2025-2026 Executive Officers
president: 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. I have previously served on the EBoard for two years as Grievance Chair. I look forward to continuing to represent 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.
Vice President: Victor Olaoye, Pharmacy
My name is Victor, and I am a PhD student at the College of Pharmacy. My research focuses on discovering innovative therapeutics to address the pressing challenge of antibiotic resistance. Beyond my academic pursuits, I am passionate about networking, organizing, and contributing to leadership and volunteer initiatives. I am particularly driven by projects that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
I am honored to serve as the Vice President of the Graduate Assistants United (GAU) Executive Board. In this role, I am committed to advocating for positive change, fostering inclusion, negotiating strong contracts, protecting the rights of graduate assistants, and upholding the core missions of GAU.
secretary: darcey lovell, english
My name is Darcey and I am a sixth 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. I got involved in GAU part of the Contract Action Team and wrote the blog updates for the last contract negotiations. I’ve been serving as Secretary for GAU for the past three years and I'm excited to be on the team again this year to have the opportunity to help GAU continue to work so hard for our graduate assistants!
Treasurer: Mariam Oladepo, Pharmaceutical Sciences
My name is Mariam Oladepo, a third-year PhD student in pharmaceutical sciences at the college of Pharmacy. I am excited to contribute my own experiences and expertise in handling the finances of the association diligently.
Communications Chair: John Selby, Biological Oceanography
My name is John Selby, and I'm a PhD student in Biological Oceanography. The focus of my research is on a unique type of microbial symbiosis between a type of algae and an diazotrophic cyanobacteria that resides within. As a member of the GAU 2025 contract negotiation team, I have had the pleasure of not only getting to better know our own members at GAU, but I've also connected with so many other graduate students across the country who's needs are not dissimilar from our own. As Communications Chair I'm looking forwards to keeping our unit updated and informed, with the overall goal of building a stronger connection between our members. Outside of the lab I'm an avid writer and casual trivia head.
Grievance Chair: Celeste Weidemann, Oceanography
My name is Celeste Weidemann (they/them) and I’m a master’s student in Biological Oceanography. I study the environmental conditions of cold-water coral in the Gulf of Mexico in light of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Last year, I was a department representative and I’m excited to take the next step in fighting for our rights as the Grievance Chair. When I’m not conducting research or advocating for fair treatment of graduate students, I am training for half marathons, playing soccer, or cooking!
membership chair: Arome John Ozigagu, Civil and Environmental Engineering
Hi everyone! My name is Arome John Ozigagu. I am a PhD student in Civil and Environmental Engineering focusing on Transportation Engineering. My research aims to advance disaster evacuation management through the integration of Intelligent Transportation Systems. As the GAU Membership Chair, I am committed to enhancing student engagement and representation by promoting membership benefits in an inclusive student community like ours. I love playing soccer, table tennis, and billiards when I am not studying.
NEARI Student Rep: Emmanuel Oyewole, Marine Affairs
My name is Emmanuel Oyewole; a master’ student of Marine Affairs. My research focuses on the Influence of Institutional variability on the Adaptive Capacity of Small Scale fisheries in Mexico’s Gulf of California.
As a NEARI Rep, I am focused on bridging the gap between the Union and NEARI - the mother body. It’s my second semester and I’m thrilled for the collective greater achievements ahead.
“We are better together.”
I love connecting with friends, being creative with arts (music and drama) when I’m not doing school.
