By Andre Anderson 

Writer/Reporter 

On June 1, I will begin my term as President of the Metro State University Student Association (MSUSA). Before I step into this work, I want to introduce myself to the broader Metro State community and share the vision that will guide my leadership this year. This is my first piece for The Metropolitan, and I am grateful for the opportunity to speak directly to the students I now serve. 

My name is Andre Verlin Anderson. I am a graduate student in the Advocacy and Political Leadership program, a justice impacted educator, and someone who has rebuilt his life through higher education. Metro State is the first place where I felt that my story was welcomed rather than questioned. I have worked in the Office of Equity and Inclusion, supported the TREC Program, mentored students, and participated in student organizations that center belonging and purpose. Through these experiences, I have learned that Metro State students carry real responsibilities, real challenges, and real hopes. My commitment as MSUSA President is to ensure that our student government reflects those realities and advocates for the needs of our diverse student body. 

One of my highest priorities is to protect affordability for Metro State students. Many of us balance school, work, caregiving, and financial pressure. Metro State has long been a place where students can pursue a degree without taking on overwhelming debt. I intend to advocate policies that keep tuition affordable, increase transparency in budget decisions, and ensure that students have a meaningful voice in conversations that affect their financial wellbeing. 

I also want to expand opportunities for students to work on campus. Work study and student worker positions are more than part time jobs. They help students stay connected to the university, build relationships, and strengthen their academic success. At present, these opportunities are limited. I believe that Metro State can do more to create on campus employment that supports students academically, financially, and socially. 

As a graduate assistant in the Office of Equity and Inclusion, I know how valuable these positions are. They provide professional experience, financial support, and a deeper connection to the university. Metro State currently offers only one graduate assistantship. I will advocate for the creation of additional positions across departments so that graduate students have more opportunities to contribute to the university and develop their leadership. 

Student organizations are essential to the life of our campus. They create community, leadership opportunities, and spaces where students can express their identities and interests. As MSUSA President, I will continue to support student organizations with funding, access to space, and the resources they need to host events and grow their membership. When student organizations thrive, our entire campus becomes stronger. 

My vision for this year centers on community. Metro State is a commuter campus with students who come from many different backgrounds and life experiences. Building community requires intention. I want to help create a campus culture where students feel that they belong, where they can find purpose, and where they can connect with others who understand their journey. Belonging is not a slogan. It is a practice that shapes student success and wellbeing. 

I am especially excited about the launch of the Metro Peer Mentors program this fall. This program, housed in the College of Individualized Studies, will connect students with trained peer mentors who can offer guidance, support, and encouragement. Peer mentorship is one of the most effective tools we have for improving student outcomes. I look forward to supporting this program as it grows. 

As I begin this role, my commitment is simple. I will listen. I will show up. I will work with students, not only for students. My priorities are affordability, opportunity, community, and belonging. I believe that Metro State is strongest when every student feels seen, supported, and valued. 

I am grateful for the trust you have placed in me. I look forward to serving you this year and to building a campus community that reflects the best of who we are.