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Voter's Guide

Associated Students (AS) is the primary advocate for students at California State University, Northridge. AS provides excellent, meaningful programs and services designed to enhance and create a spirited learning-focused campus environment.

AS is also the official seat of student governance for the campus. The Student Government division represents the student body, advocates its needs and defends its interests in dealings with faculty, campus administrators and government officials.

View AS President/VP Candidates

View AS Senate Candidates

The University Student Union (USU) Board of Directors is a student-led, action-oriented team dedicated to making a difference for every Matador. They make many important decisions to improve campus life for all CSUN students.

Over the last few years, the Board has been responsible for significant new additions to the USU at CSUN including the Student Recreation Center, Veterans Resource Center, Pride Center and the Oasis Wellness Center. Each semester, they bring you popular USU events like Matafest, Matador Nights, CARNAVAL, Crunch Time and about a hundred more.

View USU Candidates


Presidential & Vice Presidential Candidates

KwonHyuk Lee

President

Mighty Matadors

Hi Matadors! My name is KwonHyuk “Raphael” Lee (he/him). I am a graduate student studying Higher Education Leadership and currently serve as your AS Graduate Senator. As a first-generation DREAMer student, I earned my Bachelor's in Recreation and Tourism Management from CSUN in 2021. Throughout my Matador Moments at CSUN, I served as Resident Advisor in Student Housing, Assistant Producer for AS Productions, Orientation Leader and TAKE 34 Cast for the NSO Program, and President of MenCARE. As an active student leader, I plan to empower students and feel more connected to campus culture by bringing back Matatude Tuesday and similar social events to uplift campus spirit. As someone who has personally struggled with housing and food insecurities, it's important to me that all students have access to these essential resources. I aim to be a friend and resource for students to achieve their academic and personal goals by creating an inclusive environment where their voice is validated.

Kaitlan Mauro

Vice President

Mighty Matadors

Hi everyone! My name is Kaitlan Mauro (she/her), and I am an undergraduate student majoring in Accountancy - Information Systems, running to be your next AS Vice President. As a student volunteer here at CSUN, I have tutored many students in essential IS programs, such as Excel and SQL. I understand not all learning happens in class and how physically and mentally demanding our academic paths to success are, so my priority is to build a bridge to help students reach their professional goals. Having also been a student during the pandemic with all of you, I sympathize and recognize that our campus has yet to fully recover. With this position, I hope to be a voice for you, supporting and advocating for the inclusive academic opportunities we need to prepare us for our futures, ensuring we have access to the right resources for mental wellness, and transforming our campus into a community where we are inspired to express and propel ourselves toward new ideas and programs that work.

 

Paige Hajiloo

President

Matadors in Vision

Hello Matadors! My name is Paige Hajiloo and I am running to be your next AS President along with my slate, Matadors in Vision. I am a third-year student majoring in Psychology and minoring in Political Science. My time in AS has provided me with various leadership roles in which I have been able to work with students and departments to address their concerns and create effective solutions. Through these roles, I have learned the needs and wants of students, as well as what can get done and how to do it. I am passionate about providing students the resources necessary to allow everyone to thrive. With our pillars of Student Wellness, Connectivity, and Revitalization, I want to bring greater awareness and support to our mental health resources, improve academic advisement, create a united community for our clubs and organizations, and foster an inclusive and safe environment for all. I am extremely grateful to have advocated for you in the past and I cannot wait to continue to do so!

Josie Anderson

Vice President

Matadors in Vision

Hey CSUN! My name is Josie Anderson and I’m running with Matadors in Vision to be your next AS Vice President. I could tell you about my time as a Lower Division Senator or the Attorney General in Associated Students, or maybe that I currently serve as the Chapter President for Alpha Xi Delta, but that isn’t what you’re wondering. You want to know why I’m seeking to become the next VP, and I’ll tell you! CSUN holds a special place in my heart. This campus has provided me with endless opportunities to grow as a student and person overall. During my time here, I have acquired the skills and knowledge that are needed to be a successful leader and I am ready to give back. If elected as vice president, I will uphold the values my slate is running on: Student Wellness, Connectivity, and Revitalization.

 

Nathan Dunne

President

Revolution CSUN

Hello! I’m running for AS President to create a new culture at CSUN post-covid. Associated Students needs to help rebuild and support clubs, discuss rising costs of tuition fees on campus, and push Project Based Learning in the classroom to help students have a more engaging hands-on education. I have experience being the current AS Senator for the business school and president of my fraternity Delta Sigma Pi. For too long CSUN has been stereotyped as a commuter school. CSUN should be a community where students can meet friends, mentors, and engage beyond their academics. AS has the resources to build a greater student life on campus and help advocate for students’ needs. We’ve cultivated a great team of Senators so make sure to vote Revolution CSUN for the senate as well!

