The Student Trustee of Worcester State is an elected position that represents all WSU students on various committees and initiatives across campus. This year, Brandol Ogando-Saladin is serving as Student Trustee.
Class of 2026, Political Science with a minor in Spanish Hometown | Worcester, MA Campus Involvement | Intercultural Student Alliance, Student Senate Secretary of Diversity and Multiculturalism, Orientation Leader,
Brandol Ogando-Saladin
Can you describe the role of the Student Trustee? What do they do for the student body? The Student Trustee serves as the voice of the student body on the Board of Trustees – bringing forward student concerns, perspectives, and ideas and ensuring decisions reflect student needs. It’s about being a bridge between students and university leadership so students have a seat at the table when important choices are made. The Student Trustee also attends SGA meetings as a guest and non-voting member, which provides another opportunity to stay connected and involved with student concerns at a more direct level.
What are some goals you hope to accomplish while in this position? I want to strengthen communication between students and the administration so students feel informed and included in decisions. I aim to elevate underrepresented voices in campus conversations and support initiatives that improve student life and success through resources, support systems, and meaningful opportunities for engagement.
What are some of the challenges you could face in this position? Balancing the diverse needs of our student body can be challenging because priorities do not always align. Students come from many different backgrounds, with unique goals and concerns, and it is not always easy to represent everyone equally at the same time. Another challenge is making sure students feel heard and that their input is valued in decision-making. It takes time and effort to build trust between students and leadership, and part of this role is making sure those conversations remain open and meaningful.
What do you hope your fellow students remember about you? I hope students remember me as someone who listened, was approachable, and worked hard to represent them. I also hope to be remembered as a leader who helped make the campus more inclusive and connected.
What advice would you give to students just beginning to explore the type of leader they hope to become? Say yes to opportunities, even small ones, because every experience helps you grow. The kind of leader you become is shaped by the relationships you build, the challenges you face, and the values you choose to stand by. My advice is to stay open to growth, seek out mentors and peers who inspire you, and remember that leadership is ultimately about service and making a positive impact on the people around you.
What are your current plans for the next few years? I plan on pursuing a master’s degree to continue building my knowledge and skills, and then I want to pursue a career in diplomacy and international relations. My goal is to work on issues that affect both our country and the broader global community, such as security, human rights, and sustainable development.
