President
Hi Wildcats! My name is Adriana Grijalva. I was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona. I am a sophomore studying Political Science with a minor in Spanish.
Growing up in the South Side of Tucson, I have always been involved in my community. From joining local organizations that make a change for good to becoming a part of this larger campus community. Being a first generation Latina student, the University of Arizona has become my second home to me, a community that invites ideas and embraces culture. I look forward to collaborating on building this feeling for other students.
In my term, I would like to focus on creating a safe environment for students, employees, and visitors. Be a voice of change for all students by advocating for them and listening to them. Increasing accessibility to students with non-visible and visible disabilities. Being a more transparent student government to the student body, clubs, colleges, and Administration. Increasing communication with all Cultural Resources Centers to support catering to students from different backgrounds and the important spaces that serve as a home away from home to many students. It would be an honor to receive your vote to be elected as the next ASUA Student Body President for the 2024-2025 school year.
A voice for change, advocate for all.
Bear down!
- Adriana Grijalva
Hey Wildcat Family, my name is Andrew Pongratz, and I am running to be our next Student Body President here at the University of Arizona. I am an undergraduate student studying Philosophy, Politics, Economics, and Law (PPEL) through the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, along with a secondary major in Economics through the Eller College of Management.
As a native Tucsonan, UArizona is where I grew up. From attending Spring Fling, to cheering on our spectacular Arizona Wildcats, to indulging in the performances of Arizona Arts Live, the University has been a core part of my life. The University serves as a pillar of the Southern Arizona community, and we as students have the most profound opportunity to shape the institution to be at its most effective and robust. The Associated Students of the University of Arizona (ASUA) is OUR student government, so let’s make it work for us.
Campaign Values
Innovation, Collaboration, Transparency, and Student-Powered Leadership
Campaign Goals
- Keep what works: We will continue the important and impactful work of ASUA of supporting all student orgs across the campus community, including cultural centers and Greek life, and ensuring they continue the important work of supporting individuals and making our university a more welcoming and inclusive place.
- Revamp how ASUA presents itself: we need to rebrand, revamp, and expand our program offerings by engaging in robust marketing and social media practices to engage more students across the University; the ASUA website needs to be completely redesigned to allow for the highest level of transparency and professionalism and to allow the campus community to fully engage in ASUA’s work. We need to introduce transparency and accessibility at all levels of the organization, from Presidential Cabinet meetings to Senate meetings to Appropriations Board meetings, students must be able to fully participate in all our governance and program offerings.
- Organize students to engage in shared governance: promote awareness of shared governance across the student body and push for more student voices on university decision making bodies. From Old Main to the Honors Village to McKale to all the places in-between, students serve as the lifeblood of this campus and must participate fully in its governance by asserting a seat at the table. This would be achieved through hosting shared governance workshops so that student leaders would be made aware of the avenues in which to promote change throughout the institution. ASUA will organize more town hall events with university administrators and student leaders, meet and greet opportunities with college and unit-level leaders.
- Promote interdisciplinary thinking & collaboration: ASUA is in a unique position to tap into the awesome resources of our powerful University. ASUA should serve as a hub of collaboration and connection, allowing students to discover opportunities outside of their realms of study and to promote interdisciplinary research and projects that serve the community.
- Learning happens everywhere: ASUA will better prepare students for engaging in professional and leadership spaces in their future careers. By ensuring our programs offer students with the tools and resources to become leaders (i.e., public speaking, professional writing, leadership speaker series, to name a few), ASUA can equip students with the abilities to enhance and expand their leadership potentials throughout all the different facets of their lives.
Reach out to me at 520-360-6912 or andrewpongratz@arizona.edu or view my campaign website.
Executive Vice President
How we doin today! My name is Arturo Whipple and I am running for this office because I want to FIGHT for you. No longer can we allow our voices to be silenced. All of us, esteemed members of academia are capable of demanding autonomy in our education and our representation. I recognize and believe in the potential of this University. I on day One will begin demanding an expansion upon campus safety measures. I will spearhead a campaign to place more Emergency Blue Lights throughout our campus and within the expanding community. I plan to create alternative methods of guaranteeing the security of campus night life. Including a New Buddy System and expansions of Campus SafeRide. I aim to revive our relationship with the greater Tucson community as I will not tolerate the cancelation of our Spring Carnival amongst our other great traditions. I will not only fairly and justly allocate funds to our ASUA clubs but, I will actively seek sponsors from around the nation to financially support all of our student organizations. I believe these clubs are the key to the individual success of every student and they all require the support and backing of ASUA. I welcome a landscape where these relationships are cultivated and where the student body can easily speak to the Senate and my office without reservation. I ask that you recognize that I will legitimately fight for you. I will speak with every club on campus and take the care to learn about your individual needs and guarantee the appropriate funds be given to everyone. I am not afraid of our administration and refuse to allow them to pretend we don't exist as they continually ignore our student workers, our students' financial needs, and our students' potential. I believe in all of you and in the power of the University of Arizona. I will not accept a 65% graduation rate and will find every avenue to increase the amount of students who are not given up on by this University. A vote for me is a vote for yourself, a vote for your college experience, and a vote for your degree. VOTE WHIPPLE! God Bless you!
