Welcome to Women in Politics: College Edition, where promising women leaders in student government on college and university campuses across the country will be featured on msnbc.com over the course of the year. Anna Lubitz has been nominated by Stony Brook University as a leader making a difference not only through key issues on campus, but in bridging the gender gap in politics.
As part of a new series at msnbc, “Women of 2014,” these hand-selected women become part of a larger discussion of women candidates and women’s issues on a national level. “Women of 2014” is a home for all women in politics – notably those in some of the year’s most pivotal races – with newsmaker interviews, profiles, photos, a Twitter trail following more than 35 candidates, and deep dives into the key conversations.
From the Ivy Leagues to the Big Ten to liberal arts colleges and beyond, young women are making a difference across the country – meet them here!
School: Stony Brook University
Hometown: Setauket, Long Island, New York
Concentration: Biology (specializing in Ecology and Evolution, and Environmental Studies)
Role in Student Government: SUNY Student Assembly Executive Committee Representative (Former Acting Vice-President); President of Pre-Veterinary Society; student liaison and a co-founder for the Elect Her: Stony Brook Women Win training initiative; National Society of High School Scholars Senior Student Council Member - Stony Brook University Representative; Student Staff assistant in the Office of the Provost; Undergraduate Biology Student Advisory Board member; Stony Brook University national anthem singer.
Dream job: Pediatric Dentist/Singer
Class year: 2014
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What is your biggest challenge as a leader on campus?
The biggest challenge as a leader on campus is overcoming adversity and standing up for what you believe in; finding your voice and utilizing it to voice the concerns and fight for the ethical choice that betters the majority. Overall, as a leader on campus, you need to remain strong, yet also inspire others to share a vision in making a beneficial difference on campus.
Which female leaders do you draw inspiration from?
I have several inspirational female figures: my mother, my grandmother, and Eleanor Roosevelt. My mother and grandmother have always been my sources of inspiration. My grandmother taught me how to sing when I was a very young girl and encouraged me to pursue my dreams. Similarly, my mother has been my foundation. My mother is one of the strongest women I know who isn’t afraid to stand up for what she believes in.
Eleanor Roosevelt's role in politics and notable quotes have always been a source of inspiration. I love her quotes "follow the beauty of your dreams" because it empowers and motivates me to pursue my dreams no matter what unforeseen obstacles.
What comes to mind first when you think about important moments in history?
I believe that one of the most important moments in history was when women obtained the right to vote. This achievement was the cornerstone of enlightenment for women to be recognized as equals in society.
What do you think should be President Obama’s No. 1 priority?
Coming from a student perspective, I believe Obama's top priority should be tuition costs for college students across the nation and employment for recent graduates. In addition, I think that health care and support for our troops are also very important issues that need to be given attention to.
What book could you read over and over?
A book that I never get tired of reading over and over again is “Anne of Green Gables.” This is my favorite book because it highlights the intelligence, creativity, and strength of the main character. I am also a fan of the "Harry Potter" and "Star Wars" book series'.
Follow Anna on LinkedIn and Check out last week’s female leader!
To nominate an exceptional undergraduate female leader in student government please email Anna Brand at Anna.Brand@nbcuni.com