I am Vishuka Pathirana (she/her/hers), a PhD student in Chemistry at the University of Iowa, entering my fourth year this fall. I currently serve as the Interprofessional Development Director for the Graduate and Professional Student Government, where I focus on bringing students from different disciplines together through collaborative and community-building initiatives. 

In this role, I enjoy planning events and programs that create opportunities for graduate and professional students to connect, share ideas, and learn from one another. I’m interested in building a stronger sense of community across campus and making it easier for graduate and professional students from different backgrounds to feel included and engaged. 

I was involved in the Iowa Innovation Leadership Program and have contributed to STEM education development through volunteer work. Before coming to Iowa, I was part of AIESEC Colombo North in Sri Lanka, where I developed my interest in leadership, teamwork, and community engagement. 

I’m motivated by a desire to give back to the university community that has made me feel like I belong. I care about creating spaces where others can feel that same sense of connection. Outside of my academic work, I enjoy playing the piano, listening to music, and spending time exploring new interests.