The Student Association is composed of 15 representatives from undergraduate and graduate programs. The representatives serve a term of one year (September-June) and are elected by the student body during elections held each spring semester. Students may self-nominate to run for Student Association by sending an email to the Office of Student Services: studentservices@sps.cuny.edu.
The Student Association representatives must be in good academic standing by earning and maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0 for undergraduates and 3.0 for graduates and satisfactory academic progress towards completion of your degree.
To contact the Student Association please send an email to studentassociation@sps.cuny.edu.
Representatives
Nicole Carr is a dedicated and accomplished student currently in her first year at the CUNY SPS, where she is pursuing a bachelor's degree in applied management and entrepreneurship. With a strong commitment to community service, Nicole actively volunteers to feed the homeless and organizes fundraisers aimed at providing back-to-school supplies for children in her community. Her leadership skills were prominently displayed during her tenure as the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) President for the Urban Assembly School for Law and Justice, where she served for two years. In this role, Nicole successfully raised funds to support high school students and became a passionate advocate for parents within the community and the broader high school district. Recently, she was inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), recognizing her leadership potential and commitment to excellence. Additionally, Nicole is an active member of Sigma Beta Delta Business Honors Society, further highlighting her dedication to academic achievement and professional development.
Saint Lee is a dedicated and community-driven student committed to fostering an inclusive, engaged, and empowered campus environment. Currently pursuing a Psychology degree at CUNY SPS, Saint has actively participated in student organizations, advocacy initiatives, and leadership programs. Their passion lies in amplifying student voices, promoting mental well-being, and enhancing access to resources that support academic and personal growth. With experience in organizing events, facilitating discussions, and collaborating with diverse groups, Saint is eager to serve on the Student Association to ensure transparency, equity, and meaningful student representation in decision-making processes.
Jonnelle Myrie
At-Large Steering Officer
MS in Business Management and Leadership
Jonnelle Myrie is a proud New Yorker, currently pursuing her master's in business at CUNY SPS, after earning a BA in Communication and Media. With 15 years of experience across both in the private and government sectors, Jonnelle has made it her mission to advocate for the integration of emerging technologies at every level. As an HR Analyst, she excels at building strong partnerships through networking and fundraising, connecting brands and trailblazers to invest in marginalized communities.
Beyond Jonnelle's professional achievements, she is a community leader, event planner, tech enthusiast, and previously served on the Student Association, taking an active role in shaping the “professional development” student experience. Looking ahead, she is dedicated to disrupting socioeconomic barriers, empowering future leaders, and creating long-lasting change for marginalized communities. Jonnelle's goal is to continue pushing for accessible education, health equity, and stronger connections that fosters the growth of the CUNY SPS student body and beyond.
Chance Nalley
Co-chair and University Student Senate Graduate Alternate
MA in Psychology
Chance Nalley grew up in a small-town Northern Maine where he also attended university, earning degrees in mathematics and education. He moved to New York City in where he has now taught for over twenty years, becoming a nationally recognized mathematics educator. As an educator, Chance is devoted to the successful achievement of all students in equitable and inclusive STEAM programs. In 2013, he received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the United States’ highest teaching honor in these subjects. Chance lives with his husband of fifteen years in New York City's Washington Heights. A passionate lifelong student, Chance is studying psychology at CUNY SPS. He has traveled around the world to study education systems, culture, and language. In his spare time, Chance enjoys cooking, learning Spanish, and playing with Legos.
Jose Ortega
At-Large Steering Officer and University Student Senate Undergrad Alternate
BA in Sociology
Jose Ortega is a first-generation Mexican American, born in Mexico and raised in Los Angeles. He transferred to CUNY SPS from the University of Texas at San Antonio to pursuit a B.A. in Sociology. As both an immigrant and someone who has experienced homelessness, Jose brings a unique perspective to everything he does. He believes that wanting change—whether in our own lives or in society—is not enough; we must actively take part in making it happen. That’s why Jose is here—to do his part.
