Dean's Executive Student Leadership Council

Current Students


	Nalan Kus,Chair Major: Financial Technology Nalan Kus is a junior majoring in B.S Financial Technology and serves as the President of the Dean's Executive Student Leadership Council (DESLC) at NJIT, working closely with the dean and faculty to create a supportive and engaging student experience. She also works as the marketing assistant for MTSM, contributing to the school’s outreach and communication efforts. Over the summer, she gained valuable experience as a marketing intern at DataBank, where she focused on content strategy and B2B marketing. Nalan prioritizes high-quality events and initiatives that connect students with valuable resources. Her leadership style emphasizes teamwork, inclusivity, and a commitment to student success.
	Alex Ventura, Secretary Major: Financial Technology Alex Ventura is a third-year Financial Technology student and an Albert Dorman Honors College scholar. Alex currently serves as the secretary for the Dean's Executive Student Leadership Council. Additionally, he leads the NJIT team for the Institute of Management Accountants Student Case Competition. He aims to contribute to the NJIT community through tutoring opportunities and volunteering at the food pantry. Overall, he is committed to academic excellence and community service through hard work, meticulous planning, and collaboration.
	Shanell Encalada,Director of Internal Communications Major: Financial Technology Shanell Encalada is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Financial Technology at NJIT and is an Avanade Women in STEM Scholar. She currently serves as the Director of Internal Communications for the DESLC, Event Coordinator for Business Masterminds, and Public Relations Officer for the Fintech Club. She has consistently made the Dean’s List for all four semesters she has attended. In addition to her academic involvement, she has interned in companies such as Pfizer and Wedbush Securities in where she was able to implement her analytic and leadership skills she has gained through NJIT. Her hobbies include drawing and baking, which allow her to maintain her creative side.
	Joseph Rass, Director of External Communications Major: Financial Technology Joseph Rass is a sophomore in the Albert Dorman Honors College and is actively pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Financial Technology at NJIT’s Martin Tuchman School of Management. He is currently the Director of External Communications within the DESLC. His involvement in the NJIT Student Senate, the MTSM Office, the Office of Student Involvement and Leadership (OSIL), and the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity allows him to connect with various student communities and contribute to the university's growth and development. His diversified engagement enables him to effectively bridge communication between students, faculty, and external organizations. His hobbies include fitness, music, and traveling.
	Bilal Syed, External Communications Officer Major: Business Bilal Syed is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Law, Technology and Culture at NJIT. He currently serves as the External Communications Officer for the DESLCl, Associate Editor for the NJIT Undergraduate Law Journal and External Relations Officer for Business Masterminds. Recently, Bilal interned at a law firm Schwartz, Conroy & Hack and will now be pursuing a co-op at the firm part time during the fall semester. As a dual major student with various involvements and leadership roles on campus Bilal is uniquely suited to connect students and staff together and assist in the University’s growth. Bilal’s hobbies include playing basketball, weightlifting, rock climbing and learning to cook new things..
	Furkan Biser, Director of Social Media Major: Financial Technology Furkan Biser is a rising junior majoring in Financial Technology at Martin Tuchman School of Management. Furkan has been actively listed on the Dean’s List in his past academic semesters. Furkan was involved in the investment club in his past academic year. He is also certified in Small Business & Entrepreneurship. Currently serves as the director of Social Media for the DESLC.
	Sarisha Singh, Director of Events Major: Financial Technology Sarisha Singh is a second-year FinTech student at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) and an Avanade Women in STEM scholar. She currently serves as a Peer Mentor for guiding first-year students, President for the Salesforce Club, and Director of Events for DESLC. Professionally, Sarisha develops her data analytics skills by using her knowledge from Salesforce Trailhead. Beyond her academic and professional endeavors, she contributes to freelance writing, co-authoring in an anthology, and develops websites for various sectors demonstrating a commitment to leveraging her skills across multiple platforms.