A.S. Elections

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” ----Nelson Mandela

As an international student who has studied across different educational systems, I understand how overwhelming it can feel to adapt academically while navigating college life at the same time. From language barriers to unfamiliar teaching styles, I know firsthand how important accessible academic support can be to a student’s confidence and success.

I am not someone who waits for problems to solve themselves. I actively look for ways to improve systems and help students feel more supported.

As the co-founder and lead organizer of a student business club with 80+ members, I organized collaborative projects, fundraising initiatives, and peer-centered activities that brought students together through shared goals. These experiences strengthened my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills--qualities I hope to bring to Associated Students.

As Director of Instructional Support, I want to strengthen awareness and accessibility of academic resources including tutoring labs, transfer centers, counseling services, and Supplemental Instruction programs. I also hope to organize more peer study sessions and review events before midterms and finals so students feel academically supported, connected, and better prepared for success.

Students should not have to struggle alone to succeed.

Hello student body! My name is Zoë Linkins, and I would be delighted to serve as your Secretary for Associated Students. I believe that my experiences; living and growing up in Washington D.C., serving in my high school’s student government, and yes, even delegating tasks to my younger siblings, have genuinely prepared me for this role.

As an engineering student, I know that documentation and precision aren’t optional, if something isn’t recorded correctly, the whole project suffers. I bring that same focuses and attention to detail to how I communicate and organize. It’s never just about me, it’s about the team, the goal, and the people counting on you. I carry that mindset into everything I do.

I have a deep passion for outreach, and as your Secretary, I want to make A.S. meetings and decisions more accessible, making sure meeting notes are clear and posted where students can actually find them, and creating a simple way for students to submit concerns and know they were genuinely heard.

I’ll be honest, my start at SMC wasn’t easy. The transition from high school to college hit me harder than I expected. But because of the resources and the encouraging community here, I found my footing. That experience is exactly why I’m running. To be part of the support system for students going through that same adjustment right now.

My background has shaped who I am as a leader. I’ve worked in engineering labs at Virginia Tech and Georgetown University, served youth at local recreation centers and Boys & Girls Clubs, led my high school’s Black Student Union as president, and contributed to the DC Breastfeeding Coalition. Each opportunity taught me that open doors mean nothing if we don’t hold them open for others.

SMC helped me grow into a confident, prepared student and now it’s my turn to give back. If you give me the honor of serving as your Secretary, I promise to show up, communicate clearly, and make sure your voices are always at the center of every decision.

So let's do something now—together. Vote Zoë for Secretary.

Hi everyone! My name is Dasha, and I’m running for Director of Outreach. I really want to help students feel more connected at SMC and make campus life more fun and welcoming for everyone. I know college can sometimes feel stressful or overwhelming, especially for new students, so I want to help create an environment where people feel included and comfortable getting involved.

I’m a very social, friendly, and hardworking person, and I love meeting new people and working in teams. I also enjoy helping others and bringing positive energy into the community. As Director of Outreach, I would work on promoting events better, encouraging more students to participate, and helping students stay informed about opportunities on campus. I want more people to feel excited about being involved in student life.

I also think it’s important to listen to students’ ideas and make sure everyone feels heard. I would love the chance to represent students, meet more people across campus, and help make SMC a stronger and more connected community.

Thank you so much for your support! 💙

Joining Santa Monica College in the summer of 2025, I realized just how much this school supports its students and is dedicated to helping students achieve success. As the student trustee, I would make it a priority that all students feel they have the tools to succeed and that their voices are heard in the decisions that affect them. I will act as the liaison between the Board of Trustees and the Associated Student Directors in order to continuously improve our school and provide more opportunities for students. I hope to help students reach their goals at this school, whether it's the transfer process, academic degrees, or career certificates. I plan to build on our current programs, such as the Disabled Student Programs and Services, The Center for Wellness and Wellbeing, and The Student Equity Center, to ensure that all students feel they have resources and assistance in reaching their goals. I would make it a goal to increase student awareness of the numerous events, clubs, and ways to find belonging at our community college. I believe the success of the students is determined by how connected and aware the staff is of the student body and what we need to be successful. I would be honored to help bridge the gap between the Board and the students of Santa Monica College.

