Student Association Sen. Nina Pedrad (CCAS-U) resigned from the Senate Tuesday night and will withdraw from the University today.

Pedrad said her sudden resignation and departure from the University was due to “personal reasons” and that she will return to GW for the 2008-2009 academic year.

“I leave with a heavy heart,” said Pedrad, a sophomore. “It is a decision I needed to make, but it was a difficult one to come to.”

The former Colonial Cabinet member said she will use this time to spend with her family.

“I am looking forward to my time away,” Pedrad said. “I need this in my life now.”

SA Executive Vice President Brand Kroeger said she was not pressured into leaving by the SA or the University.

“It is entirely her decision to leave,” said Kroeger, a junior. “She is a friend of the SA … We will be sad to see her go.”

Pedrad served on the Senate last year as a freshman non-voting senator and was the second top vote-getter for the CCAS Senate seats. During the summer, she compiled a list of discounts that local businesses are offering to GW students.

“I am appreciative for the work she has put into the Senate, both last year and the early part of this year, and the dedication she has for GW as evidenced by her great work this summer during CI,” said SA Sen. Kevin Kozlowski (U-At Large), a junior. “It is important to remember that she is withdrawing for personal reasons and that her personal decision to do so should be respected.”

With Pedrad’s resignation, there are now two undergraduate and six graduate Senate seats vacant. The Senate meets again Tuesday.