2023-2024 Executive Officers
president: Haley Green, Ocean Engineering
Hello Everyone! My name is Haley Green, I am a masters student in the Ocean Engineering department and specialize in underwater acoustics. Outside of research I enjoy hiking, skiing, volleyball, and doing crafts. I joined the GAU e-board because I think it is so important to advocate for change, inclusion, and individual rights. I hope to help in creating a positive and successful environment for all graduate students where everyone can feel safe and supported while pursuing their academic goals.
Vice President: Margaret Bernish
Hey y'all! I'm Maggie Bernish, a PhD student studying biological oceanography. Outside of research and teaching, I enjoy playing the piano and draining hours on my Nintendo Switch. I'm so excited to be serving on the GAU Executive Board as the Vice President and hope to contribute to an environment where graduate assistants feel supported in their endeavors and, most of all, heard.
membership chair: bolaji oladipo, mechanical Engineering
My name is Bolaji. I am a Ph.D. student in the Department of Mechanical, Industrial, and Systems Engineering. My research focuses on materials and structures. I am a compassionate graduate student who derives fulfillment in involving my colleagues in shared activities of interest.
I enjoy watching Sci-Fi movies during my free time.
Treasurer: jake harrington, oceanography
Hi Everyone, my name is Jake Harrington. I am a 2nd year Master's student studying Geological Oceanography. My research is focused on the response of barrier beaches and coastal marshes to storms and sea-level rise. In my free time I'm constantly picking up new hobbies, but lately I've been learning to play the fiddle and have gotten into rock climbing. Also, as long as I'm in the country, you can always find me grabbing a beer or two at Whalers on Thursday nights. I look forward to serving as your treasurer this year!
Communications Chair: Lauren zane, marine biology
Hi everyone, my name is Lauren and I am a PhD student in Marine Biology. This is my first year on the Executive Board of GAU and I am excited to connect graduate assistants with the information and resources they need in order to thrive at URI! Outside of school, you can find me surfing whenever and wherever there are waves.
Grievance Chair: lane demaske, psychology
Hello, my name is Lane Demaske (they/them); I'm a second year Behavioral Science PhD. student. My research focuses on cultural logics of honor and dignity in online contexts. This is my first year as an officer, and I look forward to representing our membership in receiving the benefits they earn. We have no rights that we do not fight for.
When I'm not doing Psychology, I'm a writer, watercolor painter, and D&D nerd.
secretary: darcey lovell, english
My name is Darcey and I am a fifth year PhD candidate and teaching assistant in the Department of English. I study Victorian and popular literature and am writing my dissertation on Victorian detective fiction. This past year, I was part of the Contract Action Team and wrote the blog updates for the contract negotiations. Through the negotiations process, I got to see firsthand how much GAU cares about and works for graduate students at URI. I'm excited to be on the team for the coming year and have the opportunity to help GAU continue to work so hard for our graduate assistants!