2024 ASUU Legislative Assembly Candidates
The Legislative Branch in ASUU is made up of two bodies - the Assembly and the Senate. Students can run in the annual ASUU elections to represent their college in either the Assembly or Senate. Below, you will find all candidates running to represent their colleges in the Assembly.
Candidates for Legislative Assembly
Garrett Oremus
Architecture + PlanningGarrett Oremus
Architecture + PlanningRegan Belko
BusinessRegan Belko
BusinessKushal Golechha
BusinessKushal Golechha
BusinessHarleen Kaur Saini
BusinessHarleen Kaur Saini
BusinessYerke Nokenova
BusinessYerke Nokenova
BusinessWill Rahaniotis
BusinessWill Rahaniotis
BusinessApril Guardado
EducationApril Guardado
EducationErik Bond
EngineeringErik Bond
EngineeringHello, my name is Erik Bond. I have a year of experience as one of the ASUU Engineering Assembly Representatives for the 2023-2024 academic year. I’m also a member of the local student chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers and I’m on the travel team for the University of Utah’s Model United Nations Team. In my one year as an Assembly Representative, I’ve secured thousands of dollars in funding for student groups like:•The Society for Hispanic Professional Engineers •The Biomimicry Society at the University of Utah •The Melomaniacs: Lovers of Music at the UofU•The Japanese Cultural Association These groups have both been able to serve as clubs where students can relax and build their resumes. On top of that, I’ve written and championed legislation that:•Completely overhauls how the ASUU interacts with the general student body by fabricating and implementing twenty-seven ASUU Suggestion Boxes across the campus to gather more student feedback and help students know who their representatives are; •Encourages the University to divert more funds to the University Counseling Center since they are incredibly underfunded in the face of high demands for their services; •Voiced support for consistent recycling signage across campus to reduce recycling contamination campus-wide. Should I get re-elected, I plan on advocating for:•ranked choice voting to be implemented into the ASUU election process to protect the democratic integrity of the ASUU elections•recycling initiatives on campus•mental health initiatives on campusCheck my campaign Instagram for more information: @ebondasuu
Graeson Coughenour
Undergraduate StudiesGraeson Coughenour
Undergraduate StudiesMy name is Graeson Coughenour. I am a junior biomedical engineering student here at the University of
Utah. Currently, I am part of a multitude of clubs and groups here on campus. Some of these include the
Crimson Transfer Honor Society and the Men's Water Polo Club, for which I am the Vice President. I am
very passionate about water polo and, as such, there is usually a good chance that you can find me at
the pool in the Student Life Center. Being a BME major, I am running to represent the college of
engineering in the legislative assembly. The reason I am running for a chair in the legislative assembly is
primarily to enact change on how funds are currently allocated to student organizations. Having been on
the side representing student organizations, I can personally say that the system is clunky and can be
aggravating. I hope to help streamline this process and find changes that can benefit students and their
organizations. The reason I personally want to run for ASUU, though, is because I love this college and
have had an amazing time interacting with everyone on campus since I transferred here from UCSD.
Now I want to do my part to foster, advance, and better this community that welcomed me and gave me
a home. I want to help our school be the best it can be, so that everyone enjoys their time here.
Lois Faith Alba
EngineeringLois Faith Alba
EngineeringKelsey Hart
EngineeringKelsey Hart
EngineeringDillan Burnett
Fine ArtsDillan Burnett
Fine ArtsGrace Birnie
HumanitiesGrace Birnie
HumanitiesSunny Singh
HumanitiesSunny Singh
HumanitiesHi! My name is Sanjot Singh – you may call me Sunny – and I am running for an Assembly
Representative position for the College of Humanities.
There is one thing that differentiates us Humanities students from all others: we actually care
about our academic program of study. However, the recent directives adopted by the
University Board of Trustees make our faculty devote almost all their time to research. This
comes at the expense of teaching quality, thus leading to many instances of substandard
student experiences in the classroom. University Policy 6-303 governs the criteria for
offering faculty Retention, Promotion, and Tenure (RPT) opportunities. I plan upon changing
this policy to give teaching quality and student reviews their due weight when the University
considers furthering a faculty member’s career. Passing a joint resolution from the ASUU
Assembly chambers is one of the ways I plan upon making this change happen.
In addition to this, I am also pursuing policies to –
1. reform the ASUU travel fund, thus supporting graduate students wishing to present
their research at nationwide conferences;
2. reform the ASUU Redbook, thus bringing the student body constitution in harmony
with student sentiment;
3. provide undergraduate students more opportunities for professional development.
