WSA Executive Board
WSA Executive Board
President - JD Mazuera Arias
I'm JD Mazuera Arias, and I'm honored to serve as the President of the Wagner Student Association (WSA). Currently pursuing my Master of Public Administration (MPA) with a specialization in social impact, innovation, and investment (SI3), I've got a passion for all things related to politics, policy, tech, and community engagement, particularly issues impacting the Latino community. My journey here has been quite the adventure, from my roots in Colombia to growing up in North Carolina and navigating various roles in finance, grassroots organizing, and public policy. Along the way, I've had the privilege of working on Capitol Hill, exploring the tech industry, and diving into corporate social responsibility (CSR). Now, I'm excited to lead the WSA and foster an inclusive, vibrant community at Wagner. Feel free to connect with me if you're interested in collaborative projects, networking, or simply sharing a good cup of coffee. Let's make the most of our time here and create meaningful experiences together! 🌟
I joined the Wagner Student Association because I believe that together, we can elevate our collective Wagner experience. As the heart of our student community, the WSA provides a platform for us to connect, collaborate, and amplify our impact. I hope to foster a sense of belonging among our diverse student body and facilitate opportunities for personal and professional growth. Let's come together to organize engaging events, discuss pressing issues, and build lifelong friendships. Together, we can make our time at NYU Wagner truly exceptional! 
Vice President / Ombudsperson - Gabriel Flores
Hey! My name is Gabe Flores, and I am the Vice President of WSA! I am in the MPA-PNP program specializing in advocacy & political action. I am originally from the Southside of Chicago from an immigrant parent background. I did my undergrad at the University of Michigan where I did my B.A. in History with a minor in writing. After I graduate from Wagner, I would love to work within the labor movement to unionize workplaces and pass pro-labor legislation.
I am a person that fundamentally cares about people and addressing the issues that people go through and being a part of WSA has allowed me to do that. As students, our lives are not easy especially when we consider our unique backgrounds and current predicaments, and I am happy to see that my role within the association has allowed me to be that advocate for students and really fight for the support we all need!
Students Groups and Events Officer - Tavana Farzaneh
Hello! My name is Tavana Farzaneh (she/her). I'm a second year MPA-PNP student specializing in Political Action and Advocacy. I'm an Iranian American and originally from Norman, Oklahoma. As a newbie to NYC, I've been spending my free time exploring coffee shops and restaurants with the hope of finding my favorites (I have a few so far!). I'm always looking to learn more about our world, so you will likely find me listening to a podcast focused on current issues, psychology, or history.
I joined WSA because I wanted to positively impact the student experience! I would like to create the space to build community here at NYU Wagner through events and activities.
Treasurer - Andrea Rathbone Ramos
Hello! My name is Andrea Ramos, and I am proud to be the 2023-2024 WSA Treasurer. I am an undocumented first-generation Latina and part-time third-year student in the MPA-PNP program. Over the past six years, I have traversed both the public and non-profit sectors focusing on advocacy in undocumented communities across the country. These experiences have allowed me to work on "The Hill", the Texas House of Representatives, and some of the largest Latine and immigrant-focused non-profit organizations in the country. I am proud of my immigrant roots and thoroughly believe that everyone deserves a place of belonging. That being said, please do not hesitate to reach out, I am here to help any student/prospective student succeed at NYU Wagner!
I joined the Wagner Student Association because I wanted to help students reach their full potential while at Wagner!
Secretary- Layla Bellissimo
Hi all! My name is Layla Bellissimo and I am your 2023-24 WSA Secretary. I'm in the MPA-PNP program specializing in International Development. I am from Detroit, Michigan and attended Michigan State University's James Madison program for undergrad, where I got my B.A in International Relations and Economics while playing tennis. (All my ex-student athletes I see you).
My first year at Wagner I did not get as involved in extra-curriculars as I would've liked. This year, I want to make a difference by making outreach events more accessible to new and returning students. As secretary, I will promote student events as much as possible using the weekly digest. I want to engage new students in all the amazing opportunities to meet people!
Deputy Communications Chair - Seoyeon Lee
Seoyeon Lee, is a first-year MPA-PNP student and has a true passion for public service and policy. Throughout her career, Seoyeon has worked as a Public Officer in Korea, handling various jobs ranging from organization supervision, management support, and budget control to even school facility management. Each of these experiences has added a unique layer to her understanding of the complexities involved in policy development. She believes the diversity of her professional background provides her with a balanced perspective that is invaluable when creating policies that affect all aspects of a community. Seoyeon firmly believes that education is a cornerstone for positive transformation, and she hopes to contribute to the Wagner community's mission of fostering such an environment.
Seoyeon joined WSA seeing it as a platform to amplify the impact of my passion for public service and policy. Through her diverse experiences, Seoyeon has gained a deep appreciation for the importance of effective policies that address the multifaceted needs of communities. Joining WSA allows her to bring this perspective to the table and collaborate with fellow students who share her commitment to positive change. She is excited by the prospect of working together to organize engaging events, discuss pressing issues, and build lifelong relationships.
Communications Chair - Kamila Palucha
Kamila is a first-year MPA-PNP student. She graduated with a Business Degree in the UK and is originally from Poland. I am very passionate about environmental issues and climate change.
I joined WSA because their commitment to student engagement and advocacy aligns with my desire to make a positive impact during my time at Wagner. I look forward to collaborating on initiatives that enhance the student experience and promote positive change within our school!
Senator - Ugochi Obidiegwu
Ugochi Obidiegwu is the Founder of a Nigerian EdTech company, The Safety Chic, which specializes in developing products and programs that increase safety consciousness in African children and reduce unintentional injuries. She has 7 years of experience in developing education programs, products, and providing strategic insights for African founders of social impact initiatives. She is the author of a child safety storybook series available in English and French, co-creator of an online safety game for children, and curator of safety education apps. Through speaking, she has shared her expertise with safety professionals at key industry events around the world. She has received several awards for her work in safety education and has been featured by both local and foreign media for it. Ugochi Obidiegwu is committed to training, speaking, and introducing innovative programs and products that enhance social development in young Africans.
I joined WSA because I believe I have the requisite skill set to contribute meaningfully to the growth and advancement of the association. As someone with experience working with leaders and interfacing with student groups and relevant stakeholders, I believe that I can leverage my knowledge and experience to help WSA achieve its strategic goals. WSA has made huge strides in its work over the years, however, there is still so much that needs to be done. Therefore, I am looking forward to bringing my perspectives to the table and amplifying the voices of Wagner students at the Student Government Assembly.
First-Year Representative - Kevin Sullivan
Kevin Sullivan (he/him) is the 2023-2024 First-Year Representative for WSA. Sullivan is in the MPA-PNP program and will be specializing in Public Policy Analysis. He grew up in North Branford, Connecticut, but New York City has been his home for the last five years—he currently lives on the Upper East Side with his partner (also named Kevin!) and their new puppy Charlie. Prior to joining the Wagner community, Kevin worked as a paralegal within the city government which solidified his passion for public service. He believes it is a real privilege to work on behalf of a community you care deeply about, and he hopes to carry that understanding with him well into the future.
I joined the Wagner Student Association to listen to, learn from, and advocate for my fellow first-years. I want our time here at Wagner to be as fulfilling as possible, and I am excited to make that a reality through the WSA!