Student Leadership - Meet Student Advocacy Council
The Student Advocacy Council (SAC) is composed of elected officials, program GAs and office GAs to ensure proper representation of students and serves as the governing body for all students enrolled at the Institute, acting as a voice for students in communication with faculty and staff. Elections are held every semester, for the positions of president, vice president , communications officer and historian. Graduate assistants which represent programs and key offices are also invited to join the SAC.
The purpose of the Student Advocacy Council is to represent and address the needs and interests of the student body at the Middlebury Institute. It shall strive to facilitate communications and interaction between the Middlebury Institute students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community, and shall sponsor various educational and social activities that will further this purpose.
The following information will be updated semesterly, following the SAC retreat at the start of the semester:
SAC Fall ‘25 - Our Mission, Our Vision, Our Values
Mission: To coordinate educational and social events and activities that connect all students to MIIS and the Monterey community while advocating for students’ needs and fostering a culture of collaboration, equity, and inclusivity.
Vision: A well-integrated learning and social environment where all students, regardless of where they are, can build meaningful connections with MIIS faculty and staff, Middlebury College, other students, field experts, and the entire Monterey community in order to advance their professional and academic ambitions.
Values:
- We aim to be honest with each other and with the community to build trust and confidence in the Student Council.
- We strive to be transparent in all our actions as Student Council members through constant communication with members of the MIIS community and by encouraging honest, constructive feedback.
- We do not withhold information through facilitating and maintaining open communication with the MIIS community, ensuring that the community has consistent access to Student Council activity.
- We seek to provide an open-minded environment where everyone feels empowered to share their thoughts without fear of repercussion or judgment.
- We value diversity and seek to create an inclusive environment that respects and honors all our differences.
- We treat others with respect and professional courtesy by honoring and valuing their words, actions, and beliefs. We respect each other’s boundaries and honor the sacrifices of time and energy that every member makes.
- We create a safe space for members of Student Council and our constituents through open, respectful dialogue and providing a non-judgmental environment.
- We seek to be united as a team by communicating with one another and coming to compromises and agreements to form a unified front.
For a full description of responsibilities and roles, please visit the Student Council Constitution.
Marley Uyemura, SAC President
Translation and Localization Management Student
Hi! My name is Marley Uyemura (she/her). I am currently in my 3rd semester at MIIS, working towards an MA in Translation & Localization Management. In addition to being the President, I am also your Student Constituent Representative to the Institute Board of Advisors (IBA) until Spring 2026. After being the SAC Historian last semester, I wanted to continue working with student leaders, faculty and staff to improve the student experience. I strive to lead with empathy, to make space for others to voice their ideas and to be transparent. I hope you will find the SAC to be a group with whom all members of the MIIS community feel safe, seen and understood. If you see me around campus, feel free to say hi and introduce yourself! I am very grateful for the opportunity to serve in this position this semester and look forward to getting to know you. Cheers to a wonderful fall term!
Evans Nyamadzawo, SAC Vice President
Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies Student
Hi! My name is Evans Nyamadzawo, and I am originally from Zimbabwe. I bring a diverse background shaped by my academic studies and professional experiences across Africa, Europe, and the United States. I am passionate about creating spaces where all voices are heard and valued.
As Vice President of the SAC, I am dedicated to fostering inclusion, strengthening student representation, and helping to build a strong and supportive community during this important time of transition at MIIS. I believe that collaboration and open dialogue are central to addressing challenges and ensuring that students remain at the heart of decision-making.
Beyond my academic and leadership roles, I have a creative side. I enjoy photography and video editing, which allows me to capture and tell stories in meaningful ways. I am also an avid movie enthusiast, a passionate soccer fan, and someone who loves to travel and explore new cultures. These interests not only inspire my creativity but also reflect my belief in connecting with people and perspectives from around the world.
James Kuba, SAC Communications Officer
Translation and Localization Management Student
Hi, my name is James Kuba! I grew up in Southern California and discovered my passion for Japanese at UCLA, later teaching in Kyoto, Japan for 5 years through the JET Program. I highly value internationalization and hopes to bridge cultures through a career in translation and localization. My leadership experience spans Scouts BSA, where I earned Eagle Scout, serving as President of my university’s Japanese Culture Club, and now contributing at MIIS as a GA in Admissions. I also enjoy the Japanese Tea Ceremony Club and volunteer as a Japanese teacher with the JACL! As part of the SAC, I will keep the MIIS community connected and informed while fostering a welcoming, multicultural space that amplifies students’ voices.
