Liam Ryals

Liam Ryals
Seeking Candidacy for: Board of Directors, College of Natural Science and Mathematics

Biography:

Liam Ryals is a fourth-year Biochemistry major at CSUF, with a passion for both science and community engagement. Currently, he serves as the President of the National Organization for the Professional Advancement 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 working towards a more inclusive and supportive environment for students at CSUF.

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 focus on improving communication about these opportunities, ensuring that students know how to apply, who to contact, and how to make the most of what the college has to offer. I want to make sure no student misses out on these chances due to lack of awareness. While there are many valuable opportunities within CSUF, there are also external resources and programs that can help expand students’ horizons—such as research opportunities at other universities or institutions. 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. I believe making these resources more visible and accessible will open up new pathways for student growth and success. Throughout my time at CSUF, I’ve learned that meaningful change comes from listening to students, understanding their needs, and working toward practical solutions. If elected, I will 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—regardless of background—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.

Campaign Slogan/Tagline:

“Empowering Diversity, Expanding Opportunities, Elevating STEM”