A.S. BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTIONS 2019
VOTER INFORMATION GUIDE
BE KIND TO THE ENVIRONMENT. SHARE YOUR GUIDE WITH A FELLOW SPARTAN!
ASSOCIATED
STUDENTS LEGO VOTE!
2019
BUILD YOUR LEGACY!
VOTE! AP RIL 1 5 TH T O 18 TH VOTING BEGINS: MONDAY, APRIL 15TH AT 7:00PM (immediately following Candidate Debates) VOTING ENDS: THURSDAY, APRIL 18TH AT 8:00AM
H O W AN D WH E RE TO VOT E You may vote online using your SJSUONE login credentials at: as.sjsu.edu/vote or at a campus polling location.
Polling Locations n Campus Village 2 (courtyard lawn) n Clark Hall (outside) n 7th Street Plaza (outside Events Center)
Voter Eligibility All matriculated SJSU students who have paid the most current A.S. activity fees are eligible to participate in A.S. Elections 2019. Continuing Education and Open University students are ineligible to vote.
Endorsements Official student organization endorsements for each candidate may be found online at as.sjsu.edu/vote.
Questions? Contact the Students’ Election Commission (SEC) at: student-elections@sjsu.edu, (408) 924-6242 or at: A.S. Government Office Diaz Compean Student Union, 2nd Floor, Suite 2300.
TAB LE O F C O N T E N TS About Associated Students............................................................................................................................................................................................. 1 A Message from the Students’ Election Commission..................................................................................... 2 Elections Calendar............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Candidates for A.S. President..................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Candidates for A.S.Vice President...........................................................................................................................................................5-7 Candidates for A.S. Controller................................................................................................................................................................... 8-11 Candidates for A.S. Director of Academic Affairs.................................................................................... 12-13 Candidates for A.S. Director of Business Affairs......................................................................................... 14-18 Candidates for A.S. Director of Co-Curricular Affairs................................................................. 19-22 Candidates for A.S. Director of Community and Outreach........................................... 23-26 Candidates for A.S. Director of Intercultural Affairs......................................................................... 27-28 Candidates for A.S. Director of Internal Affairs.........................................................................................................29 Candidates for A.S. Director of Legislative Affairs.................................................................................. 30-33 Candidates for A.S. Director of Student Resource Affairs.................................................. 34-36 Candidates for A.S. Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities.....................37 Candidates for A.S. Director of Sustainability Affairs....................................................................... 38-39
ASSOCIATED STUDENTS YOUR STUDENT GOVERNMENT Associated Students of San JosĂŠ State University has been a student owned and operated organization on campus since 1897. We are committed to providing services and activities that enhance the opportunity to meet, recreate and maximize student life. Opportunities to get involved and obtain leadership skills are among our highest priorities. The A.S. Board of Directors represents the student body and is made up of 13 members, including President,Vice President and Controller. They are the voice of more than 33,000 SJSU students and advocate on their behalf on campus, statewide and national issues.
O U R M I S SI O N To Support and represent the students of San José State University by continuing the organization’s legacy of student advocacy and leadership; To Enhance SJSU students’ education through high-quality programs and services; and, To Prepare students as they move towards a thoughtful and purposeful life after graduation. A . S . D E PA RT M E N TS STUDENT GOVERNMENT CÉSAR E. CHÁVEZ COMMUNITY ACTION CENTER CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER EVENTS GENERAL SERVICES CENTER HUMAN RESOURCES MARKETING PRINT & TECHNOLOGY CENTER TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS
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A ME SSAGE FRO M T HE 2 01 9 S TUD E N TS ’ E L E CT I O N C O M MI S SION Dear Fellow Spartans, Join us in building a legacy! We, the Students’ Election Commission, are proud to announce elections for the 2019-2020 A.S. Board of Directors. Cast your vote from April 15th to 18th and help elect San José State University’s new government student leaders! We encourage all students to take this opportunity; to make your voice heard on campus and to vote for the future representatives of our Associated Student body. The Board of Directors works collectively to improve the academic and extracurricular experience for over 33,000 students and 450 recognized student organizations on campus. They advocate on behalf of students and represent our interests, concerns, and issues with regards to campus climate and overall student success. All SJSU students are encouraged to participate in election season by attending election events and by casting their votes online at as.sjsu.edu/vote between April 15th at 7:00pm and April 18th at 8:00am. Our mission is to collaborate with students, staff, and SJSU departments in order to present what we hope will be a promising and successful election season. As always, the Students’ Election Commission is dedicated to providing a fun, fair, and transparent election this year and we would like to thank everyone involved in this process.
Joseph Sandoval-Rios Chief Elections Officer
Isatou Gaye Events Officer
Benz Phan Election Consultant
Leslie Cooper Ethics Officer
Nia Ricketts Marketing Officer
Erika Larios Election Consultant
S PA R TA N U P !