Hi Wildcats!
My name is Jasmine Tafolla (She/Her/Ella), I am a Junior majoring in Law and Minoring in Mexican American Studies. I have always wanted to help others, and during my time here at the University of Arizona, I have been able to do so. Through joining clubs, being a part of a cultural sorority, and working as a Resident Assistant and Desk Assistant. I have been able to help students and my peers, and I want to continue doing so at a larger scale to the student body!
As a first-generation college student, a Latina, and a student worker, I know many of the struggles we as students face here on campus and how positive action and change can contribute to building student success. This starts with advocating for all students' rights. From clubs to cultural resource centers to student workers, and so much more. Advocating for student's rights and positive change, allows students to find their communities here on campus. As a first-generation college student, I know firsthand how hard it is to find a community on campus that you feel connected to. I believe making clubs and resources more accessible and known to students can help lessen the struggle to find a community on campus.
Building student success also means advocating for large issues like accessibility, mental health services, and campus safety. As students the last thing we should have to worry about while obtaining our education is whether or not our campus is safe or if we have access to basic health necessities.
I will continue advocating for students and our communities here on campus. We are the foundation of this University and the ones who keep it running. I will do everything I can in my power to best support the student body. I hope to earn your vote to be your next 2024-2025 ASUA Executive Vice President!
Administrative Vice President
My name is Abhiram Rao, and I'm a sophomore studying pre-business with a focus on management information systems. I strive to be an advocate for those around me, deriving happiness from connecting with others and improving my ability to offer dependable support. Adjusting to university life in a foreign country presented a significant challenge upon my arrival, but I am committed to overcoming it and integrating into the community.
A little about myself I am a persistent leader who believes in the power of able leadership and stable governance for achieving great success. Before assuming this role, I served as the Student Committee President of my constituency back in India. In that capacity, I passionately advocated for student rights and led a successful campaign across the state to address the alarming issue of student suicides. Additionally, I am the founder and managing director of an environmental organization named Tree Organization. Through this initiative, I have been actively involved in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability efforts. With my experience in student advocacy and environmental leadership.
As a candidate for the position of Administrative Vice President (AVP), I am deeply committed to advocating for the myriad programs and services that ASUA offers to our student body. These essential resources, including Students for Sustainability (S.F.S), Safe Ride, Student Health Advocacy Committee (S.H.A.C.), Bear Down Camp (B.D.C.), Campus Pantry, Campus Closet, and University of Arizona Emergency Medical Services (U.A.E.M.S), play a crucial role in supporting and enhancing student life on campus.
It is my firm belief that every student should be aware of and have access to these invaluable services. As AVP, I will work tirelessly to raise awareness about these programs, ensuring that students know where to turn for support, assistance, and enrichment opportunities. Through effective advocacy and outreach efforts, I will strive to make these resources more visible, accessible, and inclusive for all members of our campus community.
I intend to advocate for my classmates and peers, spanning from student workers to researchers and future leaders. My goal as Administrative Vice President is to operate in a manner that is effective,and transparent, ensuring that I fulfill my duties to the best of my ability.
Achieving cultural understanding and accessibility for student services is essential for creating a quality of life at institutions. As a candidate for AVP, I recognize it is essential to embrace the diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives within the student body, by fostering an inclusive environment and promoting cultural understanding through accessibility and collaboration.
Cultural understanding begins with recognizing and respecting individuals' unique experiences, traditions, and identities from different cultural backgrounds. It involves actively listening to diverse voices, engaging in meaningful dialogue, and valuing perspectives that may differ from one's own. As AVP, I will be committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of campus life.
One way to achieve cultural understanding is through education and awareness initiatives. As AVP, I would organize events, workshops, and cultural celebrations that highlight the contributions of various cultural groups and promote cross-cultural understanding in partnership with student services. By providing opportunities for students to learn about different services, we can break down barriers and foster a more inclusive community.
