The Associated Students (AS) election is in full swing, with debates scheduled for March 5 and 11 and voting opening on the 17th. The AS president represents a powerful voice for student advocacy on campus. With two candidates campaigning, the Lutrinae asked them a few questions to get to know them better before their upcoming debates.
Who are you?
Andrew Nino: I am a business administration major with a concentration in accounting. I’m a junior and I plan on graduating in the spring of 2026. Fun fact: I collect gnomes. I currently have over 20 of them.
Natalie Navarro: Hi, I’m Natalie Navarro. I’m currently majoring in psychology with a minor in pre-law. A fun fact about me is I play for the women’s rugby team here at Cal State Monterey Bay (CSUMB).
Why run for president?
Nino: I believe that I can make a real change for all students here on campus. College is incredibly expensive and students should be able to look up to us for support. I will dedicate myself to ensuring all students receive support and feel seen on campus.
Navarro: After a few discussions with my friends and community members, we concluded that there’s a gap in higher-level representation, especially in AS. Combined with a strong passion for advocacy and leadership skills, I think I’m a qualified candidate.
What is your No. 1 priority for the next academic year?
Nino: My top priority is making colleges as accessible as possible for all students. I want to make sure that all students have access to necessities like food, toiletries and services, regardless of the state of the country. Lately, I’ve been focusing on Basic Needs. I’d like to work with them to ensure that they are able to provide nutritious, quality items for all students, especially students who might have families. Right now, sometimes you’ll go in there and the only things you can find are food and bread.
Navarro: My No. 1 priority would be putting my time, energy and resources into the California State Student Association (CSSA), which has successfully fought for our community at the state level. I would focus on just lobbying for bills and ideas that benefit us.
Why should students care who the Associated Students president is?
Nino: The AS president is the most powerful advocate for all students, faculty and community members.
Navarro: The president is responsible for directly voicing the needs and concerns of students. It is super important for students to be aware of who is in their corner and who they’re granting this power to.