UVUSA Candidates

Learn more about the candidates for the 2025-2026 UVUSA Executive Council and their platforms.

Voting Information

  • Voting Opens: Monday, March 3, 2025, 8 am
  • Voting Closes: Thursday, March 6, 2025, 5 pm
  • Result Announcements: March 6, 2025, 7 pm

Student Body President Candidates

 
Portrait of Candidate

Carter Olson

UVU Student Body President Candidate

Junior, Majoring in Biology with a French Minor

Instagram: carter_.o, Snapchat: carter.o4, TikTok: carter_.o4, Facebook: Carter Olson

Email: [email protected]

Candidate Bio

My name is Carter Olson, I am 23 and a junior here at UVU. I have attended UVU for the last 2 years. I am currently working towards a major in biology and a minor in French which will hopefully lead me to medical school. I love anything to do with music or languages and am determined to learn all the instruments and languages that I can. I was born and raised in Utah and have loved living here with some time spent living in North Carolina and France as well which are equally as great. I work in healthcare and love to be able to help people whenever I can. I have loved my time at UVU and have loved the environment and inclusive feeling that has always been felt here. I want that to continue and hope to be able to contribute to it as well for the rest of my time that I have at this wonderful school. 

Qualfications

  • I have worked in student government before in a leading role and know how to work with different groups to achieve goals that are set.

  • I am very social and willing to reach out to others to build relationships.

  • I am always willing to listen to someone about their concerns or ideas because I believe that everybody needs to have a say.

  • I have the understanding that president role is just a title and that it takes a team to lead a student body. I am a supporter and want to see the success of others including our great university!

  • Throughout the course of my college studies I have balanced a big workload of classes and jobs in the medical field making me very good at managing time and working on many different things at the same time. I also am so motivated to do my best work and am not satisfied until that is accomplished.

Plans for Office 

  • Push for equal representation for the different fields of study.

  • Make sure that everybody has a voice and be there for the students if they need to talk about quite literally anything!

  • Help students from other countries have better resources for how to get involved in school and the culture of UVU.

  • I want the students to be satisfied about what they are paying for their tuition when it comes to the opportunities, resources, and amenities offered at UVU. Specifically I know that a lot of people are upset with the parking situation at UVU which I know I can't fix all at once or within a year but hope to contribute to making a difference for future students. 

  • I want there to be absolute transparency with all of the decisions that are being made throughout the UVU system and push for more student involvement when it comes to the academic and administrative decisions made. 

Portrait of Candidate

Cole Blackwell

UVU Student Body President Candidate

Junior, Majoring in Exercise Science 

Instagram: @coleblackwell_20, LinkedIn: @Cole (Colton) Blackwell

Email: [email protected] 

Candidate Bio

Hello! My name is Cole Blackwell, and I’m running for UVU Student Body President. I am a sophomore-ish majoring in Exercise Science, aiming for a career in Sports Medicine. I come from a family with individuals from international, military, and religious backgrounds. As a Utah Valley native, the UVU legacy runs deep in my family, and I am excited about giving back to the school that has given me so much. Since arriving at UVU, I have had the honor of engaging in several leadership roles on campus. I have served as a University Ambassador, a representative and recruiter of the university, to help prospective students discover if UVU is the right place for them. I have also been involved on campus through various other student leadership groups. As a member of The Zone, I help create and manage daily student activities found throughout campus, such as Wolverine Wednesday. Through a role as a hype team member for UVU athletics, I help with crowd engagement, exciting those in attendance to watch and support our mighty green wolverine athletes. In Executive Events, I assist in staffing events for the administration and decision-makers of the university. Finally, I have been active in student clubs almost every semester since I initially became a UVU student. These roles have allowed me to develop strong communication skills with both students and university leaders—skills essential for a Student Body President. Being a student can be challenging. Our diverse student body brings together people from several different backgrounds and perspectives. The art of balancing school, work, and personal life isn’t easy. I’ve been there. I am there. I want every student to know they do not have to go through this alone. If elected, I will work to make UVU a place where students feel they belong and can thrive. UVU is a special place, and I want all students to feel at home here. My goal is to let all UVU students that I care for you, that UVU cares for you, and our community cares for you. The biggest issue with UVU is that it offers endless opportunities but there aren't enough hours in the day to be able to try everything. There are so many students actively engaging in so many different realms, I want to be able to hear from them all. As Student Body President, my main goal will be to be an advocate for students. I will attend events and participate in as many student organizations as possible to understand your concerns and ideas. By connecting with students and hearing your feedback, I’ll be able to bring your voice to both university leadership and legislature to make UVU the best it can be. Together, we can create an environment where every student feels prepared for the future. I hope you’ll consider voting for me to be your voice at UVU. Let’s work together to make our time here count and build a brighter future for all of us. 

