Addison Gregory, a sophomore biology/pre-medical science major at PennWest University’s California campus, has been selected to serve as the student trustee representing California on the Pennsylvania Western University Council of Trustees.
Gregory will replace current student trustee Tyrique Whitson following his graduation in May. As a full voting member of the council, Gregory will work alongside university leadership to review key areas including administration, fiscal management and the physical plant — bringing the student perspective to decisions that shape the PennWest experience.
For Gregory, a native of Coal Center, Pennsylvania, the appointment is both an honor and a responsibility.
“It is truly an honor to represent the California campus and to be trusted with a position that allows me to advocate for students at such a high level,” she said. “I feel incredibly grateful and motivated to make the most of this opportunity.”
Gregory’s selection reflects a strong record of leadership, service and campus involvement. In her first semester alone, she has taken on active roles in Student Government, the Student Activities Board and the Biology Club, while also serving as a member of Delta Zeta sorority and representing the university as part of the Vulcans Cheerleading team.
Her commitment to engagement extends beyond campus organizations. Gregory has helped lead and support numerous service initiatives, including fundraisers benefiting national nonprofits, local food drives serving families in need and community events designed to bring students and residents together.
“These experiences have strengthened my leadership, organization and communication skills while reinforcing my dedication to serving others,” Gregory said.
Her passion for leadership and advocacy has been a driving force behind her pursuit of the student trustee role.
“What inspired me to pursue this leadership role was my passion for being involved and making a meaningful impact on campus,” she said. “Throughout high school and now at PennWest California, I have always taken on leadership positions… From these experiences I learned to enjoy advocating for others and helping create positive change. The student trustee position felt like the perfect opportunity to expand that impact on a larger scale.”
As she steps into the role, Gregory is focused on ensuring student voices are heard and represented.
“The biggest responsibility that comes with this role is ensuring that student voices are heard, valued and represented accurately,” she said. “It is important to not only share student perspectives but also to actively listen, communicate effectively and make decisions that reflect the best interests of the entire student body.”
During her term, she hopes to prioritize communication, connection and student success across the California campus and beyond.
“I hope to focus on strengthening communication between the California campus and the California community to enhance student engagement and improve the overall student experience,” Gregory said. “I am especially passionate about supporting student involvement, leadership development and creating opportunities that help students feel connected and supported on campus.”
She also aims to bring attention to academic opportunities that can shape students’ futures.
“I also hope to bring more awareness to the partnership with LECOM, which is one of the main reasons I chose to attend PennWest California,” she said. “I believe it is such an incredible opportunity for students interested in healthcare, and I would love to see it become more widely known and utilized.”
Looking ahead, Gregory is eager to grow through the experience and continue developing as a leader and advocate.
“I want to help create opportunities that make students feel connected and supported,” she said. “When students feel like they belong, they are more likely to succeed.”
In addition to her leadership and service, Gregory is pursuing an honors interdisciplinary minor and preparing for a future career in dentistry. She views her role on the council as an opportunity to deepen her understanding of higher education leadership while continuing to grow as an advocate.
“I’m excited to learn how decisions are made at the institutional level and how they directly impact students,” she said. “Most of all, I want to be a voice for others and help create positive change.”