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E L E CT I O N S C A L E N DA R C AM PAIG N P E RI O D : MA RC H 18 T H TO A P RIL 15TH
Elections Kick Off Monday, March 18th, 12pm-3pm CV2 Multipurpose Room
Meet the Candidates Wednesday, April 10th, 11am-2pm Smith/Carlos Lawn
Candidate Debates* Monday, April 15th, 5pm-7pm Diaz Compean Student Union Room 1B *The debates will be hosted by the Spartan Daily. Livestream link to be announced.
VOTIN G P E RI O D : A P RI L 15 T H TO 18 TH
Voting Begins Monday, April 15th, 7pm (immediately following the Candidate Debates)
Voting Ends Thursday, April 18th, 8am
Election Results Party Thursday, April 18th, 3pm-5pm Student Wellness Center, Room 122A
WIN PRIZES! Winners will be chosen using a randomizer. To read full contest mechanics, please visit: as.sjsu.edu/vote
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BRA N D E N PA RE N T for A.S. President Hello Spartans! My name is Branden Parent, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for your Associated Students President. Currently serving as your Director of Intercultural Affairs for the past two years, I understand what it means to advocate for others. For over three years, I have been working with faculty and students to bring positive change by addressing diversity, equity, and solidarity throughout the campus at every level. As director, I was able to create the first SJSU Disability Awareness Fair in 2017 and had another in 2018. The fair was organized to raise awareness and funds for students with disabilities while also demonstrating their “abilities.” Additionally, I lobbied at the state legislature to lower tuition, kickstarted discussions for mental health and affordable housing, and worked to bring safer bike riding proposals for campus safety. Being a part of Associated Students for the past three years has given me the experience for this position. If elected, I will carry on being an advocate for the student population, make sure we are all represented, and continuously improve our campus climate. As President, I’ll work relentlessly for the student’s best interest on and off campus. I recognize the work and commitment the Associated Students President entails and am ready to take the next step in representing the student’s needs at a higher level. Together, we can build a safe, inclusive, and diverse Spartan community!
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Z AC HA RY BI RRE R for A.S.Vice President Hey Spartans! My name is Zachary Birrer and I am extremely humbled to be running as a candidate for A.S.Vice President. I am a proud SJSU student studying Civil Engineering raised in The Bay. I have experience in leading the campus community through my involvement with the Student Union Board of Directors, National Residence Hall Honorary, the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity, and Vice President of Men’s Club Water Polo. These roles taught me the importance of responsibility, empathy, and developing our Spartan community. As the Vice-chair of the Student Union Board, I help oversee the allocation of $120,000,000+ of student funds toward building our new Spartan recreation center. I am confident in my ability to leverage my skills to effectively run a board of my own through my experience currently serving on a board. As your potential Vice President and Chair of the Board of Directors, I want to continue to strive to cultivate a community where the student voice is heard. I will serve as a resource to the student body to address issues that our communities face to fight inequality and inequity. I also want to encourage students to get involved as I have to fulfill their student experience here on campus. I care tremendously about advocating for student representation so my peers feel empowered to help shape their own unique experience here at San Jose State.
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C Y N T HI A FE RNA N D E Z - RIOS for A.S. Vice President Hello Spartans, My name is Cynthia Fernandez-Rios and I am seeking your support to represent you as Vice President of Associated Students. I am a second-year student majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. A fun fact is that I have two cats named Pepper and Smokey. I have been part of Associated Students since my first semester at San José State University. Through my experience, I have been gained a vast amount of knowledge about Associated Students as well as our university. My journey began when I became a member of the A.S. Finance Committee. As a voting member, I helped determine organization’s eligibility for funding and helped revise budget policies for following fiscal year. This year I was appointed to serve as A.S Director of University Advising, where I collaborate with fellow board members to advocate for university resources to help ensure student’s path to graduation and help update university curriculum and policies affecting SJSU students. Representing our diverse campus is a great passion of mine. I am determined to continue making positive differences on our campus all while being a commuter student, just like many of you. If elected, I will continue to ensure that student’s voices are heard and policies are being put forth in the best interest for students. Together we can make positive changes.
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LO RE N ZO FLO RE S - L A RA for A.S. Vice President Hello fellow Spartans! My name is Lorenzo Flores-Lara, and I am running to be your Associated Students Vice President. I am a Los Angeles native and chose San Jose State University for its engineering program. I am currently pursuing a degree in Industrial Studies with a minor in Business. In a postgraduate life, I hope to start my own engineering firm with the goal to develop and improve methods and technologies to provide our communities with renewable, ecofriendly energy. Running to be your Vice President, I understand my duties the position entails. Additionally, I understand that, as an elected member of the student government, my primary focus should be to represent the student body’s best interests. Holding an executive position will allow me to be a resource for our student body to address issues students face. My goals as A.S.Vice President would be to push for more funding in academics, student resources, and quality of student life. My willingness to take on challenges sets me apart from other candidates. I am a founding father and the current chaplain of Pi Kappa Phi. This position has given me transferable skills such as managing committees and working with large budgets. Additionally, working as an Outdoor Adventure Leader for SJSU has made me adept to collaborate with my peers and to utilize appropriate leadership techniques to nurture both personal and professional growth. I hope I can count on your vote so that, together, we can Inspire and Empower Our Spartan Community!
