BUSPH Student Senate.
Student Senate Mission Statement:
As a reflection of the mission and values of BUSPH, the mission of the Student Senate is to connect students to the SPH community, develop student engagement on campus and ignite student led community action.
We seek to foster a respectful, collaborative, diverse and inclusive community within SPH to promote connection and holistic student success; to hold the faculty, staff and university community accountable to the mission and values of SPH by developing channels for student voices; and to ignite positive change beyond our academic walls through engaging with people, communities and institutions to promote justice, human rights and equity.
We accomplish this by:
- Creating social, educational and professional spaces for students to connect with: fellow students, alumni, BU graduate students outside SPH and public health students outside of BU SPH
- Equipping student organizations to collaborate on events and initiatives
- Advocating for resources to aid academic success of students
- Gathering and representing student concerns and evaluations to the faculty, staff and university community
- Advocating for and monitoring timely responses to student feedback
- Supporting student initiated projects
- Providing and promoting opportunities to serve at SPH and in the local community
Want to get involved?
Email phsenate@bu.edu.with project ideas, questions, apply to join student senate or to talk with one of our Student Representatives!
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/BUSPHStudentSenate
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/busphsenate/
Student Senate Corner
We encourage students to read the SPH Weekly and also check out the Student Center Corner to learn about upcoming events and updates from us. You will find information in the lower right corner!
Student Senate General Board Meetings
Fall General Board Meetings: Oct. 14 and Nov. 18 | TLB 307C and Zoom | 5:00-6:00pm
Please contact Phsenate@bu.edu with any questions!
BUSPH Student Feedback Form
Below is the link to the Student Senate Feedback Form. Comments that are submitted are completely anonymous. Your email address will NOT be included in your submission. The BUSPH Student Senate will do their best to get your questions and concerns addressed.
Student Feedback Form
Student Senate 2025-2026 Executive Board:
Nishtha Mistry, President
Nishtha, President
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Nishtha is a second-year MPH student concentrating in Epidemiology and Biostatistics with a context certificate in Chronic and Noncommunicable Diseases. Before coming to Boston University, she earned her B.S. in Microbiology and Immunology with a minor in Medical Anthropology from the University of California, Irvine.
She first joined the Student Senate out of a passion for building community and amplifying student perspectives. As President, she intends to strengthen communication with administration, foster connection across cohorts, and increase opportunities for collaboration among all student organizations. She aims to promote initiatives that elevate student voices and create an inclusive environment where every member of the community feels a sense of belonging.
Feel free to reach out to her at nkmistry@bu.edu. She would love to connect about student life, public health, or even for a good cafe recommendation!
Isabella Moros Camargo, Vice President
Isabella, Vice President
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Isabella is an MPH student pursuing a double certificate in both CAPDIE and Epidemiology/Biology. She completed a Bachelor’s degree from Boston University in Psychology with a minor in Public Health. Currently she is an Academic Advisor for the Psychological and Brain Sciences Department at BU.
Driven by a deep commitment to mental health and culturally sensitive care, especially within Latine communities, she is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. Her lived experiences have shaped her dedication to community well-being and to ensuring public health efforts are both empathetic and equitable. She hopes to bridge gaps in care and understanding through intentional engagement and advocacy. As Vice President, she aims to create a more welcoming campus environment by fostering strong connections among students, faculty, and staff.
In her free time she enjoys making jewelry, reading, traveling, and cooking. Please reach out to her at icmorosc@bu.edu with any questions, recipe recommendation, or just to talk!
Lea Hur, Administrative Director
Lea, Administrative Director
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in May 2024 with a degree in Public Health, concentrating in biostatistics. I am currently pursuing my MPH at Boston University, where I specialize in biostatistics and epidemiology with a certificate in Pharmaceutical Development, Delivery, and Access. I am passionate about driving meaningful improvements in population health and motivated by a commitment to advancing public health outcomes. Outside of academics and professional pursuits, I enjoy running and exploring new cafés and restaurants around Boston, often sharing reviews on Beli.