Qualifications

  • I possess an in-depth understanding of the university’s operations, policies, and procedures. I have developed this understanding through my experience as a UVU Ambassador Manager. In the ambassador program, we work as the front lines of university recruiting, meaning we must be some of the most well-versed in everything UVU. This role has provided me with a comprehensive knowledge of the university’s structure and functioning, and gave me countless opportunities to work through the procedures of higher education. 
  • I have significant leadership experience, having served as both an Ambassador Manager and the founding president of a student club at UVU. As an Ambassador Manager, I directly oversee a team of the university’s ambassadors and provide them with leadership training so they can develop their skills as leaders within the school and in their future careers. I have thoroughly enjoyed the leadership training the ambassador program has provided me. I was able to utilize many of these skills when I learned the school lacked a club for my major. Over the course of several months, I wrote bylaws, policies, grant proposals, and a constitution to eventually be able to create a club of over one hundred members. These roles have honed my ability to lead diverse teams, manage initiatives, and drive organizational success. 

  • Through my role as a Zone Manager, I have gained valuable insight into the perspectives and needs of a broad cross-section of students. I have had the pleasure to interact with numberless students at events and activities who have expressed their thoughts and opinions of UVU. One of the best events I help host where I have been able to interact with students is Wolverine Wednesday. As we have nearly four hundred attendees, I try to get to know as many as I can and their thoughts of our great institution. This experience has strengthened my ability to represent and advocate for student interests effectively. 

  • I am deeply passionate about UVU and actively engage in promoting school spirit. At the beginning of 2025, I was invited to give a training at a Student Development Institute national conference called CIVSA in Houston, Texas. This conference had around one-thousand attendees, all of which act as recruiters and representatives of their prospective universities. At the end of the conference, I received the Most Spirited Individual award, an attendee-nominated award, to an individual who has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering pride and enthusiasm for our institution.

  • I have built strong relationships with university leadership and donors through my work as an Executive Event Ambassador. At Executive Events, I am able to interact with several executives and decision makers of the university. I developed a sense of familiarity, not only with my recognizing of these individuals and their roles within the school, but of who I am as a student and an individual. This experience has equipped me with the ability to refine my conversational skills with important decision makers to support UVU's mission and growth. 

Plans for Office

  • Chat and Call for Student Voices: My first goal is to be accessible and engaging with students across campus. I will seek to ensure that all students will be heard and feel valued across campus. I will prioritize being present in the hallways, attending events, and directly engaging with students to gather feedback on university policies and student life. I am committed to representing a diverse range of students—including both traditional and non-traditional, first-generation, LGBTQIA+, international, intercultural, military affiliated, etc.—and will use their input as the foundation of my actions. To do this, I will attend meetings with student leadership groups, support and promote athletic events, and participate in various campus activities. Additionally, I will host virtual office hours, providing an accessible platform for online students to share their thoughts in real time. This feedback will be used to advocate for students to the President's Cabinet and other University Executive Councils.
  • Connect Cabinet and Classroom: I aim to bridge the gap between the student body and university leadership. I feel that a gap has developed over time with the making of various university decisions, such as decisions regarding HB261. I want students to know that school administration really does have their best interests at heart. Likewise, I want the school administration to hear the voices of the student body. As a strong advocate for UVU students, I will encourage university leadership to engage with students in informal settings, such as casual conversations in common areas. This will allow leaders to better understand students' concerns and experiences. I will also work to organize more frequent forums and events—similar to “Talk with Tuminez”—where multiple members of university leadership engage directly with students. These events will be designed to be casual, so students feel comfortable discussing their thoughts with university executives in a personal, open setting, ultimately cultivating an environment where conversations are between person and person, not student and University Executive.  

  • Connect Campus and Community: I plan to collaborate with University Marketing and Communications, as well as UVU Licensing and Copyright, to increase the visibility and accessibility of UVU-branded merchandise. Several stores across the valley sell a wide variety of merchandise for other nearby universities. Currently, UVU items are only available in a few locations, and I will work to expand their reach, whether that is through improved advertising, well-known alumni endorsement, or another method. I also aim to implement student positions in merchandise design at the campus store, making UVU swag more appealing and up to date with current trends. Additionally, I will strive to organize open-house-style events across each college to showcase the innovative work happening at UVU and invite the broader community to campus. To improve campus navigation, I will advocate for updated signage to help new students, prospective students, university donors, and guests navigate the campus more easily. Finally, I will increase alumni engagement by promoting alumni achievements and enhancing networking opportunities for current students. 

