Freshmen Senators
Claire Birdsey
Senator
Hometown: Lafayette, California
Business and Enterprise Management major
I decided to join student government because I wanted to make a real impact on campus. I want to represent the concerns of all students and ensure that their voices are heard, so we can build a more connected Wake community. I also wanted to be a part of student government so that I can improve my leadership skills and have the opportunity to connect with other students who care about making a difference on campus.
Jackson Canales
Senator
Hometown: Hopkinton, MA
Intended Major in Business Enterprise Management
Joining SG was important to me as it offers me the opportunity to provide my classmates with resources, a voice, and representation for the current semester. I see this as an opportunity to help further engage myself in Wake’s robust freshman community while spreading awareness to all Bostwick residents on the many resources and events that are offered.
Danie Cook
Hometown: West Chester, PA
I joined student government because I wanted to make a difference in my community inside and outside of Wake! By being on the Senate, I am able to listen to concerns, be a voice for those who are scared to speak up, and problem solve to give students the best Wake experience.
Winston Fugate
Senator
Hometown: Lexington Kentucky
Majoring in Politics and International Relations or Economics minor
I joined SG so that I could help make a difference on campus. I think it’s important that student voices are heard and I’m excited to be a part of making that happen.
Sophia Hoover
Senator
Hometown: Winston Salem, NC
I wanted to join student government because I did it in high school and absolutely loved it. I also just want to play an important role in the campus and community in making sure I do what I can to help every student feel represented and maximize their success and experiences here at Wake and beyond
Nicole Karnoub
Senator
Hometown: Short Hills, NJ
Chemistry major
I joined the Student Government because I’m passionate about being a voice for others. In the past, I always wished for someone to amplify all things from needs to wants, but now I am grateful to be that someone. I am also excited to be a part of the positive change on campus, creating an inclusive and welcoming space for all.
Grant Kinghorn
Senator
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
Politics and Philosophy majors and minor in Spanish
I joined SG to make a difference on campus and represent my peers. Through SG, I can make a real difference, and that’s something I’m looking forward to.
Luke McCutchin
Senator
Hometown: Austin, Texas
Majoring in Political Science
I want to make an impact in my local community. It’s important to me that all the people have quality representation that will fight for their needs and wants.
Ben Oswald
Senator
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Intended Politics & Business and Enterprise Management majors
I joined student government to be a leader for freshmen and a voice for my constituents. I am excited to be a senator and become more involved on campus through this position. I hope to serve a great year and work with a variety of people to enhance the lives of Wake Forest students.
Kaleb Priester
Senator
Hometown: Orlando, Fl
Critical & Creative Media and Politics & International Affairs majors, Journalism minor
I chose to join Student Government because I wanted the opportunity to represent my classmates and help strengthen the Wake Forest community. Serving as a freshman senator allows me to listen to student voices, bring their ideas forward, and work with others to create meaningful change on campus. I enjoy meeting new people, hearing their perspectives, and building connections through both leadership and moments of fun and laughter. I am excited to grow in this role and contribute to the Wake Forest community.
Beck Riedel
Senator
Hometown: Austin, Texas
Intended Finance major
I love hearing and seeing issues around me and actually making an impact by helping them get fixed.
Eve Romanelli
Senator
Hometown: Zürich, Switzerland
Communications and Politics and International Affairs major and Chinese minor
I joined student government because I’ve always believed that leadership is about service, not position. Growing up across different countries and cultures taught me the importance of listening to voices that are sometimes overlooked. For me, student government is a way to turn that perspective into action. I want to advocate for my classmates, create space where everyone feels welcomed, and ensure that decisions reflect the diversity and spirit of our student body. I hope to give back—to build bridges, uplift voices, and help shape a campus where everyone feels they belong.
Nicole Tavis
Senator
Hometown: Wellesley, MA
Biology major
I joined student government because I wanted to be the voice of my fellow first year students in my residence hall and help create a more accessible way for students to contribute to their campus!
Katelyn Van Dusen
Senator
Hometown: Marin, CA
Majoring in Politics and International Affairs
I joined student government with the goal of translating ideas into real initiatives. I enjoy hearing all genres of perspectives and want to represent my peers, ensuring everyone’s voices are heard. I’m motivated by ensuring that student voices shape the future of Wake Forest and I am excited to work alongside others who are equally committed to improving our community.
Camille Summers
Senator
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Communications major, Economics and Marketing minors
I joined student government because I love getting involved with my school and want to encourage others to get involved as well! I want to make sure everyone is heard and all aspects of campus are seen to their full potential. Student Government is important to me because it is the core communication pathway between students and administrators on campus, so that everyone can voice their opinions or concerns. I want to leave a standing impact during my 4 years at Wake and this is the best way to do it!
