John Hargy, President
My name is John Hargy, and I am a senior Biophysics major with one year remaining at Southern. Over the past four years, I have dedicated myself to serving this campus because I believe in the power of a faith-driven community and the transformative impact we can have when we unite. I am excited to take this commitment to the next level by running to be your next Student Association President.
Campus Life & Student Well-being
More should be done to increase accessibility on campus – I will advocate for more automatic doors and the creation of a student-led advisory board for accessibility. I will also advocate for later closing times for Hulsey on Friday and additional gym equipment. Other initiatives include a student-led task force to improve campus dining, more student discounts from local businesses, and an expanded mental health program. A student marketplace will help students buy/sell books, furniture, and services, and outdoor seating and study spaces will be expanded.
Academic, Research & Career Growth
I will expand career resources and create new student-focused initiatives that helps students secure internships, jobs, and graduate school opportunities. These include free professional headshots, a career clothing closet, and a stronger alumni network. I will also increase promotion of funded summer opportunities to expand student access to external internships and push for more institutional recognition of their achievements, raising Southern’s academic profile.
Spiritual Life & Worship Credits
Southern is more than just a college, it’s a community rooted in faith. I will work to deepen spiritual engagement and create more spiritual growth opportunities that meet you where you are. I will also put together a student-led task force to create a more flexible credit system that will allow for credit rollovers, local church partnerships, and incentives for deeper engagement, making spiritual life more accessible and meaningful.
Student Association (SA) Reform
Student Association (SA) serves as a unifying force for all student organizations on campus. I will increase collaboration with clubs by meeting with club presidents to identify how SA can best support them, include clubs in SA’s major events, and use the SA platform to promote club activities. Transparency will be prioritized by implementing public budgets, student referendums on major expenses, and progress trackers. A reformed Senate will be elected by students, ensuring true representation and accountability. Stronger ties between SA and university leadership will ensure that student concerns are heard at the highest levels.
For the full details, please visit https://www.johnhargypresident.com/.
Chino Zhao, President
- ● Make the cafeteria prices cheaper by eliminating the food weighing charging method.
● Improve resources and transportation to grocery stores and malls for international students and students without cars.
● Advocate for a more student-friendly parking policy
● Propose shuttle services for village residents to eliminate long walks in the cold
● Introduce suggestion boxes for student feedback, and open a poll for people to express their voices freely yet anonymously.
● Complete transparency with the SA budget, to which you contribute 153 dollars every year.
● Improve EG white stairs.
● Start a student-based foundation to help people in need.
● More vending machines in dorms and in buildings.
● More activities so students find belonging and community
Alejandro Robles, President
Hello everyone! My name is Alejandro Robles, and I am both honored and excited for the opportunity to run as Student Association President. Southern Adventist University is an incredible institution, built on a strong community and rich traditions. I believe we have everything we need to thrive, but there is always room for improvement.
My goal is not just to bring change for the sake of change, but to enhance what already makes our campus great. Whether it’s addressing student concerns, improving daily campus life, or creating new opportunities, I am committed to making a meaningful impact. If something needs to be improved, I will work to make it happen—but more than anything, I want to ensure that every student feels supported and heard. Here are a few initiatives I’d love to implement:
Blessed Bites
Every Friday, I want to bring a small treat to students as a meaningful way to recognize your hard work throughout the week. Consistently putting in effort, staying engaged, and pushing through challenges deserve to be acknowledged, and this is just one way to show SA’s appreciation. It’s more than just a treat it is a reminder that your dedication does not go unnoticed and that every bit of effort you put in contributes to your growth and success.
423 Night
This event is a great way to support local businesses and bring the community together. I would love to see it happen twice a year once in the first semester and once in the second so vendors have more chances to showcase their products, and students can participate more frequently.
Vending Machines
We all know how frustrating it is when the vending machines are empty or broken. I want to work with the cafeteria team to make sure the machines in Talge and Thatcher stay stocked and in good shape, so you always have access to quick snacks and drinks all week long.
