Student Government Elections

Nathaniel Carlin

Physical Education
Mattoon, IL

Why do you want to be the Student Trustee?
I'm running for Student Trustee because you're the celebrity- and your voice deserves the spotlight. After three years in Student Government, I know how to turn student concerns into real actions behind the scenes, like an agent working for you. I'll make sure your ideas, struggles, and successes are heard where decisions are made. I will be accessible, responsive, and focused on results, not titles. This role isn't about me- it's about you.To stay accessible, I will hold regular office hours so any student can be heard. I will also respond to emails in less than 24 hours.

What else would you like students to know about you?
Students should know that I don't take representation lightly. I've spent three years building relationships everywhere across campus, learning how decisions are made, and advocating when it wasn't easy. I'm not afraid to ask hard questions, but I also know how to work collaboratively to get results. I believe leadership means showing up consistently, listening first, and following through. I care deeply about this campus and the students who make it what it is. If elected, I won't disappear after the campaign. I'll be visible, accountable, and committed to earning your trust- starting on day 1.

Rhett Lehman

Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Sullivan, IL

Why do you want to be the Student Trustee?
I hope to become the Lake Land College Student Trustee to support the student body of Lake Land College. I have served in numerous leadership roles and feel fit for the position. I would enjoy serving our students and hearing any needs they have that need to be brought to the College Board. I am very involved and accessible. I am a member of multiple clubs and spend most of my time in science, math, and agriculture classes. This would be a wonderful experience, and I am excited for the opportunity to run.

What else would you like students to know about you?
I am heavily involved in agricultural organizations and serve as the treasurer of the Illinois Junior Hereford Association. I am familiar with the structured formalities of organizations, and this position would not be foreign to me. I am also a Pre-Veterinary Medicine student who enjoys science. I spend most of my time here in the Northeast or Northwest buildings studying microbiology, zoology, and chemistry. I hope to make a positive impact on our student body through service as the College Student Trustee.

Donald Wyatt Draper

Agriculture Production & Management
Hutsonville, IL

Why do you want to be the Student Trustee?
I want to be a Student Trustee because I believe that I have what it takes to be a good representation of us Lakers here in southern Mattoon. Upon recommendation from peers and staff here at the college, running for Student Trustee has become a goal of mine. Through my time serving on FFA officer teams at chapter, section, and state levels; I have the prior knowledge and personable traits needed to be a successful spokesperson for our student body. I think being the pathway between students and the governing body of the college will help us accomplish great things.

What else would you like students to know about you?
I grew up on a farm in Southeastern Illinois, raising a herd of angus influence beef cattle and a row crop operation. My sisters and I started our own show pig operation that is still active today. Through my high school career, I was very active in groups like FFA- serving on officer teams on state, section and chapter levels. Fellowship of Christian Athletes, where I was the school's president, as well as my class vice president. Upon graduation, I will return back to the family farm and continue to be active in Farm Bureau, Illinois Corn Grower's and farm.

Deann St Michael

Associate Degree Nurse
Mattoon, IL

Why do you want to be the Student Trustee?
As a nursing student at Lake Land College, I have witnessed firsthand the power of education to transform lives and communities. I am seeking the position of student trustee to ensure every student has a meaningful voice in the decisions that shape our institution. My campaign is built on three pillars: strong student advocacy, a commitment to diversity and health equality and expanding academic resources for all. I bring curiosity, compassion, and dedication to everything I do. I will bring those same qualities to the board. Together, we can make Lakeland College stronger for every student who walks through its doors.

What else would you like students to know about you?
Hi, I am DeAnn-- a nursing student student at Lake Land College running for Student Trustee. I chose nursing because caring for others is who I am. That same compassion, integrity and lifelong curiosity fuels this campaign. Every student deserves a voice at the table. I want to be yours. Vote DeAnn for Student Trustee--because every student matters.

Noah John Gorenz

Agriculture Transfer
Pana, IL

Why do you want to be on the Student Government Association (SGA)?
I want to be a voice for the average Lake Land student as well as give the best college experience to Lake Land students.

What else would you like students to know about you?
I want people to be able to expect that no matter the work I do I will make sure that it is the best I can do.

Sayde Lynn Hogg

Practical Nursing
Highland, IL

Why do you want to be on the Student Government Association (SGA)?
I want to be a sophomore SGA delegate because I have truly enjoyed my time as a freshman delegate. This past year I learned how much SGA supports the student body and creates a positive college experience for everyone. If elected to be a sophomore delegate, I will continue to show up, put in the wok, and represent Lake Land College well.