Jungyoon Huh, Events Co-Director
Heli, Communications Director
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
My name is Jungyoon Huh, but I go by Yoon, and I’m a 2nd-year MPH student pursuing a double functional certificate in 1) Epidemiology/Biostatistics and 2) Global Health PDME. I’m an international student from Jeju Island, South Korea, and I love trying new dishes and updating my Beli account, riding bikes around the city, reading books, and staying active in general!
As a returning member of Student Senate, I’m excited to see the new changes within the organization and to explore how we can continue strengthening our role in supporting the student body. I hope to contribute not only by representing student voices but also by fostering collaboration and creating meaningful initiatives that enhance our shared experience at BUSPH.
Vivien Talon, Events Co-Director
Vivien, Events Co-Director
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Vivien graduated from Boston University in January 2025 with a B.A. in Psychology and started at BUSPH as a part of the 4+1 Program in January 2024. She studies Health Policy and Law, with a context certificate in Mental Health and Substance Use. Vivien is passionate about legal epidemiology, and learning more about how policies can prevent or break cycles of harm. Currently, she works at the Lown Institute as a Healthcare Data Research Assistant and a Junior Policy Analyst. In her free time, Vivien likes painting, hiking, and playing mahjong! As one of the Events Co-Directors, Vivien is excited to help bring both students and faculty together and create meaningful experiences for the BUSPH community. Feel free to reach out with any ideas and/or feedback at vivient@bu.edu!
Shelby Cattani, Communications Director
Shelby, Communications Director
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Shelby Cattani (graduated from the University of Utah in 2022 with an Honors Bachelor of Arts in International Studies.
She recently completed the MSW portion of her degree, focusing on clinical social work with the college population. As part of her MSW program, Shelby supported families as a clinical social work intern in the family shelter system and worked with college students at Boston University’s Counseling and Psychiatric Services.
Currently, she is pursuing her MPH with a concentration in Health Policy and Law. As Communications Director, Shelby hopes to build community among BUSPH and dual degree students and engage the broader BU community through collaborations with campus groups.
In her free time, Shelby enjoys reading, cooking, and hiking with her very spoiled golden retriever. Feel free to reach out and connect with her at scattani@bu.edu.
Merilyn Amponsah-Asamoah, Diversity & Advocacy Director
Merilyn, Diversity & Advocacy Director
Pronouns: She/Her
I’m Merilyn Amponsah-Asamoah, and I am the incoming Diversity and Advocacy Director with BUSPH’s senate. I am a first generation American born and raised in Denver, Colorado with roots in Ghana. I am currently a senior in Boston University’s undergraduate program in the College of Arts and Sciences studying Medical Anthropology and Biology, and I am also a part of the 4+1 program for the MPH program. I have special interests in advocacy and social justice stemming from experience with Casa de Paz, an organization that provides resources to currently incarcerated and released immigrants from ICE custody. I also serve as an Executive Staffer in Social Advocacy for BU’s Student Government for undergrads. I’ve done extensive research with snake venoms and their impacts on Western and Central African societies and ways to develop new antivenoms to address the disparities of care.
I have also done research with patients with End Stage Kidney Disease and stigma. I love to do Pilates and yoga, I’ve played piano for 12 years and I am a foodie!!
Gerardo Rodriguez, Community Engagement Director
Gerardo, Community Engagement Director
Pronouns: He/Him
Gerardo Rodriguez earned his B.S. in Health Sciences from Boston University. Following his undergraduate studies, he worked as a community engagement research assistant at the MEMCARE Superfund Center at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where he worked with various community-based organizations in the Greater Boston Area. He is pursuing his Master of Public Health (MPH) degree with a dual concentration in epidemiology/biostatistics and global health monitoring and evaluation at BUSPH. He hopes to craft service interventions that value the critical role of establishing collaborative partnerships with community leaders to tackle the pivotal role that systemic racism plays in fostering inequitable health outcomes. Outside of school, Gerardo enjoys running, playing tennis, and hanging out with friends around the city.
Aayushi Pagnis, Social Media Co-Director
Aayushi, Social Media Co-Director
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
I’m currently pursuing my MPH in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, along with a certificate in Global Health Program Design, Monitoring, and Evaluation (PDME). Before joining BU, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Dentistry in India and spent three years working in healthcare.
