The Associated Students of California Baptist University announced the 2015-2016 freshmen senate Oct. 5, ushering in a new era of first-year representatives for the freshmen class of CBU.
After two weeks of campaigning, the student governing body announced Carlos Medina, Kolby Stinson and Jessica Burnett won the election and filled the three freshmen representative spots on the senate.
Their responsibilities throughout the year will include providing for the needs of freshmen on campus, organizing events and ensuring that if there is anything they need, students will have someone to go to that will help.
“For students, if there’s a need on campus, (representatives are) able to speak up about it and help them whether it’s through ASCBU or another office on campus,” said Ashlee Smith, sophomore communication disorders major and vice president of communications. “Being able to make sure their voice is being heard.”
The original six candidates for the three positions began the process by submitting information packets to Smith, who was in charge of the elections. The packets included a student profile that could be placed on the campaign website. Campaigning then started on Sept. 22 and ended Sept. 28, when elections started. Elections closed Oct. 2.
The students found various ways to promote their campaigns, including making posters and videos.
“I campaigned by making a video with my friend, which was later posted on the ASCBU Facebook page,” said Medina, freshman aviation science major.
The students also used the help and support of friends in their campaigns.
“I had help from amazing friends who helped me go around, telling people to vote for me,” said Burnett, freshman graphic design major.
The general responsibility of the freshman senators is to take charge of the freshman class and be their representatives to ASCBU.
Last year, Smith served as the commuter representative for the freshmen class. Speaking from her experience, she said it is important that senators are leaders.
“It’s a student leadership position so that would definitely make sense,” she said. “(And) not being afraid to speak up about things that go against the grain.”
As for the senators, they said they are each looking forward to the year as they serve the freshmen body as best they can.
“What I am most excited about for this year is just the ability to help make this year one of the best years for the freshman class,” Medina said. “I am very excited and cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for us.”
Burnett agreed with Medina’s sentiments, saying she was most looking forward to growing in her walk with God, and added that she was excited to be “mentored by all of the amazing people at CBU this year.”