  • Challenge and Clarify Student Fees: I will advocate for the responsible and transparent use of student fees, ensuring they align with student priorities. By conducting a thorough review of how student fees are allocated and seeking feedback from the student body, I will work to implement any necessary reforms to ensure transparency and accountability in the budgeting process. I feel that students often do not know why student fees are so important and necessary. To remedy this, I will strive to educate the student body about the allocation of student fees and the importance behind their use. This will include better advertising of Council Meetings—which will be open to any student—and publicizing the outcomes of student fee discussions through online platforms, social media, and the UVU Review Newspaper. 

  • Increase Convenience and Consciousness of Campus Resources: I will raise awareness of the resources and services available to students by organizing events, publications, and other initiatives. My goal is to ensure that students are fully informed about the support available to help them succeed. I want to work with initiatives which have already been happening to expedite the processes to accomplish this goal with the most correct information possible, such as the improvements being made to the UVU Student app. Additionally, I will work to broaden the scope of on-campus volunteer and service opportunities,increasing accessibility to existing programs and exploring new initiatives that allow students to engage with and contribute to the community. 

 
Portrait of Candidate

Kyle Cullimore 

UVU Student Body President Candidate

Junior, Majoring in Health Science with a Minor in Biology & Business Management

Instagram: @kylecullimore

Email: [email protected] 

Candidate Bio 

My name is Kyle Cullimore, and I am your current Vice President of Student Activities. When I'm not at UVU, I love to be out in the sun- boating, running, hiking, swimming, and playing soccer or pickleball. I also enjoy the arts, going to concerts, symphonies, and plays or performances. All around, I love being involved and working on something bigger than myself. UVU has become a second home to me. For the last two years, I have spent over 1,500 hours working and advocating for YOU. I have seen you at sporting events, club nights, performing arts, service nights, and so much more. Because of you, I have come to love this university and the students here because of the opportunities it has given me. I want the chance to serve the students one last time. One lesson I have learned from my time here, is that UVU has a lot to offer, but there is always room for MORE. As Student Body President, I want to help UVU give you MORE. More belonging through expanding exposure to the resources, organizations, clubs, and opportunities we have. More involvement by being the starting place for those who want to be involved, so you don't miss your opportunity. More advocacy in the processes that our money goes to, and making sure we are the University's priority. More feedback by implementing feedback initiatives and opportunities for expressing your opinion. More accountability and transparency, but publishing what our platform is and the steps we are taking to make change. Whether it's giving you the platform for change, sharing critical information with you, or advocating for us as students, I promise to bring you along with me throughout the whole process. You deserve so much MORE, so make sure you vote for MORE. Vote for me, Kyle Culli-MORE! 

Qualifications 

  • Strong Leadership Skills & Experience: As the current Vice President of Student Activities, I have experience engaging with students, collaborating with teams, and managing events. One of the biggest focuses from this year was getting student feedback at our events, so we could better support andrepresent the students. These experiences have helped me gain skills in being organized, leading, and inspiring others.

  • Passion for Building Community & Student Engagement: I have actively explored ways to build community and serve students first. Whether it's advocating for policy or cheering at sports events, I prioritize students. This commitment has helped me foster a greater sense of belonging, helping me see the need for an advocate like myself to fight for students’ needs and rights, ensuring their voices are heard and valued.

  • Strong Academic Background & Time Management Skills: As a Health Science major, taking 17 credits, including rigorous courses like Organic Chemistry and Microbiology, while balancing leadership responsibilities shows that I can handle pressure, prioritize tasks, and stay committed. When I'm not working on homework, I am at the school representing the students. 

  • Resilience & Growth Mindset: I have dove deep into stress management, self-improvement, and overcoming challenges when I needed someone there for me. This shows I am self-aware, adaptable, and proactive in addressing personal and community challenges. I have learned ways to de-escalate situations and support students in their times of need. These qualities will help me navigate the complexities of student leadership with empathy, determination, and strategic thinking. 

  • Adventurous & Energetic Personality: I have a love for adventure and community, which help me bring enthusiasm, boldness, and a can-do attitude, which helps inspire and energize the student body.

Plans for Office  

  • More Belonging! UVU is home to over 46,000 students, which can make us feel small. My goal is to strengthen campus culture by creating more spaces, programs, and events that connect students across backgrounds, majors, and interests. As the current Vice President of Activities, I have helped implement 14 original events that have brought in over 5,000 unique individuals (~12,000 students altogether recorded in attendance). As Student Body President, I would continue to implement the mindset of looking outside the cultural norm and ensure representation for all students. 

  • More involvement! Expanding ways of student involvement through clubs, organizational collaboration, and supporting the arts and sports. Some of thegreatest feedback I have received is that we, as students, want to be involved but often don't know how or don't see the opportunities. As Student Body President, I would take advantage of a monthly newsletter that consists of all things students need to know about and hear about. In addition to the newsletter, I’ll work with student leaders to create a more streamlined and accessible platform for event information, ensuring students never miss an opportunity. The last thing I would want to see is a student who wants to be involved but due to lack of information, misses their opportunity. As an individual who has been involved at UVU for 2 years, I know of the importance and the community we can build through involvement.