Irina Gonzalez Marquez, SAC Historian | Center for Advising and Career Services GA Representative
International Policy and Development Student
Hi, I’m Irina! I was born and raised in Argentina and have spent the past six years in California, two places that shaped my perspective and values. Moving to the U.S. exposed me to rich culture, diversity, and global perspectives. As a Global Studies undergraduate, I developed a passion for international affairs through Model UN, UN Conferences, research and writing. My drive to build a more peaceful world led me to join the IPD program at MIIS and UN Volunteer work focused on displacement, refugee rights, and the power of storytelling. I value intercultural understanding and see the Student Advocacy Council as an opportunity to amplify student voices and continue to foster a stronger, united community.
Abby Rogers, Admissions and TESOL/TFL GA Representative
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Student
Hi, I’m Abby Rogers! I’m from New Hampshire but I have been loving my life on the West Coast so much! Before arriving at Middlebury Institute of International Studies, I worked as an English language assistant in France for two years. As a cross-cultural communicator, I would like to work abroad again after graduating from MIIS. When I’m not studying, I have been taking advantage of the beautiful scenery around Monterey by going on hikes and beach walks. As a GA in the Admissions Office, I am often in contact with new and prospective students, so I am excited to help shape what the MIIS experience will be like for future members of our community. I am also proud to represent my peers in the TESOL/TFL program.
Edwin Xi, TI & ISSS GA Representative
Translation and Interpretation Student
Hi! My name is Edwin Xi. I am passionate, driven, and always eager to learn and take pride in dedicating myself to my academic pursuits. Throughout my studies, I have strived for excellence, and I am committed to expanding my knowledge and exploring new possibilities. Being raised in the coastal city of Shenzhen, China’s Silicon Valley has shaped my perspective, instilling the values of optimism and modesty I carry today. My interests are diverse and fulfilling, from hiking and table tennis to photography and making Cantonese cuisine. I am always seeking new challenges and opportunities to grow. For me, building strong relationships with others is of the utmost importance. I look forward to meeting everyone and forming lasting connections. Kindness, respect, and open communication are values that I hold dear, and I am eager to share my experiences and support my fellow university peers.
Rongrong Wan, Environmental Policy and Management GA Representative
Environmental Policy and Management Student
Hi, my name is Rongrong Wan! I am a second-year Environmental Policy and Management student. My work centers on climate action, gender equality, and biodiversity. I have served with the United Nations, most recently with UNFPA (resource mobilization & donor relations) and previously with UNODC’s Gender Equality team—experiences that strengthened my policy analysis, cross-cultural collaboration, and impact-focused communication. As EPM’s GA representative, I’m committed to listening, elevating concerns, and partnering with the Student Advocacy Council to co-create practical solutions. I also lead the Chinese Cultural Club to foster meaningful multicultural exchange.
Shimeng Zhu, Environmental Policy and Management GA Representative
Environmental Policy and Management Student
Hi, I’m Shimeng Zhu! I am a second-year student in the Environmental Policy and Management program, specializing in Ocean and Coastal Resource Management. Originally from China, I earned my first master’s degree in English Interpreting from Shanghai International Studies University, where I also gained extensive experience in translation and interpretation. At MIIS, my academic focus has shifted toward marine conservation. I am particularly fascinated by the mysteries of deep-sea creatures and the tranquility of the ocean.
Jonathan Myers, Library GA Representative
Translation and Localization Management Student
Hi, I’m Jonathan Myers! I am a TLM student and love working at the library. I bring a strong background in both language and technology, with a B.A. in Linguistics and Computer Science from Georgetown University and advanced Japanese study as a Nippon Foundation Fellow at the Inter-University Center in Yokohama.
Before graduate school, I worked at Appian as a consultant and senior consultant, developing business process management applications for public sector clients. At MIIS, I am especially interested in how localization engineering and translation technology can connect people across languages and cultures. Experienced in multiple programming languages and passionate about studying Japanese, I see localization as a perfect bridge between my technical and linguistic passions.
Angela Izi Nkusi, Marketing and Communications GA Representative
Environmental Policy and Management Student
Hi! I’m Angela Izi Nkusi. I’m a second-year Environmental Policy and Management (EPM) student from Kigali, Rwanda, with a Bachelor of Arts in Global Environmental Change from Middlebury College. I am passionate about addressing climate change and advancing climate resilience and sustainable development in Africa. Beyond my academic and professional interests, I enjoy acrylic painting, nature photography, cooking, and watching Korean dramas. My love of travel and cultural exploration has taken me to Bordeaux, France, where I lived and studied. I am currently learning Chinese as my fourth language and hope to visit China in the near future.