Ayesha Khan

Vice President

Revolution CSUN

Hello, Matadors! I am a third-year student at CSUN with a major in Business Law and a minor in Gender and Women's Studies. I’m running for Vice President to increase diversity at CSUN by prioritizing inclusivity and transforming CSUN into a more community-based institution. My experiences include being the current Associate Justice for AS Judicial Court, which has taught me the importance of supporting clubs and organizations on campus in order to enhance the college experience. My goals are to advocate for students and make it more accessible for them to come forward with their concerns and opinions regarding all aspects of CSUN, and see actual change occurring on campus from their input. It’s time we start actively uplifting and supporting all students to go beyond just the academic route! We’ve formed an amazing team of senators to follow through with our plans, so please vote Revolution CSUN for senate as well!


Arts, Media, & Communications Candidates

Matthew Kadach

Senator, College of Arts Media & Communication

Revolution CSUN

Hello, I’m Matthew Kadach, a Film Production major going into my fourth year, and I’m running for re-election to be one of your two AS Senators representing the Arts, Media, & Communication College. As your current senator I have advocated for improving coursework, campus life, equipment availability, club support, and student housing. I’ve supported the push for Film and Television BFA Programs which should include the removal of the current portfolio process, helped get water refill stations into next year’s housing budget, advocated for better campus-wide advisement, created better channels of communication between students and faculty, and am currently working on creating platforms for student art. If elected, I hope to continue the work in progress, fight for your needs, and advocate for all of the AMC College students: Art, CTVA, Journalism, Theatre, Music, and Communication. Please vote for me so I can make a change for both next year’s students and for all future students!

Nick Tivy

Senator, College of Arts Media & Communication

Matadors in Vision

Hello Matadors! My name is Nick Tivy and I’m running with Matadors in Vision to be your next Senator for the College of Arts, Media, and Communications! I’m a CTVA major at CSUN, and I work on various productions in SoCal. As a student in arts, I know how it feels to wonder “what’s next?” or “where’s my tuition going?” Other facilities have been significantly funded on campus for students, like our 3-story gym. But our new TV studio in Manzanita is booked with classes, and the art department lacks proper equipment. I want to change this. As your Senator, I will represent you in student government for student wellness, connectivity, and revitalization. I will create opportunities and recognition for all our departments. I believe that we can change our minds and reveal truths through arts and media. If you elect me as your Senator, I will be your voice in senate meetings where important decisions are made. Together, we will make CTVA stronger!

Zachary Gentry

Senator, College of Arts Media & Communication

Mighty Matadors

Hi Matadors! My name is Zach Gentry (he/him) and I am a junior majoring in Theater, running to be your next Senator for the Mike Curb College of Arts, Media, and Communications. One of my proudest accomplishments throughout CSUN is when, as a freshman, I helped to plan a blood drive on campus through the American Red Cross. From this leadership experience, I decided to involve myself in diverse campus activities. I have become an Orientation Leader for the New Student Orientation Program and a Social Media Manager for the CSUN Hip Hop Dance Team. I understand that college can be a difficult and overwhelming journey for many students, including myself. As your next Senator, I would like to advocate for students' mental health and bring diverse community-based resources on campus where students can enjoy attending their higher education. My journey has helped me feel prepared to ensure every voice at CSUN feels heard because every individual deserves to be respected and represented.


Business & Economics Candidates

Leyna Do

Senator, College of Business & Economics

Revolution CSUN

Hello CSUN! My name is Leyna Do and I’m running to be your Business Senator, alongside Liora Kerendian, for the College of Business and Economics. I am currently a sophomore majoring in Marketing, a member of CSUN’s Co-Ed Business Fraternity, Delta Sigma Pi, and a member of the Business Honors Program. I’m running to push for more student engagement within the Business College, accessible opportunities with alumni, and to continue the charge of our team’s project based learning initiative. As Senator, I will prioritize administering more resources to our clubs and organizations by supporting the updating and creating of a more interactive website for all students. Alongside Liora, we plan to get students invested in their future by encouraging involvement with alumni. Creating an easily accessible website for students to reach out to our vast alumni network in the field they’re interested in. Liora and I are excited to advocate for student voices. Make sure to vote Revolution CSUN!