Accessibility is another critical aspect of my platform. Accessibility ensures that all students, regardless of their background or abilities, have equal opportunities to participate in and engage with student services. This includes physical accessibility, as well as digital accessibility, this way, students are able to know about the resources that are available to them through student services, as well as access them.
In conclusion, achieving cultural understanding and accessibility in a student government position requires a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. By fostering an inclusive environment, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and advocating for policies that address the needs of marginalized communities, I would be able to play a crucial role in creating a more vibrant and equitable campus community. As student leaders, it is our responsibility to ensure that all students feel valued, respected, and included in the life of the university.
At Large Senator
My name is Aditya Rohilla and I am a freshman here at the University of Arizona. I graduated high school in 2023 from BASIS Chandler and am currently double-majoring in Biochemistry and Physiology and Medical Sciences. I also have a minor in Health and Human Values. Some of my activities across campus include participating in clubs such as StreetMed, where I'm part of the Public Health committee, Medical Directive, Franke Honors Ambassadors, Honors Student Council, and other organizations. I also work as an undergraduate researcher in Professor Njardarson's lab in the Carl S. Marvel Building and volunteer at many organizations around Tucson such as Z-Mansion, PWR!Gym, Harmony Hospice, and Banner Health. My main goal as a senator in ASUA is to promote campus health and safety. Recently, in the past few months I have heard of an increasing number of gun violence, assault, and theft cases on and around campus. I would like to use my position as a Senator At-Large to organize and better support campus safety. For one I would like to increase the hours that Safe Ride operates. Safe Ride currently closes at 12:30 AM on Monday-Thursday and at 10 PM on Friday. While this is a great start, many U of A students stay out longer than that for various reasons and so by increasing the hours of safe ride, we can help those students reach home safely as well. Many shops on University Boulevard stay open longer than 12:30 and many students have volunteering organizations and clubs that have events that last longer as well. Our student’s safety should not be compromised as a result of that and so an increase in Safe Ride hours would be greatly beneficial and appreciated by those students. Furthermore, as part of TACO and StreetMed, I have done my fair share of promoting campus health and safe practices. I would like to use my position on the ASUA Senate in order to further that goal and promote safer parties and other events on campus. Doing this would not only decrease the risks of overdoses and poisonings, but it would also help UAEMS support the rest of campus better as they would get fewer calls related to student safety. I believe that these goals are not only achievable but also greatly beneficial to University of Arizona students all across campus. I think my experiences as an EMT and volunteering at various organizations has put me in a position where I will be able to better promote campus safety, a high priority for many students, as well as reassure students and parents that their concerns over safety and the health of students are not going unheard and that action is being taken to prevent further events from happening in the future.
Hi there. My name is Carlos Laphond Moreno. I’m a sophomore double-majoring in Political Science and Law and I’m running to be your next Senator At-Large. In my free time, I enjoy playing guitar and producing tracks that will never see the light of day (just for fun). I also occasionally write short films and shoot pictures!
I am excited to be able to contribute to the process of building a welcoming school to all, and I hope to count with your support to achieve this and more of our collective goals, such as:
*Supporting Our Cultural Organizations*
College can be a daunting experience without the support of a community. To some, this may be a matter of little concern; to others, finding a group of people who you can stand by, and who can stand by you, becomes an arduous task. Being a Mexican immigrant myself, I have personally encountered these stages of integration, and know that it can all be achieved with a helping hand.
One of my many hopes as Senator is to highlight all the cultures that encompass our student body. I will work towards this goal primarily in two ways: one, providing these organizations with the necessary aid to ensure they are funded and recognized by ASUA Appropriations; two, create and promote opportunities where students can confidently share their identities and increase and diversify their membership further.
*Protecting and Advocating for Our Mobility*
Our campus is one of the only areas areas in Tucson where one can easily move around without a car. Therefore, protecting and continue advocating for mobility at home and beyond the bounds of University grounds is of vital importance to me. Whether by preventing the theft or destruction of bikes, continuing the fight for fare-free transit, or expanding service hours for services like the SunLink or even ASUA-sponsored programs like SafeRide, this sits high in my priority list.
*Working for Our Own Safety*
Understanding mobility means also understanding the need for safety. Promoting habits and initiatives that bring comfort to us as citizens and students is therefore a necessity, and something that I, as senator, plan on actively pursuing. Additionally, ASUA can work towards this by providing students with personal safety resources for all students to use in the same way it sustains other crucial services.
*Not Quieting Down*
Having competent leadership as well as leaders that are genuinely interested in the well-being of present and future students is at the core of every possible issue. In the last few months, it has become apparent that there is a great disconnect between those in leadership in our school and the individuals whose way of living their policies can affect — all of us.