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J YOTS NA K E T HE PA L L I for A.S. Controller Hey Spartans! I have actively been involved in Associated Students, as I currently serve as the A.S Director of Student Resource Affairs and served as the A.S Director of Student Fee Affairs. These roles helped me understand A.S functions, and with keen insight, I am aware of internal and external ways I can improve the system. In a position that requires me to understand financial statements and cross-functional collaboration, my academic background as a 3rd year Business MIS student has provided me extensive experience. I have used many analysis tools, particularly MS Excel, to organize and simplify information. As A.S Controller I Will: - Ensure transparency of the fees you pay to Associated Students and direct these funds directly back to you. - Provide Opportunities for Students: As chair of the A.S Finance Committee, I will provide hands on leadership experiences, projects, and learning opportunities to students-at-large so that students have a well-rounded experience of finances and budgeting. - Enhance Spartan Experience | Instill Collaborations between RSOs:Funding opens up opportunity and building a relationship with Student Organizations is my utmost priority and responsibility. With the funding provided to student organizations, I am determined to instill collaborations to achieve bigger things as a community on behalf of San Jose State University, your organizations, and you as an individual. As your current A.S Director, I will continue to be an advocate for continuous learning and provide opportunities where Spartans are involved. I am committed to bring my promises to you all.
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JA ME S NAU N G for A.S. Controller My name is James Naung. I am in my junior year studying civil engineering. Helping others and contributing to the community has always been part of my life because it is something that I value and enjoy. I started serving as a student at large on the finance committee in the spring of 2018 and have been on the committee ever since. Seeing student organizations present their plans and their passion to make their organizations grow has been a humbling experience and motivated me to continuously serve as a member on the finance committee. I take pride in being a civil engineering student at San Jose State University because of the resources and opportunities it provides. I am currently a coordinator for the ASCE 2019 Mid-Pacific conference sustainability competition, an event where students from universities across California and other nations come to showcase their engineering capabilities by constructing sustainable dog house structures. San Jose State University has truly helped me grow into a better person, and I believe I can do great service for this institution. My vision for the years ahead for the finance committee is to focus on key factors that student organizations need and create budget reforms on the critical areas of budget requests. I am confident in my abilities to serve a controller and create impact on areas that truly benefits the student organizations and help them advance towards their goals. Go Spartans!
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GI A N GU Y E N for A.S. Controller
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C HA I TA N YA S HA RMA for A.S. Controller My name Is Chaitanya (Chai) Sharma I currently work in the Events department of Associated Students. I am running for Controller for the upcoming school year. Having worked at Associated Students this past year working closely with the Marketing department, and others to put events on for the school such as Fire on the Fountain, and Spartan Squad events. I believe I have a deep understanding of all the departments and what they offer. I am running for Controller because as a Business Administration major and leader of my own RSO (All Comedy SJSU) I have a solid foundation to be able to carry out tasks as the CFO of the Association. Being the Treasurer of my own RSO has allowed me to work with the Controller closely in the past to get funding approved and to learn more about the job. I sincerely believe I have the best interests of all students here at SJSU and would work diligently to create transparent financial reports. Furthermore, I would ensure the budget reflect and work with the needs of A.S. for the following fiscal year. I would be a great candidate for this position having worked for Associated Students in a department that collaborates or has collaborated with all other departments in the past. I have a foundational understanding of the job with my major and RSO duties aligning with tasks at hand. I look forward to cultivating a positive dialogue among students and running a great campaign!
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A N O O P K AU R for A.S. Director of Academic Affairs Wassup Spartans! My name is Anoop Kaur and I am a current first year Biology major. My pronouns are she/her/hers. I was born and raised in the San Jose area, and I chose San Jose State because of its unique diversity. I’m running to be your next A.S. Director of Academic Affairs. Here at SJSU, our academic experience is a vital part of our lives and must be advocated for as much as our social experiences are. I hope to help support and strengthen your academic experience to assure your future success. I hope to encourage every student’s voice and help advocate for the change we want to see in our diverse community. If elected, I would be grateful for the opportunity and make the most of this novel position. I currently serve as a Student-at-Large for both the A.S. Programming Board and University Affairs Committee. My interest in student government started at the beginning of my Frosh year in high school. I became involved in the Associated Student Body, and I was elected to be a voting member on the School Site Council. There I learned how to manage budgets and initiated an upgrade for the Free and Reduced Meal Program to help advocate for financially struggling students like me. Through my past involvement with ASB, and current participation in A.S. committees I have seen the importance of knowledge, passion, and engagement. This has inspired me to run for this specific position!
