When one ASUC senator leaves, another must come to take their place. Sophomore Bridgette Meshkani, though, plans to do more than just be former senator Josh Lee’s replacement.
Meshkani, who is in her second year as part of the ASUC, will step in as one of the 20 members of the senate following Lee’s graduation. As a senator, Meshkani aims to emphasize student safety and pursue initiatives that would promote accessibility and “good health practices.”
“I am hoping to uplift and represent both my Iranian and Jewish communities,” Meshkani said in an email. “In addition, I want to include my passion for PHC into my efforts in the ASUC through community development.”
The senate vacancy was filled following a countback retabulation of votes, according to a public notice from Lilian Chang, ASUC Elections Council chair. Prior to her selection to the senate, Meshkani served as director of Jewish affairs in Senator Sophie Morris’ office and executive director for SVSH prevention and sexual wellness in Senator Shay Cohen’s office.
In addition, Meshkani holds a leadership position in UC Berkeley’s Panhellenic Council and serves as the assistant director of finance in the Alpha Phi sorority.
“I am so grateful for this amazing opportunity,” Meshkani said in an email. “With only a few months left in my term, I am still confident that I can create positive change and be an impactful leader for all UC Berkeley students.”
Lee, whose term as a senator will be best remembered by the controversy surrounding his Greek Opportunity Grant Reform Act, shared a parting statement on his Instagram account in December.
In the statement, Lee spoke about his experience as part of the ASUC and the backlash he received following the introduction of his Greek life bill. Lee, who ran as an independent candidate, also panned the current party system within the senate in his statement.
“I constantly get asked what the ASUC is and what the ASUC does,” Lee said in his statement. “Honestly, I’m not sure I can give the students that ask me this a clear answer.”