Julena Wuer, Translation and Localization Management GA Representative
Translation and Localization Management Student
Hi, I’m Julena Wuer! I earned a dual degree in Agronomy and English from China Agricultural University. My lifelong passion for languages brought me to MIIS, where I am pursuing the field I truly love. Guided by the belief to “strive for excellence in what you love,” I value steady progress and persistence in every step I take.
I view every localizer as a bridge between cultures, and in my role as a GA Representative, I am committed to serving as a connector between students and faculty. I will advocate for student voices, share helpful resources, and organize engaging events to strengthen the TLM community and help it continue to grow.
Jessica Rodriguez-Reyes, Threat Intelligence GA Representative
Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies Student
Hi, my name is Jessica Rodriguez-Reyes! I am in my final semester of a joint Bachelor’s/Master’s in Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies. My research focuses on anti-human trafficking, with a particular interest in how intimate partner violence can act as a precursor to trafficking. I am passionate about educating and empowering my community, whether through research, advocacy, or participating in programs that connect people with resources in accessible ways. In my free time, I enjoy reading, going to the gym, and volunteering locally. I am excited to engage with fellow students, learn from their experiences, and work collaboratively toward meaningful change.
Nate Buchanan, Sustainability GA Representative
Environmental Policy and Management Student
Hi everyone! My name is Nate Buchanan and I am a Master’s candidate in Environmental Policy and Management here at Middlebury and a leader of the Sustainability Council. I believe that sustainability and our love of nature are things that connects all students and belong in every program and aspect of student life at Middlebury. Through events that connect students with nature, center joy, foster collaboration across departments, and provide opportunities for sustainability learning and growth, I hope to make sustainability approachable, fun, and inclusive here at MIIS. I believe that true sustainability must ensure that advocacy uplifts people as much as it protects the environment. On the Student Advocacy Council, I hope to broaden the visibility of sustainability, build stronger connections across campus, and help maintain the legacy of an inclusive, dynamic, and resilient sustainability community at Middlebury.
Habiba Mickdad, GA Representative
Students of Student Services
Hi, I’m Habiba Mickdad, originally from Tanzania! I am pursuing my Master’s in Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies at MIIS with a focus on Strategic Intelligence. Building on my background in Political Science and International Peacebuilding, I explore the intersections of global security, financial crime, and conflict transformation. I am passionate about turning complex challenges into opportunities for dialogue, collaboration, and meaningful change. Beyond my love for research on peace, security, and global problem-solving, I’m passionate about community-building, dialogue, and making sure every voice is heard. When I’m not buried in books or working on projects, you’ll probably find me experimenting in the kitchen, exploring new cultures, or volunteering in ways that bring people together. As part of the Student Advocacy Council, I am excited to help create an inclusive, connected, and vibrant student community, and to make this year a fantastic one for everyone at MIIS!
Max Lau, Reslife GA Representative
Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies Student
My name is Max Lau, and I am in Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies program, with a focus on nuclear nonproliferation. I was born and raised in Vancouver, Canada, in a multicultural household — my Mom is from Osaka, Japan, and my Dad is from Hong Kong. This has influenced the way I see the world and has shaped my interest in global issues, diplomacy, and peacebuilding.
Beyond my academic interests, I enjoy playing soccer/football, exploring video games, and watching anime.
As a representative for Munras, I hope to serve as a voice for the residents — fostering a community where people feel heard, valued, and connected. My goal is to contribute to creating a space filled with joy, inclusivity, and happiness, where cultural diversity is celebrated and everyone feels a genuine sense of belonging.
Jake Lopata, Veterans GA Representative
Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies Student
Hi, my name is Jake Lopata! I’m an NPTS student specializing in financial crime management. Before MIIS, I served in the Marine Corps, and I’ve spent most of my life in or around the Pacific Ocean. At MIIS, I help run cyber activities, lead the Veterans Organization, and work with the CNS New Tools Team. In my free time I enjoy surfing, photography, and hanging out with my dog.
Nat Garza, Conflict Transformation GA Representative
Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies Student
Ah Manam!
Hi, my name is Nat! I’m a student in the NPTS program, with a research focus on nuclear colonialism and its humanitarian impacts. I’m from Houston, Texas, and am affiliated with the Miakan-Garza Band of Texas, a state-recognized Native American tribe.
As a Conflict Transformation Pedagogy Fellow, I am able to serve on SAC as an Indigenous Community Relations Liaison to inform the MIIS community of allyship opportunities and knowledge.