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N I K HI L PAT HA N I A for A.S. Director of Academic Affairs Greetings Spartans! I am Nikhil Pathania and I am running for the Director of Academic Affairs. I am a third-year business finance major and here are a couple of things about me and what I’ll be implementing: Why vote for me? I am a founding father of Pi Kappa Phi and am involved in the Standards Board Committee, which required me to look over bylaws of the fraternity that included academic policies and expectations. I earned the position of Eagle Scout in high school, which tested my ability to come up with an original and unique plan; had to implement and take charge of a 2 month-long project. Why am I running? I am running for this director position mostly because of my experience with academics at San Jose State University. I found that the programs on campus can be both useful and vague sometimes, and I seek to possibly improve or create new programs to help those who are in need of it. What are my goals as the Director of Academic Affairs? Improve the way we can sign up for classes, providing a list of substitute classes for students who can’t get what classes they want. Institute a way to decrease the amount of impacted classes on campus I hope to receive your vote to further improve our academics here at SJSU! Please reach out to me at nikhil.pathania@sjsu.edu if you have any questions.
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HE CTO R GO N Z A L E S for A.S. Director of Business Affairs Hello Spartans! My name is Hector Gonzales and I am a second year majoring in Business Administration concentration in Human Resource Management. A little bit more about me is that I am a Taurus and Tauruses are known to be hardworking, reliable, responsible and most importantly zesty. I enjoy giving back to my community at San Jose State University by being involved in different organizations on campus such as the Society of Human Resource Management and being a Resident Advisor. I am running for Director of Business Affairs for Associated Students (A.S.) because A.S. is a non-profit organization that gives back to the students and is made by the students. Being the Director of Business Affair will help me work with the budgeting for Recognized Student Organizations and will provide me an insight of what it is like to work in a professional setting while still working around students. Being in Human Resources pertains to business and the aspect of helping others and that is why I believe that my skills make me an eligible candidate for your Director of Business Affairs for 2019-2020.
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KYLEE KIM for A.S. Director of Business Affairs SJSU Students and Faculty! My name is Kylee Kim and I am running to be your A.S. Director of Business Affairs. Born and raised in San Ramon, CA. I grew up in a very peaceful and calm community. When it came time for college applications, I knew that I wanted to be close to home but somewhere exciting, and found myself at SJSU in Fall 2018. Entering my freshman year, I was excited to be at such a spirited and inclusive school and knew that I had to get involved. I joined Hall Government and currently serve as CV2 Hall Representative, where I get to participate in the creative process behind events, as well as act as a liaison between the hall government and its residents. As a current pledge for the Alpha Kappa Psi Business Fraternity, I’ve been exposed to a new world of professionalism and learned organizational/social skills that I plan to implement in this position if I am granted the opportunity. I would describe myself as someone who seeks new opportunities and constantly looks to improve themselves. As Director of Business Affairs, I will utilize my platform to establish transparency as well as effectively communicate my ideas to my committee and the students. I am passionate and confident that I can execute this role in a way that positively impacts the community and if elected this position, I’ll do everything in my power to enhance the college experience of every SJSU Spartan.
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N I C HO L A S L E N GY E L for A.S. Director of Business Affairs Hi Spartans, My name is Nicholas Lengyel and I am excited to announce my candidacy to represent you as your next Director of Business Affairs. I’m going into my third year studying Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. Using my knowledge, I will be playing a crucial role in empowering the student body’s financial, personnel, and executive operations to work towards bettering the community. I have experience in overseeing multifaceted operations including the management of 16 committees, an annual income of $450,000, and mending and interpreting Bylaws to maintain structure as the Vice President of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity. I am currently the Co-marketer for the Hungarian Heritage Foundation to promote cultural education and history through our annual festival for 30,000+ attendees. Using characteristics gained from these positions and holding the title of Eagle Scout from the Boy Scouts of America, I believe I can implement and enforce a strong avenue of student funds. I believe I will succeed in the administration of elemental committees and collaboration with the Executive Directors of SJSU and A.S. I will emphasize transparency between the Student body and government to ensure accountability and sustainability. Through my overpowering drive, professional organization, and time-management skills, I will empower the students first, maintain the integrity of our government, and ensure prosperity for the years to come. As your Director of Business Affairs, my focus will be on the well-being and correct allocation of money to enrich our future.
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D O MI N I C P E RE Z for A.S. Director of Business Affairs
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FLO R SA RI O for A.S. Director of Business Affairs My name is Flor Sario and I am a Junior pursuing a degree in Business Management Information Systems with a minor in Chicana and Chicano Studies. I am a first-generation college student and the first woman in my family to attend a four-year university. San Jose State University (SJSU) has been instrumental in helping me grow as an individual. SJSU has provided me with many opportunities that go beyond the classroom experience including an internship at the Chicanx/Latinx Student Success Center, a leadership role as President of Grupo Folklรณrico Luna y Sol (GFLS), and receiving a grant to conduct undergraduate research. These opportunities have added to my leadership toolbox and have given me the confidence to state that I am prepared to take a seat at the table to be better informed about the decisions made on behalf and for students. It is with this experience that I would be able to successfully execute the role of Director of Business Affairs given my advanced skills in finance, budget planning, and organizing. To conclude, there are two things that motivate and drive everything I do. The first one being my desire to pay it forward in any way I can to a community that has always supported me. Secondly, is striving to leave SJSU better than when I arrived. I hope I can count with your support in my run for A.S Director of Business Affairs. Go Spartans!