  • More advocacy! As President Tuminez recently announced in the State of the University, UVU has some exciting plans for the future. What's important, however, is that students don't get lost in the process. Whether it's student fees, policy change, the board of trustees, or UVU's promised future expansions, I will fight to ensure that students and their needs come first in the discussions on spending. On the legislative side, as the biggest public university in the state, we hold a lot of power. I will advocate for our needs and challenge decisions that go against what UVU stands for, specifically, exceptional care, exceptional accountability, and exceptional results. 

  • More feedback! Oftentimes, we, as students, see firsthand the policies or structures that prevent us from succeeding. As student body president, I want us as students to be able to lead the changes we need on campus. I will implement a process that will allow students to present their ideas for change within ourchambers to show support and create the movement needed for change. I will ensure student-led policy proposals are formally considered by UVUSA and our administration, making real change driven by students, for students. Along with giving students the stage needed for change, I will increase presidential outreach by incorporating more feedback-collection initiatives. Whether it's at a performance, a forum, a game, or any other UVU-hosted event, making sure feedback can be easily given. At the end of the day, I will fight for us, the students, but I will ensure I know exactly what we need! 

  • More accountability and transparency! Along with increasing feedback, I will work to increase accountability by allowing the students to know exactly what we are working on. In the monthly newsletter, I will share the steps being taken towards student feedback. I will also be fighting for more transparency from the university to see where our hard-earned money is going, especially with our student fees, and making sure students know where to find the information. In another step to be more accountable, I will also publish the new platform UVUSA would be fighting for, on our website, so students can see the changes we are working towards. 

Vice President of Connection Candidates

Portrait of Candidate

Miguel Mayorga

UVU Vice President of Connection Candidate

Junior, Majoring in Political Science (Public Administration & Public Policy Emphasis) 

Instagram: @miguelmayorgaa

Email: [email protected] 

Candidate Bio 

My name is Miguel Mayorga, and I’m running for Vice President of Connections. I truly believe that being connected to your campus is what makes yourcollege experience unforgettable. As a transfer student, I quickly fell in love with UVU and the kindness of the people here. I’ve learned just how important it is to build connections with other students, faculty, staff and the community around you. These relationships are what make college feel like more than just a place to get your degree. When you're connected and feel at home, it becomes a place to grow, learn, and belong. I am a firm believer that experiences outside of the classroom can sometimes teach you so much more about life and love than a Canvas course can. From my time as Student Body President at Snow College to my role now as the CHSS Senator on UVUSA, I know how much of an impact just one student voice can have. I’m passionate about making sure students feel supported, heard, recognized and that we have the opportunities to get involved in meaningful ways. Whether that is through informal events, recognizing students who go above and beyond, or simply spreading the word about the amazing opportunities on campus, I want to make sure every student feels connected as a Wolverine. I want to bring that same energy and dedication to this role of Vice President of Connections because I know how valuable connections can be. If I’m elected Vice President of Connections, I’ll work hard to make sure UVU is a place where every student feels they belong and can make the most out of their time here. 

Qualifications

  • UVUSA Senator for the College of Humanities and Social Science - I am currently representing the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) student body by advocating for student needs, collaborating with university leadership, and supporting campus initiatives. I engage with students to gather feedback, organize events to promote involvement, and work with UVUSA to improve your student experience.

  • Snow College Student Body President and Trustee - I was elected to lead the student association in May of 2023 to May of 2024 to collaborate with the Board of Trustees, President, and Cabinet to enhance the student experience, implement initiatives to improve campus life, research student concerns, improve student fee transparency, revamp the student fee process to make it more accessible and boost engagement for the Snow College Badgers during my time there. 

  • Executive Vice President of the Utah Student Association - From May 2023 to May 2024, I was elected to serve as Executive Vice President of the Utah Student Association. There I represented over 200,000 students across Utah’s public colleges and universities, while working alongside the student body presidents in the state of Utah and state officials to influence higher education policies. I helped coordinate statewide advocacy efforts, assisted the President, assisted in student engagement programs and initiatives focused on service and student well being. Additionally, I oversaw the budget that consisted of student fees collected from all universities and colleges in Utah. 

  • Shadow Intern for Utah State Representative Carl Albrecht - In February of 2022, I attended legislative meetings, engaged with constituents and high ranking officials, assisted with tours of the Capitol, and provided support for various tasks as needed. This role gave me firsthand experience in the legislative process, policy discussions, and constituent relations while assisting the representative in his daily responsibilities while engaging with the process. 

