For a better experience, click the Compatibility Mode icon above to turn off Compatibility Mode, which is only for viewing older websites.

Graduate Student Association

GSA Logo

About the Graduate Student Association

The Graduate Student Association (GSA) is both the governing body and planning board primarily for graduate students enrolled in face-to-face quarter programs, in addition to the recognized graduate student organizations registered with Campus Engagement within Student Life. The GSA also advocates for and serves all graduate students across the University, including online and semester programs, collaborating with the Graduate College and campus partners to enhance the graduate student experience.

The Executive Board Members of the GSA are nominated and elected by graduate students annually in the spring and serve from July 1 - June 30 (fiscal year). In collaboration with the Graduate College, Campus Engagement within Student Life, and various academic and student services units, the GSA and recognized graduate student organizations host hundreds of programs and events to meet the many interests of the graduate student population at Drexel and bring together students, postdocs, alumni, faculty and professional staff across academic disciplines and organizations. From research symposiums, academic panels, interdisciplinary workshops, and writing boot camps, to ski trips, white water rafting, intramural sports and happy hours, there is something for everyone in our vibrant Drexel graduate student community.

Executive Board Members of the GSA 2025-2026

For general inquiries, please contact the GSA E-Board at dsogsa@drexel.edu.

Vision & Goals

  • We will continue to cultivate an environment where every student feels a sense of belonging through  events that embrace diversity and connection.
  • We aim to build lasting partnerships within Drexel Organizations and foster strong relationships with external organizations to provide the best experiences and opportunities for graduate students.
  • We will strive to create and build opportunities that empower graduate students to develop their skills, enhance their careers, and unlock their full potential in the professional world.
  • We aspire to ensure that every graduate student has seamless access to essential information and resources, delivered through clear, efficient, and student-centered platforms.
  • We are dedicated to identifying the challenges faced by graduate students and implementing practical, effective solutions through impactful initiatives.
  • This year, we aim to strengthen our financial sustainability by recovering a portion of our spending through strategic sponsorships and partnerships.
Name, Position, Program & Bio  Photo

Rohit Varma Nadimpalli
President

Master's Program in Information Systems
College of Computing and Informatics

Before coming to Drexel, Rohit spent three years working in vendor relations and project management—an experience that strengthened both his technical expertise and leadership skills while fueling his passion for creativity.

During his undergraduate years, Rohit served as the president of his social club, where he led the planning and execution of over 200 events in just three years. Through this, he explored event management, photography, design, and app development, gaining valuable personal and professional growth.

At Drexel, Rohit has continued his leadership journey as the Chair of Student Life for the Graduate Student Association. Leveraging his background in vendor relations, he successfully collaborated with new vendors to organize memorable events and secure the best deals for the graduate community.

Now, Rohit is eager to take the next step and serve as President of the Graduate Student Association. He is committed to delivering meaningful, creative solutions that enhance the graduate student experience and is dedicated to making a lasting, positive impact for all graduate students.

Rohit Varma Nadimpalli Headshot

Kayode Oluwasegun
Executive Vice President

PhD Program in Mathematics
College of Arts and Sciences

Kayode's research focuses on the analysis and modeling of differential equation systems with real-world applications in biology, physics, and engineering. His academic interests span partial differential equations, scientific computing, and mathematical modeling, and he is passionate about using mathematics to address complex, interdisciplinary problems.

As Executive Vice President of the Graduate Student Association, Kayode provides strategic leadership across the executive board, helping to coordinate communication, initiatives, and events that enhance the graduate student experience. As one of the few returning board members, he brings valuable institutional knowledge that supports the onboarding and development of new GSA leaders.

Motivated by a deep commitment to advocacy, inclusion, and student empowerment, Kayode works closely with university leadership and student organizations to ensure that the voices of Drexel’s graduate population are heard and valued. His goals include strengthening transparency, fostering collaborative leadership, and promoting professional development opportunities that prepare graduate students for success both during and beyond their time at Drexel.

