

Jordan Vasconcellos (2025)
Jordan Vasconcellos
What is your name and the position for which you are running?
My name is Jordan Vasconcellos, and I am honored to be running for the Student Government Association Director of FInanceposition. I am deeply committed to fostering a campus environment prioritizing student success, inclusivity, and innovation. I aim to serve as a strong advocate for the student body, ensuring that every voice is heard and that meaningful change is implemented. Through collaborative leadership, transparent governance, and proactive initiatives, I aim to enhance academic resources, improve student life, and create opportunities that empower our diverse community. With your support, we can build a student government that genuinely represents and uplifts every member of our university.
What is your academic major/educational track?
I am a Business Administration major with an emphasis in Accounting, with a strong focus on developing the financial and strategic acumen necessary for a successful career in investment banking. Currently, I am securing an internship for this upcoming summer, with aspirations to work for leading financial institutions such as BlackRock, Goldman Sachs, or J.P. Morgan. My long-term academic and professional goals include pursuing an MBA and obtaining a CPA or CMA license to enhance my finance, accounting, and corporate strategy expertise. These ambitions reflect my dedication to analytical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership, skills that I believe will translate seamlessly into my Student Government Association President role. By combining my background in business with a commitment to effective governance, I aim to bring strategic decision-making, fiscal responsibility, and forward-thinking leadership to our student body.
Why are you running for this position in the Student Government Association?
I am running for Student Government Association Director of Finance because I am committed to improving the community and culture at UCCS for students, faculty, staff, and the broader community we interact with daily. By addressing policies that impact our success and well-being, I aim to create a more equitable and student-centered academic environment. One of my key initiatives is advocating for re-evaluating the university’s plus-minus grading system. Last semester, despite earning all A’s except for one A-minus, my GPA was 3.94 instead of 4.0. This experience highlighted the flaws in a system that does not accurately reflect the effort and mastery students put into their coursework. As someone who worked nearly 60 to 70 hours per week while maintaining academic excellence, I understand firsthand how frustrating it is to have hard work undermined by an outdated grading policy. No student should have their achievements diminished due to a grading scale that disproportionately penalizes them. As President, I will work to ensure that our academic policies are fair and reflective of student performance. Beyond grading policies, I am dedicated to fostering transparency, student engagement, and institutional improvements that will leave a lasting impact on UCCS. We can build a university experience prioritizing student success, equity, and progress with your support.
What past experiences would make you a great candidate for the Student Government Association?
As I previously mentioned, my extensive work experience has provided me with a diverse background across multiple industries and roles, equipping me with a broad skill set that will serve me well as Student Government Association Director of Finance. Through these experiences, I have gained leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills that allow me to collaborate effectively with individuals from different backgrounds and perspectives. Additionally, many of my past roles have required me to take on leadership responsibilities, whether managing teams, overseeing projects, or making critical decisions under pressure. These experiences have taught me the importance of accountability, adaptability, and strategic thinking, which are essential for representing and advocating for the student body. Beyond my professional experience, leadership has also been a fundamental part of my personal life. As the eldest in my family, I have naturally guided and supported my younger siblings, two of whom currently attend UCCS. Being a role model for them has reinforced my commitment to mentorship, responsibility, and perseverance. I understand the challenges students face, and I am dedicated to creating policies and initiatives to enhance the academic and social environment at UCCS. These experiences, both professional and personal, have shaped me into a strong, capable, and empathetic leader. As Student Government Association President, I will use these skills to advocate for meaningful change, foster a stronger campus community, and ensure every student has the resources and support needed to succeed.
What are some of your hobbies/interests and how are you involved at UCCS?
Beyond my academics and student government dedication, I am actively involved in organizations that align with my career aspirations and personal growth. I am a new member of the Accounting Honor Society and the Finance Honor Society, where I engage with like-minded peers, expand my knowledge of the financial world, and build connections with professionals in the industry. These organizations allow me to stay informed on developments in accounting and finance while contributing to discussions and initiatives that benefit students in these fields. In addition to my academic involvement, I have recently recommitted to fitness and made it a priority to work out every day. Physical well-being plays a significant role in mental and emotional resilience. Maintaining a disciplined fitness routine enhances my leadership skills, work ethic, and ability to handle challenges effectively. Outside of academics and fitness, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, as they support and balance my busy schedule. I also have a strong passion for sports and follow them closely. As a dedicated Green Bay Packers fan and a supporter of the Michigan Wolverines, I appreciate the teamwork, strategy, and discipline that come with athletics, further reinforcing my leadership philosophy. These hobbies and interests contribute to my well-rounded approach to leadership. Through academic organizations, personal development, or building relationships within the UCCS community, I constantly strive to grow and contribute meaningfully. As Student Government Association President, I will bring this same energy, discipline, and commitment to serving the student body and improving the campus experience.