A.S. Elections

I came to SMC because it gave me a second chance, much like thousands of other freshmen looking to kickstart their careers or education. This is only made possible because our school does one thing better than everyone else: They Care. 

Hi, my name is Michael Helfand. Although a freshman, I have thoroughly experienced SMC and am ready to fight for its students because, like our faculty and administrators, I care. 

As President of the Chess Club, I've facilitated one of SMC's most popular pastimes, with lessons and tournaments that break cultural boundaries and foster friendships. As a STEM tutor/mentor, I work with students daily to break barriers holding them from success in class and provide them with the guidance needed for success in college. In my free time, I'm on campus, listening to students' experiences, inspiring me to apply my skills toward advocating for their issues.

The most common phrase I've heard on campus is, "Wait, that exists!" This is a testament to our school's need to highlight the diverse resources available and for a reimagining of inclusion within student life. 

SMC has plenty to offer, but much more must be done, such as increasing access to sustainable transit options, creating affordable housing for our international community, and, given the rapid deterioration of mental health among Gen Z, guaranteeing consistent access to specialists.

All these goals are possible, and as vice president, I'll fight to make us all feel "Proud to be SMC!"

Hello Corsairs, my name is Jordan Davis, and I’m a first-year business major at SMC currently running for the Director of Budget Management position. With a passion for the field of finance and its dynamic nature, I think that my skills and mindset would be a tremendous boon to the Associated Students Board of Directors. Serving my community has always been a pleasure of mine, and I hope to pursue it from a brand-new vantage point. 

If I’m elected, I vow to ensure that the club funding process will be as smooth and transparent as possible. As a student worker who currently works in the Auxiliary Services, the department that processes purchase requests or reimbursements for clubs, I have a unique perspective of how club proposals work. I know how much work is involved and how confusing it can be, and I want to ease that process so that clubs can focus less on the money and possibility of approval, and more on making the best possible experience for their club members. With the use of clear and efficient communication, I’ll make sure that clubs come into the proposal process well-informed, they understand how to use their money correctly, and that all processes are in alignment with A.S. Fiscal Policy. 

As the chair of the Finance Committee, I vow to make all meetings feel as comprehensible as possible and ensure that no one is left confused at the end of them. I want to work with the Finance Committee and the students as well to foster an environment that feels welcoming, and has none of the stress that money is typically associated with.

Thank you for considering me for this role, and I hope I get the opportunity to work with you in the future.

Hello everyone! My name is Ananda Zhandov and I am running for the position of Director of Basic Needs.

I am interested in this position because I myself immigrated from Ukraine and I understand the challenges a student can face when moving from another country and starting a new chapter of life. Education is a challenge in itself, and financial issues can make it even more challenging. I want to dedicate my time to helping people access resources so that they can be successful in college without much difficulty or struggle. After all, at the end of the day, college is about enjoying your education. 

I believe that in order to create a successful community, it is important to help each other with the essentials. Because of political instability, many people have lost their homes and are forced to move to new lands and across oceans away from their families. This can be challenging. I want to help, and together with the Student Association, we will try to provide more resources so students can realize their best potential in education and personal goals. 

I've personally talked to numerous individuals navigating this journey and facing challenges that often go unnoticed because they're considered basic. However, for some, these challenges are still significant difficulties. I plan to help people overcome these hardships and make them happier. 

Sincerely, 

Ananda Zhandov

My name is Bhargav, and my journey from India to Santa Monica College began just a month after my eighteenth birthday. Over the past two years, this community has embraced me with open arms, allowing me to be my authentic self. Now, I am eager to give back by ensuring that all students receive the support they need to achieve their goals and dreams with a bit more ease.
As a feminine-presenting gay man and an international student, I have navigated my identity and the complexities of college life, facing both struggles and successes. My journey would have been easier had I been aware of all the resources SMC offers its students. As your Associated Students Director of Basic Needs, I am committed to enhancing the visibility and accessibility of our basic needs services.
I understand the struggle of asking for help, which is why I am determined to take the first step and ensure that every student has immediate and easy access to these supports, enabling them to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams. I am eager to communicate and engage in regular feedback with students, I want everyone to know that support is always available; you are not alone. Your voice is important. Together, we can create a supportive community at Santa Monica College, ensuring that each of us has the necessary tools to thrive.

