The Daily Aztec 3/25/2024

Cover by Gabrielle Houser

Ask an Aztec:

Investigating A.S. voting statistics with student voices A.S. Elections are coming up for SDSU and student involvement isn’t as high as in recent years

IntervIews by nIcole Hayek and PHotograPHy by callum wIlson

Once a year during the spring semester, San Diego State University holds elections for Associated Students candidates competing for leadership positions on campus. These elected students play a crucial role in developing campus policies and representing their peers throughout the academic year. As such, the election process serves as an opportunity for students to participate in electing the individuals who will represent their interests.

Student voting rates, however, are low, with the percentage of voters being 9.1% in 2021 and 8.5% in 2022. The voter turnout for 2023 was higher, but fell short of a 20% threshold. Students on campus shared their sentiments on A.S. elections and if they plan to vote.

Voting begins at 8 a.m. on Monday, March 25, and ends Thursday, March 28, at 7 p.m. Students will receive an email containing voting information.

Alejandro Rangel, a third-year criminal justice major

“I just transferred here as a junior, so I haven’t heard about how to vote or anything like that.”

Rangel said he plans to vote in the upcoming elections if the link is easy to find.

Frida Sanchez, a second-year marketing major

“I think someone approached me about it and that was how I heard about it and then I don’t think I ever received an email about it.”

Although Sanchez hasn’t voted in the past, she plans to do so now that she knows about it.

Mathew Lorenzen, a second-year civil engineering major

“The current president (Tarek Morsy) came to my fraternity and was talking to us and got us to vote for him so I did.”

Lorenzen said he intends to participate in the upcoming elections as well.

Justin Wilken, a fourth-year finance major

“I think being involved in civic engagement, even at the student body level, (voting) is really key to personalizing your experience here on campus.”

Wilken has not only voted in the past, but intends to vote this year.

“I just got here so I didn’t know that they even had voting elections.”

Samantha Dollete said she would participate in the elections if she had more information.

Taylor Ochoa, a fourth-year financial services major

“Possibly, I’m graduating in May so I’m not for sure. But I might,” Ochoa said.

Taylor Ochoa participated in past elections due to a campaign at her sorority chapter. However, she is undecided on whether she will vote in the upcoming election.

(From left to right) Samantha Dollete, a third-year marketing major

LEARN ABOUT YOUR 2024 A.S. CANDIDATES

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

PRESIDENT Choose one

SAM BRAUDE

As Student Government President, I’d be committed to three core values: academic success, campus safety, and the holistic well-being of all students. In a time where our challenges are multifaceted, the path to overcoming them lies in our unity. I envision a campus where organizations and associations interlink, fostering a deep sense of mutual empowerment. As your prospective president, I am dedicated to serve our diverse student body, ensuring that promises are not just made, but kept. However, the realization of our collective goals extends beyond the capabilities of any single individual. It requires a united front, a reevaluation of our university's priorities towards the collective heart of our community. Together, let's build a campus that reflects our shared aspirations for safety, success, and well-being.

KATARINA “KAT” HERNANDEZ

¡Hola!

I’m Katarina Hernandez, a third-year, studying Criminal Justice (Pre-Law), with a double minor in Honors and Neuroscience Psychology. As President, I'm committed to representing historically marginalized communities—first-generation, women, LGBTQIA+, abuse survivors, foster youth, low-income students, POC, and countless others. In eleven leadership positions, inside A.S., XCENTRIC!SD, Green Love, ASUB, Campus Community, AKPsi, Depop, and more, I’ve worked to amplify the voices of those overlooked. Demonstrating the importance of representation in power, I’m committed to paving towards diversity in future leaders. I’ll dismantle systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality and injustice. To do this, I’ll increase accessibility to equal resources to every student and inspire transparency in processes. ALL individuals have a voice in shaping our SDSU.

Vote Kat Hernandez, and together, we #RISESDSU!

ZACHARY ARTURO ALMARAZ

Hello SDSU! My name is Zachary Almaraz, I am running for Associated Students President. I am a Second year Junior status Finance Major minoring in Leadership. The past two years, I've served as Aztec Student Union Board’s Aztec Pride Chair, Aztecs Rock Hunger Business District Officer, Entrepreneurship Society Executive Vice President, Hispanic Business Student Association Director of Professional Development, HBSA College of Business Council Representative, Finance Investment Society, Rotaract/Service Above Self Recipient, Photography Club and SDSU Hiking Club.

