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Legislative Assembly Candidates


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 + Planning

Garrett Oremus

Architecture + Planning

Regan Belko

Business

Regan Belko

Business

Kushal Golechha

Business

Kushal Golechha

Business

Harleen Kaur Saini

Business

Harleen Kaur Saini

Business

Yerke Nokenova

Business

Yerke Nokenova

Business

Will Rahaniotis

Business

Will Rahaniotis

Business

April Guardado

Education

April Guardado

Education

Erik Bond

Engineering

Erik Bond

Engineering
Hello, 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 Studies

Graeson Coughenour

Undergraduate Studies
My 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

Engineering

Lois Faith Alba

Engineering

Kelsey Hart

Engineering

Kelsey Hart

Engineering

Dillan Burnett

Fine Arts

Dillan Burnett

Fine Arts

Grace Birnie

Humanities

Grace Birnie

Humanities

Sunny Singh

Humanities

Sunny Singh

Humanities
Hi! 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

Law

Emily Pellegrino

Law

Naomi Brown

Nursing

Naomi Brown

Nursing

Isabella Gloeckner

Science

Isabella Gloeckner

Science

Zander Lott

Science

Zander Lott

Science
Hello! 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

Science

Quinne Shultz

Science
Hello! 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 Science

Lydia Altamiranda

Social & Behavioral Science

Nsilo Challenger

Social & Behavioral Science

Nsilo Challenger

Social & Behavioral Science

Alta Fairbourne

Social & Behavioral Science

Alta Fairbourne

Social & Behavioral Science

Cristina Jimenez

Social & Behavioral Science

Cristina Jimenez

Social & Behavioral Science

Alex Lewis

Social & Behavioral Science

Alex Lewis

Social & Behavioral Science

Mason McCann

Social & Behavioral Science

Mason McCann

Social & Behavioral Science

Talia Spina

Social & Behavioral Science

Talia Spina

Social & Behavioral Science

Forrest Coughenour

Undergraduate Studies

Forrest Coughenour

Undergraduate Studies
Hello 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

Business

Ethan Baker

Business

Nick DuBravac

Business

Nick DuBravac

Business
I’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

Business

Pranavi Gundu

Business

Sam Larsen

Business

Sam Larsen

Business
I 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

Business

Spencer Poll

Business
Hello, 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

Business

Josie Renick

Business

Kendall Block

Dentistry

Kendall Block

Dentistry

Marcos Chavez-Miranda

Engineering

Marcos Chavez-Miranda

Engineering

Christina Dong

Engineering

Christina Dong

Engineering
Hello!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

Engineering

Nathaniel Fairchild

Engineering

Tyson Low

Engineering

Tyson Low

Engineering

Noah Reese

Fine Arts

Noah Reese

Fine Arts

Lucy Christensen

Humanities

Lucy Christensen

Humanities
U 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

Humanities

Caleb Torres

Humanities

Kiersten Vandervelde

Law

Kiersten Vandervelde

Law

Naomi Cernyar

Nursing

Naomi Cernyar

Nursing

Avery Hartey

Science

Avery Hartey

Science

Merrin Maughan

Science

Merrin Maughan

Science
Hi 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

Science

Kennedie Wilding

Science

Feu Amisone

Social & Behavioral Science

Feu Amisone

Social & Behavioral Science

Kenny Bustamante

Social & Behavioral Science

Kenny Bustamante

Social & Behavioral Science

Kailah Figueroa

Social & Behavioral Science

Kailah Figueroa

Social & Behavioral Science

Kaidence Johnson

Social & Behavioral Science

Kaidence Johnson

Social & Behavioral Science

Anna Locke

Social & Behavioral Science

Anna Locke

Social & Behavioral Science

Ketura Murthy

Social & Behavioral Science

Ketura Murthy

Social & Behavioral Science

Anna Olascoaga

Social & Behavioral Science

Anna Olascoaga

Social & Behavioral Science

Ryan Johnson

Undergraduate Studies

Ryan Johnson

Undergraduate Studies

Nicolaus Bayard

Business

Nicolaus Bayard

Business

Ololade Princess Folashade

Business

Ololade Princess Folashade

Business

Jack Harrison

Business

Jack Harrison

Business

Skyler Nguyen

Business

Skyler Nguyen

Business

Kati Potter

Business

Kati Potter

Business

Owen Slye

Business

Owen Slye

Business

Matthew Nielsen

Dentistry

Matthew Nielsen

Dentistry

Mary Cernyar

Engineering

Mary Cernyar

Engineering

Tyler DeBruin

Engineering

Tyler DeBruin

Engineering

Megan Genetti

Engineering

Megan Genetti

Engineering

Emiliano Plaza

Engineering

Emiliano Plaza

Engineering

Pete Benda

Health

Pete Benda

Health

Richard Alvernaz

Humanities

Richard Alvernaz

Humanities

Tucker Dundas

Humanities

Tucker Dundas

Humanities

Tayzlie Haack

Law

Tayzlie Haack

Law

Adam Gaudin

Medicine

Adam Gaudin

Medicine

Kennon Buss

Pharmacy

Kennon Buss

Pharmacy

Haydon Johnson

Science

Haydon Johnson

Science
Nice. “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

Science

Alice Parker

Science
My 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.

Rome Aguilar

Social & Behavioral Science

Rome Aguilar

Social & Behavioral Science

Jack Dutton

Social & Behavioral Science

Jack Dutton

Social & Behavioral Science

Ethan Hepworth

Social & Behavioral Science

Ethan Hepworth

Social & Behavioral Science

London C Kelley

Social & Behavioral Science

London C Kelley

Social & Behavioral Science

Maverick Lucas

Social & Behavioral Science

Maverick Lucas

Social & Behavioral Science

Eliasib Paredes

Social & Behavioral Science

Eliasib Paredes

Social & Behavioral Science

Siddhant Chaturvedi

Undergraduate Studies

Siddhant Chaturvedi

Undergraduate Studies

Aiden Magness

Undergraduate Studies

Aiden Magness

Undergraduate Studies

Make sure to check out all the candidates running before you vote!