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K AT RI NA FE S T E J O for A.S. Director of Co-Curricular Affairs Hey Spartans! My name is Katrina Festejo, my pronouns are she/her/hers. I am currently a 3rd year majoring in Business, Management Information Systems along with a minor in Computer Science, and I am running to be your next AS Director of Co-Curricular Affairs. I currently serve as the President of the Residence Hall Association, represent the Greek Community as a member of Alpha Xi Delta, and have worked with several departments on campus including University Housing Services as a Resident Advisor and New Student and Family Programs as an Orientation Leader. In the position of Director of Co-Curricular Affairs, I would like to continue to build strong relationships between AS and our student body in order to ensure the success of our students and enhance Spartan Pride. Since my freshman year at San JosĂŠ State, campus events and organizations have provided me with the tools and resources to grow as a leader and live out my best college life. Through my different roles and involvement, I truly understand the meaning of Spartan Pride and I want to further share that feeling with my fellow Spartans. I strive to do so through collaboration with our numerous student organizations to create on-campus events that cater to our diverse population. With your vote, we can unite our student body and strengthen Spartan Pride!
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BRI A N N GU Y E N for A.S. Director of Co-Curricular Affairs Hey y’all! I’m Brian Nguyen: a third-year transfer student from Orange County, CA, pursuing a major in Marketing. Previously, I served as Publicity and Multimedia Chair for San Nicolas Hall Council at UC Santa Barbara, and currently I serve as a Student-at-Large on AS Programming Board. I am also a proud member of Akbayan and The Marketing Association. Going in as a transfer student, I knew I had only two years to make a real impact as a Spartan. From the time that I’ve been here, I noticed the energy on campus is very serious and fast-paced, which is great if you’re competing for a job in Silicon Valley, but not if you want to truly enjoy your college experience and build an integrated community. If you look around, the vibe is very much “AirPods on, head down, get in, get out” -- and I want to change that. SJSU needs events that encourage inclusivity and camaraderie, ones that can help transform this campus into a destination to look forward to instead of just another stop in your daily routine. And that is what I intend to deliver as your Director of Co-Curricular Affairs. I’m an ambitious and creative individual, motivated by the relationships I build through everyday interactions. With this position, I promise to lead with accountability, enthusiasm, and compassion (with a shot of humor, no chase), always keeping in mind the core values of SJSU: Diversity, Integrity, and Innovation. Thanks for reading, and Spartan Up!
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C L A RA O RT I Z - C HAV E Z for A.S. Director of Co-Curricular Affairs
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NAT HA N RO S E N E R for A.S. Director of Co-Curricular Affairs Hello, my name is Nathan Rosener. I am a second-year English Creative Writing student here at San Jose State University and I am running for the position of Director of Co-Curricular Affairs. I am running for this position because I do believe in the ideology that getting involved with the campus is the best way for college students to get the most out of their experience, while enrolled here at SJSU and joining student organizations is one of the best ways to get involved; however, I feel that some organizations aren’t as well represented on campus as others and that is something I want to change. As a fraternity member myself, I feel that we need more overall recognition from the school and to be promoted more to incoming students to show what good that ALL Greek organization can do for them. The same goes toward the clubs here on campus, in that we need to promote them and offer more resources to them. In addition to the promotion of student-lead organizations, I feel that we need to do the same with athletics. Around campus, I personally don’t hear much from athletics on their achievements. I think it is important to promote all women’s and men’s athletics around campus in order to boost the lack-luster school spirit and attendance at sporting events and around the school. If you vote for me to be the next Director of Co-Curricular Affairs, I promise to bring these improvements to the student body.
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S E A N BU RTO N for A.S. Director of Community and Outreach Hi, my name is Sean Burton and I am running for the position of Community and Outreach Director in the 2019 2020 Associated student’s election here at San Jose State. I want to be your next Community and leadership director for several reasons. First, this is a new position and I want to make sure that everybody has a voice in what they want to see as students here at San Jose State. Second, is that I want to try new things and come out of my comfort zone and have a voice for the students here at San Jose State University. Next, I am right now part of the Programming board here at San Jose State University which helps plan events for students here at San Jose State. I am also part of the finance committee as well. These two positions has taught me to try and reach some groups that do not have a voice an campus. Another reason is that I want for the students here to understand the policies and procedures that are the by-laws that are being put into the Documents that can change what the Associated students may do when fighting for students. In conclusion, I would appreciate your vote if you want somebody with experience and an organized person and someone who would fight for student’s voice and opinions this is why you should vote Sean Burton for Director of Communication and Outreach. Thank you very much, Sean Burton.
