ASG Presidential Candidate Profiles

Here’s the link to our podcast, with a full recording of the forum which took place Wednesday, May 23.

https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/mhccadvocate/episodes/2018-05-24T16_52_42-07_00

Presidential Candidate: Antonio Edwards

Leadership Experience:

I have established my own DJ Brand where I promote my parties.

Goals if Elected:

Maximize student involvement and campus experience.

• ASG awareness
• MHCC resources more accessible
• Workshops for real world work experience

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC President:

My time as front desk receptionist in the Student Union has allowed me to connect with the current ASG staff and witness their work ethic. I have attended multiple ASG events and I feel confident from my own experiences and from observing that I can enhance and promote future ASG events.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG President?

As a proud student of MHCC, I find value in diversity and equity of inclusion. My morals and goals are to empower and persuade all students and faculty to do the same.

 

Vice Presidential Candidate: Refugio Leyva

Leadership Experience:

I was a cadet platoon leader, in charge of 52 cadets, a team leader in charge of 10 cadet, and a captain for the varsity rugby team.

Goals if Elected:

One of my many goals for MHCC is to clean up the school and support the many clubs and programs, start new sports at MHCC like rugby & wrestling. Also, to start a school garden that has fruits & vegetables. The fruits & vegetables would also give a healthier selection at Barney’s Pantry.

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC Vice President:

I haven’t had any actual experience in any office but I will do the best I can, learn what I need to know to do my job effectively.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG Vice President?

One of the best quote I can think of to best describe this question is by Forrest Gump “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get.”  The students of MHCC are the chocolate and all chocolate is good.

 

Presidential Candidate: Barry Morganti

Leadership Experience:

I served Student Government club Representative at PCC Rock Creek for the “Goof off Club.”  We served the student body by providing a number of recreational areas and a small multi-roll computer lab in the student center.  I was tasked with communication with school staff and other clubs and resolving any minor issues the club president was unable to attend.

Goals if Elected:

• Ensure a smooth transition between administrations.
• See that improvements to Student Services are in progress and resources are completed and improved upon.
• Improve student awareness of their Student Government.

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC President:

As I mentioned before this isn’t my first time in student government.  I served as best I could in less able administration.  Beyond that I possess a considerable amount of dedication and strive to be honest at all times.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG President?

We student are all in this together.  That I think is the most important point to make.  As different as we all are we’ve been able to find strength in one another instead of letting those differences divide us.  We work to understand one another and I’d like to see that keep one being the norm.

Vice Presidential Candidate: Xanthys Rose

Leadership Experience:

I direct a marketing team out Cal.  I’ve run fundraisers for “Apple of his Eye” Charity.  I was an ambassador at spring water trail and I’m currently an ambassador at Cal.

Goals if Elected:

Continuity and stability of Student Government.

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC Vice President:

Why am I experienced?  Well for me that is because of my failures.  When I was put into foster care, I had no education.  But through many failures I eventually got into Cal and MHCC.  I’m currently 16 and this year I’ve lined up investors for my nonprofit and ran many teams.  Currently I’m am managing a marketing team and starting a club for PSU called Design for America.  When it comes to what makes me a good choice, it is that I will continue to fail until I get it right.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG Vice President?

What is progress?  To be honest (TBH) I don’t have the exact or right answer.  But for me, it is working together with people of different cultures to make a difference.  But, on top of that, we have to be equals.  If all decisions don’t have an equitable result then what is the point?

 

Presidential Candidate: Bob Hansen

Leadership Experience:

I have been involved in Student Government since 4^th grade.  I also have been serving The Students of MHCC as Representative of Student Support Services for the academic year of fall 2017 to spring of 2018.

Goals if Elected:

The first item I will be approaching is diversity, equity, and inclusion.  I plan on working on this by increasing the budget for Barney’s pantry so that way we can get a pantry in the Maywood campus.  I also want to increase funding for the DRC so that way we can help that students feel they have a safe place to go and we can keep it a safe place to go. My second main objective is to work more directly with S.A.B. to help increase student involvement.  How I plan on handling this is by attending S.A.B. meetings.  These two objectives go hand and hand together.  Because when students feel comfortable, happy and the feeling of belonging they are more willing to go to the events and show more student involvement.