Leslie Ponce

Senator, College of Business & Economics

Matadors in Vision

Hey Matadors! I am Leslie Ponce, and I am running with Matadors in Vision to be your next Business and Economics Senator. I am a 2nd year majoring in economics and finance. CSUN has forwarded me the opportunity to grow and develop into a leader. I have been able to advocate and provide resources to students through my time as a Lower Division Senator and Vice President of the Student Finance Association. I look forward to continuing advocating for the needs of the business college and promoting growth opportunities. I plan to enhance collaboration with the many Nazarian organizations and clubs to continue serving the Business College's needs. Prioritizing networking, career preparation, and outreach by meeting the pillars my slate and I have envisioned of Student Wellness, Connectivity, and Revitalization. I look forward to serving my college and making it a year to remember!

Liora Kerendian

Senator, College of Business & Economics

Revolution CSUN

Hey CSUN! My name is Liora Kerendian and I’m running to be the next AS Business Senator along side Leyna Do. I am currently a junior double majoring in management & finance and a member of Delta Sigma Pi, CSUN's Co-Ed Business Fraternity. I am pushing for more project based classes where you can learn hands on and in collaboration with fellow classmates. I am also pushing for more opportunities that are uplifting to support business organizations and clubs on campus so that students like you can get more involved with internships and future professional opportunities. Finally, as Senator, I’m hoping to guide students to get more invested in their future by encouraging involvement with alumni by creating an easily accessible website for students to reach out to a vast alumni network in the field they’re interested in. Leyna and I are really excited to be a part of Revolution CSUN and be able to represent you all as students.


Education Candidates

Dennise Garcia

Senator, College of Education

Mighty Matadors

Hey Matadors! My name is Dennise Garcia (she/her/ella) and I am a first-generation college student who graduated from CSUN with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology in 2021 and is currently earning a Master's degree in College Counseling and Student Services. I am excited to be running for your next AS Senator for the College of Education. I now serve as a Graduate Assistant for the CSUN Mentorship Program, where I facilitate staff meetings and conduct training for coordinating large matador events, such as the President's Picnics, New Student Convocation, and Orientation for incoming freshmen, transfer, and international students. I also serve as an Intern at the LA Valley College's Career & Transfer Center to guide students through achieving their academic and professional goals. These two involvements show that I am well-educated and prepared to be a voice for students. As your next AS Senator for the College of Education, I will advocate for academic success, student involvement, and mental health services.


Humanities Candidates

Keiry Saravia

Senator, College of Humanities

Independent

Keiry Saravia is a first generation Salvadoran undergraduate college student. With a passion for Literature and English, she will keep the College of Humanities best interest at heart when making decisions. She can provide a perspective of younger students that will be represented through her. She will work to be a voice for everyone as well as listen to the problems that need to be addressed. Keiry knows the importance of spreading awareness when it comes to the resources offered by the College of Humanities. It is important for us to feel like we are a community and she will work to make that happen.

Ally Walker

Senator, College of Humanities

Matadors in Vision

Hey Matadors! My name is Ally Walker and I am running with Matadors in Vision as the Senator for the College of Humanities to continue my work for CSUN. As a sister of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Pi and a proud member of CSUN’s Jewish community, I have done my best to advocate for the students of our establishment. If re-elected as your Humanities Senator, I will do my best to be a support system and a friend for anyone within the college. CSUN is a place I call home, and I want people to also experience this feeling. Student Wellness, Connectivity, and Revitalization are pillars I will uphold if you choose me as your Senator for the College of Humanities.


Social & Behavioral Sciences Candidates

Sheily Chavez

Senator, College of Social & Behavioral Sciences

Matadors in Vision

Hello Matadors! I am Sheily Chavez, running with Matadors in Vision to be your next Senator for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. I am currently a second year at CSUN with a Political Science major and Psychology minor so I have my knowledge of what the college has set for us, but as your senator, I would like to bring even more opportunities to you to enhance your college experience as I believe everyone deserves to have a successful future. Not only do I want to be your senator but I also hope to become someone you can consider a friend who you can always count on. I guarantee you that I will uphold the pillars that my slate and I have envisioned: Student Wellness, Connectivity, and Revitalization. I am looking forward to serving you all and making sure together we all have an enjoyable year!

Ethel Akaninwor

Senator, College of Social & Behavioral Sciences

Revolution CSUN

Hello, I am running for AS Office because I consider CSUN my home and I like to be active wherever I am. As of right now, I am the Vice-President of African Students Organization, also known as ASO, and I am a Community Center and Learning Center Assistant in student housing. Taking on the position of AS Senate, I hope to continue to improve my leadership and communication skills. I major issue CSUN has is the activeness. Many students come onto campus and then go home so there isn’t much socialness on campus.