I am running as your A.S. President, along with my fellow team, to ensure every student at SMC feels empowered to be their best self.
    This past year I worked as Director of Budget Management where I personally saw the dedication students bring to SMC. I have also seen how difficult it can be to navigate the systems meant to support them. Students invest time, energy, and care into their ideas, and the process should not feel overwhelming. Instead students should feel empowered to voice their thoughts and even objections. As your President, I will work to ensure that SMC is a campus where students truly feel supported, heard and empowered. 
     I understand that students live intersectional lives and are not defined by one role, but by many, and A.S. should support that. My goal is to make resources more visible and connected so no student misses opportunities simply because they weren’t aware of them. To do this I want to  strengthen awareness of programs like Adelante, Law Pathways, and DSP, alongside services like the Wellness Center, and Basic Needs. Lastly, one of the atmospheres I want to create is one that acknowledges the need for support in adverse situations like assault, or even a place to come when you feel lost. 
    As your President, I want A.S. to be a place where students think of first whether they’re looking for support, resources, or a space to bring forward their ideas.

Leading with both the head and the heart. In a time when our world is marked by division, there is a responsibility to do things differently—to create a community where people feel loved and confident in who they are.

There is an adage that has held across every society, and one I want to bring to life here at SMC: “Only
when it is dark enough can we see the stars.” Our campus can be filled with the light of hundreds of stars through compassionate leadership, with students who feel empowered, supported, and unafraid to stand up for what they believe in.

Because no matter where you come from, what you look like, or who you love, this campus is yours—a place you can call a second home. What differentiates us from other community colleges is the beautiful melting pot of backgrounds we are made of—Hispanic or Indigenous, undocumented, part of the LGBTQ+ community, international, religious or nonreligious, abled or disabled, younger or older—it’s
time we remember why we chose SMC to begin with, and use all it has to offer as a foundation to advance into our next stage of life.

In times of institutional uncertainty, I will do everything in my power to protect these resources. Leadership is never about one vision taking precedence over others, and that means working with anyone, regardless of perspective, to better serve you, because it’s all about you.

I will lead with both the head and the heart, pushing Big IDEAS Forward

A.S. CONSTITUTION:  SECTION 6: VACANCIES AND APPOINTMENTS: 

(1) In the event if any position(s) is vacant during the general A.S. election, a special A.S. election can be held to fill the position(s).

a. The student trustee position must be completed through a special A.S. election process and cannot be appointed by A.S. 

Hey everyone,

I'm Takara Yaegashi, and I'm running for A.S. Director of Budget Management. No cheese intended—I promise.

We've all been there: hitting up a club event, activities, or workshops could have been funded by A.S. money. Those moments make campus feel alive, right? I've benefited just like you, from free snacks to those late-night study areas.

But let's be real—the funding process? It's like trying to decode a physics problem on no sleep. Not always straightforward. I want to fix that: make it simpler, clearer, so any club or student idea gets a fair shot without the headache.

Look, forget the fluffy talk. We just need someone solid who gets budgets and won't mess it up. I've got the coordination and organization game, and I'm all in to make A.S. work for us.

My name is Gregory Hawthorne, and I’m running for the position of Director of Activities for Spring 2026 As a nontraditional student, a student leader, as well as a creative and community advocate with a background in photojournalism and storytelling, I believe in the transformative power of bringing people together—not just through events, but through meaningful connections.

My campaign is centered around a bold vision: transforming the role of Director of Activities into Director of Community. While events are important, I firmly believe that the true impact lies in building belonging, collaboration, and shared purpose. It is my belief that we live in a time where many students may feel disconnected, I recognize community as one of the most potent solutions.

I also prioritize honesty in my leadership. I’ve faced failures in my life, including here at SMC, but I don’t view them as the end—I see them as opportunities for growth. I want to convey that failure doesn’t define you; it’s what you do next that truly matters. Setbacks don’t define you; what you do afterward does. Community and strong mentors are what helped turn my failures around.