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K I RA N GU Y E N for A.S. Director of Community and Outreach Hi Spartans! My name is Kira Nguyen and I want to be your Associated Students Director of Community and Outreach for the 2019-2020 school year. I am a 3rd year studying Public Relations with an academic concentration in Communications. As a Public Relations major, I have learned how to analyze data to better improve outreach and communication, create plans of action that will bring awareness to student issues and concerns, and provide resources that give a quality experience at SJSU. I have been working with Associated Students since my freshman year as a receptionist in their Human Resources department. Since then, I have been promoted to Lead Receptionist and serve on the A.S. Social Council. Working in the Human Resources department, I have been able to work with each department and learn about what services they provide to SJSU students and gain insight on how each one works. I am also a Resident Advisor here at SJSU and work to assist first year students in their transition to college by creating programs and events that help aid in their academic, professional, and social development. If given the opportunity to serve as your Director of Community and Outreach, I want to build and foster healthy relationships with students, faculty, student organizations, and off campus resources and to be an advocate and voice that upholds the missions and values of Associated Students.
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N E E M A MO HS E N I for A.S. Director of Community and Outreach Ayo, fellow spartans! My name is Neema Mohseni and I am running for our Director of Community and Outreach. I’ve attended our university for the past three years and throughout my time as a student at San Jose State, I’ve been privileged enough to get involved in campus and develop as a person and as a leader. In my first year, I discovered a lot about myself. I realized that my major was not what I was passionate about, I found a group of friends who helped lift me up and helped me get involved, and I started to feel like I could make a difference on this campus. My first step to student involvement was becoming a founding father of Pi Kappa Phi, an on campus fraternity. I served as our first historian and later on as our chartering president. Since then, I have served in our student government’s Lobby Corps, as the Chairman of the Interfraternity Council, and as a resident advisor in the freshman housing building, Joe West. I believe that these experiences have given me a diverse understanding of how to positively impact our campus. As Director of Community and Outreach, I would make it a priority to increase the awareness of resources available to us and to advocate on the behalf of our students. Thank you, and I hope that I can count on your vote! Feel free to reach out to me at neema.mohseni@sjsu.edu for any questions regarding my campaign.
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N O O R TA HI RK HE L I for A.S. Director of Community and Outreach My name is Noor Tahirkheli and I am currently a third year Psychology major. I am a transfer student from Sacramento, California, experiencing my first year at SJSU. As a transfer student, one of my main priorities for our community is student inclusion and campus support. I believe it is crucial for students to feel welcomed by their community and be presented with resources to enhance their on campus experience. I have gained my experience through ASB and serving as a Student-AtLarge for Associated Students Programming Board by helping create events that give students a chance to explore their campus. I am passionate about creating an environment that provides comfort and encourages students to not only be students, but a member of the SJSU community.
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C RI S TO P HE R AC O S TA for A.S. Director of Intercultural Affairs
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MI RA MU STA FA for A.S. Director of Intercultural Affairs Hello, Spartan Community! My name is Mira Mustafa, I am a third year Psychology major, and I am very excited to be running for the position of Director of Intercultural Affairs. A unique and beautiful aspect of San Jose State is its diversity. We have students and faculty who have different backgrounds, interests, and beliefs, making this school extraordinary. My aim is to protect this diversity and ensure that every student feels safe and has access to the services they need in order to thrive as students and community members. In my time here at SJSU, I have been a member of Students for Justice in Palestine, Muslim Student Association, a writer for Odyssey Online, and a member of the Poets and Writers Coalition. Each of these groups have given me the privilege of getting to know a diverse array of students who continuously introduce me to issues that need to be addressed by the campus community. If I am elected to be your next Director of Intercultural Affairs, I will work to make all students feel safer on campus, decrease wait times for mental health services and make them more available to the students who need them, and I will do my best to not only make students feel welcome on campus but make them feel eager to participate and become a part of the community. With this in mind, I hope you will choose to elect me as your next Director of Intercultural Affairs
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K E N YA GA L LO for A.S. Director of Internal Affairs Hello Spartans! I am pleased to be running as your Director of Internal Affairs. As a second year heading into my third year, I have gained a lot of experience and have the experience to see the issues that are occuring throughout campus. Coming from a small agricultural town in Northern California to San Jose, which is one of the largest city in the U.S, has exposed me to more organizations that were made with the purpose of helping others, especially students. One of those organizations is Associated Students. A.S. provides hundreds of students with jobs around campus and I would love to have a leadership position within the organization while doing what I love, which is policy review and working with governing documents I am currently a second year Political Science major with the hopes of attending Law School after obtaining my Bachelor’s degree from SJSU! I want to run for the position of director of internal affairs because working with governing documents is something I am passionate about and it is also part of the career I want to take on after graduating SJSU. Working within Associated Students is a great experience because the organization is made by and for students in all CSU’s but most importantly, SJSU. Go Spartans!