Engineering & Computer Science Candidates

Harshavardhan Reddy Kosireddy

Senator, College of Engineering & Computer Science

Independent

Graduate student at CSUN College of Engineering and Computer Science. I am part of multiple clubs and organisations. Try to make getting involved as a student for both regular campus and commuter easy and opportunistic. Need to seam line lot of things that are happening on campus.

Owais Khan

Senator, College of Engineering & Computer Science

Revolution CSUN

Hello Matadors!! My name is Owais Khan, and I’m running to become one of your senators for college of engineering and computer science. I am a sophomore majoring in computer science. As a student who is passionate about technology and its role in shaping our society, I believe that I can bring a unique perspective to the Senate. My goal is to improve the college experience for aspiring Engineers. I will focus on areas like increasing access to mental health resources, promoting diversity and inclusion within the college, providing professional development opportunities for students, and promoting sustainable practices on campus. By working on these issues, I’ll ensure that our fellow students have the resources and support they need to succeed academically and professionally within the field of engineering and computer science. I am excited about working towards a better future of CSUN and the College of Engineering and Computer Science . VOTE FOR REVOLUTION CSUN!!

Jenish Bhavnagri

Senator, College of Engineering & Computer Science

Revolution CSUN

I am Jenish Bhavnagri, and I am proud to be a current senator for the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Throughout my tenure, I have initiated several initiatives, such as expanding the scope of companies at our STEAM Tech Fair, providing students with more opportunities to network and explore potential career paths. I have also advocated for increasing research opportunities on campus, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and develop valuable skills that will benefit them throughout their careers. I am confident that I can continue to make a positive impact on campus by building upon the progress we have already made and by working collaboratively with campus administrators to achieve our goals. I believe that my dedication, leadership skills, and experience make me an ideal candidate for this position, and I am excited to continue working towards a better future of CSUN and the College of Engineering and Computer Science. VOTE FOR REVOLUTION CSUN !!


Science & Mathematics Candidates

Melita Mehzabin

Senator, College of Science & Math

Matadors in Vision

Hey Matadors! I am Melita Mehzabin, running with Matadors in Vision, to be your Senator for the College of Science and Mathematics. Being an international student from Bangladesh, CSUN has become my home away from home. One of the hardest things I have ever done was to choose to leave my loved ones thousands of miles away in order to follow my ambitions, but I am grateful to CSUN for the chances it has provided. I actively promote the involvement of women in STEM in underrepresented industries as the CSUN Women in Science and Engineering intern. I want to continue giving CSUN what it has given me, and much more. I want every student here to feel supported, regardless of where they are from, using the three pillars my slate and I have imagined: Student Wellness, Connectivity, and Revitalization.

George Radionov

Senator, College of Science & Math

Matadors in Vision

Hello CSUN! My name is George Radionov, and I am running with Matadors in Vision to be your next College of Science & Mathematics Senator. I am currently a freshman majoring in biology. After spending a year as a STEM student at CSUN, I believe I have grown to understand the department and what changes need to be addressed. Previously, I served as the Vice Chair of Lobby Corps to work alongside outstanding student representatives to lobby local political officials that would positively impact our University. If elected, I will transfer these skills to the College of Science & Mathematics as a senator. The people at this campus have been overwhelmingly positive and supportive, and I hope to give back to this amazing community. I plan to uphold Student Wellness, increase Connectivity, and Revitalize our school spirit. Go Matadors!

Lidia Sidarous

Senator, College of Science & Math

Mighty Matadors

Hey Matadors! My name is Lidia Sidarous (she/her). I am a junior majoring in Biology and am overjoyed to be running for your next Senator for the College of Science and Mathematics. Originally, I was born and raised in Egypt with my family, but we immigrated to the US for greater opportunities. Being a first-generation college student, as well as volunteering 400 hours at Antelope Valley Hospital, are some of my greatest achievements. Within this Senator position, I thrive to advocate for the needs of students in the STEM field. There are many problems I see these students face that I would like to improve, such as needing additional tutoring resources. A larger issue that many students face is their commuting situation. My goal is to prioritize discussions with campus administrators on public transportation in order to positively impact commuter students and allow them to be more successful in their higher education.