Therefore, as senator, I will support the efforts of countless organizations on and off-campus to shed light upon this disconnect and prompt authorities to remain accountable and transparent with the student body and University faculty and staff.
There’s so much more to do, but we can only do it together!
Hola Gatos! I'm Damanitza Romo, and I'm excited to announce my candidacy for re-election as Student Body Senator in the upcoming election season. As a first generation college student pursuing studies in Criminal Justice and Spanish with a minor in Criminology, I am deeply passionate about advocating for those often overlooked and marginalized. My commitment to serving the student body has been evident in my efforts over the past year. I've worked tirelessly to create an environment where students feel supported by their Student Body Senate and empowered to voice their concerns. Despite limited transparency from the administration, I strongly believe in the importance of amplifying student voices and ensuring that their concerns are not only heard but also addressed effectively. In addition to my advocacy for accountability and transparency, I have actively supported various organizations, recognizing their crucial role in fostering inclusivity and community on campus. Having experienced the impact of cultural and major-related clubs firsthand, I understand the significance of these clubs in providing a sense of belonging. Therefore, it is not only essential to secure adequate funding for these groups but also to promote them, ensuring that more students can discover a community that resonates with their interests and backgrounds. If re-elected, I will prioritize the funding and promotion of these essential organizations, contributing to the overall success and long-term retention of students at the University of Arizona. Furthermore, I want to emphasize the importance of addressing accessibility issues on our campus and actively pushing for improvements in these areas. This awareness arose from my experiences as an ordinary student, where I observed issues such as malfunctioning ADA buttons, as well as several testimonials from my peers. It is crucial to consistently maintain the proper functionality of these accessibility features, and the responsibility for this should not solely rest on the shoulders of students. However, without advocacy it's evident that the administration tends to overlook these issues, leaving students with disabilities to face unnecessary challenges. This is why your vote matters. If re-elected, this term would allow me to further my advocacy on these issues and engage in meaningful conversations to bring about change. It would enable me to fight for an inclusive and accessible campus, while also emphasizing the importance of promoting cultural centers, clubs, events, and other social organizations that help foster community. Advocacy requires dedication, and I am willing to give it my all. I sincerely hope I can earn your vote because a vote for me, is a vote for us. Let's unite and create a lasting positive impact on our university community. Bear Down y ¡Viva Los Gatos!
My name is Jonah Rosen and I am from Warsaw, Poland. I am a Polish-American that is a freshman at University of Arizona studying Political Science. I have ambitious plans when it comes to University of Arizona, I am planning to improve the college expierience for every student by connecting our student population with each other.
My name is Katie Kelliher. I am a freshman from Sierra vista Arizona. I am a pre business major planning to minor in pre law. One of my biggest passions is leadership and service, because I believe that an incredibly rewarding reality of student leadership is there is a level of advocacy for the rights of students and their needs. It is powerful to be able to reach out to students and articulate their needs to those in positions of authority. As a senator I hope to provide a voice for my peers and to be a part of the University of Arizona at a deeper more involved level. To make students opinions heard and valued. There is great impact and power when people work together. My goal if able to hold a senator seat is to put service above self. I will do my best to contribute to the school and community and put the interest of our university and its students above all else.
Since I can remember, I have prioritized giving back and remaining actively involved in my community as much as possible. Through various clubs, extracurriculars, and leadership positions I have gained a variety of skills and learning opportunities that have shaped me into the person I am today.
Serving as the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Senator last term granted me the privilege of becoming a voice for students who share similar aspirations and goals. In that role, not only did I learn about ASUA’s impact on campus and its potential for driving future change, I also gained valuable insights about the university as a whole.
I am passionate about promoting and enhancing the programs that are in place and fostering an environment in which the opportunities available are exposed to all students. I strive to be the person who those seeking change can reach out to and confide in that something can be done. As Senator At-Large, I strive to make students feel heard and supported throughout their academic journey. I am determined to implement a sense of community and inclusivity to all students on campus in which each student’s potential is realized and every voice is heard.
College of Education Senator
Hello there my name is Benjamin Huffman and I am a current sophomore in the college of education. I am also a native Tucsonan with so much love for this university. As an education major I believe learning is an essential part to making changes in the world around you. Solving even the smallest of problems requires informed decision making. With an educational background I believe I can bring an educational perspective to the issues we as a campus community face. I am running to be the senator for the college of education to help others learn in order to enact the necessary change we deserve. I believe decision making on important campus issues such as housing, transportation, safety, and health should be transparent to the entire campus body.