Plans for Office

  • Strengthening Collaboration across Campus and Community: Continuing the work already established among student organizations, campus departments, and local community groups to create a variety of opportunities for students to get involved and feel supported during their time at UVU. 

  • Recognizing Impactful Students: Improve student recognition programs by acknowledging strong leadership, achievements, and contributions students give that make UVU a place for you. Introducing a "Wolverine Spotlight" program to highlight students across leadership, service, academics, and other areas. Feature them through social media, campus newsletters, events, etc. using student interviews and short videos to show their impact and inspire other students to be involved in the UVU community. 

  • Raising Awareness about Involvement Opportunities: Increase awareness of the large amount of involvement opportunities available on campus through creating a series of "UVU Involvement Days" where students can learn about clubs, organizations, and leadership opportunities through ways that benefit them.

  • Building Stronger Interpersonal Campus Connections: Creating more informal and casual events where students from different areas of campus can meet, connect and get to know one another. Something like a “Caffeine and Connect” series, where students can network with other students, leaders, and faculty while enjoying coffee, caffeine, soda or snacks to eliminate the stress of a formal event to allow genuine connections to form. 

Portrait of Candidate

Nyasha Gideon Paradzai

UVU Vice President of Connection Candidate

Junior, Majoring in Finance & Entrepreneurship 

Instagram: @paradzainyasha9, Facebook: nyasha.paradzai.3 

Email: [email protected] 

Candidate Bio 

Growing up in Zimbabwe, I learned early on that success is never a solo journey it is built on the relationships we cultivate, the people who uplift us, and the communities that shape us. One defining moment in my life taught me just how powerful connection can be. In 2024, life as I knew it was put on pause. Someone I deeply cared for faced a critical health challenge, and during that time, everything felt uncertain. Balancing school, responsibilities, and overwhelming stress seemed impossible. But in the midst of that storm, something incredible happened people showed up. Friends checked in, professors extended deadlines, and strangers offered words of encouragement. It was in that moment that I realized: connection isn’t just about networking or socializing; it is about standing together in both triumph and trial. That experience reinforced my commitment to fostering real, meaningful connections wherever I go. President Theodore Roosevelt once said, “The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people.” True leadership is not about titles or policies it is about people. It’s about listening, understanding, and creating spaces where everyone feels seen and valued. As a business owner,  student leader, and mentor, I have made it my mission to bridge gaps and build relationships that create opportunities for others. If elected as Vice President of Connection, I will ensure that UVU is not just a place where students pass through but a home where they belong. I will work to connect students with resources, mentors, and experiences that empower them. I will create initiatives that bring people together not just through events, but through meaningful, lasting relationships that extend beyond the classroom. At some point, we all face moments of uncertainty times when we wonder if we belong, if we are seen, if we matter. But the truth is, we don’t have to navigate life alone. The strength of a community is not measured by the number of people in it but by the depth of the connections within it. UVU is more than a university; it is a network of dreamers, doers, and changemakers. Together, we have the power to turn isolation into inclusion, hesitation into confidence, and aspirations into reality. This is our time to create a culture ofconnection that leaves no one behind. And if we do it right, the impact won’t just last for a semester or a school year it will ripple forward for generations. Let’s build something greater together. 

Qualifications 

  • Proven Leadership Experience. 
  • Strong Public Speaking & Communication Skills. 
  • Experience in Networking & Relationship Building. 
  • Commitment to Student Engagement & Support. 
  • Resilience & Passion for Service. 

Plans for Office

  • Mentor Match Program for Career & Personal Growth. 
  • Develop a Connection Grant for Student-Led Initiatives. 
  • Create a Real-World Readiness Series with High-Impact Networking Events. 
  • Build a Community Connection Pipeline to Bridge UVU with Local Businesses. 
  • UVU Legacy Program to Strengthen Alumni-Student Connections. 

Vice President of Student Activities Candidates

Portrait of Candidate

Alex Stewart

UVU Vice President of Activities Candidate

Sophomore, Majoring in Healthcare Administration with a Minor in Business Management 

Instagram: @alexdstewart, Linkedin: @alexstewart2005

Email: [email protected] 

Candidate Bio

Hello there, Wolverines! My name is Alex Stewart, and I am running for Vice President of Student Activities in this year's upcoming student body elections!You might have seen me around at UVU events this year—currently, I’m serving as an Events Chair on student council, where I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to plan exciting events like The Green Out Dance, Silent Disco, and Pumpkin Palooza! This year has been an incredible learning experience, and I’ve grown so much from the opportunities I’ve had. Now, I’m ready to take the next step and become your VP of Activities. I’m all about going the extra mile, and that’s exactly what I plan to do with student activities next year if I’m elected. My mission is to establish lasting campus traditions, build strong school spirit, and foster connection and belonging for every student through the events I organize. Along with that, I am a huge advocate for the student voice. Every student at UVU has a voice, and it’s my goal to make sure that voice is heard. To me, each of you is a friend, and I want to ensure that UVU is a place where everyone feels included and valued. If there’s one takeaway I want students to have from events next year, it’s memories. Memories and experiences define who we are, and are especially important in our years here at college. These events will be the place where memories are created, friendships are built, and lasting connections are formed. So, my fellow Wolverines, I ask for support, participation, and especially your vote. Let’s make sure we remember our time here at UVU together—and make it unforgettable. 

