Angel Madera, FCRH ’26, is bringing his unique perspective and passion for representation to his role as vice president of communications in Fordham University’s Rose Hill United Student Government (USG). A Bronx native and English major with a minor in Latin American and Latino studies, Madera’s journey to Fordham and his leadership role are deeply rooted in his community and lived experiences.
Growing up near Fordham’s Rose Hill campus, Madera was captivated by its beauty and prestige from a young age. “I’ve been coming to Fordham all my life,” Madera shared. “When I was little, I would always say, ‘Oh, this campus is so beautiful, I’m going to come here.’” Despite being accepted to New York University, financial decisions brought Madera to Fordham, a decision he now embraces wholeheartedly. “It’s a beautiful campus and a prestigious school. I’ve grown to appreciate everything Fordham has to offer,” he reflected.
His transition to Fordham wasn’t without challenges. Coming from diverse educational experiences, Madera noted the impact of entering a predominantly white institution. “It was something I really wasn’t expecting,” he said. “It’s an adjustment, but it’s also motivated me to push for more inclusivity and representation in everything I do.”
Madera’s involvement in USG began with the encouragement of a friend who highlighted the organization’s impactful work. Initially skeptical, he attended meetings and was inspired by the tangible changes USG brought to the Fordham community. “I saw that USG passes really important proposals that actually do positively impact students. Even if people don’t know it, USG is behind a lot of those changes,” he explained.
As vice president of communications, Madera has worked to increase transparency and engagement. One of his key initiatives has been improving the accessibility of information through detailed and visually appealing newsletters, which he has worked to distribute more widely. “I want students to know what USG does. If they don’t know, we can’t have an impact,” Madera emphasized. He is advocating for sending newsletters directly to students’ emails, a move he believes will help bridge the communication gap and bring greater visibility to USG’s work.
Madera’s academic background in English has been instrumental in his role. From editing proposals to crafting professional statements and enhancing social media content, his writing expertise ensures clear and effective communication. He has also leveraged his Latin American and Latino Studies minor to collaborate with clubs like El Grito to highlight Hispanic heritage and celebrate diversity within Fordham’s community. “We have so many students on campus who feel unseen,” Madera said. “It’s important that we create spaces where everyone feels represented.”
Despite the challenges of limited resources and engagement, Madera has implemented creative strategies to improve communication within the Fordham community. By emphasizing collaboration, he has worked to build a more dynamic and welcoming environment within the Communications Committee. “My biggest goal was to make sure our committee wasn’t just about work. We’ve built a dynamic where we feel comfortable talking and collaborating,” he said.
Beyond improving USG’s internal operations, Madera is passionate about tackling broader issues of representation. He noted the historical lack of diversity within USG and hopes his efforts encourage more students of color to get involved. “If you don’t feel welcome in a space, it’s hard to be part of it. I want USG to be a space where everyone feels heard and valued,” he shared.
As Madera prepares to study abroad next semester, he reflects on his term with pride and optimism. “I hope the ideas I’ve implemented, like the newsletters and improving the bylaws, will leave a lasting mark,” he said. He expressed confidence in his successor, Ava Casella, FCRH ’26, to carry forward his vision. “Ava has been vital to my success, and I know she’ll continue the work we’ve started.”
Looking ahead, Madera plans to return to USG upon his return to campus in the fall, continuing his advocacy for inclusivity and representation. “USG has the potential to create real change, not just for Fordham students, but for the surrounding community as well,” he said. For Madera, leadership is about fostering a campus where all students feel safe and empowered to make their voices heard.