My journey began as a dentist and public health professional, collaborating with nonprofit organizations to improve access to care for tribal communities and immigrant populations in India. These experiences deepened my commitment to advancing health equity and accessibility.
Continuing that passion here in Boston, I’m currently working with DotHouse Health on a Monitoring and Evaluation plan for a MDPH funded program that aims to expand doula care among Black and Indigenous populations.
As the Social Media Manager for the BUSPH Student Senate Fall 2025 cohort, I’m excited to help foster connections and build a vibrant, inclusive community on campus.
When I’m not working, you can usually find me painting, playing pickleball, or running along the Charles River. Feel free to reach out at aayuship@bu.edu whether it’s about public health, wellness, or just to say hi!
Sofia Balich, Social Media Co-Director
Sofia, Social Media Co-Director
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
My name is Sofia Balich, and I am currently pursuing a Master of Public Health in Environmental Health and Justice at Boston University School of Public Health. I recently graduated from Vassar College, where I majored in Science, Technology, and Society.
Throughout my academic and leadership journey, I have served in student government as a Wellness Executive, represented students on national platforms through It’s On Us, and collaborated on policy advocacy efforts around campus safety. I have also worked with nonprofit organizations to research environmental health issues, such as PFAS and other toxic chemicals.
I am passionate about bringing student voices into decision-making, fostering equity and wellness across campus, and strengthening the connection between student government and the broader community. I hope to use my experience in policy analysis, advocacy, and student leadership to create meaningful change and ensure that every student feels represented and supported.
Surabhi Bhola, Student Organization Council Director
Surabhi, Student Organization Council Director
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Surabhi pursued her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in India, where she was actively involved in oral health-related research projects. Her clinical experience as a dentist made her realize that while she was creating impact one patient at a time, she wanted to broaden that reach to entire communities through data-driven public health solutions. This shift sparked her passion for bridging health disparities and improving equitable access to high-quality healthcare.
Her research interests include head and neck cancers, oral health disparities, and healthcare accessibility. After practicing as a dentist for a year, Surabhi moved to Boston to pursue her Master of Public Health with a concentration in Epidemiology and Biostatistics. She aspires to leverage her MPH training to drive global change through policy reform, advocacy, and evidence-based decision-making to reduce healthcare inequities.
Beyond academics, Surabhi is an avid athlete. She is a runner, tennis player, trained equestrian, sailor, and swimmer, and is always ready to run to a new scenery.
Student Senate 2025-2026 Student Representatives:
Chelsea Taylor, Part-Time Student Representative
Chelsea, Part-Time Student Representativ
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Chelsea graduated from Williams College with a B.A. in Chemistry and Psychology and now pursues a Master of Public Health with a concentration in Health Policy and Law while working at Boston Children’s Hospital. Under Dr. Jennifer Yeh, she is a member of a cutting-edge team that utilizes decision analytics, simulation modeling, and economic evaluation to improve population health outcomes across the cancer continuum, from gastric and breast cancer prevention to childhood cancer survivorship. As the part time student representative, Chelsea hopes to build community across BUSPH and advocate for part time students, having experienced the unique challenges that come with balancing academics alongside full time work. Feel free to reach out and connect with her at cst2@bu.edu!
Nitish Kumar Kompalli, International Student Representative
Nitish, International Student Representative
Pronouns: He/Him
I am a dentist from India, currently pursuing my Master of Public Health at Boston University. With a background in clinical dentistry, research, and public health outreach, I am passionate about fostering inclusivity and supporting international students as they navigate their academic and social journey. As the International Student Representative, my goal is to amplify the voices of international students and create a welcoming community for all. Outside of academics, I enjoy exploring new places, learning about different cultures, and working on innovative projects that combine healthcare and technology.
Shubha Dinesh, International Student Representative
Shubha, International Student Representative
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Shubha Dinesh (she/her) is an MPH student at Boston University School of Public Health with a background in dentistry and a passion for global health, research, and student advocacy. As the International Student Representative on the Student Senate, she is committed to building community, amplifying diverse voices, and fostering an inclusive campus experience.