Sleep Pods
Let’s be real—college is exhausting. I want to explore the idea of sleep pods on campus where students can recharge between classes. With demanding schedules and long days, having a designated space to rest could make a meaningful difference in student well-being. I will work to find a practical and effective way to bring this initiative to life.
Whatever the need may be, I am committed to finding solutions. Together, we can and will make it happen.
God Bless, Vote for Robles.
Alexis Garcia, President
Residence Life– there are inequities within both dorms, and I will be working and researching with the deans, staff, and with student government on helping the residents both in Thatcher and Talge to have a better lifestyle.
- A hair shop for thatcher would be good for the girls, I’ve contacted dean hall about this and she said there’s a possibility this can happen. Girls who are skilled in hair can do things like layering, braids, etc.
- I would like to also research on bringing ice machines for thatcher, since girls must take a walk to Talge to get ice, this will benefit them so much.
- Research on adding Magonadas, elotes, and more food selections at CK2
- Chamoy at café
- Bring discussion on maintenance for buildings around Southern (removing mold, new floors, etc.)
- Research ways into bringing cameras or security in the laundry rooms, since theft has increased a lot in the laundry rooms
- I would like to research on bringing new gym equipment and moving the bikes and some of the hardly ever used machines upstairs, and add new bench press, squat rack, and stair master
Events and collaboration– Research on Encouraging students to be more involved in Southern Events, and for them to collaborate on events. I will work closely with the social VP to excel in these events.
- Squid Games night
- I would like to research on getting many ways of Promoting and encouraging students to participate in events, one of them will be interacting with students around campus playing a small game and getting them to be encouraged to participate in events.
- Student of the week (raffle) have a student explain their story and major on the Instagram page so more students can get to know people.
- Talk with the international students on how to make better events for them
Spiritual life– Research on making convocation and vespers more engaging for students.
- Have students give more vespers
- I would like to research for Southern to foster a more spiritual campus. To try and eliminate redundant things.
- Research on ways to offer more credit opportunities.
Behind the Slogan: (“its not for me, its for you”) My platform is mainly focused on residence life: Residence life will be knowing what students need for their campus life to be enhanced, and to make every southern student feel important. Of course, I won’t do this myself, I will use teamwork such as working with staff and students to make Southern a better experience for everyone. None of this will be for me, but for the community.
Heaven Robles, Vice President
This term, I am committed to building community, connection, and resilience. It’s time to create a strong support system FOR US, ensuring we stay rooted together. One key focus is establishing a more straightforward communication system. The vision is to call this method the “Southern Sphere,” where we establish a network for faster news updates, while also spotlighting students and their inspiring projects, small businesses, and outreach. Also emphasizing collaboration with different committees and clubs to ensure ideas turn into action. We want to celebrate each other’s accomplishments, ideas, and voices!
Here’s what I envision!
– Let’s champion the future entrepreneurs and leaders among our campus by creating a dedicated team to uplift nail techs, barbers, crocheters, researchers, and all others. Together, we can amplify their business names and visions, supporting business dreams crafted by students, for students.
– For our commuter students who don’t have the luxury of resting in a dorm, we’re exploring the introduction of napping pods. This will provide a much-needed space to recharge between classes, ensuring everyone has the energy to thrive.
– We aim to foster a vibrant community by hosting more engaging events. With the dynamic collaboration between senators and clubs during our SMILE initiatives, we’ll sprinkle small surprises throughout the weeks on the promenade, making every moment memorable.
– Southern Sphere will serve as an empowering platform that keeps everyone informed about
scholarship opportunities for all students, highlights innovative projects driven by students, celebrates birthdays for both students and faculty, and shares vital Senate updates. We can take a brief 3-5 minutes before convocation to showcase these initiatives, along with sharing them on the Southern monitors, so everyone stays connected and inspired. Together, let’s create a supportive environment where every voice is heard and every vision can flourish!
My name is Heaven Robles, and I am passionate about the mission of service. My strength lies in building strong connections and creating a sense of family in every community. It would be an incredible honor to serve this campus and support one another through your SA Executive Vice President. This campus is a family, and there are countless ways for you to get involved. Join me this year, and I promise to provide a team Southern Adventist University can trust!