I bring creativity, resilience, and a people-first mindset to all my endeavors, I’m committed to creating a campus where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. Your wins are also my wins.

Vote for me—because community isn’t just a goal; it’s the foundation SMC needs.

A.S. CONSTITUTION:  SECTION 6: VACANCIES AND APPOINTMENTS: 

(1) In the event if any position(s) is vacant during the general A.S. election, a special A.S. election can be held to fill the position(s).

a. The student trustee position must be completed through a special A.S. election process and cannot be appointed by A.S. 

I am Jaqueline, an aspiring midwife and nursing major, former foster youth, young mother, and Hispanic woman at Santa Monica College. I offer a perspective shaped by perseverance, resilience, and a strong commitment to equity and diversity. My experiences have shown me the importance of having access to an environment where students are seen, heard, and empowered to succeed.
I have actively used my voice and background to advocate for underrepresented communities, such as foster youth and young mothers. I have spoken on a podcast by The Imprint, advocating for former foster youth and young mothers, been featured in a newsletter through First Place for Youth sharing my experience as a former foster youth, and worked to gather information for the organization Stepping Forward LA to support others with similar backgrounds. Additionally, I was honored to be a panelist at a Breastfeed LA conference, where I shared my experience as a young mother to uplift and educate others. These opportunities have strengthened my ability to communicate, connect, and advocate effectively.
As Director of Equity and Diversity, I aim to create an inclusive campus environment by amplifying student voices, increasing awareness of available resources, and advocating for communities that are often overlooked. I strive to create the same sense of support and belonging that has helped me continue my educational and life goals.
With my experiences and dedication, I am confident in my ability to serve as a strong advocate for equity and diversity at Santa Monica College.

I am running for Director of External Affairs because students deserve someone who not only speaks, but also takes action.

Through my work with LAFLA, I supported individuals facing eviction, people who were unheard and vulnerable to losing their homes. I also worked at a personal injury law firm, where I saw how easily people can be treated unfairly when they do not know their rights. These experiences showed me that advocacy is essential.

As an immigrant, I understand how difficult it can be to navigate systems that are not built for you. I know what it feels like to search for your voice, and I want every student at SMC to feel heard.

In this role, I will focus on real impact by understanding laws that affect students, representing our voices to local leaders, organizing legislative visits, and creating opportunities for civic engagement. I will also work closely with student organizations to make sure their concerns are taken seriously.

I am determined and not afraid to speak up. I will stand for you and take action.

Hello, my name is Annabelle Garcia, and I am running for Director of Basic Needs because I believe every student deserves support, resources, and to feel like they are not alone. Recently, I have seen how many students are struggling with things that are not luxuries, but necessities, such as affordable housing, food, and mental health. Many students are balancing school, work, and family responsibilities, and that can be overwhelming and lead to burnout. I understand this because I am also a student who works while going to school and understands the stress and responsibilities that many students carry.
I am currently a Biology major, and although I am still exploring my future career, I know that I want to make a difference in the world by helping people. Through my CNA training, I learned the importance of listening, being patient, and supporting people during difficult times. I want to bring those same qualities to this position.
If elected, I want to focus on helping students find housing and basic needs resources, promoting mental health support, and making sure studnents know that they are not alone and promoting mental health support, and making sure students know that they are not alone and that there are people on campus who truly want to support them. I want to be someone students feel comfortable talking to and someone who will listen to their needs and advocate for them. 
If elected, I want to focus on helping students find housing and basic needs resources, promoting mental health support, and making sure students know that they are not alone and that there are people on campus who truly want to support them. I want to be someone students feel comfortable talking to and someone who will listen to their needs and advocate for them.

A.S. CONSTITUTION:  SECTION 6: VACANCIES AND APPOINTMENTS: 

(1) In the event if any position(s) is vacant during the general A.S. election, a special A.S. election can be held to fill the position(s).

a. The student trustee position must be completed through a special A.S. election process and cannot be appointed by A.S. 