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC President:

I have been involved in Student Government since 4^th grade.  The only year I did not do Student Government was 10^th grade and that was because I moved and couldn’t run. I also have been serving the students of MHCC since fall of 2017 as Representative of Student Support Services. I am ready to serve the students of MHCC for another great year.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG President?

I will work directly with diversity, equity, and inclusion. How I will do this is by increasing the budget for Barney’s Panty so that way we can put another pantry in the Maywood campus. I also want to increase funding to the DRC so we can help keep it a safe environment for all of our students on campus. I’ll also be working directly with the Director of SAB so we can work on everyone feeling included in the events around campus.

Vice Presidential Candidate: Melanie Roberts

Leadership Experience:

It all started when I was a junior in high school.  My junior year I was a part of the Blood Drive Committee.  Senior year, I was more involved as head of the Appreciations Committee.  Along with the additional responsibilities of being a leader, I attended retreats and field trips as well.  Currently I am involved in the Students Activities Board at Mt. Hood Community College.  In that Committee, I am the Special Events Coordinator.

Goals if Elected:

• Diversity & Inclusion-I want ALL at MHCC to feel welcomed and included in school and events.
• Student Involvement-I want there to be more Student Involvement at MHCC because this school has been around for 50 years with lots of achievements and goals and I want that to be more recognized.
• Student Activities Board- Bob Hansen and I want to work closer with MHCC’s Student Activities Board because they work on bringing students together at school events and we really want to improve on having more students involved at MHCC.

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC Vice President:

I just really want to help students and staff out at MHCC with any questions or concerns to the best of my ability.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG Vice President?

I really want everyone at MHCC to welcome everyone and safe.  Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is my first priority.  I want to increase the budget for Barney’s Pantry and the Diversity Resource Center, because I want to help everyone at MHCC with things they need.

 

Presidential Candidate: Joshua Hall

Leadership Experience:

As captain of the basketball team, it was my responsibility to lead by example and encourage others to play at a higher level through open communication and being positive.  It’s important to be a role model to inspire the younger generation academically and in everyday life.

Goals if Elected:

The 3 main issues of our ticket are Expanding Access to Food, Updating of Tech and Clarification of Signage around campus.

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC President:

The MHCC President is responsible for communication between the student body and administration. I learned a lot about leadership from the Summer Bridge program and participating in the video about it. I wanted to communicate to students that it is okay to ask for help and that they are not alone on campus. I wanted to put myself out there in the video because without Summer Bridge I wouldn’t be as academically successful as I am today.  Having access to learning specialists and other advisors ensures that we can all perform our best in class. Summer Bridge is a great icebreaker, builds confidence and I look forward to participating this summer, as staff.   I don’t just want to be view as just an athlete, we all are here for an education.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG President?

We seek to foster a culture of openness and inclusiveness which recognizes that the unique skills and experiences of all members of our diverse student body is our strength and increases the effectiveness of our outreach to the community at large.  We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within MHCC and we strive to always provide equal opportunity to people of all ages, races, ethnic group, religion, creed, color, philosophy, handicapped status, veteran status, income or marital status, sexual orientations, gender or gender identification.  We find objectification, intimidation and hate speech in all forms abhorrent and antithetical to our values at MHCC.

Vice Presidential Candidate: Red Burkett

Leadership Experience:

Our elders teach that leadership is a burden we carry so as to lighten the path for others in the community, not a reward to be sought after and won. As Senior Pantry Chef at the Portland Center for the Performing Arts and Lead Chef at the Keller Auditorium, it is my responsibility to oversee the quality and consistency of all food served to our guests, such as our signature Truffle Quiche, renown as the best in PDX.  I also to train, supervise and educate my fellow cooks on unique aspects of our kitchen such as our union contract, shop steward and interfacing with the on-site Metro personnel.

Goals if Elected:

The 3 main issues of our ticket are Expanding Access to Food, Updating of Tech and Clarification of Signage around campus.

 

FOOD -A hungry stomach leads to a distracted mind

1. Because many students stay on campus late to study, participate in extra-curricular activities and attend evening classes: We propose that the Riverview Cafe’s To-Go options remain accessible until at least
2. We would like to see a greater selection of food and drinks at Barney’s Pantry and hope to achieve this via more food drives. We can accomplish this by staging events with donated food as the entry
3. Re-explore franchise options with Riverview vis-e-vis their competitors (Pizza hut, Dutch Bros, ), as well as clubs and ASG’s ability to buy and serve outside food at official events. MHCC’s corporate franchise licensing should work in favor of all students.