As the current Associate Director of Finance, I have succeeded in completely rewriting the
General Funding Guidelines and passing legislation that corrected the Redbook. Serving as
an ex-officio for all ASUU Assembly meetings in the current academic year thus far has
made me intimately familiar with the exact powers and limitations of a student representative.
Should you find my proposals attractive, please consider voting for me! I am happy to answer
all questions regarding my policies – shoot an email to u1414545@utah.edu should you have
any.
Thank you for your consideration!
Emily Pellegrino
LawEmily Pellegrino
LawNaomi Brown
NursingNaomi Brown
NursingIsabella Gloeckner
ScienceIsabella Gloeckner
ScienceZander Lott
ScienceZander Lott
ScienceHello! My name is Zander and I’m a 4th-year physics student running to represent the College
of Science in the Legislative Assembly. I’m running because I want to make the Assembly
funding process easier on student groups in the College of Science so an intimidating
application process doesn’t stand in the way of students’ ambitions. To do this, I’ll create videos
and infographics that make the process easier to understand, rework the website to make new
and existing resources easier to find, and guide College of Science organizations through the
funding process and advocate for their bills in the Assembly. I believe these measures will help
our student groups achieve their goals and improve the student experience within the College of
Science. I hope you agree!
Quinne Shultz
ScienceQuinne Shultz
ScienceHello! My name is Quinne Shultz, and I am in my first year at the U studying Biology. Part of why
I came to the U is the opportunities to actively engage with a diverse community, and gain
meaningful connections and involvement. Having previous experiences in student government, I
have seen that it is one of the most effective ways to connect with peers and it allows students
to influence positive changes. This is why I am running for the position of representing the
College of Science in the Assembly Body with ASUU. With this position my goal is to do more
than just general representation; I hope to facilitate connections with my fellow students, help
expand an inclusive and positive environment, and contribute to positive changes in the
academic community. I look forward to getting to know more people and being involved in the
election process!
Lydia Altamiranda
Social & Behavioral ScienceLydia Altamiranda
Social & Behavioral ScienceNsilo Challenger
Social & Behavioral ScienceNsilo Challenger
Social & Behavioral ScienceAlta Fairbourne
Social & Behavioral ScienceAlta Fairbourne
Social & Behavioral ScienceCristina Jimenez
Social & Behavioral ScienceCristina Jimenez
Social & Behavioral ScienceAlex Lewis
Social & Behavioral ScienceAlex Lewis
Social & Behavioral ScienceMason McCann
Social & Behavioral ScienceMason McCann
Social & Behavioral ScienceTalia Spina
Social & Behavioral ScienceTalia Spina
Social & Behavioral ScienceForrest Coughenour
Undergraduate StudiesForrest Coughenour
Undergraduate StudiesHello everyone, I am Forrest Coughenour. I am originally from Park City and am currently a Junior at the
University of Utah, running for a seat on the ASUU Assembly. I intend to pursue a degree in International
Studies with a minor in Psychology, however, I am currently undeclared and will be running for that
position on the Assembly. I am running for this position because of my interest in improving how the
university supports its student programs. My goal for the position is to have a logical and streamlined
process for ASUU to support student organizations at the University of Utah. In support of this goal, I
want to have a voice when it comes to policy shaping within ASUU and important decisions that are
brought before the Assembly. I want to serve the students on campus to ensure student organizations
are provided the best support, in order to facilitate their success.
Ethan Baker
BusinessEthan Baker
BusinessNick DuBravac
BusinessNick DuBravac
BusinessI’m Nick DuBravac, and I am in my junior year studying Finance. I am running for ASUU
Assembly for the David Eccles School of Business. My primary goal for this position is to amplify
the voices of my peers and contribute to making our campus an environment where everyone
feels they are treated with equality. I believe in strengthening the channels between students,
ASUU, and the University; showing transparency when it comes to decisions that affect
students; and providing academic and mental health resources to students. I believe that ASUU
has the potential to foster positive change on our campus, and with the support of the University
of Utah student community we can create a more equitable, vibrant, and fulfilling academic
experience for all.
Pranavi Gundu
BusinessPranavi Gundu
BusinessSam Larsen
BusinessSam Larsen
BusinessI am Sam Larsen, a junior studying Finance, and I am excited to be running for the position
of Assembly Representative at the David Eccles School of Business.
I am running for ASUU with a dedicated commitment to enhancing the overall student
experience within the David Eccles School of Business. My objective is to ensure that each
student feels supported, engaged, and equipped with the necessary resources for
success.
In this role, my aim is to foster a more vibrant and connected student community. I will
advocate for initiatives that contribute to a positive learning environment, such as
improved campus facilities, increased access to academic resources, and the
implementation of student-driven events that promote collaboration and networking.