I have seen how much it matters when someone takes the time to point you in the right direction. I want to be that someone, which is why I am running for Director of Publicity.
This year I have been at tables, in group chats, and on social media talking with students who are juggling work, family, money, immigration status, long commutes, and transfer stress. I know how hard it is to keep up when you are exhausted or do not know where to start. I want to make student life easier by making information clear, putting resources in one place, and making sure A.S. listens and responds when you tell us what you need. Through my work with the Admissions Office communications team on the SMC GO app, I have helped make it more useful and student friendly, so important updates and support are easier to find. My research experiences in NASA’s L SPACE and USC SHINE have pushed me to solve real problems with a team and stay calm under pressure. Not only have I continued growing as a leader through previously being in A.S., I have also participated in conferences across the country where I learned how to better advocate for student voices.
Your time at SMC should feel less confusing and I am here to guide you. I want every student to feel comfortable speaking up and know where to go for help and see that their voice can change things on this campus.

Hello everyone! My name is Usmonzoda Muhammad. I am running for Director of Sustainability for Associated Students.
As a member of the Scholars Program, President of the Central Asian Student Association, Vice President of the Eco-Action Club, an Associated Students Commissioner, a student worker in the Basic Needs Department (Bodega), and a member of the AGS Honor Society, I have been deeply involved in our campus community. Through these experiences, I have developed not only strong leadership skills but also a deep sense of responsibility to serve and support our students.
My involvement across different organizations has shown me the importance of collaboration and the impact we can create when we work together. I have actively contributed to initiatives that promote community engagement, resource accessibility, environmental awareness, and meaningful connections, further strengthening my commitment to sustainability.
If elected as Director of Sustainability, I will organize engaging and educational events, promote environmentally responsible practices, and collaborate with students, clubs, and campus departments to create meaningful and lasting change. I will work to ensure that sustainability is not just an idea, but a practical and accessible part of everyday student life.
Additionally, I aim to raise awareness about simple yet impactful ways students can live more sustainably both on and off campus. By encouraging participation and creating opportunities for involvement, I hope to build a campus culture where sustainability is visible and action-driven.
My goal is clear: to guide the SMC community toward a more sustainable future while making the process engaging and enjoyable for everyone.

A.S. CONSTITUTION:  SECTION 6: VACANCIES AND APPOINTMENTS: 

(1) In the event if any position(s) is vacant during the general A.S. election, a special A.S. election can be held to fill the position(s).

a. The student trustee position must be completed through a special A.S. election process and cannot be appointed by A.S. 

“What’s the most important thing to you?”— That’s the question my political science professor interrupted his own lecture on the first day of class to drop on me. I made several babbling attempts at a quick response before asking him to circle back around. After a few moments of contemplation and hearing some of my peers’ genuine, yet rather generic responses like “my dog” and “family” over and over, it totally dawned on me… The most important thing to me is JUSTICE. 
 
Hello SMC sisters and brothers, my name is Lloyd Dawes and I’m running to represent you on the A.S. Judicial Board. Starting as a 30-year-old first-year here last fall, it goes without saying that my path has not been a very conventional one. Then again… none of our journeys are, because we’re all perfectly unique. 
 
I’m running because for as long as I can remember, the bane of my existence has been the prevalence of unfairness, and the many instances of justice not rightfully being served. That’s actually why/how I find myself here today as a pre-law poli sci major who’s pursuing a career in constitutional law.
 
If elected, tis my aim and determination to hold A.S. Directors and all Representatives on behalf of the student body up to the virtues and standards of our SMC Constitution and By-Laws.
 
I will represent you on the Judicial Board just as I represent myself: with pride, professionalism, positivity, and great purpose. Thank you for your consideration and hopefully, your VOTE!

A.S. CONSTITUTION:  SECTION 6: VACANCIES AND APPOINTMENTS: 

(1) In the event if any position(s) is vacant during the general A.S. election, a special A.S. election can be held to fill the position(s).

a. The student trustee position must be completed through a special A.S. election process and cannot be appointed by A.S. 

A.S. CONSTITUTION:  SECTION 6: VACANCIES AND APPOINTMENTS: 

(1) In the event if any position(s) is vacant during the general A.S. election, a special A.S. election can be held to fill the position(s).

a. The student trustee position must be completed through a special A.S. election process and cannot be appointed by A.S.