GLC Director of Programming Candidate

Biography

Erica Jones is a first-year graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in International Affairs Policy and Analysis with a focus on public diplomacy and human rights policy. Preceding this, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in International and Global Studies and two minors in Spanish and Political Science at the University of Arkansas. Here, she was heavily involved in student organizations and served as a resident assistant for two years, encouraging university involvement among students and connecting them to campus resources.

Over the past school year, Erica has been an avid member of the SIS Graduate Student Council, helping to represent over 2,000 students. As a department senator, she acts as a student-faculty liaison and has assisted in hosting multiple programs, including socials, academic panels, career
workshops, and networking hours. She has also been involved with the Graduate Black Student Union and the Student Consortium on Women, Peace, and Security, which has produced opportunities to provide support for and build relationships among underrepresented students in international affairs.

With her extensive background in student and campus involvement, Erica is excited about bringing her experience to the Graduate Leadership Council. Her qualifications emphasize a passion for meeting student needs and organizing programs to encourage student engagement. As a representative for the entire AU graduate cohort, Erica is committed to providing the necessary support for all students and rewarding scholarship and service in the community.

Mission Statement

To my friends, classmates, and colleagues, my name is Erica Jones, and I am happy to announce that I am running for Director of Programming and Events of the American University Graduate Leadership Council.

I would greatly appreciate your vote, as well as a vote for my ticket:

  • Sebastian Barassi as President
  • Johanna Rothe as VP of Management
  • Gustavo Marangoni as VP of Finance
  • Jennifer Blandin as Director of Communications
  • Damiano Trovato as Director of Clubs and Campus Relations

As student leaders, we aim to represent the AU student body and address relevant issues important to our community. Our focus is on providing all AU graduate students with unique opportunities to support their professional and personal development through an inclusive and dynamic environment.

From my experience in student leadership, including the 2024-2025 SIS Graduate Student Council, I am skilled in event planning and responding to students’ needs in an effective and efficient manner. I am also familiar with working with department faculty and collaborating with student organizations such as GBSU, WPS, and ALCE.

As Director of Programming, I will commit to serving as a liaison for communication and joint programming efforts between campus organizations and to supporting students through their academic and professional endeavors. I plan to achieve this objective by organizing embassy events, site visits, networking functions, and socials where students can connect with employers, alumni, and their peers in a meaningful way. As a university-wide representative, I hope to build bridges between all Master’s and PhD students and empower students through service and community-building.

Voting opens Wednesday, April 9, at 10 am and closes Thursday, April 10, at 5 pm. To discuss any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact me at ej8523a@american.edu. I am eager to serve the AU Graduate student body, and I appreciate any and all support for my candidacy!