Beyond his academic and leadership roles, Kayode enjoys mentoring students, building community, and developing innovative solutions that foster connection and impact across the university.


Kayode Oluwasegun Headshot


Marian Gasinu
Vice President of Communications

Master's Program in Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience
College of Computing and Informatics

I am an international student from Ghana and I'm excited about the opportunity to lead the Communications department of the GSA. With a strong background in UI/UX design, I specialize in creating meaningful, accessible, and engaging experiences that connect people, skills I believe are essential for impactful communication. As a designer and communicator, I'm passionate about storytelling, building inclusive platforms, and ensure every graduate student feels seen, heard, and informed. I've worked on teams where I helped craft digital content, design visuals, and manage campaigns. I want to bring that same energy to GSA, highlighting student voices, promoting events creatively, and making communication more approachable and vibrant. In my role, I'll work to enhance engagement across Drexel's graduate community through thoughtful, student-focused content. I'm honored to represent and support GSA through this role.

Marian Gasinu Headshot

Harsh Patodi
Chair, Communications

Master's Program in Business Analytics
LeBow College of Business

With a strong background in data analysis, communication, and team collaboration, I aim to build a clear, inclusive, and engaging communication bridge across our graduate community. My vision is to introduce innovative platforms such as a weekly newsletter, social spotlights, and real time updates that highlight both opportunities and concerns. But communication isn't one way I will prioritize transparency and dialogue, hosting open forums for students to voice ideas and speak directly with university leadership. Having worked on cross functional, high impact projects in business analytics and communication strategy, I know how to turn insights into action. I want to make sure every student feels heard, informed, and empowered. This role is not just about delivering messages it’s about telling our collective story, celebrating our wins, and advocating for what we need. I'm honored to serve as your voice through the GSA. Let's build something meaningful together.

Harsh Patodi Headshot

Prajwal Prasanna
Chair, Communications

Master's Program in Engineering Management
College of Engineering

I'm genuinely excited about the opportunity to serve on the GSA. The GSA is where late‑night research chats turn into breakfast meet‑ups, where a quick 'hello" at a workshop can grow into a project or a friendship. I'd love to help keep that spark alive and push it a bit further. What can you expect from me? More open‑mic nights for ideas, smoother channels for concerns, and events that feel like a breath of fresh air after a week of deadlines. I want every grad student - on‑campus, online, quarter, or semester - to feel the GSA sees them and has room for them. My background? It's a mix of engineering, team projects, and plenty of lessons learned on the fly. But this role isn't about résumés; it's about people. I'm honored to serve.

Prajwal Prasanna Headshot

Aiman Nadeem
Vice President of Finance

PhD Program in Biological Sciences
College of Arts and Sciences

Hello! I'm excited to lead the GSA Finance Department. I'm passionate about bringing student ideas to life and believe that strong financial planning is key to turning great ideas into impactful events and initiatives. As the founder of STEM Olympiads during my undergraduate years, I faced skepticism when I first pitched the idea — many believed it would be too expensive and resource-intensive to execute. But I saw the potential. I compiled detailed budgets and worked closely with my team to present a clear, feasible plan. In the end, we not only secured funding but delivered a successful event that was recognized at the university level. I believe that's exactly the kind of mindset we need in the Finance Department: solution-oriented, realistic, and deeply committed to supporting student-led efforts. I'm excited about the opportunity to help our student community navigate funding logistics, believe in their ideas, and make them happen.


Aiman Nadeem Headshot

Dnyaneshwari Bhavate
Chair, Finance

Master's Program in Engineering Management
College of Engineering

Hi! I'm Dnyaneshwari Bhavate, but you can call me Dnyan. I'm a graduate student in Engineering Management with a background in biotechnology. Throughout my journey—from leading student teams in India to managing logistics and research projects—I've had several chances to witness the role that financial planning plays in bringing ideas to life. I'm excited to join the Finance Department because I enjoy working behind the scenes to ensure things run smoothly and sustainably. I believe in being transparent, detail-oriented, and thoughtful with resources—especially when they're meant to support our grad community. I'll do my best to ensure that funds are used responsibly and creatively to support events, initiatives, and opportunities that truly make our experience at Drexel richer and more connected. I'm honored to represent you!