Qualifications

  • Experience: Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of serving as an Events Chair on the student council. This role has shaped my character and perspective in so many ways. I've learned the fundamentals of event planning, collaborating with students, and making visions come to life. I’ve also had the opportunityto advocate for students, listening to their concerns and ideas to make sure their voices are heard and represented in our campus activities. This experience has been an incredible opportunity for personal growth and has deepened my commitment to serving my fellow students. 
  • Involvement & Volunteering: I’m always looking for opportunities to give back to UVU and contribute to the campus community. Whether it’s volunteering at events, supporting student initiatives, or helping out with campus organizations, I actively seek ways to make a positive impact. I believe that volunteering not only strengthens our community, but also helps me grow as a leader and as an individual. I find that the more I get involved, the more connected I feel to the UVU family. I've been apart of the Green Team volunteer group, while also having worked with department representatives, community crew, and other students at large.

  • Being a Proud Wolverine: As a student myself, I deeply understand the unique challenges and experiences that come with being part of the UVU community. From balancing academics and extracurriculars to navigating social and personal growth, I know what it feels like to juggle it all. I make it a priority to listen to my peers, hear their concerns, and empathize with their perspectives. This allows me to connect with others in a meaningful way and ensures that I am always advocating for what truly matters to the student body. Being in the trenches alongside my fellow students gives me a real, firsthand understanding of their needs, and it motivates me to work hard to make UVU a place where everyone feels supported and heard. As a proud wolverine, I want to share the light and help other students feel the same sense of pride that I have discovered here at UVU. 

  • Dependable & Trustworthy: I pride myself on being someone others can rely on, whether it’s for a simple task or a big project. When I commit to something, I follow through with determination and responsibility, ensuring that I meet deadlines and uphold the trust placed in me. My peers and colleagues know that they can count on me, not just to get the job done, but to do it with integrity and care. Trust is the foundation of any strong relationship, and I take that seriously, especially with the student body. I want every student to know that they are a friend to me, and I am hear to listen to them with whatever they need. 

Plans for Office 

  • Building Community: I am driven to create an environment on campus that allows students to gather regardless of who they are. I envision the events of next year to be places where students feel like they are safe, comfortable, and supported. These events will be where lasting memories are made, friendships are forged, and connections are formed. Our time here at college is so valuable because we are in a phase of our life where we are deciding what type of person we want to become. Our experiences and memories contribute to who we are. My mission is to provide a platform for students to create those meaningful experiences, where each event propels you forward in your journey. UVU is a place for you, and I intend to show that through every event next year, if I am elected. 

  • Adaptability: UVU's large and diverse student body presents exciting opportunities. I plan to ensure that events and activities are tailored to all student populations. I am someone who advocates for connection and belonging across the the entire university. I actively seek out student feedback, insights, and perspectives because I believe every voice matters. Students deserve to feel heard, and with me, they will know that their voices are always valued and considered in shaping the future of our campus.

  • Emphasis on Getting Involved: A huge goal of mine would relate to student involvement. One of the best things you can do during your time at college is getting involved in some capacity. I would make it a mission of mine to help connect students to these opportunities. There are so many volunteer opportunities, and various programs that can enrich a students experience at college. I would love to see a student body where people are eager to build a community of service and support. 

  • Establish Campus Tradition & Spirit: One of my most exciting goals for UVU is to establish lasting traditions and school spirit that students can be proud ofy ear after year. I would love to develop events that happen every year, events that students look forward to, and events that students show up proud to be a wolverine. More than just events, I want to leave a legacy—one that grows stronger with each new class of Wolverines. The best part about this goal? I can't do it alone. This is a collective effort, and I need you to be a part of it. The legacy we leave behind will be the memories we create together. Every tradition, every event, and every moment will be a reflection of who we are as a student body. Let’s build something that future generations of Wolverines will cherish and carry forward with pride. 

  • Work Ethic: When I set my mind to something, I’m committed to doing whatever it takes to bring that vision to life. I have a vision for the events and activities of UVU. I envision students coming to events, embracing that they belong here. I am ready to put whatever amount of time, effort, and resources in to provide that opportunity for students. I’ll go the extra mile, whether it’s collaborating with different groups on campus, seeking feedback to make improvements, or ensuring that each event is thoughtfully planned and executed. My commitment is not just about putting on events—it’s about creating a lasting impact, where students feel valued and empowered to make the most of their time here at UVU. 