Graduate Candidates

Maria Barajas

Graduate Senator

Mighty Matadors

Hello! My name is Maria Barajas (she/her) and I am a graduate student studying Social Work, running to be your next AS Graduate Senator. I am a first-generation college student in my family, who had emigrated from Oaxaca, Mexico. My biggest achievement is becoming a mother to my two little princesses, who bring much joy to my life. They are the reason why I was able to obtain my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and now continue my advanced education. Currently, I serve as a Social Work Intern for the CSUN DREAM Center to assist in providing a safe-space for undocumented students or students who have mixed status families. I truly believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to achieve their goals and dreams, regardless of their circumstances. I understand that there are various obstacles for graduate students to achieve success, however, through my strengths and qualities, I will create a supportive environment for them and will advocate for their voices.


Lower Division Candidates

Jonathan Sher

Lower Division Senator

Mighty Matadors

Greetings Matadors! My name is Jonathan Sher (he/him) and I am a sophomore majoring in Computer Information Technology, running to be your next AS Lower Division Senator. I am very passionate about making a positive influence in our community. I strive to be the change that I wish to see in this world, as Gandhi once said. I am currently involved as a member of the CSUN Alpha Epsilon Pi and would love to branch out myself and be connected with a variety of campus clubs and organizations throughout my higher education journey. As a Lower Division Senator, I envision myself to be an outstanding representative for our freshmen and sophomore students. I believe that I can be an effective communicator who will properly listen and advocate for your needs in order to improve CSUN culture. As a very receptive and perspicacious individual, I feel very enthusiastic and passionate about having the opportunity to make a positive impact in our campus environment.

Esteban Ascencio

Lower Division Senator

Mighty Matadors

Hi Matadors! My name is Esteban Ascencio (He/Him). I am a first-year student majoring in Mechanical Engineering and am running to be your next AS Lower Division Senator. Throughout my secondary education, I participated in various clubs: the Global Business N Finance (GBF) and the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA). In GBF, we raised $4K to support underrepresented communities. In DECA, I used problem-solving skills to solve digitally simulated real-world-related issues. I am currently a member of two campus clubs: the Society of Hispanic Engineers and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. As your next Lower Division Senator, I want to ensure that CSUN continues to progress in being a welcoming and equal-opportunistic community for our fellow peers. I ensure all new concerns and voices from lower division students will be heard. My vote will be toward policies that influence the betterment of our campus community so that it may grow and continue to prosper.


Upper Division Candidates

Isabella Meza

Upper Division Senator

Independent

As a young Latina who grew up in the city of San Fernando, I have directly witnessed the systemic opportunity barriers our society has implemented. As a result, I have made it my mission to advocate for equitable support and empower others to do the same. Throughout the years I have worked with nonprofit organizations whose missions surround breaking the cycles of illiteracy, poverty, and food insecurity. I believe that my educational training in law and society, along with my diverse work experience has allowed me to develop the tools necessary for an AS Office position. My goals for this position are to close the equity gap within student success, address food insecurity, and implement more steps to towards a well represented campus. As a senior at CSUN, I have had time to engage with a diverse group of students and ask them what their main concerns and desires are in terms of campus improvements. I plan to represent my fellow peers and nurture an inclusive environment for campus.

Lorena Toledo Carranza

Upper Division Senator

Mighty Matadors

Hello Matadors! My name is Lorena Toledo (she/her) and I am running to be your next Upper Division Senator. I am currently a junior majoring in Biology and minoring in Musical Theater. I am also a member of the CSUN Women in Science Club and CSUN Salsa Libre. Throughout my college years, and to this day, I have spent my time working as an actress, and volunteering, both as a mentor for the CSUN Mentor Connect, and within a Marine Biology research lab. As an Upper Division Senator, I am committed to represent and fulfill the needs of my fellow juniors and seniors. I believe that by creating a safe and enthusiastic space, we can all work together to make our last years of college memorable. I strive to have a positive impact on the CSUN community as a whole by advocating for students’ needs, enhancing knowledge and communication, and most importantly, collaborating with student leaders to achieve our goals. No barrier can ever interrupt us when a bright and pleasant future awaits us.

Sean Ghazanfari

Upper Division Senator

Revolution CSUN

Or is it someone who puts the people they are leading before themself and does everything in their power to help their people flourish? I believe wholeheartedly the definition of a leader should be the latter. As a leader I plan on facilitating inclusivity among students and introducing far better tutoring services than the ones currently in place. Few people greet one another and a vast majority ignore one another. CSUN may have a reputation as a commuter school where social activities are minor, but it does not have to be this way. Another issue is that they only have tutoring services for basic classes, not very the more advanced upper division courses which is something that must change so that students can learn and prosper in their respective majors.It is my greatest wish to instill a culture of unity here at CSUN. Regardless of our race, gender, or major, we are all brothers and sisters here. Each of us should be able to speak to one another without feeling shy or embarrassed