Benjamin Forrest, a second year student at Frostburg State University, is a student leader committed to ensuring that students' voices and perspectives are represented in decision-making at the University. He is one of four students serving on the University Advisory Council, a group composed of leaders of our faculty, staff, and student shared governance bodies. He has demonstrated a deep commitment to alleviating polarization between groups. In his role as student affairs chair of the Student Government Association, he has facilitated conversations between students and local law enforcement officials to ensure effective communication and reduce stereotypes that may exist among both groups. Ben has also been an active participant in our town halls that are designed to openly address difficult, controversial, and complex issues. Prior to his enrolling here, Ben served as an Eagle Scout; his project focused on increasing the safety of the neighborhood surrounding his church. Through his volunteer work, he has acquired considerable insight into the most critical needs of our most vulnerable populations. Ben understands the role poverty plays in preventing many individuals from pursuing the opportunities routinely available to others; he is committed to developing partnerships focused on reducing poverty in our community.