SMSU Board of Directors Welcomes New Chair

Meet Alexandra Thambi! She is the Chair of the Santos Manuel Student Union (SMSU) board of directors. Alexandra helps to oversee the SMSU and the Student Recreation and Wellness Center. In her role, Alexandra meets with CSUSB administrators and leads the board’s monthly meetings.

The SMSU board of directors is an incorporated body that acts as an auxiliary organization of the university to oversee the operations of the SMSU and Student Recreation & Wellness Center. Ultimately, the board serves the students and represents their interest and voice.

Alexandra, a fifth-year biology major, has held multiple positions at CSUSB, which helped prepare her for her role as chair, including serving as co-president of the Black Student Union and on the Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) Board of Directors as the director for Sustainability.

Alexandra was the SMSU board of director’s secretary before becoming chair. This year, she planned on running for secretary of the board again but decided to step out of her comfort zone and go for the chair position.

“It never hurts to go big and see what happens,” said Alexandra.

She was also motivated and inspired to take on the chair position to continue the great work done by her successor, Julia Ruiz. Alexandra has big plans for the year ahead. This year, the board will be working on the SMSU and ASI Joint Resolution Recognition of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. The goal is to create greater awareness about the importance of the indigenous land the SMSU is located on and to represent indigenous and Native American students through programming, education, and art. For example, art work and designs by indigenous and Native American students will be displayed throughout the Santos Manuel Student Union.

According to Alexandra, the SMSU is “the hub for students to get connected, resources, and the support they need.” To aid in this effort, the SMSU board of directors is working on opening a Parent Resource Center to assist CSUSB students who have children or are working parents on their educational journey.

After graduation, Alexandra plans to pursue a career in the medical field. She would like to be a pediatrician or OBGYN. Alexandra was drawn to these career paths based on her own life experiences. Alexandra had severe asthma as a child and her pediatrician played an instrumental role in helping her overcome it. Her interest in being an OBGYN stems from her desire to provide quality healthcare to women of color.

Students interested in serving on the SMSU board of directors can apply on the SMSU website. Stay connected and follow the SMSU on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. 

To access information about the Santos Manuel Student Union, click here