As President, I aim to enhance campus visibility with a centralized event system for Registered Student Organizations and AS initiatives. Advocate for student scholarships using funds from tuition increases, organize AS-wide committee meetings for transparency, and promote inclusive care days to foster deeper student connections.

BluePrintSDSU

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

JON MEHR

Choose one

When people think of elite west coast universities, I want them to think of SDSU first.

I plan to expand the Aztec brand, and I am looking forward to adding serious value to the degrees that we will all earn and utilize. I want to ensure that when students finish their time here, they enter the world as leaders, ready to take on any challenge that they encounter.

In this role, I plan to coordinate and facilitate immense increases in involvement from both active students, and alumni. I hope that everyones time spent at SDSU will be cherished for decades to come. Together, we can redefine what it means to be an Aztec, and we will elevate the community we all share to new heights.

JOEY SALVAIL

Hello SDSU! My name is Joey Salvail and I'm running for Executive Vice President.

My involvements on campus include Aztec Student Union Board Union Night Chair, Vice President of Social Activities for Rotaract, Educational Opportunities Program, and Pi Kappa Alpha. Through my leadership experiences, I’ve gained a profound understanding of how to effectively engage students with campus life. As Executive Vice President, I aim to optimize student engagement with Associated Students by utilizing orientation to provide first-year and transfer students with clear pathways to involvement. I aim to elevate student well-being by ensuring that fundamental needs are met, promoting and expanding mental health resources, and nurturing a culture of diversity alongside inclusivity through events that build a strong sense of community among all students.

BluePrintSDSU

TAJUDDIN KAMAL HENRY

Hello, SDSU!

My name is Tajuddin Henry, and I am running to be your Executive Vice President!

I’m studying Public Health and African American Studies with a minor in Leadership Development.

As Vice President, I will commit to making a “Triple A” experience for students centered around Access, Advocating, and Achievement. This mission aims to create a holistic experience for our students and campus, focusing on increasing the access to and knowledge of resources and opportunities, advocate for equitability amongst all of SDSU’s communities and student organizations, and ensure that each student’s ability to achieve is recognized and supported to the highest level possible. Let’s work together to ensure that every Aztec can thrive academically, professionally and personally! Vote Tajuddin Henry, and together, we #RISESDSU!

NORA NOVAK

Hello SDSU! My name is Nora Novak and I am running for Vice President of External Relations. I’m a Junior, Political Science and Women’s Studies Major, with an Honors Minor. My involvement with Rock the Vote, External Relations Board, Lobby Corps, College of Arts and Letters, and CHESS has shown me the importance of civic engagement and student advocacy. As Vice President of External Relations, I plan to collaborate with the Rock the Vote team to ensure that students have access to resources to make informed decisions regarding civic engagement, create open conversations on campus regarding local politics for students to stay informed and use their voice, and connect with diverse campus communities to promote advocacy opportunities and connect students across campus.

BluePrintSDSU

DERRICK HERRERA

Haawka SDSU!

I'm Derrick Herrera, and I am running for your next Vice President of External Relations. With a major in Political Science & American Indian Studies and plans for graduate studies, I bring a deep commitment to our diverse SDSU community. As a first-gen Native student, I've actively engaged in campus life, contributing to vital organizations like the Native Resource Center, Native Student Alliance, and Associated Students. I understand the challenges facing justice-impacted, low-income, and marginalized students. These voices cannot go unheard.

My passion is advocating for minoritized communities. Throughout my tenure, I'll champion inclusivity through Inclusive SDSU, amplify unheard voices in the External Relations Board, and empower cultural communities to flourish. Vote Derrick Herrera, and together, we #RISESDSU for a more inclusive campus.

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS 2024 GENERAL ELECTIONS

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, continued

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCIAL AFFAIRS

Choose one

VINCENT LIN

Hello SDSU! My name is Vincent Lin and I’m running for Vice President of Financial Affairs. Over the past two years, I have served as Treasurer and founding member of the Asian Business Association, Vietnamese Student Association, Rotaract, and the Financial Investment Society. Off-campus I am a black belt karate instructor inspiring over 30 students. Through these experiences, I have obtained a blend of financial acumen and leadership skills. As VP of Finance, I will advocate for increasing student scholarship opportunities. I plan to extend the rounding of meal plan money year-round to sufficiently supply Aztecs Rock Hunger with the funds it deserves to effectively supply the AS food pantry. And help Allocate fair funds to Registered student organizations to increase their student engagement.

