Although the polls only are open to RHA members, The State News caught up with the candidates to find out what changes MSU students might see next year, pending the decision.

Genomics and molecular genetics junior Zachary DeRade has been the communications coordinator with RHA for the past year. He joined RHA in fall of 2010 as a freshman and has held multiple positions while with RHA, including Spectrum representative, committee on internal affairs chair, food representative and director of health and safety.

If elected as RHA president, DeRade hopes to improve RHA’s image and make sure students are aware of the opportunities the group offers.

“My goal is to create an organization that all on-campus students know about and are able to utilize our services and opportunities,” DeRade said. “My passion for RHA is strong and deep, and if I were elected, I would dedicate as much of my time and energy I could possibly give to RHA.”

Communication and public relations junior Greg Rokisky is the RHA director of movie offices and has been a part of RHA since fall 2011. He started off at RHA as the Shaw Hall president.

He helped bring the Great Lakes Affiliate of College and University Residence Halls conference, or GLACURH, to MSU next fall and promoted flexible housing, or gender-neutral housing.

Rokisky said he has big plans for RHA if elected — to improve services and work to bring more attention to the organization.

“I plan to focus more on RHA’s external brand and solidifying our internal and external connections,” Rokisky said. “I want to also develop a plan reflecting on which services need to be revamped. Working to gain recognition (for) what RHA as a whole is responsible for doing will be one of my main initiatives.”