Hello, my name is Jingbo Zhang. I am running for the director of basic needs. The reason I want to participate basic needs department is that I think it is a meaningful event, and I think for this department requirements must contain coordinate ability, organization ability, time management and responsibility. Since I also held a position in SW CSSA, which is an international Chinese association, so I have accumulated some experience in organization and coordination. I really want to provide good service for our students in SMC. Therefore I will apply for this position. Of course, my average GPA is A now.

 

 

Hello, my name is Kalyn and I’ve been at SMC for 3 years, I’ve seen the campus change during my time here and have been involved in many student activities on campus. I am a Peer Navigator, participate in the Black Collegians Program, and have experience volunteering and giving back to my community. My mission is to ensure all students have equity in their education at SMC. I will advocate for free school supplies, workshops to advance students' skills, and access to food resources off campus. I strongly believe food, transportation, and free services should be provided to enrich student success.

 

 

Hello, my name is Stefani Hernandez, and I am running to become your next Basic Needs A.S. Director at SMC. My commitment is to serve as your advocate, focusing on addressing and prioritizing essential needs so that every student can succeed on campus. As a first-generation indigenous college student raised by hard-working immigrant Oaxacan parents, I deeply value and honor my culture and traditions, which heavily influence my identity. My experience at SMC has allowed me to utilize essential services which I aim to improve and expand. From using my tap card for daily commutes and staying hydrated at water stations to accessing cost-free groceries at the bodega participating in the bento program for free meals at local restaurants, and ensuring the availability of pads in restrooms for health and hygiene—these experiences have shown me the vital role these resources play in our academic and personal success. I am approachable, a keen problem solver, and place great emphasis on empathy, prioritizing mental health, and inclusivity. I believe in listening actively to everyone's concerns, comments, and opinions to improve our supportive community. By supporting diverse backgrounds in their lifestyles, beliefs, values, cultures, and traditions, I hope to make SMC a more accommodating place where all students feel welcomed and an integral part of our learning community. With your input and support, we can work together to address and enhance the essential basic need services that help us all thrive, academically and personally.

Hello! 

My name is Brenda Carrasco and I am running to become your A.S. Director of Instructional Support. As Director of Instructional Support, I will work as a liaison between students and the instructional and academic support services at SMC. This includes, but is not limited to, the library, bookstore, tutoring labs, counseling centers, and transfer centers. 

By serving as your Instructional Support Director, I will dedicate my focus to the student body. I will ensure that the student body is provided with helpful services around SMC’s campus. As a student who frequently utilizes the resources provided by SMC, I want to ensure that more students become aware of these resources. My main goal as your Instructional Support Director is to satisfy the students’ needs and widen the availability of SMC’s resources to students by pushing them closer toward their reach. 

A few words about my background are that I am a first-generation, Mexican-American, college student who strives to impact today’s society positively. I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and running. I was inspired to run for the A.S. Director of Instructional Support position because I want to ensure that students can easily access support-related services. I don’t want students to hesitate when seeking instructional or academic services, rather I want them to feel comfortable, knowing SMC provides the necessary resources for their educational success. I am here to become part of the support system at SMC!

I, Javier Rodriguez, am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of Judicial Board member. With a deep commitment to integrity, fairness, and justice, I aim to serve our school community with dedication and impartiality. As a student, I understand the importance of upholding the values that support our educational institution. 
I believe that every student should be treated with fairness, respect, and equity. I will strive to ensure that the judicial process is transparent in order to foster trust and confidence in our institution, hold students accountable for their actions while also recognizing the importance of rehabilitation and growth, I will also advocate for the rights of all students, ensuring that due process is followed and students are treated fairly and with dignity. I will encourage open communication between students, faculty, and administration to address concerns and promote understanding. I am committed to serving our community with fairness, respect, integrity, and compassion. With my 8 years of experience as a youth leader and organizer at a non-profit organization that aims to better educational structures in low-income communities, together we can build a stronger, more inclusive campus environment where every student feels valued and respected.

Hey everyone! I’m David Duncan, and I’m running to be your next A.S. President. I want to be your advocate at SMC – helping our students succeed by removing barriers to success and providing support to those in need. As a low-income student born and raised in LA, I understand what it’s like to struggle with all my responsibilities. In addition to my studies, I’ve worked two part-time jobs, lead environmental justice campaigns, volunteered in my community, and cared for my elderly grandparents. These experiences have taught me resilience – and how to advocate for what matters.

I’m passionate about improving access to housing, enhancing our transit system, and creating new opportunities for our student body. In my free time, I’m an organizer for environmental justice and climate causes – I love hiking and foraging, so protecting nature is my personal priority.