I consider inclusivity and diversity on campus to be my most important issue. In order for any member of the university to reach their full potential they must be properly supported to be themselves and feel comfortable. In my time as a student I have seen the college of education do an amazing job towards building an environment of inclusivity. As your senator I would spread this positive environment to the rest of campus. Additionally I am a proud supporter of LGBTQ+ causes and would push beyond the University’s position of tolerance to instead celebrate all of its students. Personally I want to see this university thrive into the best environment possible for all majors and I can’t wait to get started.
College of Medicine Senator
Hello Wildcats! My name is Srikar Kollipara, and I am a Junior at the University of Arizona majoring in Physiology with a minor in Psychology and Biochemistry. This year, I hope to be your Senator for the College of Medicine. Running for reelection, there are several initiatives of considerable value that I hope to undertake and improve upon if given this opportunity.
I want to start off by addressing my goals for the students within the College of Medicine. It is often easy to fall behind or get lost in this community of high-achieving individuals. Many students find it difficult to find a sense of belonging and an environment where they feel truly supported. As your voice in our beloved student government, I am committed to fostering a sense of community and belonging for us all. I believe that a true community is built on a strong foundation of support, inclusion, and empathy. As such, while I am in office, I am committed to organizing diverse events, initiatives, and spaces that allows each and every student to celebrate the diversity our university has to offer and fully nurture genuine connections with other students and faculty. Whether it’s a study group, a pre-health club fair, or a simple philanthropy event with the greater Tucson community, there’s always room for you!
I hope to continue to work on various mentorship programs, connecting undergraduate students with graduate and working students who underwent these challenges as an ambitious college student. These programs will not only provide resources and professional development opportunities, but create a healthy and safe environment for those who seek personalized academic and emotional support. There are a variety of opportunities waiting for those under the College of Medicine, and I seek to help everyone fully realize their future plans. I want to continue to push for student engagement within the Tucson community. As our University continues to grow, there are many new clubs and organizations. I would love to continue to connect these many groups, fostering a community of diverse interests and engagement.
Running for the role of College of Medicine Senator gives me the unique opportunity to support those in my community, and allows me to further my knowledge of issues that affect the students at the University of Arizona. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. So let’s walk this path together, hand in hand, as we continue to make the most of our college experience.
College of Science Senator
Hello! My name is Arjun Phull, and I’m running to be your next College of Science Senator. I’m from Scottsdale, Arizona, and I’m a junior studying Neuroscience & Cognitive Science and Information Science. I’m a part of the College of Science, the iSchool, and the W. A. Franke Honors College. I’m proud to be involved in many student organizations on campus, including Arizona Ambassadors and the honorary system. I also conduct research at the Center for Digital Humanities and the Cognitive Neuroscience of Language laboratory. In my free time, I love to cook, write, exercise, and play piano!
As your College of Science Senator, I want to be your biggest advocate on campus. We students are notoriously busy. Between 9 AM classes at Koffler, research lab meetings, and everything in between, we don’t often have time to seek out help from our student government. That’s why I want to make it as easy as possible for you to voice your needs. As your Senator, I’ll host biweekly fireside chats with you, the College of Science student body. I’ll come to you and learn your needs, so I can then amplify them at ASUA meetings. Additionally, I’ll work with major advisors and department heads to compile resources regarding research, advising, and career opportunities—so you don’t have to look far and wide to find your next learning opportunity.
The College of Science is home to a diverse group of students spanning many different majors and career interests, and our wide range of student organizations reflects this. From Astronomy Club, to oSTEM, to WIMS, there’s an organization for everyone within our college. I want to do everything I can to advocate for the success and growth of these amazing clubs. As your Senator, I’ll visit your club meetings regularly and ask you what I can do for you. I’ll guide you and your organization through new member outreach, requesting club funding, hosting community events, and more. Additionally, I’ll work to compile resources and advocate for underrepresented and minority groups within the College of Science so that no need is left unmet.
As your Senator, I’ll pursue initiatives that benefit you. I’ll work with ASUA club advocates and student organization leaders to organize College of Science club fairs, so you can more easily explore your STEM interests. I’ll work with lab directors and department heads to organize research recruitment fairs, so you can get involved with research on campus sooner. And, I’ll coordinate with major advisors and university recruiters to organize postgraduate program events, so you can plan your future studies and career earlier.
Additionally, I’ll use my platform to ensure that every student, organization, and faculty member has the space to safely express themselves. Our community’s strength lies within its diversity, and I’ll work hard to protect that.