I am committed to amplifying the student voice by actively seeking feedback and
translating those insights into tangible improvements. By prioritizing the student
experience, I want to contribute to a more fulfilling and rewarding academic journey for all
of us.
If elected, I will dedicate myself to listening to your concerns, collaborating with fellow
students, and implementing practical solutions that elevate our college experience.
Together, let's make our time at the David Eccles School of Business memorable,
impactful, and enriching.
Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve you as your
Assembly Representative.
Spencer Poll
BusinessSpencer Poll
BusinessHello, I'm Spencer Poll, a sophomore at the David Eccles School of Business, running to be your
Assembly Representative. I am originally from Minnesota, I currently work as a seminary
teacher, and in my free time, I love reading (particularly sci-fi) and weightlifting.
I'm driven to enhance our business school experience, making it more student-oriented and
accessible. Drawing on my leadership experience as the president of my high school's National
Honors Society, I aim to empower every student by amplifying their voice and ensuring our
collective success during and beyond our college years.
My primary goal is to make our school's resources more visible and accessible, facilitating
academic excellence and career readiness. I believe in the power of collaboration and am
committed to working closely with each of you to address your needs and ideas.
I invite you to connect with me, share your thoughts, and help shape a business school that truly
reflects our aspirations. Together, we can foster an inclusive and dynamic environment. Vote for
Spencer Poll, and let's work towards a brighter future for all.
Josie Renick
BusinessJosie Renick
BusinessKendall Block
DentistryKendall Block
DentistryMarcos Chavez-Miranda
EngineeringMarcos Chavez-Miranda
EngineeringChristina Dong
EngineeringChristina Dong
EngineeringHello!I am Christina Dong, and I am running to be one of your College of Engineering Assembly Representatives. I firmly believe in the value of representation in creating a worthwhile campus experience. As it stands currently, the College of Engineering is one of the largest colleges at the U, but we often are overlooked as a result of being less outspoken. I want to be your student voice and communicate our desires to the administration and the rest of the student body. I have been a part of the Associated Students of the University of Utah since my freshman year, firstly as a part of the First-Year Council, and as the Chair of the Assembly this past year. My experience has been full of challenges, but I am proud of supporting and raising awareness for EDI organizations in my freshman year. In addition, as the Assembly Chair, I have had the privilege of leading our Assembly representatives to provide funding for over 120 unique student organizations along with launching student initiatives regarding mental health, connecting with campus, and sustainability. These experiences have honed my leadership and teamwork skills throughout the course of encouraging productive discourse. Additionally, I have learned a great deal about the unique potential of our campus, having gleaned insight into some amazing efforts that should be continued together with areas that need improvement. In particular, I would like to raise awareness of the resources that ASUU provides student organizations in the CoE, knowing of the struggles many of these organizations face with funding. I also intend to work with the new Dean of the College of Engineering to restore our College Student Council and work with our clubs to bring more professional development opportunities to students. Moreover, I want to focus on making our campus more inclusive and increasing accessibility to resources that can help students succeed regardless of race, financial status, or otherwise. As a result of my experience, I believe that I am well-qualified to act as your student representative in the Assembly. I am committed to hearing your voices and enacting change that enhances our college, and I ask for your support in helping me make this a reality. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to having the chance to serve you in making our community a better place. Thank you for all your hard work, Christina Dong Instagram @christinadasuu
Nathaniel Fairchild
EngineeringNathaniel Fairchild
EngineeringTyson Low
EngineeringTyson Low
EngineeringNoah Reese
Fine ArtsNoah Reese
Fine ArtsLucy Christensen
HumanitiesLucy Christensen
HumanitiesU to the next level.
Your goals for the position: (i.e., what you want to accomplish and how you wish to serve
students on campus as a leader within the ASUU government)
As your Humanities Assembly Representative, I, Lucy, am committed to building ASUU up step
by step to help you reach the next level. As your Humanities Assembly Representative, I, Lucy,
am dedicated to uniting ASUU as one organization. This begins with sharing resources and
opportunities developed this upcoming year through social media and other platforms. I aspire to
unite by reaching out to students, ensuring their voices are heard, and advocating for those I
represent. Remember, I, Lucy, will persistently work towards creating a connected and
empowered ASUU community!
Caleb Torres
HumanitiesCaleb Torres
HumanitiesKiersten Vandervelde
LawKiersten Vandervelde
LawNaomi Cernyar
NursingNaomi Cernyar
NursingAvery Hartey
ScienceAvery Hartey
ScienceMerrin Maughan
ScienceMerrin Maughan
ScienceHi everyone! My name is Merrin, and I am a second-year student in the Honors College studying
Biology and History. I’m a pre-medical student hoping someday to work in neuro-oncology, and
I work on campus as a Mental Health Peer Educator, Teaching Assistant, and College of Science
Ambassador! I currently serve as one of your College of Science Assembly Representatives and
the Assembly Parliamentarian, working to secure funding for Registered Student Organizations
whose focus is on academics and research, like those in the Medical School, School of Law, and
the Business School. As the Parliamentarian, I help maintain Robert’s Rules during our meetings
and provide insight into parliamentary procedure.