This year I’ve been honored to serve as your Director of Budget Management – and I’ve made it my priority to go beyond the spreadsheets and the numbers. I will do whatever it takes to support you. This year, I traveled to Sacramento and Washington D.C. to advocate for our students – such as increasing federal work study jobs and ensuring that the FAFSA is accessible for undocumented students.

Above all, I want to make sure every student on our campus has their voice heard. I want an open-door policy – being open and accessible to anyone who wants to contribute their voice to SMC. Let’s build a more inclusive and supportive community together!

I came to SMC because it gave me a second chance, much like thousands of other freshmen looking to kickstart their careers or education. This is only made possible because our school does one thing better than everyone else: They Care. 

Hi, my name is Michael Helfand. Although a freshman, I have thoroughly experienced SMC and am ready to fight for its students because, like our faculty and administrators, I care. 

As President of the Chess Club, I've facilitated one of SMC's most popular pastimes, with lessons and tournaments that break cultural boundaries and foster friendships. As a STEM tutor/mentor, I work with students daily to break barriers holding them from success in class and provide them with the guidance needed for success in college. In my free time, I'm on campus, listening to students' experiences, inspiring me to apply my skills toward advocating for their issues.

The most common phrase I've heard on campus is, "Wait, that exists!" This is a testament to our school's need to highlight the diverse resources available and for a reimagining of inclusion within student life. 

SMC has plenty to offer, but much more must be done, such as increasing access to sustainable transit options, creating affordable housing for our international community, and, given the rapid deterioration of mental health among Gen Z, guaranteeing consistent access to specialists.

All these goals are possible, and as vice president, I'll fight to make us all feel "Proud to be SMC!"

 

Every student’s voice, no matter big or small, has the potential to ignite great change within our educational institutions. In the words of William Butler Yeats, “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” My name is Tiffany Lee, and I am thrilled to be running for your next A.S Secretary.

Currently serving as President Commissioner, along with secretary roles in student government and clubs in high school has equipped me with the ability to create my own effective system in the safekeeping of records, effective communication between different academic departments, and most of all maintain a standard of transparency. I am confident in my ability to serve as not only a reliable conduit of information between Board members but contribute to a healthy communicative environment of diverse opinions and perspectives.

As A.S Secretary, I will use my strengths of time management skills and a strongly motivated work ethic in order to facilitate a smooth flow of communication between the various functions of A.S. By serving on the Grade Appeals and DPAC Human Resources Committees as a part of my expected responsibilities, I will also make it my duty to advocate for all your individual voices, no matter how distinct, big or small, should you have me as your representative.

Hello Corsairs, my name is Jordan Davis, and I’m a first-year business major at SMC currently running for the Director of Budget Management position. With a passion for the field of finance and its dynamic nature, I think that my skills and mindset would be a tremendous boon to the Associated Students Board of Directors. Serving my community has always been a pleasure of mine, and I hope to pursue it from a brand-new vantage point. 

If I’m elected, I vow to ensure that the club funding process will be as smooth and transparent as possible. As a student worker who currently works in the Auxiliary Services, the department that processes purchase requests or reimbursements for clubs, I have a unique perspective of how club proposals work. I know how much work is involved and how confusing it can be, and I want to ease that process so that clubs can focus less on the money and possibility of approval, and more on making the best possible experience for their club members. With the use of clear and efficient communication, I’ll make sure that clubs come into the proposal process well-informed, they understand how to use their money correctly, and that all processes are in alignment with A.S. Fiscal Policy. 

As the chair of the Finance Committee, I vow to make all meetings feel as comprehensible as possible and ensure that no one is left confused at the end of them. I want to work with the Finance Committee and the students as well to foster an environment that feels welcoming, and has none of the stress that money is typically associated with.

Thank you for considering me for this role, and I hope I get the opportunity to work with you in the future.

When I boarded a flight from Colombia to start a new life in L.A, I promised my mother that all her   efforts would be worth it. Thus, a few weeks after starting, I applied to the Judicial Board in A.S, but was denied as I was only in my first semester. I come back now, two years later, knowing I am equipped with the necessary experience to take on a responsibility like this one. I remember falling in love with the International Student Forum as it gave me some of my closest friends to date. After being a general member, I soon applied for the board and was appointed as the meeting organizer.  