Portrait of Candidate

Isaac Lehman 

UVU Vice President of Student Activities Candidate

Sophomore, Majoring in Software Engineering 

Facebook: @Isaac Lehman, Instagram: @isaacleh1

Email: [email protected] 

Candidate Bio 

Hi, my name is Isaac Lehman. I grew up in the small yet growing town of Grantsville, Utah, and spent a couple of years in Germany, taking the opportunity to serve others. I am a current student at Utah Valley University studying software engineering with the hopes of getting into AI development someday. Likewise, I love working on-campus and currently work for the UCCU Center, the Keller Building, the Club Ambassador program and finally, the Student Ambassador program. 

Qualifications

  • Club Ambassador of the athletic clubs. 
  • Student Ambassador. 
  • Phi Theta Kappa National Honors Society Member. 
  • Sales experience as a Sales Representative for Mission Pest Control. 

Plans for Office 

  • Make a list of 5 in depth reasons as to why student engagement may be lacking. 
  • Raise student involvement by 10% by hosting a greater diversity of events that may include a larger variety of students, such as academic, athletic or social events. 

  • Plan at least 2 events that can assist student networking with each other and local companies in order to help open new doors and provide opportunities to students. 

  • Find 3 local businesses that can create affiliations with UVU that could assist student enjoyment by either hosting activities or providing student discounts. 

Vice President of Academics Candidates

Portrait of Candidate

Abbie Fisher

UVU Vice President of Academics Candidate

Junior, Majoring in Psychology 

Instagram: @cool_kid_abbie & abbie_e_fisher

Email: [email protected] 

Candidate Bio

Abbie Fisher is a student researcher and senior at UVU completing her undergraduate in Psychology. Her campus involvement includes a history of mentoring at the Melissa Nellesen Center for Autism and acting as the research assistant for the Women in Business Impact Lab. She has also been recognized at UVU as the UVU 2023 Oxford Map the System Research Competition winner and as a 2024 UVLC highlighted speaker on Person-First Leadership. Abbie now works as a Strategy and Design Fellow for the Center for Social Impact and the Presidential Intern to University President Astrid Tuminez. In these roles, Abbie has worked with executive university leadership at UVU and local partners to drive impactful change on campus and in the community through strategic research, design, and collaboration. As a student and professional, Abbie is passionate about creating positive social change through connecting interdisciplinary research with systems design and policy development. In the future, she hopes to work with private and public sector organizations to design impact measurement systems and research systematic policy interventions related to economic inequity. Abbie’s work history, student experiences, and love for UVU have underscored her desire to help students succeed academically and personally. As she moves forward in her undergraduate career, she hopes to contribute to the improvement of student learning systems and policies to ensure that every student has the knowledge, tools, and resources necessary to achieve their goals. 

Qualifications

  • Presidential Internship (Intern to President Tuminez at UVU): I have gained valuable experience in leadership, strategic planning and advocacy by working closely with university administration. I have built a strong understanding of university operations and the breadth of student needs on-campus. 

  •  Strategy & Design Fellow (UVU Center for Social Impact): As a Strategy & Design Fellow, I have rigorously studied systems thinking and design and researched how to address challenges faced by underrepresented student groups. Through working with lived-experience experts, I have developed the skills to identify barriers to student success and collaborate on sustainable, equitable and effective solutions that ensure all students have are provided the knowledge, resources and opportunities they need to thrive in higher education. 

  •  Peer Mentor (at the Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism): As a Peer Mentor, I worked closely with students facing learning challenges, gaining a valuable perspective into the small, often overlooked factors that create significant disadvantages for all students. This experience broadened by understanding of the importance of functional learning outcomes and highlighted the need for inclusigve, equitable, academic polices that address these disparities. In this role, I also became well-versed in the academic services and resources available on-campus, understanding how various support systems can enhance learning outcomes. 

  • Research Assistant (at the Women in Business Impact Lab): As a research assistant, I built strong problem-solving and qualitative and quantitative research skills through studying social infrastructures that negatively impact women in business. I know how to effectively study organizational gaps and organize feedback to make data-informed recommendations and decisions.

Plans for Office 

  • I will work to guarantee that academic spaces are accessible, livable, and designed to foster effective learning, recognizing that students’ academic success is directly influenced by the environments in which they learn. In doing this, I will advocate for the equitable prioritization of all majors and departments (particularly those underrepresented), ensuring that each receives the necessary attention, facilities, and funding to thrive. 

  • I will improve the standardization of due dates and grading systems across courses to ensure fairness and transparency in the expectations for academic success. 

