President
Sonika Singhal is a third-year PhD student in Information Systems at the School of Business , VCU. With a strong passion for research and student advocacy, Sonika is dedicated to enhancing the graduate student experience at VCU. As the President of the Graduate Student Association, she is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all graduate students.
Sonika’s research focuses on Fintech and cybersecurity, areas where she is actively exploring the intersection of technology and financial services, as well as the critical need for secure systems. She is deeply involved in initiatives that bridge the gap between students and university administration. Her goal is to ensure that the voices of graduate students are heard and that their needs are met through effective communication, resources, and opportunities.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Sonika enjoys learning new things and meeting people to understand their perspectives. She believes that continuous learning and open dialogue are key to personal and professional growth. She looks forward to leading the GSA in advocating for the best interests of all graduate students at VCU.
Vice-President
Isaac Kwabena Yeboah is a doctoral student in Public Policy and Administration at Virginia Commonwealth University with a research interest in the intersection of corruption, ethics, and leadership development.
Isaac's research endeavors are driven by his passion for identifying leadership frameworks that promote ethical governance and sustainable development. Drawing on his extensive experience in financial services and local government roles, notably as a Management Analyst for the City of Norfolk, Virginia, Business Analyst from Dalex Finance, and Statistician from Ghana Revenue Authority, he brings a unique perspective to his studies, blending practical insights with rigorous academic inquiry. His work is grounded in quantitative research methodologies, allowing him to analyze complex policy issues and provide evidence-based solutions.
Isaac is committed to advancing the field of public policy and administration by exploring how ethical leadership can enhance institutional effectiveness and reduce corruption, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of good governance and equitable development.
Treasurer
Cammie Justus-Smith is currently a 3rd year doctoral student in the School of Education, focusing on research, assessment, and evaluation. Prior to her time at VCU, she worked as a K-12 teacher, a non-profit founder, and a microschool teacher/administrator. Cammie completed my BA (environmental science) and MAT (secondary science education) degrees at the University of Virginia in 2008. When she is not managing the load of a full-time graduate student, you will find her relaxing with my pets and spending time with her son. Cammie served on the GSA Appropriation Committee in 2022-2023, as the president of the SOE’s LaunchPAD organization, and is currently the American Educational Research Association’s Graduate Student Committee Chair-Elect. She looks forward to working with the GSA and VCU’s graduate student body to make positive changes for students across the campuses.
Research Symposium Chair
Originally from the Czech Republic, Marie moved to the United States at 19 and studied neuroscience at UAB. After graduating, she earned an MS in Biomedical and Health Informatics in Cleveland. Now, Marie is a third-year MD-PhD student in the Department of Neurosurgery. In Dr. Limbrick's lab, she integrates bioinformatics, surgical techniques, and basic science to study neuroinflammation in pediatric hydrocephalus. In her free time, she enjoys roller skating, geocaching, and spending time outdoors. Marie is the Chair for the Graduate Student Research Symposium and is excited about planning the event.
Appropriations Chair
Patrick began his graduate program at VCU in Fall 2022. He is desirous and passionate about building meaningful connections and collaborative opportunities toward fostering a stronger and more engaging community of graduate students. Hence, he joined and serve in various leadership roles in his department and within the graduate school such as chemistry graduate student organization (CGSO) as a two-term treasurer and a senator at the GPSS while currently serving as the president of CGSO and vice-president for the graduate and professional student senate. Currently at VCU, he is undergoing his PhD research in inorganic chemistry. Prior to joining VCU, he graduated from the University of Ghana with a BSc. in chemistry. Upon graduation, he embarked on a one-year service to his home country and thereafter joined the teaching staff in Legacy Girls’ College where he taught WASSCE, A- Level and IGCSE Chemistry
Event Chair
Shruti Shrivastava is the Events chair for the 2024-2025 academic year. She is originally from Northern Virginia. She completed her BS in science as a biology major from VCU, and is currently a second year Master’s student in the biology program. She had been involved in many different organizations, running from small student organizations to state and even national level organizations. She is very excited to be on the board this year, and hopes to create events to help foster connections between all graduate students, regardless of level or discipline. Some fun facts: she earned a music minor in classical guitar, and she’s heavily involved in sports, with the longest running sport being martial arts for nearly 2 decades.
Communications Chair
Walker Beeton is a second-year graduate student in the Master of Social Work program. Walker is currently the Communications Chair for the Graduate Student Association and the President of the Master of Social Work Student Association. Walker aspires to bring inclusivity and increase communication efficiency throughout the various Graduate Student Organizations. In his free time, Walker enjoys being in nature, gardening, and spending time with his loved ones.
Secretary
Sarah is a double Ram having obtained their Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice in May 2023. Currently Sarah is enrolled in the Wilder School’s Criminal Justice program. Sarah is also a full-time VCU employee as a senior executive assistant within the health administration department at the College of Health Professions. Sarah’s hobbies include crocheting, running and enjoying quality time with my family, friends and dog.
Faculty Advisor
Erin Burke Brown has been a community engagement professional for 20 years. She is a self-described ‘pracademic’ who loves to integrate the worlds of practitioner and academic to improve communities. Dr. Brown has worked in K-12, higher education, and the nonprofit sector in various capacities. Her work has primarily focused on ensuring that under-resourced and minority students have access to equitable opportunities and resources. As an administrator, she is fiercely committed to keeping families and students at the center of conversations and initiatives related to academic success. Dr. Brown completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia where she double majored in English Literature and African American Studies. She completed her Masters and Doctorate at VCU studying Public Policy and Administration with a focus on higher education administration. In her free time, Dr. Brown enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, writing historical fiction, and mentoring young people.