What else would you like students to know about you?
Outside of SGA, I am actively involved in the nursing program here at Lake Land College. I am involved and balance leadership with academics and working on my family dairy farm. I value teamwork and understand the importance of advocating for others.

Rhett Lehman

Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Sullivan, IL

Why do you want to be on the Student Government Association (SGA)?
I hope to become the Lake Land College Student Trustee to support the student body of Lake Land College. I have served in numerous leadership roles and feel fit for the position. I would enjoy serving our students and hearing any needs they have that need to be brought to the College Board. I am very involved and accessible. I am a member of multiple clubs and spend most of my time in science, math, and agriculture classes. This would be a wonderful experience, and I am excited for the opportunity to run.

What else would you like students to know about you?
I am heavily involved in agricultural organizations and serve as the treasurer of the Illinois Junior Hereford Association. I am familiar with the structured formalities of organizations, and this position would not be foreign to me. I am also a Pre-Veterinary Medicine student who enjoys science. I spend most of my time here in the Northeast or Northwest buildings studying microbiology, zoology, and chemistry. I hope to make a positive impact on our student body through service as the College Student Trustee.

Taylar Lee Mercer

Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Sullivan, IL

Why do you want to be on the Student Government Association (SGA)?
I feel that being a voice for people who may not have to opportunity to speak up is super important. I love being there for people and I would hope if I needed it someone would be there for me too. I also feel that being part of a group is a great way to be social and make new friends.

What else would you like students to know about you?
I love to be there for people and animals. I always try to be someone you can talk to when you need it, and I’m learning to be a veterinarian so that the patients who can’t speak are able to be helped in the best way possible.

Makinzie Gaither

Agriculture Transfer
Sumner, IL

Why do you want to be on the Student Government Association (SGA)?
I want to be a Sophomore SGA Delegate. I want to make sure students have a voice, feel heard, and are represented. Over the past year, I have gotten involved on campus and realized how important it is to have people who will speak up and listen. I want to help make a positive difference for Student life on campus by being someone others can come to. I don't have everything figured out, but I am willing to show up, speak up, and do my best to represent the student body.

What else would you like students to know about you?
I am easy to talk to and want people to feel comfortable and included. I grew up in agriculture, and that has taught me a lot about working hard, being responsible, and showing up for others. I am always willing to listen to anything big or small. I try to always stay positive and be someone others can count on.

Mara Dorjahn

Agriculture Transfer
Monticello, IL

Why do you want to be on the Student Government Association (SGA)?
As a freshman delegate, I have had many great experiences on SGA and would love to continue working with this amazing organization!

What else would you like students to know about you?
I am from Monticello, IL, and was an active member of FFA, including time spent as an officer!

Rachel Lynn Warfel

Business
Casey, IL

Why do you want to be on the Student Government Association (SGA)?
I would like to a sophomore on SGA because I enjoyed being a freshman delegate. Another reason is because I would like to be involved to help improve the school.

What else would you like students to know about you?
I am from Casey,il. I served time on student council in high school, and played critical role as an officer.

Deann St Michael

Associate Degree Nurse
Mattoon, IL

Why do you want to be on the Student Government Association (SGA)?
As a nursing student at Lake Land College, I have witnessed firsthand the power of education to transform lives and communities. I am seeking the position of student trustee to ensure every student has a meaningful voice in the decisions that shape our institution. My campaign is built on three pillars: strong student advocacy, a commitment to diversity and health equality and expanding academic resources for all. I bring curiosity, compassion, and dedication to everything I do. I will bring those same qualities to the board. Together, we can make Lakeland College stronger for every student who walks through its doors.

What else would you like students to know about you?
Hi, I am DeAnn-- a nursing student student at Lake Land College running for Student Trustee. I chose nursing because caring for others is who I am. That same compassion, integrity and lifelong curiosity fuels this campaign. Every student deserves a voice at the table. I want to be yours. Vote DeAnn for Student Trustee--because every student matters.

Aaliyah Abulfathi

Surgical Technology -Track
Charleston, IL

Why do you want to be on the Student Government Association (SGA)?
I would love to be a Sophomore SGA Delegate because I want to help make changes. I feel like I can be a good voice for the student body and help bring creative ideas to the table. I also think it would be a fun way to get more involved and help make Lakeland a better place for everyone!