HARRISBURG, PA — After a few years of inactivity, Harrisburg University’s Student Government Association (SGA) is making a vibrant return this semester. The SGA, a voluntary student leadership program, plays a crucial role in representing student concerns, promoting the welfare of the student body, and serving as a bridge between students and university administration.
The newly reestablished SGA aims to give students a stronger voice on campus by offering opportunities for leadership, collaboration, and advocacy. Nayeem Islam, Senior Director of Student Life, serves as the SGA Lead Advisor, providing guidance and support to ensure the organization’s success.
Keep reading to meet Harrisburg University’s 2026 Student Government Association Officers!
Prashila Kafley, President
Prashila is a junior Biotechnology major. She is committed to being the voice of her peers and facilitating continuous progress at Harrisburg University. In her role, Prashila aims to facilitate collaboration among students, faculty, and administration to support initiatives that address the diverse needs of the student body. She has participated in aquaponics research and HU’s GIS lab: experiences that have strengthened her leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Prashila is committed to ensuring that all students feel heard, valued, and empowered, believing that a vibrant and connected student community is key to the university’s success.
Catherine “Cate” Guest, Vice President
Cate is a junior majoring in Environmental Science and Sustainability with a concentration in Controlled Environment Agriculture. She is dedicated to building a stronger, more active student body by enhancing communication between students and administration.
In addition to her SGA role, Cate is a Student Ambassador who works to engage with prospective students and support campus events. Outside of her academic and leadership responsibilities, she enjoys photography.
Alvin Smith, Secretary
Alvin Smith is a junior majoring in Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics. He is committed to honest and consistent student representation and brings strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork skills from his academic experiences.
As part of the SGA, Alvin wants to help strengthen communication between students and administration and advocate initiatives that make academic life more welcoming, practical, and accessible.
Applications Open for SGA Representatives
Harrisburg University students are encouraged to apply to become SGA Representatives. Representatives play an important role in shaping the student experience by:
- Attending all SGA meetings – both executive and student meetings – and lending their voice to help guide discussions.
- Bringing forward student concerns to ensure all voices are heard.
- Assisting the SGA President and Vice President in shaping and crafting proposals.
This is a fantastic opportunity for students to get involved, influence campus initiatives, and strengthen the connection between the student body and administration.
This semester, the SGA held monthly meetings in the Student Union. Students who are interested in catching up on topics discussed in past meetings or connecting with SGA members virtually can do so on the SGA SharePoint website.
With its return, SGA promises to boost collaboration on campus, strengthen student engagement, and ensure that Harrisburg University students have an active role in shaping their university experience.
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ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science & Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, engineering, robotics, nursing, cybersecurity, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link learning and research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, Communications Manager for Harrisburg University of Science & Technology, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100×1724.
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