• Luigi Berinde

Junior

Class of 2026

Physics

As a Physics major in A&S planning to enroll in law school, I embody the College’s ideal of a liberal education. Being well-acquainted with both STEM and the humanities, I am equipped to articulate the wide range of ideologies and perspectives in the College.
   
My Chicago roots have allowed me to be at the crossroads of diverse political ideologies, with viewpoints in the Midwest shifting drastically in a matter of miles. I consider it imperative that those elected to the Student Assembly are not just merely functioning amongst diverse ideologies, but flourishing amidst them. Difference is but a catalyst for growth, and I believe we can always take that which is divisive and find where it can promote collective, invariant development.
   
My political philosophy is entirely based on logical reasoning and rationality. Logic is what should be guiding governance and policy. While emotions play a fundamentally crucial role in human connections, they can cloud political judgment. I advocate for decisions grounded in evidence and science, aiming for outcomes that are not only rational but also broadly beneficial. Ideally, that which is most logical should also be that which appeases the most. 

• Dylan Carson

Freshman 

Class of 2028 

Government

My name is Dylan and I’m a first-year interested in majoring in government! In my free time, I love hiking, meditating, and watching Survivor (maybe I’ll get on it one day). 
   
Having been a lobbyist for an environmental advocacy group, a member of my high school’s model congress team, and as I currently serve on my dorm’s hall council, I understand the importance of both publicly standing up for what I believe in and defending the interests of others. 
   
As a student representative, I aim to bring this understanding to the Assembly. I know that it is not my job to just project my ideas onto others but also to get to know the Cornellians that I am representing and to understand what actions I can take that will best support their well-being.
   
For my part, I’d love to have more outdoor, school-wide events like field days, where students can compete in outdoor activities and bond with classmates. But I want to hear what you want too! That’s why I’d create a dedicated email and Instagram that lets you share your ideas directly. Whether it’s sending me an email, or scheduling a time to have lunch, my first priority is to understand the wants and the needs of the people I represent. It’d be an honor to represent the CAS community!

• John Purcell

Freshman

Class of 2028

Government

Hi everyone! My name is John Purcell, and I am thrilled to be running for Student Assembly Arts and Sciences Representative. As your Freshman Representative, I’ve gained valuable experience in the assembly’s procedures and workings. I’ve supported key resolutions like “Resolution 37: Protecting Immigrant Students” and “Resolution 36: Addressing Recent Extraordinary Actions of the Federal Government.” As a member of the Communications Committee, I’ve worked to keep students informed and helped create a TikTok for the assembly, which is launching soon! I want to ensure that Cornell provides the resources and opportunities students need to thrive. With all the stress students face, it’s important to have moments to unwind, and I hope to advocate for more fun student activities! I deeply care about the Cornell community and am committed to making it more inclusive, supportive, and engaging. Real change starts with listening to student concerns and taking action on issues like academic equity, mental health support, and campus accessibility. As your Arts and Sciences Representative, I will ensure every student’s voice is heard and help create resolutions that foster a stronger, more united Cornell. Please vote for me, John Purcell!

• Jocelyn Swavy

Freshman

Class of 2028

Government and American Studies

As a representative for the College of Arts and Sciences, I will foster community, promote equality, and ensure that every student feels valued and supported.
   
One of my top priorities is to create more social events that unite A&S students beyond academic boundaries. No one should feel isolated within their major or disconnected from their peers. By strengthening our community, we can build lasting bonds and improve our overall Cornell experience.
   
Additionally, A&S students deserve high-quality resources that reflect the pride we have in our school. Too often, it feels like we receive the short end of the stick. As your representative I will improve our merchandise and give more back to our community so students feel appreciated.
   
Finally, I am passionate about advocating for more personalized career support. While A&S serves students from diverse majors, we shouldn’t have to work twice as hard to find internships and jobs. I plan to collaborate with A&S advisors to create a centralized platform where students can easily access tailored opportunities.
   
No matter how large our school is, we should never feel disconnected. I am dedicated to empowering students, fostering unity, and making A&S a school we’re proud to call our own.