My platform is yours. If elected Senator, I’ll work tirelessly to advocate for your needs and ensure that they’re heard at all levels of student government. ASUA works for you—and I will too!
Hey - I am Famesh Patel and I am running to be your College of Science Senator for the 2nd year in a row. Working with the Honors College, the College of Science (B.S. in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science), and various other organizations on campus has given me the various tools and nuanced perspectives to best serve the students in the College of Science at the University of Arizona. Working in this position in the last year - I have been able to work really hard on various initiatives such as the College of Science Student Council, the Senator Newsletter, and various College-Wide events that are on the horizon. I hope that in my second year as senator - I will be able to continue improving on our weaknesses, while also augmenting our successes. I want to bring funding for the different clubs, student ideas, and events focused more on retention. I created the Student Council to do exactly this - be a voice for the students in the various departments and bring out various resources that previously was not available within the College. Through this initiative, I want students to be able to thrive and I believe that will be possible. I believe these efforts will help in improving the sense of community and student development within the College of Science. Along with funding the innovative ideas of our students, I want to be able to bring the students closer to the administration and other opportunities of being a burden, closer to their peers without fear of rejection, and closer to more opportunities without fear of missing out. I want to consolidate all the opportunities for students within the College in that one Senator newsletter, while also being able to use all my connections within ASUA and the College of Science to bring together all the best things this University has to offer. All these changes will hopefully make the information that will inevitably shape a student’s career path much more accessible for all the students so they can feel more successful during college and even after they graduate. I want to continue on working on events that students want to see and being more closely connected to students. I want to more robustly make those connections so that students in every department feel that they are being heard by both the student government and the faculty/staff that should be serving them dutifully. In my 2nd term as College of Science Senator, I want to focus on the students and their connection to the University. This University will always be like a second home for many, if not all, of the students on campus. If I am voted to be your Senator, I will work with the students and for the students so that my goals and actions can change as the needs of the College of Science changes. Please vote for me so we can make a difference in the College of Science!
Eller College of Management Senator
I am a student with a unique story that has always placed a high priority on helping others by any means possible. I am a fierce advocate for mental health awareness and acceptance, LGBTQ+ rights, and equality for all. In my role as senator, I would like to increase the visibility and accessibility to the variety of campus services designed to assist students. I do not think this goal is achievable without simultaneous transparency, something I feel students in recent years have lacked with regards to the happenings of administration. I would be delighted to see an uptake in students utilizing the various services offered such as campus closet, campus pantry, CAPS, and so many more. Additionally, I would like to open the conversation or begin to work on rectifying an issue I experienced myself when I medically withdrew from the University of Arizona. The scholarship deferment process was incredibly messy and unnecessarily penalizing to students experiencing any kind of medical event preventing their success at the UA, be it physical or otherwise. I would like to help make the process for medical withdrawal scholarship deferment streamlined, and lessen the burden on students already experiencing adverse circumstances. As an intended representative of the Eller College of Management specifically, I would like to see a drastic increase in campus connectedness as Eller has historically felt as if it were its own "island" isolated from the rest of campus activity. Many Eller students are not even aware of programs such as campus closet or CAPS. I believe this lack of awareness is not only indicative but also furthering Eller's disconnection from the rest of campus.
My name is Reece Riley, and I am a freshman in the Pre-Business major in Eller College of Management. I am from Manhattan Beach, CA, a small town south of Los Angeles, and I hope to bring a different, out-of-state perspective to the ASUA Senate. I intend on majoring in Finance, with the hope to pursue a career in Private Wealth Management in the future. On campus, I hold an appointed position in Alpha Phi, am a member of the National Organization of Business and Engineering, and am currently looking to get more involved within the Eller Community. I served as the Student Body President of my high school, and gained an abundance of skills which I plan to carry into this new role. Being a freshman at the university, I have a lot to learn, but I am eager to learn alongside you all. I intend on utilizing every resource available to bring new ideas into action. In my position as Senator of Eller College of Management, I hope to enhance student support services, establish stronger technology-integrated learning, and emphasize entrepreneurial thinking for students. With Eller having one of the strongest communities on campus, I plan to take advantage of that community to implement more student mentorship programs and tutoring opportunities. I believe that we as students are each other's biggest resource, and having easy access to student mentors will be crucial to the success of many students within Eller. In addition, because AI is becoming so immersive in society, I believe integrating technology-based learning concepts into core business courses will be a helpful tool for students. Lastly, entrepreneurial thinking stresses the importance of following curiosity and taking the steps to think critically. Bringing in organizations, such as FORGE, to teach students about entrepreneurial thinking can play a major role in setting students up for success in school and the industry. Aside from my own ideas, I will be open to continuous feedback and collaborating with students to implement any other ideas to help bring about positive change to Eller. I also hope to build stronger relationships between Eller and other colleges within the University of Arizona to teach the importance of interdisciplinary studies. In my past leadership experiences, I have learned the significant role collaboration plays in success, and I plan to carry this with me in my role as senator. Vote Reece Riley for Senator of Eller College of Management, thank you.