 

TECH- Money invested in infrastructure pays dividends in efficiency and enrollment.

1. Because access to the internet is integral to many aspects of the learning process: We propose that the MHCC network be updated and/or upgraded to prevent the chronic issues with Saints email and long periods when the network is
2. Because the fastest network and best software means little if the several feet of concrete and steel separating you from the nearest router or Wi-Fi relay disrupts your connection: We propose improved access to the Portal via better Wireless coverage on This is especially critical in blackout or dead-zones, such as the Applied Technology building or under the Library.
3. Because poorly functioning and out-of-date software can be distracting and discourage student participation and enrollment: We propose that the MHCC website and Portal be updated/upgraded to a more user-friendly

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC Vice President:

I worked with the BFC (see 810) for 6 years in multiple positions including Office Manager and Maintenance Coordinator. Common duties included data entry, answering phones, routing calls, managing a FM Radio band (WPL-773 All Buffalo! All the Time!) and grounds-keeping, as well as training new volunteers, solving interpersonal conflicts, chaperoning guided tours for visitors and VIPs and recording the minutes at regularly scheduled meeting.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG Vice President?

We seek to foster a culture of openness and inclusiveness which recognizes that the unique skills and experiences of all members of our diverse student body is our strength and increases the effectiveness of our outreach to the community at large.  We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within MHCC and we strive to always provide equal opportunity to people of all ages, races, ethnic group, religion, creed, color, philosophy, handicapped status, veteran status, income or marital status, sexual orientations, gender or gender identification.  We find objectification, intimidation and hate speech in all forms abhorrent and antithetical to our values at MHCC.

 

Presidential Candidate: Kenneth Mendoza

Leadership Experience:

As the President of Portland Community College Dental Assisting Program, I was responsible, organized, reliable, motivated, passionate, and punctual with my classmates. Being the youngest with the least amount of experience in leadership was a challenge. However, I made up for what I lacked in, with my passion, dedication, positive attitude, and past experiences for example, Latino clubs’ President at Estacada High School. Over time, I successfully led the class with their approval. Moreover, it was also a positive experience working with people of various backgrounds, age, and different points of view. It was an honor to the President for the Dental Assisting Program and to be able to demonstrate my ability as a leader for a community. I know my previous experiences has given me the foundation to continue my efforts to be the Student Government President at Mt. Hood Community College.

Goals if Elected:

I pledge to help our Saints with what they desire and fulfilled their needs as much as we can. Therefore, if I am elected,

• Amenities for different departments throughout campus
• School recycling protocols
• Gender neutral restrooms
• Lower text book costs
• Multicultural nights
• Talent Shows
• Yearly Celebration
• Improve social media interactions
• Bathroom mirrors
• Increase parking option
• Food tuition
• Increase intramural sports opportunities

My goal is to fulfill student’s desire by cooperating with other members in Associated Student Government and bring diverse cultures together to feel like we are connecting with one another at the college.

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC President:

Having been a former President, I understand that being in this position it will take all my efforts to be the best I can be to represent the students. The skills that I learned from previous experiences and as a former President helped to better my interactions with the diverse communities.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG President?

By having events at MHCC campus, I will bring diverse cultures together, so students feel like they are connecting with one another at MHCC. Working with diverse people from different life situations and backgrounds will give us the opportunity to gain knowledge and a new outlook on different aspects of life for the students.

 

Vice Presidential Candidate: Aye Chan May

Leadership Experience:

I was the captain of a Karen Women team in the Portland World Cup soccer tournament. As a captain, I had to be responsible, organized, reliable, motivated, punctual, and communicative with my teammates. Being the youngest with the least amount of experience in leadership was a challenge. However, I made up for what I lacked in, with my passion, dedication, positive attitude, and past attitude, and past experiences in other sports. When I went to the FBI Youth Leadership Academy, I had a chance to meet youth from all over Oregon and learned about leadership. We worked in teams on mock crime scene investigations, managed time, and handled responsibilities. It was a positive experience working with people of various backgrounds, such as youth coming from different economic backgrounds and cities with little diversity. The skills that I learned from attending the FBI Youth Academy helped to better my leadership skills. Over time, I successfully led the team. It was an honor to be a part of the Karen community and to be able to demonstrate my ability as a leader.

