BALLOTS DUE MONDAY, JUNE 2!

Election of a Youth Observer for the 2014-15 term to the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) Board of Trustees is underway. The candidates are Benji Janapol and Isabelle Marshel. Here is how to participate:

| READ the candidates' statements | | WATCH the video of the candidate | | VOTE for your preferred candidate | Ballots must be received by Monday, June 2, at midnight (in your time zone) or postmarked by Friday, May 30th. Ballots and voting process are at the bottom of this post.

Benji Janapol

Grade for 2014-2015 year: Senior Congregation: Woodinville Unitarian Universalist Church [vimeo 94085186] CANDIDATE STATEMENT: “I am very passionate and thankful for Unitarian Universalism because through my experience as a youth and specifically being trained as a chaplain has taught me how to be a better friend, ally and leader, as well as giving me a place where I feel like I can be myself. This has led me to the desire to support Unitarian Universalism in the life of others using the position of youth observer to the Unitarian Universalist board of trustees. My experience as a youth adviser to the board of a previous high school I attended and my current position as the co-chair of the Youth Adult Council at my church have re-emphasized my belief that youth and our representation are very important to the life and direction of Unitarian Universalism. This belief inspires me to follow a path of service and leadership within our broader community and would continue to inspire me in the role of observer if I am elected. Thank you!”

Learn more about how the UUA promotes multigenerational congregation and leadership

Isabelle Marshel

Grade for 2014-2015 year: Senior Congregation: First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond [vimeo 94085187] CANDIDATE STATEMENT: I am a 3rd generation and life long Unitarian Universalist. For the past two years, I have gotten the opportunity to work with the General Assembly Youth Caucus staff as the business manager. Through this, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of UUA business and how it works, as well as learning how to bring issues from the UUA to youth and vice versa. I would love to be Youth Observer to the Board of Trustees to provide youth perspective, learn from a group of influential UU leaders, and close the generational gap in the UUA. Click here for an online ballot and explanation of the voting process. Click here for a printable copy of the ballot and explanation of the voting process (PDF). Click here for a printable copy of the candidates information (PDF).