Shunny Parikh is a returning student completing his education after a gap of many years. As full-time caretaker for his grandmother, he needed the flexibility of a remote program, which CUNY SPS provides. Shunny initially majored in Communications and Media but switched to Youth Studies because he wants to give back to his community—he does not want to solely speak for himself. He transferred from Kingsborough Community College, where he served as a student senator, helping approve funding for programs and events that enriched student life. Shunny was also a technical specialist in PTK and participated in CUNY-wide initiatives such as CRSP and TLH, presenting at the Student Summit and to the CUNY Teaching and Learning community.
Tracey Pinelli made one of the best decisions of her life in 2021 to complete her education. It was always a goal of hers to earn the Registered Health Information Administrator credential and the online program here at CUNY SPS gave her that opportunity. Tracey has been a proud member of the Health Information Management career community and wanted the credential to match her skill set. In the Spring of 2023, she achieved her goal and graduated Summa Cum Laude and had the honor of having her family there to witness her cross the stage. Tracey’s experience at CUNY SPS was so rewarding that she decided to continue her education by applying for and getting to the Master’s in Health Information Management program. Her graduate studies have allowed her to learn concepts on a deeper level and at her own pace. This new way of approaching school has allowed Tracey to take a more active role in school life by serving as the President of the HIM club last year and as a member of the Student Association for a second year. These opportunities in school service have been the perfect complement to Tracey's graduate school experience.
Lourdes Quinteros
At-Large Steering Officer and University Student Senate Graduate Delegate
MA in Disability Studies
Lou Quinteros is currently a graduate student of Disability Studies. She already earned many degrees and has lot of interests. Lou is the president of the Mental Health Club as well as the Podcast Club. She is a part of the grant committee and love CUNY SPS because it has given her a foundation that no other school could have provided. The school is very accommodating to Lou, and she feels very fortunate to be a student here to learn with other people who have the same interests. Lou wants to work with and advocate for people who have disabilities. She also wants to help people understand the value of healthcare and the holistic approach to healthcare.
Daniel Reden
Co-chair and University Student Senate Undergrad Delegate
BS in Business
Daniel Reden is the current Student Trustee of CUNY and Chairperson of the University Student Senate. Daniel loves reading, learning, and advocating. His life experiences and lessons have shaped him to be thoughtful, understanding different perspectives and listening intently. Daniel considers the emotions and aspirations of everyone he’s met. Life is meaningless without context.
Aleysia Sargent
At-Large Steering Officer and University Student Senate Undergrad Alternate
BA in Psychology
Aleysia Sargent is currently studying Psychology here at CUNY SPS. She was born in Manhattan and raised in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn. After taking several years off, Aleysia is extremely excited to get back to school to complete her academic goals. She is an advocate of mental health and loves connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Her goal is to use my Psychology degree to pursue a career as an attorney. Aleysia hopes to use her undergraduate degree to make a difference helping underprivileged individuals in the justice system. She has always had a passion to help others and become a lawyer to aid those who need help navigating the complex webs we call the legal system and giving a voice to those in need. When she is not studying, Aleysia loves exploring New York City, taking advantage of city parks, finding new recipes, finding new bakeries to try, and making recipes at home. She is also an avid book reader who loves fantasy novels.
Tiya Williams
At-Large Steering Officer and University Student Senate Undergrad Alternate
BS in Information Systems
Tiya Williams is an active and engaged member of the CUNY SPS community, currently serving on the Student Association. Last year, Tiya proudly held the position of President of the Pride Club, fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ students, and hopes to continue in that leadership role this year. Passionate about creating a vibrant campus community, Tiya is committed to amplifying student voices, building connections, and supporting initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Outside of their work with the Student Association, Tiya works in Education, where they bring creativity, empathy, and organization to their role. They are currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in information systems here at CUNY SPS, with the goal of combining their expertise in technology with their passion for education—creating innovative solutions that enhance learning experiences for students. Tiya's interests extend beyond academics and leadership. In her free time, she enjoys long walks, coloring, knitting, creative writing, and baking. These hobbies fuel her creativity, patience, and attention to detail—skills that they carry into every aspect of her personal and professional life.
Through her work and studies, Tiya strives to make a meaningful impact on her community and beyond.