College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Senator
Hello, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences students! I'm Ben ‘Action’ Jackson, and I'm excited to be your advocate in the ASUA Senate! It is imperative to me that our campus be safe and welcoming to all students. That is why my top priorities are campus safety and campus unity. Your safety is non-negotiable. Every student has the right to feel safe on campus no matter the circumstance. That is why I support increasing safety resources on campus and improving the visibility and communication of those resources.
Additionally, I'm passionate about fostering a sense of community that transcends backgrounds and beliefs. Our strength as a university is a sense of family and I look forward to partnering with our numerous campus organizations to increase involvement. Every club and student organization on campus deserves fair and equal treatment, no matter what. With your support we can ensure our campus is more secure and united than ever before. Don’t forget, vote for action, vote for Jackson!
College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture Senator
Hi! My name is Tommy Gutierrez and I am running for the senator position for the College of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape Architecture (CAPLA). I grew up in New Berlin, Wisconsin, a smaller suburb of Milwaukee. I was involved in the world of engineering and design before deciding that I wanted to study architecture in college. As a sophomore in the Bachelor of Architecture program, I have enjoyed all the time and effort I have put into this consuming major. One thing I have loved about this college is the community each class has, as you take all your classes with the same group of around 75 kids, and watch as each idea develops into something tangible. Watching this happen daily has made me want to get involved and represent CAPLA, prompting me to run for ASUA Senator. An opportunity that being a senator would give me is the ability to connect with the current clubs and groups within CAPLA, allowing me to help these groups grow and improve. I also have seen the amount of time and energy that is put into the college, and want to promote an environment that can encourage this energy, while also providing opportunities to temporarily detach and become involved in something else as well. Both these things will help me establish a dialogue between students and CAPLA faculty while bridging that gap between CAPLA and ASUA. Being a senator to me means being that voice within and for the college as well. I have been involved with different groups around the campus like Campus Rec, the honorary system, W.A. Franke Honors College, and the creation of new CAPLA organizations as well. Being exposed to these different groups allows me to see different student’s college experiences, and helps me recognize what we are missing. As CAPLA senator, I will make it my mission to ensure that CAPLA has the necessities to give all students the college experience that they deserve.
W.A Franke Honors College Senator
Hello everyone! My name is Aparna Chandrasekar and I am running to be your next W.A. Franke Honors College Senator. I am a first-year student double majoring in Physiology and Medical Sciences as well as Molecular and Cellular Biology, with a minor in Health and Human Values. As your Honors College Senator, I hope to expand the college’s initiatives and appeal, as we work to inspire more incoming and current students to join our college - I will achieve this by working to increase available opportunities for Honors students.
As your Honors College Senator, I hope to make an impact in:
Community: I am aiming to increase Honors-Based Networking within the college. As a current Franke Honors Ambassador, one of the most common questions I have heard from parents is whether or not their child will be able to easily make connections with like-minded individuals. I hope to make sure that every Honors student feels like part of our community - regardless of whether or not they are currently dorming at Honors specifically. I will also collaborate with other colleges in order to host networking events for Honors students of all years to grow professionally, and have access to all the opportunities that the Honors experience can offer.
Cost and Value: The cost of education is one of the main reasons why an incoming student might choose not to join the Honors College. With the experience including a semester fee, and the Honors dorms costing a minimum of $10,370 per academic year (not factoring in scholarships) - I will ensure that the money of each student and family is being used to further the opportunities that the Honors Program has to offer, and provide them with an experience of “Honor”. I will work with our Honors College offices to create more internship opportunities for each career field, make Honors Study Abroad programs more accessible to our students, and fill the Honors College spaces (such as the dorm building and Honors-specific lounges at SU) with the resources its students want and deserve.
Diversity: The college’s inclusivity-specific opportunities (such as UA Nepantla and its Black Excellence Scholars program) showcase its pride towards the diversity of its student body. As your W.A. Franke Honors College Senator, I hope to work with the college to create more clubs and programs, and host events for Honors students to feel represented no matter their background. The Honors College is a place where any student should be able to access the resources they need, and further their dreams as they desire.
