2024 Class Trustee Nominees
Sophia Cartsonis
Hi everyone! My name is Sophia Cartsonis. I recently graduated in 2024 with a double major in Biology and Politics and while at Oberlin was a member of the Swim Team, Green Edge Fund, and OSCA. I am interested in representing our class as a trustee because I want to ensure that our values as Oberlin alums are a part of Oberlin College and Conservatory even after we graduate. Specifically, I believe that it is important that we protect Oberlin traditions like OSCA, EXCOS, and the Conservatory of Music. Most importantly, our investments MUST BE ETHICAL, such as ensuring that our endowment does not support weapons manufacturing and fossil fuels. I have experience with transferable skills such as working for sustainability funds which focus on climate transition and community investment, as well as experience in multi-million dollar fundraising for progressive causes and campaigns. I hope if elected to ensure that our class's voice is heard at all board meetings.
Miles DeMille
At Oberlin, I came to understand the importance of our motto "Learning and Labor". I learned not only in the lecture hall, but also when driving the Rideline during the busiest weekends and working on cook shifts at Tank. If you elect me as class trustee, I will stand true to this motto, especially as the college renegotiates contracts with its unions next summer. As a card-carrying member of the UFCW Local 75, I will strongly advocate for the interests of faculty, student-workers and other college employees on our board.
Andréa Jones
My name is Andréa Jones and I graduated from Oberlin recently in May 2024. I earned my BA in Computer Science with a Psychology focus and a minor in Africana Studies. I was also a dedicated member of the volleyball team as well serving as captain for 3/4 seasons. Currently, I serve as an IT consultant for a private company known as Arctic Glacier Premium Ice, representing as my own LLC along with getting my Masters of Science in User Centered Design online at Brandeis University. Oberlin helped me find my passion about advancing my skills within the UI/UX tech field in general. I am committed to continuous learning, leadership, and community service. As Class Trustee, I would bring dedication and a fresh diverse perspective to the Oberlin College Board of Trustees.
Imani Marie Joseph
I have experience working with the Oberlin’s administration from my 2 years as a student senator as the head of the racial equity committee. Also as a member of Students For Free Palestine I have worked closely with Dean Goff, Chris Canavan, and Matthew Lahey.
Chudi Martin Jr.
Hello everyone! I am Chudi Martin Jr (he/him), and I am from the Southside of Chicago. I am currently a full-time teacher through Teach For America, which powerfully aligns with Oberlin’s commitment to providing an excellent, culturally relevant education for all while being in a diverse community. Among the numerous activities I engaged in at Oberlin, one of my biggest honors was the student body electing me to serve on Student Senate for four years. Three consisted of being on the executive board of Senate (1 year as VP of Academic Affairs and two years as the President of the Student Body). As a Senator, my duty was to be the connecting voice between the Senate, students, student organizations, faculty, senior admin, and the Board of Trustees. There was no shortage of difficult conversations, challenging questions to answer, and tumultuous situations to navigate. One example was completely redesigning Student Senates bylaws to better serve the entire Oberlin community. Through this, I came to understand the inner workings of the school as a whole from my personal relation to the institution, Senate's responsibility to students and student organizations, senior admin's responsibility for campus-wide outreach and operations, and the Board's responsibility for ensuring that Oberlin will exist for all that may want to experience what it has to offer. By no means is any organization or group perfect, but in the love of Oberlin, I believe that each group comes together harmoniously to do what is best. I believe that with my unique experience, knowledge, and understanding of each group's inner workings, I am more than capable of fulfilling the roles and responsibilities required of the class trustee position.
John McDonnell
After having undergone my four years at Oberlin, despite the faculty and overall student body having its fair share of strife, I believe that Oberlin has made productive steps towards bettering its student bodies overall prospects. Particularly with Oberlin's increased investment into their business department, I have great hope for what the future may hold in terms of Oberlin producing quality folks who can impact the word. On that note, I hope to help advocate and promote cause such as these that may help the career aspirations and prospects of future Oberlin students.
Wyae’ Stewart
From the first day I set foot on campus as a freshman, teary-eyed and full of anticipation, the motto “Learning and Labor” was deeply ingrained in me. Every PAL, every professor, and every speech emphasized this slogan. Gradually, this motto became more than just a part of my vocabulary. As I delved deeper into the Oberlin community and contemplated the legacy I wanted to leave behind, it evolved into a practice.
During my time at Oberlin, I had the privilege of serving in various roles: Student Assistant to the President’s Office, VP of Academic Affairs for Student Senate, Chair of Abusua, RA at the Afrikan Heritage House, a Bonner Scholar, Admissions Ambassador, and the student representative on several committees such as the Honorary Degree Committee and LEAD Advisory Board, among others.
Each of these roles, though diverse in nature, offered me the invaluable opportunity to learn and act, transforming goals into tangible actions. This was crucial not only for my personal growth but also for fostering a continued connection between staff, faculty, and students. In addition, these experiences altogether showed me the importance of student engagement and advocacy on issues that arise, and the necessity of collaborating with faculty, staff, and the administration to create a campus that reflects the aspirations and objectives of all stakeholders. I also want to emphasize the importance of having a representative at the table who knows how to listen and advocate effectively, someone who can provide reassurance to current and past students, while connecting with and advising the next class, and someone who is transparent about their goals.
Given that I was already actively participating in these discussions as a student and living up to these qualities, I am certain that I can continue to embody the Oberlin motto of “Learning and Labor” in my role as Class Trustee.
Ian Watson
My name is Ian Watson, class of 2024. I graduated with an individual major in Science, Technology, and Society. I'm passionate about improving Oberlin and ensuring students have a voice. As a Trustee, I'm in favor of student and faculty control, reaffirming support for OSCA, and improving Oberlin for its staff and students. I firmly believe that Learning and Labor are core to Oberlin.