learning with a minor in mathematics. Conclusively, she wants students to know that the SGA is here for them; and they are welcome to feedback and aim to be more approachable.
Fun fact: Hanieh runs a vibrant cooking blog where she shares her culinary adventures and favorite recipes. Her top two recipes are her sourdough bread and home style roasted veggie lasagna.
Vice President Joel S. Lewis
An International student from the Caribbean islands of Antigua and Barbuda, Vice President Joel S. Lewis studies Business and plans to switch to Psychology in order to become a clinical psychologist to make a meaningful impact on mental health advocacy. He finds interest in this field as he strives to destigmatize vulnerability among men of color, breaking down barriers, fostering spaces where openness and healing are encouraged. He ran for this position to further pursue this goal, as it gives him a platform to advocate for the voiceless and address issues affecting students’ personal and academic lives. Alongside academia, Joel loves the outdoors, often spending time at the park near his house reading or listening to podcasts. He dreams of starting his own podcast which would combine his love for storytelling with his desire to inspire others. Lastly, his plans include organizing impactful SGA Initiatives that will enhance student engagement and fostering more partnerships with departments and outside organizations. Joel’s vision is to leave a lasting legacy of inclusivity, empowerment, and collaboration at the college.
Fun fact: Joel is the President of the Mighty Alpha Chapter of Phi Psi Lambda and the National Vice President of Community and Public Relations for Phi Psi Lambda, roles that have significantly shaped him into a better leader, son, friend, and person.
Chief Justice Meryem Tos
Chief Justice Meryem Tos is an international student from Konya, Türkiye. With a background spanning the U.S., England, and Türkiye, she brings a unique global perspective to her role. She studies science and aims to transfer to a four-year university for her childhood passion, architecture. She ran for this position to foster campus engagement and ensure students’ voices are heard, especially those from minority backgrounds. On campus, she’s involved in numerous clubs, which includes the International Student Association, Model UN, and the Muslim Student Association, of which she formerly served as Vice-President.
In addition to being a Bergen student, Meryem is also a dual enrollment student at Anadolu University, where she pursues a bachelors in international relations. In the future, she aspires to open her own architecture firm or teach as a professor in this field.
Fun fact: Meryem’s love for Legos and her international marketing blog lets her creative side shine, fueling her passion for architecture and adding a unique spark to her leadership style.
Secretary Derya Nur Arslan
Secretary Derya Nur Arslan, originally from Türkiye, has lived in the U.S. for just over a year. She studies Psychology and plays as #19 on Bergen’s women’s soccer team.
Additionally, she is also a member of the Torch, works as a Student Fellow for the Disability Alliance Fellowship, and as an Assistant Teacher for a childcare company. She loves reading, watching movies and TV shows, and researching a wide range of topics. Right now, she’s reading “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame” by Victor Hugo, watching “The Addams Family,” and following the Turkish soap opera Kizilcik Serbeti. Derya’s big goal is to transfer to Yale after Bergen. She was inspired to join the SGA after learning about its impact from the previous president. As Secretary, she values communication and aims to ensure students are well-informed and engaged. Derya encourages students to reach out to her with any questions about SGA.
Fun fact: Derya, besides soccer, also took karate classes when she was a kid, played tennis and was part of a volleyball club in her county during her teenage years.
Treasurer Ryan Ruiz-Valera
Treasurer Ryan Ruiz-Valera, originally from Puebla, Mexico, was born and raised in New York and now resides in Paramus, New Jersey. As an Economics major at Bergen Community College, his passion for the subject was sparked by an inspiring AP Macro class. He is an avid fan of Premier League soccer, particularly Manchester City, and also supports the Mexican national team. Ryan decided to run for this position after receiving a strong endorsement from the previous treasurer, and he built solid relationships with the former executive board members, which helped him run a successful campaign. As Treasurer, Ryan oversees the Student Activities Board (SAB), ensuring it remains self-sustaining and productive. He is dedicated to creating a team within SAB that is ambitious and capable of organizing efficient and impactful events. Ryan’s academic aspirations include transferring to a supportive four-year university that aligns with his ideals and offers financial assistance. Outside of his academic and leadership roles, Ryan cherishes his family, especially his six nephews
Fun fact: Ryan is always seen wearing a bracelet given to him by one of his nephews, a cherished gift that he has never taken off since receiving it. This truly encapsulates the love and care he has toward all six nephews.