Beyond RSO funding, I collaborate with other representatives and members of ASUU to write
legislation advocating for positive change on campus. For example, this year, I co-sponsored a
bill to increase funding for mental health services like the University Counseling Center and
Women’s Resource Center. Now, I’m writing legislation to add an Honors College Assembly
Representative and an Honors College Senator, increasing our student representation in ASUU.
After two years of involvement in ASUU, I have grown to appreciate its vital role for students on
campus. If elected, my priorities for a second year in the Assembly include continuing to
advocate for expanding mental health services and improving the internal structure and
organization of ASUU.
Kennedie Wilding
ScienceKennedie Wilding
ScienceFeu Amisone
Social & Behavioral ScienceFeu Amisone
Social & Behavioral ScienceKenny Bustamante
Social & Behavioral ScienceKenny Bustamante
Social & Behavioral ScienceKailah Figueroa
Social & Behavioral ScienceKailah Figueroa
Social & Behavioral ScienceKaidence Johnson
Social & Behavioral ScienceKaidence Johnson
Social & Behavioral ScienceAnna Locke
Social & Behavioral ScienceAnna Locke
Social & Behavioral ScienceKetura Murthy
Social & Behavioral ScienceKetura Murthy
Social & Behavioral ScienceAnna Olascoaga
Social & Behavioral ScienceAnna Olascoaga
Social & Behavioral ScienceRyan Johnson
Undergraduate StudiesRyan Johnson
Undergraduate StudiesNicolaus Bayard
BusinessNicolaus Bayard
BusinessOlolade Princess Folashade
BusinessOlolade Princess Folashade
BusinessJack Harrison
BusinessJack Harrison
BusinessSkyler Nguyen
BusinessSkyler Nguyen
BusinessKati Potter
BusinessKati Potter
BusinessOwen Slye
BusinessOwen Slye
BusinessMatthew Nielsen
DentistryMatthew Nielsen
DentistryMary Cernyar
EngineeringMary Cernyar
EngineeringTyler DeBruin
EngineeringTyler DeBruin
EngineeringMegan Genetti
EngineeringMegan Genetti
EngineeringEmiliano Plaza
EngineeringEmiliano Plaza
EngineeringPete Benda
HealthPete Benda
HealthRichard Alvernaz
HumanitiesRichard Alvernaz
HumanitiesTucker Dundas
HumanitiesTucker Dundas
HumanitiesTayzlie Haack
LawTayzlie Haack
LawAdam Gaudin
MedicineAdam Gaudin
MedicineKennon Buss
PharmacyKennon Buss
PharmacyHaydon Johnson
ScienceHaydon Johnson
ScienceNice.
“Hold up there! You’ve scrolled too far traveler, stay here and rest a while.”
“…….”
“Not a talker I see, no worries. Name’s Haydon, by the way. Haydon Johnson. Wanna
hear about my campaign?”
“……….”
“Great!”
“Basically, i’m running for the College of Science assembly representative, to be part of
the group of people who approve funding for all the registered studnet organizations(clubs) on
campus, and review university legislation. Did you know that each club is allocated ~$425 per
year, but the maximum for each club is $4000? The reason for this is due to the complicated
application process, many simply never request funding, and the unspent money gets allocated
to other clubs!”
“If elected, I want to help make the budget application process as clear as possible for
the numerous RSOs within the College of Science, in order to maximize their chances of being
approved for funding, and help them grow their numbers.”
“I’ve never regretted getting more involved on campus. I am certain there are other
people out there who feel the same way, and I want to help them out by helping their clubs.
“………………..nice.”
Alice Parker
ScienceAlice Parker
ScienceMy name is Alice Parker, and I am a third-year student studying chemistry and applied
mathematics. I am involved in undergraduate research in the chemistry department and am part
of the Association for Women in Mathematics chapter at the U. I am running for a seat in the
legislative assembly to represent the College of Science. I am running for ASUU as I have seen
firsthand the positive impact that ASUU funding can have for student groups and want to ensure
that funds are efficiently allocated to best serve the campus community. I also want to guarantee
that students in the College of Science have someone representing them that deeply cares about
and values their input. I hope that within my position, I can support the wonderful missions of
the student groups on campus and help make campus the most welcoming place possible.