Goals if Elected:

I pledge to help our Saints with what they desire and fulfilled their needs as much as we can. Therefore, if I am elected,

• Amenities for different departments throughout campus
• School recycling protocols
• Gender neutral restrooms
• Lower text book costs
• Multicultural nights
• Talent Shows
• Yearly Celebration
• Improve social media interactions
• Bathroom mirrors
• Increase parking option
• Food tuition
• Increase intramural sports opportunities

My goal is to fulfill student’s desire by cooperating with other members in Associated Student Government and bring diverse cultures together to feel like we are connecting with one another at the college.

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC Vice President:

Having been a former leader, I understand that being in this position it will take all my efforts to be the best I can be to represent the students. The skills that I learned from previous experiences helped to better my interactions with the diverse communities.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG Vice President?

By having events at MHCC campus, I will bring diverse cultures together, so students feel like they are connecting with one another at MHCC. Working with diverse people from different life situations and backgrounds will give us the opportunity to gain knowledge and a new outlook on different aspects of life for the students.

 

Presidential Candidate: Wakely Wolf

Leadership Experience:

I am truly humble for the experiences I have had in my life. Some of my best experiences happened here at school with all of you. I really enjoy helping an academic peer mentor along with working class as a teacher aide for a chemistry class. Nothing makes me happier than to see my fellow classmates succeed. Many know my experiences and know I am more than capable of fulfilling this position.

Goals if Elected:

As President my first goal is to re-unite the student body. Many students feel left out and I’m on a mission to bring everyone together. It is effective communication that will make our school. Too many times we forget this and it hurts us as a whole. I am not going to focus on material things. Our ticket will focus on only improving the communication that has been lost between many parts of the college, including Public Safety. You can follow me on Instagram @wake.wolf.

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC President:

What qualifies me as President of ASG is the success I have had in life. Success to me is my family, friends, health, education, and my faith. My best trait is my ability to bring people together. I believe I am a good communicator and that is what is needed. When I work upstairs as a peer academic mentor I always make sure the students’ needs I always make sure the students’ needs are met, even if I’m not the right person to help.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG President?

When I was young, I was taught many lessons. The most important of them were the importance of respect and acceptance of others. While many of us are different, we all attend Mount Hood Community College together. It is important to pay attention to the needs of students from diverse groups. WE must ensure all students have the same opportunities and equal access to resources. As President of ASG I will:

1. Ensure all students have the ability to express their values and beliefs.
2. Focus on combining people with different opinions to reach new unified goals.
3. Challenge any negative attitudes by enforcing policies and ensuring procedures do not discriminates against anyone!

Vice Presidential Candidate: Isaac Chura

Leadership Experience:

The list of leadership experiences I have had is not long, but the experiences I have had were very valuable. In my last several years of middle school I helped run a farm that helps local seniors with food scarcity, going on to get a position in high school maintaining the farm as well as the booth it holds at the Damascus Farmers Market.

Goals if Elected:

The center of my focus for the office of Vice President is the unity of not only the student body but all the parts and functions of MHCC. My job as Vice President I believe would be first and foremost to facilitate the collective interest of the student body. Ensuring the ease and clarity if engagement for students with opinions is something I believe is very important. I would hold the position without my personal opinions being what I put first. I would make decisions based on the wants, needs and opinions of students collectively.

Statement of Experience for the office of MHCC Vice President:

Much of the experience I’ve had that qualifies me to hold the position of Vice President comes from the many moves I’ve had. Up to this point I’ve attended 6 different schools, from grade school to college. Learning how to adopt and assess new situations are skills I developed from all those different environment. It’s also helped me relate to many people in many different situations. I’ve also lots of time doing manual labor and working with my hands which has given me an appreciation and understanding for hard work with a dead line.

How will you address the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion as ASG Vice President?

I think one of the biggest components in making a community like MHCC everything is, is diversity. As a community college, there is an incredibly wide range of people that learn, teach, and work at MHCC. The student body, as a whole, is diverse- as large or as small as some of the groups that make it up maybe. I believe that a key part of accurately representing the students of the college is to hear all voices equally, and to include every idea and opinion.