A future built on Integrity,
driven by Impact,
& powered by Empowerment.
VISION &
PRIORITIES
Why I’m Running
Choosing to continue my education was a pivotal moment for me. For the first time, I made a choice entirely for myself, and it was empowering. As someone balancing a career, personal health challenges, and school, I know how tough it can be to navigate these responsibilities.
I’m running for HESA President because I believe that every non-traditional student deserves to feel supported, not only academically but also personally. We may not have the luxury of a traditional path, but that doesn’t mean we can’t thrive. My goal is to ensure that every student at HES has access to the resources, community, and support they need to succeed.
If elected, I will focus on strengthening student advocacy, improving accommodations, and creating more spaces for us to connect and support each other. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community.
01
MENTAL HEALTH, SAFETY, & ACCESSIBILITY
As a non-traditional student, I understand the challenges we face. Whether it’s managing careers, families, or health, we all need clear accommodations and strong advocacy to help us succeed. As President, I will ensure that every student’s voice is heard.
02
RESPECT & ADVOCACY
It’s not enough to just be in the classroom—we need respect & resources to help us thrive outside of it. I will fight for the respect HES students and our degrees deserve within Harvard, ensuring that every student is accurately recognized for their hard work and contributions.
03
CAREER & COMMUNITY BUILDING
I believe that strong communities make successful students. My goal is to build a strong community and create career pathways through mentorship, networking, and professional resources to ensure HES students are connected and prepared for success beyond Harvard.
MEET PARADISE
What is HES?
What is HESA?
Harvard Extension School is one of the 12 degree-granting schools at Harvard University.
Read Article About Paradise's HES Experience ->
The Harvard Extension Student Association (HESA) is a vibrant student-led organization that serves the global community of the Harvard Extension School, one of the twelve degree-granting schools of Harvard University. HESA represents all Harvard Extension School students, and advocates on behalf of graduate and undergraduate HES students before the University and HES administration.
The presence of any Harvard affiliation, including the use of the Harvard name or logo, does not constitute an endorsement from Harvard University or its officials.
Any endorsement from an individual, whether they are a president of a club, board member, professor, or Harvard employee, is made in their personal capacity and does not reflect an official endorsement from Harvard University.
While endorsements are appreciated, only votes cast between September 30 and October 7 will determine the elected official.
DISCLAIMER
Paradise Rodriguez-Bordeaux is a dedicated leader and advocate, focused on creating supportive spaces for non-traditional students. She has successfully balanced a career in leadership and advocacy with her role as a student, all while facing significant health challenges and overcoming cancer. Her work with the Unbound Foundation, Kissed by the Tism, and other initiatives has made her a champion for differently-abled individuals and women leaders.
At HES, Paradise has contributed to building a connected network, working one-on-one with peers, establishing student support groups, and ensuring that supportive resources are accessible to all. She is passionate about ensuring that every student at HES has the tools, support, and community they need to thrive.
I'M GRATEFUL
FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Thank you for supporting my campaign. I believe that together, we can create a stronger, more connected community for non-traditional students at HES. Whether it’s sharing the campaign, volunteering, or simply showing your support, every action makes a difference.
I’m committed to ensuring that every student at HES feels fully supported and empowered, and with your help, we can make that happen.
Volunteer
Join me in spreading the word about my campaign and engaging with fellow students.
Share on Social Media
Help amplify the message by sharing the campaign on your platforms.
Submit Ideas or Feedback
I want to hear from you! Let me know what changes you’d like to see at HES by submitting your ideas.
Resources & FAQ's
Discover endorsements, upcoming events, FAQs, and articles that keep you informed and connected. Click to explore more!
29, Sep 2024
Campaigning Ends
30, Sep - 07, Oct 2024
Meet the Candidates
01, Oct 2024
Voting Dates
11, Oct 2024
Memorial for Naveed Rehmann
Election Results Announced
Upcoming Events
What are the principles of Paradise’s campaign and leadership should she become President?
I believe in ethical and action-driven leadership. If others choose to sling mud, I will remain focused on the issues and solutions that matter most to the student body. My campaign is about serving the HES community, not engaging in negativity. I’m committed to running a campaign based on integrity, transparency, and respect for my fellow candidates. Ultimately, we are all here to improve the HES experience, and that will remain my priority throughout the campaign.
Why now? Why is Paradise choosing to run for President ?
I’ve spent my time at HES quietly building connections, working with peers, and ensuring that support systems are available to those who need them. Now, I feel that the time is right to step up and take on a more public leadership role because I believe we’re at a critical moment where student voices need to be amplified. The challenges we face—from concerns about the degree name to improving accessibility—require strong, focused leadership. I’m running now because I believe I can help guide us toward solutions that truly serve our diverse community. It’s not enough to just talk about the problems; it’s important that we all take ethical actions to address them. As HESA President, I will not only listen to student concerns but work toward actionable solutions that address the root of those problems. Ethical leadership means standing by the principles of transparency, fairness, and integrity while creating pathways for real change. Whether it’s improving resources, advocating for accommodations, or pushing for open dialogue with the administration about the degree name, my goal is to ensure that we take concrete, responsible steps that benefit the entire student body.
Does Paradise have enough time to dedicate to being HESA President, given her personal schedule and her health challenges?
I understand that balancing my health, career, and education might raise concerns, but I have always thrived under challenging circumstances. Time management is one of my strengths, and I have a strong support network in place to ensure I can fully commit to the role of HESA President. My experiences navigating these challenges have made me more resilient and better equipped to serve and lead effectively.