Above all, I hope to be an advocate for the people of the Honors College, and represent their voices and desires. As I communicate and connect with my fellow peers and Honors College Faculty, I will make sure to go above and beyond the needs of our students. The W.A. Franke Honors College is a place of both personal and professional development, and upholding the college’s status of excellence is my main goal.
My name is Madeline Stropka and I am running for honors college senator. As both an RA in the Honors Village and a Club Advocate in ASUA I am familiar with both the proceedings of the Honors College and ASUA. Throughout my time at the University of Arizona I have seen how students can be properly heard as well as ignored. I have learned that the steps to be a good leader include listening to everyone around you, seeking out knowledge from others, and taking accountability when you get it wrong. As a W.A.Franke Honors College Senator I would seek out the professors and advisors to make a plan of action to create open communication between Honors students across campus. I would take the time to learn about the ever evolving offers of the Honors College including the new Bachelors of Creative Intelligence and Innovation. Every year this college offers more and more for its students. I want to make sure these offerings suit the students and not just the faculty. As someone who is aware and accountable for my actions I promise to put the students first and always seek a compromise to provide the best benefits. Through my time as a Club Advocate I learned how to help everyone and learn the policies that might be barriers to students. As a senator I would work towards breaking these barriers and making myself and ASUA more accessible to all Honors students. I am someone committed to providing benefits on a personal and academic level for all, and determined to create more long term success for Honors College students.
I am running for senator of the W.A Franke Honors College to help to build and grow the college's national platform and increase opportunities for student of the honor's college.
Fiscal Resources: The Honors College costs and additional $450 per semester. I want to ensure that this money is being used to grow the Honor's college and to create more opportunities for Honors college students through making study abroad programs cheaper, additional scholarships, increased internship opportunities and advising, and other resources to make student life as an honors college student better.
Community: Living in Honors Village is a great way to build a honors college community, but if you do not live at HV, or you have moved out, you can feel very isolated from the Honors college itself. I would like the college to host more networking events, not just for freshmen, but for upperclassmen looking for career opportunities.
Schooling: Currently, Honors contracts can only be used for up to 12 units, I would like to see that number increased. Increasing the number of available honor sections for specific major courses instead of only general education units would help this issue as well.
Accessibility and Inclusivity: Working towards ensuring that the W.A Franke Honors College is welcoming and inclusive to all people of all backgrounds. The college should be a safe space where anybody can be comfortable being their true selves, and growing to become the best version of themselves.
Lastly, I would run to be a representative of the student's of the W.A Franke Honors college. I pride myself on being open, honest, and a hard worker. I will work hard to make sure that every student's voice is heard and that their needs are addressed. The W.A Franke Honors college has amazing students and faculty, and growing the college and it's reputation is a high priority for me.
The Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health Senator
Hello all. I am Olivia Snyder and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of Senator for the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health. I am a Junior studying Public Health, Law, and Spanish. I have been fortunate to establish roots at the U of A, participating in many student clubs and organizations that have led me to a passion for our university community.
I am committed to fostering positive change and promoting the best interests of students in my college and beyond. I want to work towards a student government that has the power to make meaningful changes, changes that reflect the wishes of real students. Recognizing the university's transitional phase, I understand the valid concerns of our student community, and I am dedicated to being your advocate during these times of change. I will be there to hear from you and have tough conversations on your behalf. I hope to be a liaison between our administration and our student body, bridging frustrating gaps in existing communication structures.
I have had the pleasure of working as an ASUA Club Advocate this past school year, and the position opened my eyes to the importance of diverse student organizations to our community and how ASUA can support them. My familiarity with club recognition and appropriations processes positions me well to ensure that our student organizations are not only recognized but also adequately supported.
As your Senator, I will prioritize accessibility and be a dependable resource for your needs. Whether it's directing you to underutilized campus resources or discussing the challenges of securing internships, I am committed to facilitating open and candid conversations. If elected, I pledge to create spaces for your voices to be heard and considered.
I am so grateful for this opportunity and thank you for your consideration. Bear Down!
The R. Ken Colt College of Pharmacy Senator
Throughout my college career, I have been a student that always tries to be involved. While at the same time, I understand that it can be difficult for students to participate in their community. Some of us have to work as we further our education. As a senator, I am excited to make a community within our college without forgetting about students who have other occupations. Considering that the College of Pharmacy is smaller compared to others, I want to have the opportunity for our peers to be more involved and connected. I aim for everyone to know they can reach out to me and that I will be willing to help. I am determined to help everyone reach their maximum potential.