Tell us about yourself.

My name is Benjamin (Ben) Ritter, and I am a third year Junior from San Diego, California. I am expecting to graduate in spring term of 2025. I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Business-Administration, with a double-concentration in Operations Business Analytics as well as Finance.

What are the three key issues that you've noticed on campus that you hope to improve for students as an elected official?
Please list each issue and briefly explain how you hope to improve it. 

1) Student mental health support and resources. As a member of the Departments Finance Committee, I will work to support and encourage the growth of mental health resource centers across campus. 2) Student academic support. As a student in the Lundquist College of Business, I know that there are many resources for students to further their career outside of college, however more effort and support needs to be directed towards helping these same students succeed in their current academic schedule. 3) Student engagement and social activities. More activities catered towards students will have a lasting impact in their academic and social lives. As a member of the departments finance committee, I wish to push for a more social and open community across campus.

Why are you running?

I believe that, as a student who has little to no experience in student government, I can provide an accurate perspective of everyday business students at the UO. This fresh perspective would allow the Senate the ability to make changes that will impact the lives of UO students for the better, if the voice of the common student can be heard more clearly, the changes which follow will be inherently more effective.