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Whether he’s providing feedback on a new dormitory design, or discussing parking policies with University administrators, Brian Dano feels that his voice is being heard.

As president of UMass Lowell’s Student Government Association, Dano is involved in a variety of issues that impact the campus and surrounding community. His access to campus leadership assures of him a platform for discussing his concerns. He is part of a group of student leaders who meet with Chancellor Marty Meehan and other campus officials for lunch every month to share ideas. 

“It’s pretty incredible,” says Dano, a senior in the Manning School of Business with a dual concentration in marketing and finance. “UMass Lowell is like a family. I can talk to Chancellor Meehan, I can talk to Dean [Kathryn] Carter. At other schools this wouldn’t happen.”

Dano was drawn to UMass Lowell because of the business program. In addition, he thought the University offered the best educational value at a time of escalating tuition costs.

“I’m getting a great education here and it’s close to home,” says Dano, who grew up in Merrimack, N.H.

Dano is a member of the Alumni Ambassadors, a student leadership organization. In addition to his classes and activities, he works part-time as a sales representative for Kraft Foods, servicing area supermarkets and neighborhood grocers. He’s held the job since high school and hopes to continue with the company after he graduates. 

As a freshman, he ran for a seat on the student senate as a way to get more involved on campus. He was elected SGA president the following year and was recently re-elected to a second term. His involvement in student government and other organizations is helping him sharpen his public speaking and organizational skills, and expand his network of professional contacts – all things that he believes are integral to a UMass Lowell education. 

“The opportunities here are amazing,” he says.