I worked with incredible individuals in creating events within the international community and eventually, was elected as President due to the success of the meetings I helped organize. As club president, I continue to build a space that bridges local and international students in our school. Simultaneously, I worked at the International Education Center and Peer Navigators providing students with resources such as workshops and events, and assisting behind the scenes in organizing some of the biggest events at SMC. I believe that I am suitable for this position because I have prior experience and knowledge I can utilize to help our students. As the Director of Activities, I will persist in making this community a safe space, where everyone is welcome to express themselves in all the different formats through social and academic events.

Hello, my name is Louisiane, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Director of Student Outreach position at SMC. 

As someone who is deeply passionate about fostering a sense of community and belonging among people, I believe I have the dedication and vision required to make a meaningful impact in this role. 

When I moved to America a few years ago, I struggled with integration and mental health, similar to what many students experience. I know how challenging it can be to feel like you don’t belong in your community, and I am committed to positively impacting SMC students so that everyone feels welcome.

I am currently Commissioner for the A.S President, and I’ve been working on projects to address issues and implement solutions to improve student life.

If elected as your Director of Student Outreach, I pledge to strengthen communication, ensuring your voices are heard, and your ideas are valued. I will strive to create more inclusive spaces and opportunities for students from all backgrounds to engage and connect with one another.

I am committed to serving as a bridge between the student body and administration, ensuring that your needs and aspirations are at the forefront of our collective efforts to enhance our college experience.

Together, we can build a more connected, inclusive, and vibrant community. I humbly ask for your vote and support in the upcoming election. Let’s work together to make a difference at SMC.

Sincerely,

Louisiane Marie-Tardon

Hi corsairs! My name is Valeria Castillo, my friends call me Val. I’m a first-year student planning to major in Economics. In my free time I like to run, meditate and read about philosophy. I believe in a world where everyone has the ability to succeed and I am committed to taking part in that fight. I am passionate about making sure every voice is heard and every perspective is given a place. I didn’t have an easy time in high school, I struggled in a lot of my classes due to my disabilities but I was able to make it thanks to the support that I had. That’s when I knew I wanted to do the same thing for others. Today, Santa Monica College has made me the person that I am, and I am excited at the opportunity to give back to my community. I am certain that through collaboration we can make SMC a place where everybody feels included, supported and connected. That is why I am running for A.S. Director of Equity and Diversity!

Hi Everyone! 

My name is Semia and I am running for the Director of External Affairs position. I am originally from Poland and Tunisia, and I am majoring in engineering. I have always been passionate about student advocacy, in fact, I was the President of the Student Government at my high school. I want to make a positive impact and serve as your liaison between the Associated Students and our Corsair community. 

Advocacy lies at the heart of my candidacy and I will work tirelessly to ensure that your voices are heard by the local legislators. I understand the importance of effective communication and collaboration in representing our interests, therefore, through my candidacy, I will ensure that these processes are made more efficient for all.

A.S. CONSTITUTION & BY-LAWS:  ARTICLE II: A.S. BOARD OF DIRECTORS,

SECTION 6: VACANCIES & APPOINTMENTS

• In the event if any position(s) is vacant during the general election, a special election can be held to fill the position(s).
  1. The student trustee position must be completed through a special election process and cannot be appointed by A.S
• In the event of a vacancy of any position during the academic year, the A.S. Board must open an application process to fill the vacancy......

A.S. CONSTITUTION & BY-LAWS:  ARTICLE II: A.S. BOARD OF DIRECTORS,

SECTION 6: VACANCIES & APPOINTMENTS

• In the event if any position(s) is vacant during the general election, a special election can be held to fill the position(s).
  1. The student trustee position must be completed through a special election process and cannot be appointed by A.S
• In the event of a vacancy of any position during the academic year, the A.S. Board must open an application process to fill the vacancy......

Hello! I'm Gabriel, and I'm thrilled to announce my candidacy for Director of Publicity. Currently serving as President of the I.D.E.A.S. club, where I advocate for undocumented students, my goal as Director of Publicity is to spotlight campus events and share student stories. I am dedicated to raising awareness about every service that SMC offers to support you academically, personally, and emotionally. With my knowledge in social media and Marketing, I ensure effective communication and outreach, bridging our digital and physical communities so that our voices are heard wherever we are. I aspire to use this position to amplify every voice and foster connections, advocating not just for Latino, undocumented, and Indigenous students, but also for first-generation individuals. I am committed to being a voice for all, building a campus community of equity, inclusion, and opportunity for growth is within reach

My name is Julia Kowalski and I am running for A.S. Director of Sustainability! I am a motivated environmental advocate, and I get things done. Before coming to SMC, I worked for a venture capital firm that invests in sustainable food innovation. There, I promoted plant-based food startups like Good Catch and Meati, and connected them to grants and other funding opportunities. After arriving at SMC last year, I worked with “Students For Safer Streets” to promote the “Healthy Streets LA” measure, which makes transportation more sustainable by mandating the construction of protected bicycle lanes and infrastructure that reduces traffic. This bill just passed in the March 2024 primary, thanks to the coalition of university support we helped to build!  As the current primary commissioner of sustainability, I am working to implement the installation of 10 solar umbrellas on campus!