VICE PRESIDENT OF UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS

Choose one

MOHAMED EREKAT

My name is Mohamed Erekat, and I’m running to be your Vice President of University Affairs. I’m a Civil Engineering student, minoring in Islamic & Arabic Studies. I am committed to uplifting and empowering all students, ensuring everyone, especially those from underrepresented and marginalized communities, has the resources and voice to succeed.} I have been an active voice in AS this past year, and I plan to maintain this commitment to advocate on behalf of all SDSU students.{I will continue to stand firm in my condemnation of all forms of hatred and discrimination, dedicating my time and energy to addressing these issues targeting our student body by leading initiatives that bolster campus security.

Vote Mohamed Erekat, and together, we #RISESDSU!

TRINITY DANG

Hello SDSU! I'm Trinity Dang, a third-year majoring in Criminal Justice with a certificate in Public Law and double minors in Social and Personality Psychology and Business Administration. My campus involvement includes A.S. Representative for the College of PSFA, Student Grievances Committee, Dance Marathon Team Captain for PSFA College Council, University Affairs Board, Pre-Law Society, and Rotaract. In these roles, I've honed my advocacy and listening skills, fostering transparency and diversity. As VP of University Affairs, I aim to enhance student support by creating a resource document, promoting the Your Voice Matters form, and establishing a transparent grading bill of rights. I'll foster understanding through dialogues with faculty, improve resource centers, and creating a Middle Eastern North African student center for cultural inclusivity.

BluePrintSDSU

Choose one

NO CANDIDATES

CAMPUS COMMUNITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE

Choose one

YANELI GARCIA

Hi SDSU!

I’m Yaneli Garcia, and I am currently studying Sociology with a minor in Women's Studies. As your Campus Community Commission Representative, I hope to enhance the acknowledgment of all resources on campus that are accessible to all students. With a background in volunteering for marginalized communities, including Food Share of Ventura County and City of Angels Orphanage, I'm committed to creating a culture of inclusivity and collaboration on campus. As a third-year, first-generation Mexican American woman, I'm dedicated to enhancing campus resource awareness targeting all student bodies and fostering civic responsibility among all students. I'll collaborate with fraternity and sorority life, faculty, residence life, and student affairs to promote inclusivity and safety.

Vote Yaneli Garcia, and together, we #RISESDSU!

COMMUNITY SERVICE COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE

Choose one

AUSTIN EMERY

Hey SDSU!

I’m Austin Emery, a Political Science major with an Honors minor, and I’m running for Community Service Commission Representative. I’m involved with the A.S. Food Pantry, Aztecs Rock Hunger, Wesley House, Feeding San Diego, and others. As many of our community members struggle to meet their basic needs, I believe volunteering is a key way to connect people with resources. Coming from a military family that’s moved states often, I also understand how it feels to be disconnected, and college is certainly no exception. So, as your CSC Representative, I will strive to increase student involvement by creating meaningful service opportunities and tailoring those events to create an inclusive environment for all involved.

Vote Austin Emery, and together we #RISESDSU!

RECREATION & WELLNESS COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE

Choose one

NO CANDIDATES

STUDENT DIVERSITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE

Choose one

JACIE FOSTER

Hi SDSU! My name is Jacie Foster, and I’m running to be your next Student Diversity Representative! As a first-year Political Science major with a minor in Honors interdisciplinary studies, I’ve been involved in A.S. through the First Year Leadership Experience (FLEX) and the Student Diversity Commission. I’m actively involved in the Weber Honors College Student Society, Delight Ministries, and Black Pre-Law Association. These experiences fuel my passion for advocating for students' needs. As Student Diversity Representative, I’ll ensure diverse safety solutions are accessible to students to feel safe on campus regardless of their background, address student concerns through education initiatives, and strengthen collaboration between student organizations and local communities for better representation of all groups on our campus.

BluePrintSDSU

ALIZA SIDDIQUI

Hello SDSU!

My name is Aliza Siddiqui, and I’m running to be your Student Diversity Representative. I’m an international student from India, majoring in computer engineering with involvements in First-Year Leadership Initiative (FLI), Elections committee, AS Judicial Affairs, CESC VP Outreach, Rotaract, SWE, WSS, and the CIE as a Diversity Peer Educator.