Jeneava Bautista, Vice President
PLATFORM: Developing a campus that genuinely serves you, the students, is my goal as your Executive Vice President candidate. Together, we can shape an environment that meets your needs, fosters inclusivity, and supports a better future here at Southern for all students
1. Parking Solutions: I’ll push for more parking spots and the development of student-accessible parking lots. To lessen the everyday stress of locating places and make traveling easier for all students, this includes advocating for more areas to park.
2. Improving Living Spaces in Residence Halls: Our residence halls should feel like home. I will work and advocate to add amenities like ice machines in Thatcher Hall and ensure that dorm necessities are readily available.
3. Better Lighting for Outdoor Court: For those of us who enjoy playing outside, I plan to advocate to improve lighting and visibility on outdoor courts. This will not only enhance the safety of these spaces at night but also encourage more student engagement and physical activity.
4. Accessibility for All: It’s time to ensure that everyone can really access our campus. I will work on improving access to buildings for all students, ensuring that entrances are handicap-friendly and that everyone can navigate campus with ease.
5. More Study and Hangout Spaces: Students require additional spaces where they can meet, study, and unwind. Providing more places for students to come together and study on campus—whether in common areas, libraries, or outdoor seating areas—will be one of my priorities.
My goal is simple: to make sure that every aspect of our campus satisfies the needs of the students who live here. By working together, we can implement meaningful changes, such as improved accessibility and updated infrastructure, while promoting a sustainable and student-centered environment.
Let’s make this campus ours. I’m here to listen to your needs and make your concerns a priority. Vote for a campus that truly works for you.
Esmeralda Paulino, Social Vice President
Vision:
With God at the center, I want every event at Southern Adventist University to feel like an endless summer camp, a place where fun, friendships, and personal growth happen naturally. College isn’t just about classes; over the next few years, you’ll meet people who could end up being your lifelong friends, mentors, or even future coworkers. My mission is to create an environment where those connections happen easily, through events and experiences that are inclusive, fun, and unforgettable.
Ideas for the next school year
1. Tropical Luau – August: For the welcome party, we will have a Hawaiian-themed party. Picture tiki torches, a volleyball tourney, tropical mocktails, and a chill vibe to get everyone involved for the semester ahead.
2. Fall Festival – October: A rodeo-themed festival with pumpkin decorating, hayrides, and a mechanical bull Plus, campus clubs will be setting up fun booths with fall games and activities, so it’s the perfect opportunity to meet new people and show your school spirit.
3. Christmas Party – December: Celebrate the holidays with a Christmas party at the annual tree lighting. Think hot cocoa, a photo booth for memories, and volunteer opportunities to give back. The perfect vibe for a cozy, festive night.
4. Glow Night – January: Kickstart the winter semester with a glow-in-the-dark party. Neon Twister, cornhole, and glow photo booths. Similar to Y2K.
5. Under the Sea Banquet – March: This event will take place at the Aquarium. Dive into an ocean-themed banquet with soft lighting, sea creature props, and delicious food. This gala is all about vibing, making memories, and having a night to remember.
6. Talent Show – “Grammy’s Edition” March: Time to show off your skills! Whether you’re singing, comedy show, or performing, this talent show is your chance to shine and celebrate everyone’s unique talents.
7. Strawberry Fest – May: Get ready to feast on some sweet treats, we’re taking care of the food!
Ideas besides events
1. Thanksgiving Dinner/Party – November: For those who can’t make it home for Thanksgiving, we’re planning a special dinner at The Grid to ensure no one feels left out during the holiday season. This event will offer a warm, welcoming environment, showcasing that Southern is more than just a school—it’s a home for all of us. It’s a chance for students to connect, enjoy a meal together, and feel supported by the community.
2. Mid-Winter Showcase – January: With a large number of freshmen joining us in January, I want to create an event that helps new and transfer students feel welcomed and find their place. The Mid-Winter Showcase will introduce them to everything Southern has to offer, clubs, activities, worship, Southern Scholars, and student job opportunities. Partnering with First Year Experience will allow us to give these students a solid introduction to our vibrant campus life and help them build connections right from the start.