Dnyaneshwari Bhavate Headshot

Jeevan Mourya
Chair, Finance

Master's Program in Engineering Management
College of Engineering

I am committed using data and financial acumen to drive beneficial change. I am honored to join the GSA Finance Department and look forward to assisting in making our graduate community's financial culture open and just. My professional experience has encompassed working between finance, quality assurance, and analytics roles, where I have helped optimize the budget, simplify reporting, and increase fiscal prudence. In my firm opinion, every graduate student must be assured that the fees they pay are spent with frugality, integrity, and in compliance with their needs. If elected to office, I will fight for efficient budgeting, accountability, and projects that reflect our diverse student demographics. I am excited to bring my experience and work with the GSA to achieve responsible financial management that supports student programs, drives activity, and creates lasting value to our whole graduate community.


Jeevan Mourya Headshot

Vacant

Vice President of Student Governance




Allora Atiyeh
Chair, Student Governance

Master's Program in Health Management and Policy
Dornsife School of Public Health

As a passionate advocate for student engagement and equity, I am excited for the opportunity to serve on the Student Governance team. Currently pursuing my Master of Public Health with a concentration in Health Management and Policy, I aim to bring a thoughtful, inclusive, and solutions-driven approach to representing graduate student interests. My leadership experience in student organizations and community health initiatives has taught me the value of collaboration, transparency, and proactive advocacy. I'm committed to ensuring that every graduate student feels heard, supported, and empowered. I hope to work together to create meaningful change on campus.

Allora Atiyeh Headshot

Sneha Shashidharan
Chair, Student Governance

Master's Program in Cybersecurity
College of Engineering

As a passionate graduate student and former senior software engineer, I bring years of experience and a proven track record of leadership, innovation, and collaboration. I believe graduate life should be more than academics it should be engaging, inclusive, and fulfilling. My goal is to create a vibrant, supportive community where every graduate student feels connected and heard. With my background I aim to create spaces both online and on campus where voices are heard and ideas come to life. With a love for continuous learning, team building, and problem-solving, I am eager to contribute to shaping a more inclusive and empowering graduate experience. Together, let us build a stronger, more connected Drexel community.


Sneha Shashidharan Headshot

Aksha Prince
Vice President of Student Life

PhD Program in Materials Science and Engineering
College of Engineering

I'm originally from India. I completed my master's in physics at a research institution back home, where I discovered how much a strong, supportive community can transform the academic experience. Now at Drexel, I'm excited to bring that same energy into shaping a graduate student life that's not only academically enriching but also vibrant, welcoming, and empowering. I believe student life should go beyond just classes—it's about creating spaces where we can connect, celebrate diversity, and truly feel like we belong. With my experience in leading students and social initiatives, I'm eager to contribute fresh ideas, collaborate with others, and help plan events that will make graduate life at Drexel an experience we’ll all remember.


Aksha Prince Headshot

Sanjana Aggarwal
Chair, Student Life

Master's Program in Business Analytics
LeBow College of Business

I recently moved to the U.S., and I understand how exciting yet overwhelming this transition can be. As graduate students, we're often caught up in academics, and professional goals, but we also need spaces where we can connect, unwind, and truly experience campus life. That's why I'm passionate about joining the GSA and supporting the Student Life Department. I want to help create a platform where graduate students both new and current, can build meaningful connections, explore campus opportunities, and feel a true sense of belonging. With my background in event planning and student engagement, I'm confident in my ability to contribute fresh ideas and organize impactful initiatives. In my role, I'll work to ensure every grad student has a supportive and enriching experience beyond the classroom. I’m honored to be your voice and representative in the GSA.