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ZO BE I DA D E LGA D I L LO for A.S. Director of Legislative Affairs My name is Zobeida Delgadillo. I’m a second year political science major with a minor in Mexican and American studies and I will be running for Associated Student’s Director of Legislative Affairs. I am campaigning for this position because, through Director of Legislative Affairs I hope to share my experience with others by fostering student participation, expanding representation on campus through visibility and awareness of student issues. I aspire to partner with several on-campus organizations, programs, and resource centers to organize events and promote issues concerning students. As a receptionist for Associated Students, I have grown a tremendous understanding for A.S. and the many departments available. A.S. is an organization that has become a big component of who I am and enhanced my college experience. In addition to working as a student assistant for A.S. Human Resources for over a year, I currently serve as a student at large on Lobby Corps, I am a part of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, I am training to be a New Student Orientation Leader with New Student and Family Programs for the summer of 2019, I volunteer with several Spartan Squad events, and I served on the 2018 Homecoming Committee. My experiences with different organizations on campus has inspired me to pursue leadership positions that promote advocacy, inclusion, and diversity. All of which are vital components to enact change and to enable equal opportunities for SJSU Spartans to feel and be represented on this campus.
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GRAC E PA N G for A.S. Director of Legislative Affairs What’s good Spartans! This election, I am grateful to seek a second term as Director of Legislative Affairs! As students, we should never stop demanding a higher expectation for our academic experience at this institution. As the current sitting director, I have made it my duty to empower students as stakeholders within SJSU and to also hold our university accountable. This year, I’ve used my position to impact our campus through different avenues of advocacy. We launched the #SJSUvotes campaign where we placed in top 4 of the 23 CSU’s to get the most students registered to vote. I was also able to author three systemwide legislations to reject campus president raises, increase opportunities for our undocumented students and urge trauma informed support for sexual assault survivors. Serving as an Academic Senator, I helped to rewrite admissions policy and bring in student input when campus decisions are being made. Moving forward if elected, I’d like to strengthen the existing relationships I’ve built between SJSU and our legislators. I plan on lobbying for financial aid to reflect the total cost of attendance and continue to be firm in our opposition to tuition hikes given the increasing burdens that student bear with the high cost of living. Thank you for allowing me to serve one term, and hopefully with your vote, we can continue this advocacy to new heights. To follow my campaign or get in touch with me please email me at grace. pang@sjsu.edu or follow my instagram @gpangforlegislative
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BRE N DA N Q U O C K for A.S. Director of Legistrative Affairs Hello San Jose State University! My name is Brendan Quock and I am a second year Business Marketing and Justice Studies major. I am currently a member of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity and manage a property of over 3 million dollars while being the current House Manager. As you can see that both of my majors being Business and Justice Studies, one of the many things I want to do in life is to become a corporate lawyer. Because of my aspirations of becoming a corporate lawyer, I believe it is in my best interest to work with Associated Students as Director of Legislative Affairs. One of the many reasons why I decided to run for Director of Legislative Affairs is because working with state-wide government is something that interests me, and I have had three years’ worth of experience in. Being an Eagle Scout, I have developed my skills as a leader as well as organizational capability, which makes me suitable for this position. If I were to become your Director of Legislative Affairs, I would ensure that any legislation or act concerning our educational institution would not only improve but excel student curriculars. With the ability to attend state-wide events concerning our education, I am open to hearing your opinions and thoughts on what we should change about this school for the better. With the voice of the students, I can make a difference about the way we excel here at San Jose State University.
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K A D E N C E WA L K E R for A.S. Director of Legislative Affairs Since I have attended SJSU I have wanted to be a part of A.S. I feel as though this director position is an opportunity for me to give back to the school. I have experience with student government, public projects, and working alongside public officials. I worked in Sacramento City Hall where I learned firsthand the type of hard work and dedication that is required to get city projects and legislation approved. I will use this knowledge to advocate for the betterment of students and faculty when it comes to topics such as housing, mental health, scholarships, and representation on campus. These are only a few of the issues I plan to address while in office. It is for these reasons that I ask for your vote.
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T Y RE K E K I N G for A.S. Director of Student Resource Affairs Hello Fellow Spartans! My name is Tyreke King and I am running for Director of Student Resource Affairs. I’m currently a 3rd year majoring in Sociology with a concentration in Race and Ethnic Studies, minoring in Women, Gender, Sexuality Studies and Spanish. Growing up my heroes were Barack Obama, Harriet Tubman, and Malcolm X. All these individuals went for what they wanted regardless of the cards that they were dealt, and made an impact on the lives of millions of people. I have been in situations where I struggled financially to support myself and give my all to my studies. This propelled me to want to advocate and fight for struggling students in similar situations. I am running for A.S. Director of Student Resource Affairs because I want to create a campus environment that caters to, and is inclusive to every student. I am passionate about education and social justice. I want to make sure every student has the opportunity to have access to a quality education. Currently I am Co-Executive chair of an organization called Students For Quality Education. SQE is an organization in collation with the California Faculty Association, the CSU systems labor union. In SQE, we fight and advocate for the rollback of CSU tuition, campus safety, hiring more 10 year professors, and improving the quality of education for every student in the CSU system. My main priority as your Director would be to address and find a solution for student and faculty houselessness #VoteKing.
