Sophie Ouellette-Wade, a political science and third year student at Wittenberg University, is committed to understanding and changing the racial inequalities embedded in political institutions. In particular, she is focused on the criminal justice system and intends to pursue a career in law to help reform the system that leads to the disproportionate disenfranchisement of minorities. During her time at Wittenberg, she has contributed to a series on campus by faculty and students on Race, Age, and Voting in America. In addition, she has engaged with local organizations and leaders in Springfield, including the juvenile court and nonprofits focused on systemic change. She has used these connections to deepen her own understanding of both the structural forces of inequality as well as the personal impact those inequalities have on people. She has created many connections on campus, exposing herself to various viewpoints and seeking opportunities to strengthen her collaboration skills. Her leadership style is heavily complimented by partnership with her peers, who help her to facilitate new pathways to resolve conflicts. She is eager to take these connections and passions and use them to create meaningful change as a public servant.