Sanjana Aggarwal

Madhukeshwar S. Maalige
Chair, Student Life

Master's Program in Engineering Management
College of Engineering

I am really excited to be join the graduate student life team. I always have had the urge to be part of it, since I believe the real connections happen outside the campus during the exchange of stories, cultural events and while having fun together bringing out vibrant thoughts. With my background in engineering and participation in events, I love organizing things that bring people together. I would love to help create events that make campus feel a little more like home. Think pub or cultural nights, cricket, ice skating or just a space to break the ice and meet new people. I am here to listen, support and bring ideas to life.

Madhukeshwar Maalige Headshot

Ashley Bishop
Vice President of Academic Affairs

PhD Program in Biomedical Engineering
School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems

As a triple dragon currently pursuing my PhD in biomedical engineering, I am passionate about ensuring graduate students at Drexel have the support, knowledge, and resources that are vital to academic success. With strong organizational skills and a collaborative mindset, I am eager to contribute to planning events like the DEGS Conference, strengthening partnerships with university departments, and advocating for resources that enhance the graduate student experience. My extensive leadership experience in student organizations and continual involvement in the Drexel community has equipped me with a strong ability to organize events that are beneficial to a wide audience of students with diverse career aspirations. Understanding the unique and multifaceted challenges Drexel graduate students face, I am eager to dedicate my time and energy to ensure the academic and professional growth of our graduate community.



Ashley Bishop Headshot

Kasonde Chewe
Chair, Academic Affairs

PhD Program in Biomedical Engineering
School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems

As a PhD student in Biomedical Engineering working in genomics research, I am driven by a passion to contribute to positive human health outcomes through research and innovation. That same passion fuels my commitment to academic advocacy, student success, and building a collaborative and supportive graduate community. I believe every graduate student deserves an environment where they can thrive academically, professionally, and personally. I am eager to foster interdepartmental collaboration, support GSA events, and serve as a voice for students navigating their academic journey at any stage. I am excited for the opportunity to give back to Drexel's dynamic and ambitious graduate community. I look forward to empowering my peers and helping shape a more connected and enriching academic experience for all.

Kasonde Chewe Headshot

Sumedha Na
Chair, Academic Affairs

Master's Program in Business Analytics
LeBow College of Business

I'm excited to represent you in GSA's Academic Affairs department. With a background in FinTech and a strong belief in financial transparency, I want to make sure every dollar we spend actually works for you. That means investing in programs, resources, and events that matter—while cutting out what doesn't. I believe in smart, inclusive budgeting and clear, honest communication. In my role, I'll push for a financial process that's easier to understand, more collaborative, and shaped by the needs of our graduate community. You should know where the money goes—and have a say in where it should go. I'm honored to represent you and turn good ideas into real, lasting impact!

Sumedha Na

More Information

For a list of recognized graduate student organizations, click here.

For information for international students, visit the International Students page and the International Graduate Student Association's (IGSA) website.

For information about the College of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Professional Studies Graduate Student Associations, visit their website.

For a complete list of Drexel's student organizations, visit DragonLink.

For questions or more information about student organizations, visit the Student Life website or contact Student Life.

Cimi Patani

Master's Program in Electrical Engineering
College of Engineering

"Hey there, my fellow Dragons! Thanks to our fantastic events, I've always thought of the Graduate Student Association as a treasure chest full of new friends. We're all more than faces in a crowd, and I love discovering the unique, 'movie-worthy' stories each of you carries. You'll often find me embarking on spirited adventures down the rabbit holes of the vast Internet, discovering intriguing tidbits and exploring the expansive universe of knowledge. With my natural organizing skills and strategic mindset, a busy to-do list is my idea for a great day. I am thrilled to meet, listen, learn, and contribute to our amazing GSA community. By the way, have you ever wondered how dragons blow out candles!?"