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JENNIE SAENZ for A.S. Director of Student Resource Affairs Hi Spartans, my name is Jennie Saenz. I want to become your upcoming A.S. Director of Student Resource Affairs for 2019-2020 school year. My goal is to help every one of you get the resources you need. Resources such as access to free food, healthcare, tutoring, going to the gender equality center, the writing center, you name it. I will not only make access to resources easier, but I will make your campus life more enjoyable and I want to make your voice heard. I’m too am a Spartan and I know what Spartans need. To know a little about me is I am a third-year majoring in Public Health and minoring in Biology. I am an OA at CVB, I am a member of three organizations, which are She’s the First, Pre-PA Club, and Health Science Honor Society. Being involved on campus let me develop various leadership skills that will let me be the perfect fit for this position. I know I can be the best A.S. Director of Student Resources Affairs. I am here to make it a change. Spartan Up and VOTE FOR ME!
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J E A N N E T RA N G for A.S. Director of Student Resource Affairs Hello Spartans! My name is Jeanne Trang (pronouns: she/her/hers) and I am currently a second year here at San Jose State majoring in Social Science in Prep for Teaching! Something that I am really passionate about is finding ways to better support the student body as a whole but specifically through resources. I think that it is a crucial part of any student’s college career because it can truly influence and impact not just your career academically but also promote one’s health and wellness. Have you ever struggled to navigate SJSU? Have you ever wondered or struggled to find a resource you’re looking for? As a first-year student myself last year I struggled to find the resources that I need around campus. Not because it didn’t exist but because I didn’t know where to go or who I should refer to. Which is why when I became an Orientation Leader, I really wanted to emphasize and enhance that area of support for my students. I believe that, if they are able to gain support through the different resources and departments they are then able to accomplish more milestones at ease. Which is why I hope to continue using my platform as a student leader within AS to extend that awareness and increase the accessibility for the student body. Make a JEAN-ius choice and vote for me as your next Director of Student Resource Affairs from April 15th until 18th!
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J O SE RO QU E for A.S. Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities Hello Spartans! my name is Jose Roque. I am a fourth year Aerospace Engineering major. I hope to one day inspire other individuals who identify as minorities to gain interest in the STEM related fields. I was born in Guadalajara, Mexico and was raised in Inglewood, California. Being an undocumented student relates to my strong work ethic and a genuine desire to pursue and succeed in higher education. I view higher education as a privilege that not many are fortunate to receive. Therefore, I believe in the importance of enhancing student’s experience, so that our education can be of top quality. As a potential director of Student’s Rights and Responsibilities, I can ensure that as students we are well aware of our rights so that we are able to navigate our university effectively. Navigating a four year institution can impose several challenges, but through Associated Students I can act as a student advocate to improve our experiences as students. I believe that as students we must exercise our rights, so that we can put our education in our own hands. As a fellow student who wants to make a impact on our campus I encourage you to vote in the 2019-2020 elections, so that you can make your voice heard.
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DA N I E L L A C A RRE RA for A.S. Director of Sustainability Hi Spartans! My name is Daniella Carrera, and I am officially running for your Director of Sustainability. I am a first year Liberal Studies major with a passion for conservation. I was born and raised in the Central Valley and have been surrounded by agriculture and nature my entire life. Because I was raised surrounded by nature, I grew up with a deep love and appreciation for the natural world, and I try my best to protect it and spread awareness. My experience in my sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi, and my position on the executive board of the National Resident Hall Honorary society has taught me to speak up and make the recommendations necessary to benefit students. As a freshman, I continuously learn new ways to advocate for students at all levels of the university. If elected, I would want to improve upon the past Director of Community and Sustainability’s plans to eliminate plastic straws on our campus by advocating to eliminate all single-use items for more reusable goods. I would also advocate for better recycling methods and to implement water bottle fill stations in the library to promote more reusable bottle usage. I want to share my love for the environment and sustainability efforts with all my fellow students and create better ways to promote a greener campus climate. Together, let’s build a more responsible, sustainable, and eco-friendly, campus!
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J O C E LY N J O N E S - T RA MME LL for A.S. Director of Sustainability I am a fourth-year student here at San José State University progressing towards a Bachelor of Fine Arts: Interior Design, with a concentration in Architectural Studies. I believe in the importance of encouraging students to acknowledge their environmental responsibility by incorporating sustainable practices on campus, and outside of the bounds of Washington Square. I am aware that the prospect of practicing sustainability is inaccessible to most of my peers due to an array of socioeconomic factors – I aim to act as liaison between my peers and Associated Students, advocating for opportunity to broaden and diversify campus conversations pertaining to sustainability and other related topics. Encouraging San José State University’s underrepresented communities to explore practical ways to reduce their ecological footprint is an essential part of nurturing a sustainable campus environment. I look forward to serving as Director of Sustainability Affairs so that I can help make sustainability accessible for all San José State students and create a lasting impact on this campus community.
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N OT E S
as.sjsu.edu/vote
One Washington Square, San JosĂŠ, CA 95192-0128 / as.sjsu
as_sjsu
ASsjsu
This event is wheelchair accessible. Individuals requiring sign language interpreters, real-time captioners or other accommodations should contact Christy Riggins, A.S. Government Administrative Assistant, at: christy.riggins@sjsu.edu or (408) 924-6240