For many college students, stepping onto a university campus is a lesson in finding one’s footing. For Yarielys Morales, a junior business administration major at Fitchburg State University, it has been a transformative journey from working quietly behind the scenes to stepping directly into campus governance.
Recently elected by her peers to serve as the new student representative to the Fitchburg State University Board of Trustees, Morales serves as the direct link between the university administration and the student body.
“When I found out that I had gotten this position, I was very proud at first that the student body had the trust in me that I can do this job,” said Morales. “Personally, this position has shown my growth. Now I am put into the spotlight, whereas in the past I’ve always done more work in the background.”
Fitchburg State University Chair of the Board of Trustees Dr. Michael Fiorentino Jr. said he is excited to welcome Morales into the fold.
"Yarielys brings an insightful, dedicated voice to our discussions, ensuring student perspectives remain at the heart of our board’s work,” said Fiorentino Jr. “Her leadership as a business administration major and her commitment to her peers make her an invaluable addition to the Board of Trustees."
Fitchburg State University President Dr. Donna Hodge said she also looks forward to having Morales’ perspective on the board.
"Yarielys represents the heart of our student body – driven, grounded, and committed to uplifting others,” said Hodge. “Her voice at the Board of Trustees table will make a lasting impact."
A 2024 graduate of Leominster High School CTEI, Morales arrived at Fitchburg State already understanding the power of hard work and dedication. She credits the supportive environment at the university for inspiring her to pursue her full potential.
“What makes this community special to me is the support I get,” said Morales. “From instructors to advisors to even peers, as long as you put effort into what you want to do, someone is there to support you every step of the way. Because of that, I was able to step out of my comfort zone and grow. Even now in my third year, there are things I’ve done that I would never have thought I would do in the past.”
That growth is evident in her extensive involvement across campus. Beyond her work with the Student Government Association (SGA), Morales serves as the treasurer for Alpha Alpha Alpha, the national honor society recognizing the academic achievements of first-generation college students.
Morales said she will approach every board meeting with a clear priority: making sure the real, day-to-day realities of Fitchburg State students shape the decisions being made at the top.
“I find it important to bring the student body-perspective and experience to the table,” said Morales. “As a trustee, I am not speaking as ‘Yari,’ I am speaking as the collective voice of the students.”
Yarielys represents the heart of our student body – driven, grounded, and committed to uplifting others. Her voice at the Board of Trustees table will make a lasting impact.
Morales is particularly passionate about bringing awareness to how students are faring in an ever-changing higher education landscape.
Holding a seat on the board alongside a full academic course load, student organization duties, and a personal life will mean intentional time management, strict organization, and a clear set of priorities.
She plans on relying on a dedicated schedule, setting aside specific hours for governance duties and coursework, while reserving two structured days each week purely for studying and trustee preparation.
“In the end, I am a student trustee and being a student comes first,” said Morales. “I hope fellow students see that I can advocate for them without sacrificing my studies.”
Morales looks forward to seeing other students follow in her footsteps and plans to encourage first-year students to think about how to get involved.
“If you start now, you will be prepared to take that first step in your career when the opportunity arises,” said Morales, who expresses continued gratitude to her peers for the trust placed in her. “I am so thankful for this opportunity, and I cannot wait to see how this academic year turns out. And once again, thank you all for placing your trust in me.”