My objectives are to:

1. Advocate for policies that create an inclusive campus environment, including addressing instances of discrimination and harassment.

2. Foster partnerships with diverse communities by promoting seats for RSOs on AS for diversity in leadership and decision-making.

3. Establishing scholarship initiatives that provide equitable opportunity in education for underrepresented students including out-of-state, international, formerly incarcerated, and other marginalized groups.

Vote Aliza Siddiqui, and together, we #RISESDSU!

STUDENT SUPPORT COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE

Choose one

CESAR LOPEZ

Hello SDSU! My name is Cesar Lopez and I am honored to run for the Student Support representative position with an unwavering commitment to enhancing the student experience. As Project Rebound Student Alliance President, member of Launch into Leadership, Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity, Criminal Justice Student Association and TAMID my insights from on and off-campus engagements position me to champion initiatives that support academic success and nurture a supportive and inclusive campus environment. As the Student Support representative, I aspire to increase scholarship availability by 5-10%, addressing the current coverage of less than 3% of the student body. My focus also includes destigmatizing the use of campus resources and implementing initiatives for their expansion, ensuring enhanced support for all students.

March 28 at as.sdsu.edu/elections

AZTEC STUDENT UNION BOARD REPRESENTATIVE

CAMPUS LIFE COUNCIL

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS 2024 GENERAL ELECTIONS

CAMPUS LIFE COUNCIL, continued

STUDENT SUPPORT COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE, continued

JASMIN ZEIS-KHALIL

Hey SDSU!

My name is Jasmin Zeis-Khalil and I am running to be your Student Support Representative. I am a second-year Political Science major. I currently serve as a representative for A.S. Campus Life Council and this role has intersected with other involvements on campus including my position at the Center for Intercultural Relations. I have worked at the CIR programming events catered to students' interests, needs, and uplifting marginalized communities. Having these opportunities has heightened my interest in advocacy and I want to continue to help students find their passions.

As your Student Support Representative, I would prioritize continuing to be a voice for students on our campus regarding accessibility to resources, opportunities, and strengthening communities.

Vote Jasmin Zeis-Khalil, and together, we #RISESDSU!

SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE

Choose one

SHEFALI SHARMA

Hello SDSU!

I'm Shefali Sharma, a Psychology (Pre-Med) student and an Honors minor. As your Sustainability Commission Representative, I'm dedicated to amplifying diverse voices in sustainability and promoting health and wellness in relation to climate and sustainability. With leadership roles in Green Love, Save Soil SDSU, Enviro-Business Society, and Women in Medicine, I’ll cultivate inclusivity in sustainability that welcomes everybody, regardless of background or career pathway. Having a medical background, I emphasize sustainability's significance across diverse fields. I’m committed to empowering all students by supporting their career development and desired changes at SDSU. Acknowledging the imminent soil crisis (with estimated 90% soil degradation by 2050), I'll establish a platform to educate about its impact and amplify student voices.

Vote Shefali Sharma, and together, let's #RISESDSU!

STUDENT-AT-LARGE CAMPUS REPRESENTATIVE

Choose two

JACK MCFADDEN

If elected, I plan to institute larger more entertaining student driven events around campus. Additionally, I plan to smooth out the skate paths for a safer more comfortable ride around campus. Also, nobody likes going to the ARC only to find it super packed. It is for this reason, that I would like to create a live video feed to easily see how busy the ARC is at any given moment in time. I will legitimately push for these, and any other popular ideas brought to my attention. Ultimately I just want to graduate having made some sort of tangible positive impact to the campus and my fellow peers.

UNIVERSITY COUNCIL

COLLEGE

OF ARTS AND LETTERS REPRESENTATIVE

Choose three

MORGAN SMITH

In high school I was very involved and a big part of the my school's culture. I loved feeling that I was helping to build something bigger than myself as I was a part of the ASB at my high school for all four years as well as being the captain of the cross country and track team for my last two years. I also took a vice president position in the club Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD). Coming to SDSU I have felt less connected in that I don't have a bigger purpose anymore. I have been searching for a place in which I can put forward my skills in leadership and organization and I am so excited to have this opportunity.