Devdhar Joshi, Fall 2024 Cohort Representative
Devdhar, International Student Representative
Pronouns: He/Him
Devdhar is an MPH student at BUSPH pursuing a functional certificate in Epidemiology & Biostatistics and a context certificate in Pharmaceutical Development, Delivery and Access. Before graduate school, he practiced as a physician in India for over three years, an experience that shaped his passion for bridging medicine and public health. His academic interests focus on clinical research, improving access to medicines, and advancing health equity.
Over the past year at BUSPH, Devdhar has been actively involved across academics, research, and leadership. He served as a JEDI Fellow and as a committee member for the Emerging Scholars Program (ESP), where he contributed to curriculum review and equity-driven initiatives in environmental health. He has also worked as a Teaching Assistant and Graduate Research Assistant, which allowed him to mentor peers, collaborate with faculty, and contribute to the school’s research mission. Most recently, he completed his practicum at Boston Children’s Hospital, where he contributed to adolescent behavioral health research.
During his first year, Devdhar attended nearly every Senate and student organization event, which made his transition to a new country and community much smoother. That sense of belonging inspired him to join the Senate himself, where he hopes to continue fostering a welcoming and engaging student experience.
Outside the classroom, Devdhar is fueled by coffee, enjoys long walks around Boston, and often relaxes with music or by humming along as a proud bathroom singer. He is also a foodie who loves to cook, especially Indian dishes, and is always on the lookout for the next great dosa spot in Boston.
Nithya Malisetti, Spring 2025 Cohort Representative
Nithya, Student Representative
Hi everyone! I’m Nithya, I am pursuing my Master of Public Health (MPH), with a dual focus in Health Policy & Law and CAPDI.I received my bachelors degree in genetics and anthropology and have lots of experience in the clinical field, and plan to apply to medical school. I aim to be a physician who can inform and advance policy in reproductive health rights and health disparities. In my free time, I love to run outside and explore new places in Boston. I love talking to people and making new friends so feel free to dm me!
Avinash Rathod, Spring 2025 Cohort Representative
Avinash, Fall 2023 Representative
Pronouns: He/Him
I will be a Spring 2025 Representative for the upcoming fall semester in the Student Senate. I am a doctor from India and right now I am in my second semester of MPH with Epidemiology and Biostatistics as my functional certificate.
Ashmeen Dhot, Fall 2025 Cohort Representative
Ashmeen, Fall 2025 Cohort Representative
Pronouns: She/Her
I’m Ashmeen, a first-year MPH student at BUSPH. I completed my B.A. in Kinesiology at the University of Ottawa and my Honours B.A. in Psychology at Wilfrid Laurier University. I’ve worked at the intersection of healthcare and research, experiences that showed me how important it is to bring different perspectives to the table when making decisions.
As your Fall 2025 Cohort Student Representative, I’m committed to making sure the voices of our cohort are reflected in the conversations that shape student life at BUSPH. I care deeply about equity, collaboration, and creating spaces where students feel supported both academically and personally. My goal this year is to strengthen connections between students and leadership, ensuring that our feedback translates into action on things like resources, curriculum, and community-building.
Outside of academics, you can usually find me exploring new coffee spots around Boston or planning my next travel adventure — always looking for fresh ways to connect with people and communities.
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Omnia Elamin, Fall 2025 Cohort Representative
Omnia, Fall 2025 Cohort Representative
Pronouns: She/Her
Hi, I’m Omnia (um-ni-ya) Elamin! I grew up in Khartoum, Sudan, and moved to the U.S. when I was 14. I studied Neurobiology and Political Science here at BU and am now back for my MPH, where I’ll be completing a functional certificate in Global Health, Program Design, Monitoring & Evaluation and a context certificate in Global Health.
I’ve worked in clinics, hospitals, labs, and advocacy spaces across Massachusetts, which has deepened my passion for health equity and immigrant justice. Outside of school and work, I’m also a swimmer – something I’ve been doing for as long as I can remember, and a big part of how I stay grounded.
This year, I’m excited to serve as the Fall 2025 Cohort Student Representative on the Representative Council. My goal is to make sure everyone feels included, heard, and supported as we move through public health school together.
Feel free to reach out at omnia03@bu.edu – whether you want to talk about global health, mentorship, swimming, or just finding your footing at SPH!
