Liam Ryals

Candidate for Board of Directors, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics

Candidate Slogan

Empowering Diversity, Expanding Opportunities, Elevating STEM

 

Candidate Biography
Liam Ryals is a 5th year Biochemistry major at CSUF, with a passion for both science and community engagement. Currently, he serves as Board of Directors College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and the Chapter President of the National Organization of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCCHE) at CSUF, where he works to increase diversity in STEM fields and advocate for underrepresented communities in science. Additionally, Liam is a research assistant in a theoretical chemistry lab, further deepening his scientific expertise and experience. Liam aspires to earn a PhD in Chemistry and continue his work in research and teaching at the university level, where he hopes to contribute to the academic community and support students in their own scientific journeys. Over the years, he has dedicated himself to advocating for the Black community at CSUF, taking on various leadership roles aimed at engaging and empowering students of color. Liam’s passion for science, combined with his dedication to advocating for his community, makes him a strong candidate for the Board of Directors for the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. He is eager to continue his work creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for students at in the College of NSM.

 

Candidate Statement/Platform

In the role of Board of Directors for the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM), my platform is built around the idea of creating a more inclusive and opportunity-rich environment for all students, with a particular focus on underrepresented groups in STEM. One of my core goals is to increase the representation of underrepresented groups within the College of NSM. I want to create spaces and opportunities that encourage students from diverse backgrounds to pursue and persist in STEM fields. Through targeted outreach, mentorship programs, and collaborative partnerships with culturally specific academic organizations and student groups, I will work to bridge the gap and build a more inclusive community where every student feels supported and empowered to succeed. There are countless opportunities available within the College of NSM that students may not always be aware of, such as research projects, internships, and scholarships. If elected, I will continue to focus on improving communication about these opportunities. I want to make sure no student misses out on these chances due to lack of awareness. I plan to work on creating a more visible network of opportunities, such as REUs (Research Experiences for Undergraduates) and other fellowships, that students can easily access. Throughout my time at CSUF, I’ve learned that meaningful change comes from listening to students, understanding their needs, and working toward practical solutions. I have identified a need for the College to develop more initiatives aimed at engaging underrepresented students. I will continue to advocate for purposeful initiatives that enhance student opportunities on campus and address the specific needs of our diverse student body. This includes not only improving academic resources but also ensuring that the student experience is supportive, equitable, and designed to foster growth both inside and outside the classroom. By focusing on these key areas, I hope to help create an environment where every student has the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive in their academic and professional pursuits. I am committed to advocating for intentional change that elevates the experiences of all students in the College of NSM, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.