Akkeem Polack Becomes Voice for 240K CUNY Students

Akkeem Polack, a York College senior majoring in Communications Technology, a program now officially recognized as a STEM field, was recently selected as the 39th chairperson of the University Student Senate (USS) and as Student Trustee on the CUNY Board of Trustees.

According to a CUNY announcement, in this role, Polack “represents more than 240,000 students across 26 campuses. His advocacy is informed by his personal experience navigating academic responsibility, work, and community life.”

As an international student from Jamaica, Polack is a well-regarded campus leader whose deep pride in York College and CUNY could be described as his superpower. His leadership journey includes serving as a USS senator and as president of the York College Student Government Association (SGA). His new role amplifies his ability to advocate for students both at his home campus and across the entire CUNY system, making a significant impact on the community.

“It is an honor to serve as the 39th Chairperson for the University Student Senate and Trustee on the City University of New York Board of Trustees,” said Polack. “Representing more than 240,000 students across 26 campuses is an incredible responsibility, and I am approaching this role with care, integrity, and collaboration. Our focus is on expanding access, strengthening student resources, and improving cohesion between campuses. Priorities such as transportation affordability, academic support, and meaningful student engagement are central to creating a stronger and more inclusive campus experience.”

The young leader added, “The strength of CUNY comes from the diverse voices within it and the communities built across our campuses. I look forward to working alongside the Board, administrators, and student leaders to advance opportunities for all students. Nelson Mandela once said that ‘education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.’ When students are equipped with opportunity, support, and connection, they not only succeed individually but contribute to a stronger CUNY overall.”

"We are proud to celebrate York's own Akkeem Polack as a CUNY Trustee and the 39th Chairperson of the CUNY University Student Senate," said Dr. Claudia Schrader, President of York College. "His impressive record of achievements, along with his dedication and empathy, make him a leader we can all look up to.”

Ms. Sheila Beverly Skinner, advisor to York Student Government, of which Polack is president, is not surprised at this latest news from the York College senior.

“As the Student Government advisor here at York, it has been both an honor and a joy for me to witness Akkeem’s growth from [regular] student to USS Senator to Student Government president, to now the University Student Senate chair,” said Ms. Skinner. “His leadership reflects not only intelligence and determination, but also compassion and integrity. I am deeply proud of all he has accomplished; and even more proud of the person and leader he has become. The respect he garners to and from his fellow senators is heartwarming to see.”

Ms. Skinner added, “ Continue to be you, stay humble and Soar, Akkeem!”