STUDENTS FOR CHANGE

Welcome to Students for Change (SFC). Scroll down to learn more about AU’s advocacy programming board!

our mission:

We help coordinate and advise on programming and policy decisions that affect the marginalized AU community. We create and deliver responsive, effective, and educational events to address issues and topics such as gender, sexuality, anti-violence, anti-racism, environmental & climate justice, queer & trans inclusion, wellness, and more while emphasizing intersectionality and inclusivity.

meet our director, Denia Smith

Denia Brielle Smith (she/her) is an activist and organizer committed to centering women and girls of color at decision-making tables. She is a junior at American University studying Political Science and African American Studies with a minor in Advanced Leadership Studies. On campus, Denia serves as the Co-President of the Black Student Union and the Director of Students for Change. She formerly served as a first-year fellow and the Co-Deputy Director of Operations at SFC.

Outside of AU, Smith works with global gender equity organizations to advance intersectional gender justice, including Girl Up, the United Nations Foundation, and PERIOD. As the founder and host of She Shall Speak, Smith amplifies the voices of Black women and girls enacting positive social change across the globe. Her journey has brought her to the United Nations, Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Georgetown University, the United Nations Foundation, and the U.S. House of Representatives to advocate for Black and Brown communities. She has embarked on professional experiences at The White House, the U.S. House of Representatives, Vital Voices Global Partnership, PolicyLink, and the African American Policy Forum. As Director, Denia is excited to further SFC's legacy of direct advocacy while collaborating with student organizations to foster community on campus.

meet our deputy directors

Ananya Rao

Deputy Director of Operations
Ananya Rao (she/her) is a second-year studying CLEG with a minor in Computer Science. Last year, she served as a First-Year Fellow and is excited to take on the Deputy Director of Operations role for this upcoming school year. Aside from SFC, Ananya is a member of the Asian American Student Union and a dancer for American Bhangra Crew. Additionally, she loves reading and listening to music. She cannot wait to start working with the rest of the SFC executive board, especially the First-Year Fellows!
England Meadows

Deputy Director of Community Outreach
England Meadows is ambitiously pursuing dual degrees at American University—Political Science and Public Health, set to graduate in May 2027. Originating from Atlanta, Georgia, and profoundly influenced by Nigerian culture, England stands as a Lead Scholar in AU's Catalyst Program. Her dedication extends to advocating for holistic healthcare, recognizing its crucial role in integrating both physical and mental wellness. England serves as the Mid-Atlantic Coalition Leader for Girl Up, an initiative of the United Nations Foundation. England is also involved in the Veritas Global Travel Program, and Them2Us as an event program coordinator. On campus, England is involved in Students for Change, SisterSister, and NAACP. Driven by her belief that healthcare transcends mere physical ailments to encompass mental and emotional well-being, England underscores the importance of personal and systemic change in achieving holistic health equity. Her leadership is fueled by a profound commitment to fostering positive transformation on campus and within broader communities.
Anika Lal

Deputy Director of Media
Anika Lal (she/her) is a sophomore majoring in Legal Studies in the School of Public Affairs. Previously a First-Year Fellow, she is excited to take on the role of Deputy Director of Media for the upcoming school year. Beyond SFC, Anika serves as the Director of Programming for the School of Public Affairs and works as a Peer Facilitator for the American University Experience course. In her free time, she enjoys dancing and listening to music. She looks forward to collaborating with the SFC executive board and engaging with the broader community!
Kaitlyn Romprey

Deputy Director of Productions and Logistics
Kaitlyn Romprey serves as the Deputy Director of Production and Logistics at Students for Change. She is in her second year at AU majoring in C.L.E.G. with a minor in philosophy. Kaitlyn is also involved in the Lincoln Scholars program, which has been an important part of her AU journey. Her passions consist of reproductive rights, legal matters, and international travel and exploration.

our events

As the advocacy programming board, our events focus on approaching social issues from an intersectional lens. These events range from workshops to marches to end sexual violence on campus. At each event, we work to provide a safe space for all people while also providing a space for students to become educated about these issues. Examples of past events include celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility with Congresswoman Sarah McBride, our Multicultural Dinner, and our rally for survivors of sexual violence called Take Back the Night. Check out photos from our events below!