I believe there is much more that we can do to improve environmental sustainability at SMC. Some of the projects I plan to push for include:
-adding 12 more water bottle refilling stations on campus to lessen the purchase of bottled water,
-increasing plant-based options in the cafeteria to encourage healthy, low CO2-footprint eating on campus,
-increasing access to recycling and composting bins, including placing bins in the quad where students eat and where flyers are often distributed. 

These are not just vague possibilities – these are things we can put into place by January 1, 2025, and I am eager to get started. Thanks for your vote!

My name is Esmeralda Hernandez, and I’m running to be your student trustee!

As SMC’s student trustee, I would be your voice on the Board of Trustees, who are the top decision-makers at our college. My main goal is to advocate for you - bringing the board and students closer together and making sure that they understand your needs and your voices.

Over the past two years I’ve served as your Director of Equity and Diversity and then as your Director of External Affairs. Throughout my time as a director, I’ve come to understand the struggles that our students face. I am a first-generation student - my parents immigrated to the US from Oaxaca, Mexico, where they were unable to access higher education. For me, Santa Monica College is more than just a school - it’s an opportunity to learn and grow as a person while getting an affordable education. My experiences have allowed me to understand the struggles that our students face and the opportunities that community college provides.

The California Community College system serves 2.1 million students - more than the CSUs, UCs, and privates put together. I understand why students like me come to SMC. My journey has given me a second chance in my academic journey - and it reflects the experiences of so many others.

This is why I’m running for student trustee. Representation matters, and I will make our students a priority - embracing the diversity on our campus and ensuring that all students have a voice at SMC.

My name is Eduardo, I'm currently attending my second semester here at SMC in which I plan to major in Architecture! During my free time I like to travel around LA, seeing around the sights and exploring the numerous activities this city has to offer with close friends. As a result, one of the reasons why SMC caught my attention is due to the variety of activities and programs this campus provides. I’m involved within numerous activities and programs that SMC provides such as Scholars, EOPS, and the Adelante Club. These programs have uplifted me in thriving throughout my time in SMC and I believe others fellow students find value in these programs as well. As a result, I believe I can uphold the prosperity of activities and programs to function orderly as a member of the Judicial Board Committee.

Hi everyone! My name is Jinxi Zhang. I'm currently studying Political Science here. And now, I've decided to run for a position on our school's Judicial Board. My journey through Political Science has taught me the importance of fairness and justice, not just in theory, but in everyday life. 

I’m all about making our school a place where everyone feels respected and heard. As a potential Judicial Board member, I promise to approach every issue with empathy and fairness. Whether it’s resolving conflicts or reviewing policies, I’ll always strive to ensure every decision is made with integrity and understanding. 

I believe in a community where every voice matters. That’s why I want to be there for you, not just as a rule enforcer, but as a listener and a problem-solver. I’m confident in my ability to bring positive changes to our board and our community, thanks to my strong communication skills and team spirit honed through both my studies and personal experiences. 

Support me in making our campus a fairer, more inclusive place. Let’s work together to uphold the highest standards of justice and respect for all. Thank you.

I, Javier Rodriguez, am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of Judicial Board member. With a deep commitment to integrity, fairness, and justice, I aim to serve our school community with dedication and impartiality. As a student, I understand the importance of upholding the values that support our educational institution. 
I believe that every student should be treated with fairness, respect, and equity. I will strive to ensure that the judicial process is transparent in order to foster trust and confidence in our institution, hold students accountable for their actions while also recognizing the importance of rehabilitation and growth, I will also advocate for the rights of all students, ensuring that due process is followed and students are treated fairly and with dignity. I will encourage open communication between students, faculty, and administration to address concerns and promote understanding. I am committed to serving our community with fairness, respect, integrity, and compassion. With my 8 years of experience as a youth leader and organizer at a non-profit organization that aims to better educational structures in low-income communities, together we can build a stronger, more inclusive campus environment where every student feels valued and respected.