MAYA GERASSI

I’m running for College of Arts and Letters Rep. because I want to use my voice and skills to serve our diverse and dynamic community at SDSU. As a student in this college, I value cultural awareness and social justice. I have demonstrated my leadership for these causes by being a designee in the Associated Students Aztec Pride Committee and University Affairs Board, head of the IAC Mishelanu Club, and president of Challah For Hunger. A vote for me is a commitment to amplifying the SDSU vibe, sparking positive change, and advocating for Arts and Letters. If elected, I will work hard to push for our college's needs and interests, and to create a positive and inclusive student experience. Let's create a vibrant SDSU together.

NOOR SHATARA

Hello SDSU!

I am incredibly excited to announce my candidacy for our next College of Arts and Letters Representative! I am determined to communicate while connecting our student bodies' voices, to ensure the utmost quality of education. Commitment to advocating for the needs of students in our department and capitalizing on the resources available to us will be my top priority. My experiences in student congress, coach of Girls on the Run, Associated Students First-Year Leadership Initiative, and the Diversity Equity and Inclusion chair of Gamma Phi Beta demonstrate my ability to cater to the needs of those in my community. With the skills I have gained, I plan to foster and originate new ideas that have lasting impacts to benefit and reflect our needs.

NOAH STUART

I'm Noah Stuart, and I study Political Science (Pre-Law). As College of Arts and Letters Representative, I am committed to making sure that every marginalized group has the academic resources within our college and ensuring their success, specifically Palestinians, Arabs, and Muslims. Throughout my involvement in the Middle Eastern and North African Student Union (MENA) and the Muslim Student Association (MSA), I've worked to ensure that everyone feels welcomed, and has a safe space within this community. Demonstrating the importance of power in unity, I'm committed to encouraging people that they will be actively engaging within this college and within this community. Vote Noah Stuart, and together, we #RISESDSU!

FOWLER COLLEGE OF BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE

COLE ALAN

Choose five

As a dedicated freshman at Fowler College of Business, I am excited to run for the CBC Representative position within SDSU's Associated Students. With a fresh perspective and relentless drive, I aim to foster a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive. Vote for progress, vote for unity, vote for me.

ZAINAB AL-BASAM

Hi everyone! My name is Zainab Al-Basam and I’m majoring in Business Administration with an emphasis in Management as well as studying for a minor in Leadership. My goals are to inspire, grow, learn and elevate others. I hope to impact and help others to see their potential and to dream big. I hope to create community and harmony with everyone I meet and to lead with purpose of helping others feel seen, heard and know that I believe they can achieve all their dreams and goals. Vote Zainab Al-Basam and together, we #RISESDSU.

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS 2024 GENERAL ELECTIONS

UNIVERSITY COUNCIL, continued

FOWLER COLLEGE OF BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE, continued

TANIA ROSALES

I am willing to commit to the students of Fowler College of Businees and extend my support in helping them enhance their knowledge through our organizations. We want to help our students use their resources efficiently so they can develop their leadership skills. As an A.S leader our top priority is to ensure our students have the resources needed to succeed and help the college of business. I want to offer opportunities for students to develop not only professionally but grow as individuals.

JAMIE URIBE

As an aspiring Associated Students leader, my goals are clear: to empower students by enhancing their awareness of campus resources and events, to bolster opportunities for career readiness through increased CBC (Career Center) events, and to advocate for their needs. My leadership journey has been enriched through active involvement in the Aztec Student Union Board, SDSU cheer team, and Delta Sigma Pi over my three years in college. Having served in various capacities, from chair to director roles, I possess adeptness in leading committees and driving projects to success. My motivation to pursue a leadership role stems from a genuine passion for student advocacy. I am driven by the desire to optimize the college journey for my peers, leveraging my character to effect meaningful change.

PAL PATEL

Hello SDSU!

I’m Pal Patel. I am a freshman with a major in Business MIS and a minor in Honors. I am running for your next college of business representative. I have a wide range of campus involvement including Business organizations, Hall council, Community service, leadership, and AS. These involvements have provided a comprehensive understanding on how I can help the diverse student community. If elected, I plan to educate the student community about the ways they can get involved and develop themselves for future success with increasing engagement for all business organizations with creating awareness about all the resources available to them and I would represent the problems of the student community to my utmost ability

Vote Pal Patel, and together, we #RISESDSU!

JJ GRIER

My name is JJ Grier and I am honored to run for the Associated Students position representing our College of Business. With a commitment to student engagement and academic excellence, I aim to foster an inclusive environment where every voice is heard. My priorities include championing diversity and equity initiatives and strengthen community partnerships to enrich our college experience. Your input is invaluable, and I pledge to amplify your voices and concerns. Let's work together to shape a vibrant and supportive community within our College of Business. Thank you for considering me as your candidate.

