Moroloke Okanlawon, Candidate for Director of Communication

Graduate Degree Program: Doctoral student, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, College of Science

Expected Date of Graduation: May 2030

Campus of Academic Department: Science and Technology

Campus(es) of Classes, Work, and/or Residence: Fairfax, Science and Technology

Biography and Candidate Statement

Biography: Morolake Okanlawon is a first-year PhD student in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology at George Mason University, where she also serves as a Graduate Professional Assistant with Graduate Student Life. In this role, she supports campus-wide graduate engagement through event planning, digital communications, and student programming that centers connection, well-being, and professional growth. She is passionate about building spaces where graduate students feel seen, informed, and supported. Morolake’s work sits at the intersection of communication, creativity, and community building. She manages outreach efforts across multiple platforms including Mason360, Instagram, newsletters, and digital flyers, ensuring that messaging is clear, inclusive, and visually engaging. She has helped promote and execute large-scale events such as graduate workshops, social programs, and wellness initiatives in collaboration with partners across campus including CAPS and student organizations. Her experience translating complex information into accessible, student-friendly content allows her to connect with diverse graduate audiences effectively. Beyond campus leadership, Morolake is deeply involved in interdisciplinary innovation spaces, regularly participating in hackathons, research collaborations, and tech-driven initiatives. These experiences have strengthened her ability to communicate across audiences, tell compelling stories, and represent student voices in professional settings. She brings both analytical thinking and creative energy to every project she takes on. Candidate Statement I am running for Director of Communications because I care deeply about how graduate students experience information, opportunities, and community at Mason. Communication is more than announcements and graphics. It shapes whether students feel included, informed, and empowered to participate in campus life. Through my work with Graduate Student Life, I have seen firsthand how thoughtful communication can increase event participation, strengthen partnerships, and make students feel welcomed rather than overwhelmed. I understand how to tailor messaging for different platforms and audiences, from quick social posts that grab attention to detailed newsletters that provide clarity and direction. I also value consistency in branding and tone so students can easily recognize and trust GAPSA communications. If elected, I would focus on three priorities: First, improving visibility. I want graduate students to consistently know what GAPSA is doing and how it supports them. Second, accessibility. Information should be easy to find, easy to understand, and inclusive of Mason’s diverse graduate community. Third, engagement. Communications should invite participation, highlight student voices, and celebrate graduate achievements. I bring reliability, creativity, and strong collaboration skills to this role. Most importantly, I bring a genuine commitment to serving the graduate student community and strengthening how we stay connected.

Availability and Commitment to the Time and Expectations of the Position

Yes, I will be able to meet the time commitments and expectations of this position. For the 2026–2027 academic year, my coursework is expected to follow my program’s typical structure, with classes held on weekday evenings. I currently work with Graduate Student Life Monday through Friday during standard work hours. While some scheduled events may take place on weekends, these are planned in advance and manageable within my overall schedule. At this time, I do not have other organizational leadership commitments, and I’m able to balance my academic responsibilities, professional commitments, and GAPSA involvement consistently throughout the year.

Experience with using graphic design tools, including but not limited to Canva

I regularly use Canva to design digital flyers, social media graphics, presentations, and event branding for Graduate Student Life. I’m comfortable creating visuals, resizing content for multiple platforms, and collaborating on shared templates. I also have experience with various editing tools for multimedia and promotional content.

Experience with using social media for outreach and engagement

I manage social media outreach for graduate student programs, creating engaging posts, reels, and event promotions across Instagram and campus platforms like Mason360. I focus on clear messaging, audience-specific content, and visual storytelling to increase visibility, participation, and student engagement while maintaining consistent branding and tone.

Experience with website content management, including but not limited to using WordPress

I have experience using Drupal to update and manage website content for Graduate Student Life, including editing pages, posting announcements, and maintaining accurate event and program information. I’m comfortable working within content management systems and ensuring web content is clear, timely, and aligned with organizational messaging.