  • I will advocate for students' educational autonomy and keep students well-informed and up-to-date on state and federal-level decisions that impact their learning experiences (especially in light of the changes in the Department of Education).
  • I will work to establish clearer AI policies and protocols that protect students from being unjustly accused of using generative AI tools, while maintaining that these technologies are not utilized improperly. 
  • I will increase the integration of project-based learning curriculum over traditional rote memorization testing, to promote hands-on experiences that enhance student engagement and contribute to market-applicable skills and experiences. Following this, I will work to improve student knowledge of internship programs, ensuring that students have greater access to diverse learning opportunities that enrich their academic and professional growth. 

Portrait of Candidate

Colby Swensen

UVU Vice President of Academics Candidate

Senior, Majoring in History with a Minor in Chinese

Instagram: @colbyswensen, Reddit: @schooliscooluvu, Youtube: @uvustrollerdad

Email: [email protected] 

Candidate Bio

I am not your traditional student. In elementary school I was the class clown, I missed most of my middle school days, and high school really only mattered to me in its ability to get me to play soccer. I observed that some coaches and administrators cared less about my education and more about my ability to win titles. My athleticism held my value and became my identity. After high school I studied at a junior college in Arizona, where again, my focus on school was only in its ability to get me to play soccer. My second year on the team, in the championship game, I suffered an injury that took me out of seriously competing for good. I lost my drive for school and a large part of my identity. In 2020, after 13 years and more detours then I can recount, I returned to school, this time at UVU. In 2022, my wife, three daughters, and I moved to Orem to be more involved in school. I’m currently pursuing a Bachelors of the Arts in History with a minor in Chinese Language. Since attending in person at the school, I have felt invigorated and inspired as I’ve roamed the halls of the university. My love and passion for education has been set alight. To me, this university represents hope, progress, connection, and community. It represents second chances. I am proud to be a part of an organization that makes education accessible, regardless of your background and I hope to expand that accessibility. I hope to always nurture my connection with this school and would love to teach here one day. 

Qualifications

  • Interpersonal Communication - Engaging in dialogue with all different types of people, with a variety of backgrounds, helps facilitate teamwork to achieve common goals. 

  • Confidence - The belief in your abilities and belief in yourself is immense. The quote attributed to Robert Downey, Jr. is what comes to mind when thinking about confidence. "I think that the power is the principle. The principle of moving forward, as though you have the confidence to move forward, eventually gives you confidence when you look back and see what you've done." 

  • Empathy - Knowing student struggles at a level deeper than the surface enhances the connection of the community and creates an atmosphere that fits with one of Utah Valley's core beliefs, "come as you are". 

  • Honesty - One of the greatest ways to learn is by being honest with what we know and what we don't. Being responsible and accountable for the knowledge and information we present can have a lasting impact on ourselves and our community.
  • Motivation - I am a driving force for change and betterment to enhance experiences in all walks of life. To aspire and inspire progression in an ever-changing world. 

Plans for Office

  • One of the goals that I have, if elected, is to inspire more engagement around academic issues. Students need to know that the issues they bring up are being actively worked on. 
  • Another issue that I plan to tackle, if elected, is Canvas resource links with classes and the confusion with Wolverine Access. Communication is key. It needs to start with us. Not waiting for students to reach out (or not) about issues. 

  • More academic connection. I feel strongly about how the connections we make, in a learning environment, can help with what resources are available.

  • More in-person classes available. The need for online classes to be available is understandable. During a pandemic, for constraining schedules, and when lacking transportation. But I firmly believe that the less time we spend around each other, in an academic setting, the more connection we lose. That academic connection leads to a network of opportunities.

  • More integration of AI. AI is going to be a part of education, whether we like it or not. Being an older student, AI is intimidating. But I believe it can bebeneficial when it comes to academia. 

Portrait of Candidate

Liam Thiess

UVU Vice President of Academics Candidate

Junior, Majoring in National Security & Criminal Justice

Instagram: @liamb.t

Email: [email protected] 

Candidate Bio

Liam is a National Security Studies student with experience in policy and student government. He is originally from Kentucky where he loved to play football, run track, golf and ski. After serving as Senator for his college (CHPS) he decided to run for Vice President of Academics. He is interested in involving thevarious campuses in the county, as well as increasing student involvement in policy decisions. 

Qualifications

  • Intern for Rep. Val Peterson during legislative session (policy, research). 

  •  Senator for CHPS (policy, student advocacy, uvula). 

  •  Editor for NSS Jounral (writing, uvu involvement). 

  •  Intern for USCENTCOM (research and writing). 

Plans for Office 

  • Increase student involvement in student government/student council. 
  • Unite the campuses (outreach for satellite campuses). 
  • Increase class availability/clearer guidelines. 
  • Increase awareness of unique programs at UVU. 
  • Bring student voice to the forefront of policy decisions.