CODY ZIPPE

As your potential A.S. leader, my foremost goal is to amplify student voices by fostering an inclusive and engaging campus environment. With a rich background in leadership, including roles in student organizations and community projects, I bring a proven track record of effective collaboration and decision-making. My motivation to seek a government leadership role stems from a deep commitment to creating positive change within our campus community. Together, let's elevate the student experience, ensuring every voice is heard, and every concern is addressed. I am dedicated to being the catalyst for progress and unity within our diverse student body.

LOGAN HOLADAY

As an Associated Students leader I plan to keep the fowler college of business up to date on what is happening around the SDSU campus. Furthermore, I wish to provide a platform for anyone to bring their ideas to the Associated Students meetings. In the past I have worked as a crew lead at Tilly's where I showed my leadership skills by motivating the team to reach our sales goals. This in turn motivated me to run for the Fowler College of Business representative as I found that I work well in leadership roles and I hope to provide opportunities and information for those in the Fowler College of Business.

FOWLER COLLEGE OF BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE, continued

FAITH ONA

As an A.S. leader, I aim to provide more opportunities for student organizations through more support. Many student organizations have resources that still need to be fully utilized. I plan to build up our current organization and team of officers to better and fully support student organizations so that they can better serve SDSU and other communities. With my knowledge of resources available from the Financial Affairs Committee and experience with the Marketing and Communications Committee, I hope to promote more activity from our organizations. Overall, I want to take what great resources A.S. already has to offer and encourage more great things from our students.

AARON PATTERSON

Greetings SDSU! I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for A.S. Representative for SDSU's Fowler College of Business. My primary goal is to ensure the inclusivity and promotion of events, clubs, and programs by Fowler College of Business Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs) to every business student. Drawing from leadership experiences at Target and as SHRM SDSU's Member Relations Director, I bring a commitment to leadership in both professional and daily life. I was inspired to pursue this role after recognizing the challenges many SDSU students face in finding their place. As the A.S. Representative for the FCB, I am dedicated to enhancing the social and educational experiences for all FCB students, including undergrads, transfers, and graduates.

BluePrintSDSU

DECLAN CAMPBELL

As a former ASB President and Eagle Scout, I've led initiatives promoting student involvement and community engagement. At SDSU, I aim to use this experience in the AS leadership role to create a vibrant student community. My commitment stems from a profound belief in service and teamwork, aiming to enhance campus life, improve communication between students and administration, and advocate effectively for student needs. My vision is to empower students through increased participation in campus activities and decision-making processes, ensuring a more inclusive, connected, and dynamic SDSU experience for all.

TOMER KALACH

No statement submitted.

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS 2024 GENERAL ELECTIONS

UNIVERSITY COUNCIL, continued

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION REPRESENTATIVE

Choose two

OLIVIA VAN WINKLE

As someone who is passionate about leadership and effective change, I have many goals and aspirations as a future College of Education Representative. I will strive to make students' voices heard, because although the College of Education is one of the smallest colleges, we work to make a difference each and every day. I want to promote and share opportunities with those within the College of Education, and use my prior leadership experience and volunteer work to help guide others to be prominent leaders as well. What really motivated me to seek a government leadership role is to become a positive role model for students here at SDSU, and pave the way for different people to take on challenges and turn them into opportunities.

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING REPRESENTATIVE

Choose two

ROCIO LOPEZ

Hi SDSU!

I’m Rocio Lopez, and I am seeking re-election to continue advocating for our collective interests and addressing pressing issues. As your current College of Engineering representative, I successfully campaigned against class session conflicts that risked delaying graduation dates, significantly increased lab session availability, and secured school funds to support student attendance at conferences. These achievements underscore my commitment to amplifying student voices and ensuring our academic and professional development needs are met. My goal remains steadfast: to serve as a dedicated advocate for my peers, pushing for improvements that enrich our educational experience and prepare us for future challenges.

Vote Rocio Lopez, and together, we #RISESDSU!

DANIEL FREY

No statement submitted.

COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE

Choose three

JACKSON PATTERSON

Hey SDSU! My name is Jackson Patterson, I am a Sophomore majoring in Kinesiology with an emphasis in pre-physical therapy. I am running for representative of the College of Health and Human Services. I am currently involved in Dance Marathon, VAW Global Health Alliance where we provide healthcare for unprivileged countries, and VITAS HealthCare where I volunteer to assist with hospice care for the elderly, and Delta Upsilon Fraternity. With these leadership experiences, I have the skills to positively impact this campus. As College of Health and Human Services Representative, I will create more transparency between the students and faculty, provide more career guidance with initiatives, and push for easier access to internship opportunities and shadowing in clinical environments.

BluePrintSDSU

ANTHONY QUIROZ

Hello everyone!

I’m Anthony Quiroz, a second-year Public Health student. As the prospective College of Health and Human Services Representative, I am dedicated to amplifying the voices of students across diverse majors in CHHS, from Nursing to Kinesiology.

Currently serving as the Academic Director in AKPsi and a Community Assistant with REO, I've successfully led diverse groups to achieve excellence in their personal and professional life. Through these roles, I've honed my ability to connect peers with valuable resources, providing support when needed. I’m committed to representing every student, regardless of their background. With your support, I look forward to representing you and ensuring the needs of our community are met and that every student's voice is heard.

Vote Anthony Quiroz, and together, we #RISESDSU!

COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE, continued

COLIN THURRELL

Hello students of SDSU, my name is Colin Thurrell and I am running for University Council representative for the College of Health and Human Services. Spanning over the last year and a half, I have been involved with the Delta Upsilon fraternity being a social chair and a part of the rush committee. Recently, I had the chance to attend the Regional Leadership Academy ran through my fraternity, and learned new ways to increase involvement that could carry over into the representative position. In this position, I would love to expand the connection between underclassmen and upperclassmen in the College of Health and Human Services by implementing a mentorship program to help younger students navigate their academic challenges and later succeed.

COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES AND FINE ARTS REPRESENTATIVE

Choose four

MARYJANE DESTRO-VASQUEZ

I have been at SDSU for two years as a Television, Film, and New Media major. During my time here at SDSU, I have been on the executive board of our Women's Rugby team and have worked with our Residential Education Office as a Resident Advisor. I hope to continue these roles as well as add A.S. to the list! Throughout the years I have noticed that I thrive in leadership roles and after finding this council position, I knew it would be something I was good at. I plan to increase accessibility and widen access to demanding resources for students. It is important to me that voices are not only heard but that action gets taken.

COLLEGE OF SCIENCES REPRESENTATIVE

Choose four

ERIN RUSHING

Hey SDSU!

My name is Erin Rushing and I am running to be your next College of Sciences Representative. I am a second year majoring in biology and I am passionate about making a difference in my college. Over the past two years, I have served as a member of the biology fraternity, Beta Psi Omega, and represented them on the CSSC board this semester. As your next College of Sciences Representative, I am determined to elevate students' voices. I aim to educate students about the resources available to them on campus and continue to expand those resources. I will do this by listening to fellow students and advocating for their well-being, making sure that everyone has a place here at SDSU.

BluePrintSDSU

UNDECLARED / UNCLASSIFIED STUDIES REPRESENTATIVE

Choose one

NO CANDIDATES

GRADUATE STUDENT ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT

Choose one

JULIO CESAR RODRIGUEZ

I am running to be GSA President because I have the lived experiences and institutional knowledge to be a fierce and strong voice for graduate students. As a Graduate Assistant on campus, I know that we make minimal money for long hours of work: I would work to change that. As your President, I would advocate for more financial resources and professional opportunities for us as students. This role presents a unique opportunity to bring our needs to the table with administration; so that upon graduation, we are ready to work within our chosen fields and be successful. I’ve come a long way from using drugs, living on the streets, and incarceration; today, I want to bring my conviction and drive to this position.

KAILEY QUEZADA

Hey SDSU! My name is Kailey Quezada, and I’m running to be your next Graduate Student Association (GSA) President! I’m currently in my last semester of undergrad at SDSU, and plan to begin my Master’s of Public Administration next school year. Given the opportunity, I hope to build unity among our graduate student population by promoting intentional recruitment and representation of our diverse students into spaces of decision-making.

Through my four years of undergrad experience with Associated Students, along with my involvement as being the President of the Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Student Advisory Board, I am confident in my ability to listen, empower, and lead the Graduate Student Association! Vote Kailey Quezada, and together, we #RISESDSU for true representation.