Meeting Minutes
Associated Students | San Diego State University
Monday, November 3, 2025 - 3:30pm
Council Chambers, Student Union
I. CALL TO ORDER
A.S. President Kareen Holstrom called the meeting to order at 3:37 p.m.
II. ROLL CALL
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- Voting Members Present: Kareen Holstrom, Abby McLachlan, Aliza Siddiqui, Nadia Gallarzo, Julia Biesman, Marco Loza, Karen Sawouq, Noah Stuart, Ava Alvarado, Jessica Rentto (arrived at 3:50 p.m.), Brittany Santos-Derieg (left at 3:55 p.m.)
- Voting Members Absent: Jasmin Zeis-Khalil, Milan Rawls
- Non-Voting Members Present: Araya Williams, Christina Brown, Caryl Montero-Adams
- Non-Voting Members Absent: None.
- Guests: Patty Rea
III. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
It was moved and seconded to approve the agenda for November 3, 2025.
BIESMAN/SAWOUQ CARRIED (9-0-0)
IV. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES
It was moved and seconded to approve the previous minutes.
ALVARADO/LOZA CARRIED (9-0-0)
V. PUBLIC COMMENT:
None.
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VI. PRESENTATIONS AND UNIVERSITY REPORTS
- Brittany Santos-Derieg, University President’s Designee, reported on the following:
Feedback was provided following the proposal of the IRA (Instructionally Related Activities) fee, including discussion of a potential “Return to Aid” policy, which would redirect funds currently allocated for fee waivers into general financial aid to better support students. An increase in club sports fees was also suggested due to rising equipment costs and dues, with the aim of making these programs more cost-supported, potentially through a scholarship model. Associated Students will be invited to discuss other fees alongside feedback from the Campus Fee Advisory Committee, allowing for a broader review of student fees and financial support mechanisms. As this was conducted in an open forum, students were encouraged to ask questions regarding the IRA fee, SNAP benefits, EBT, and financial aid. - Jessica Rentto, Business and Financial Affairs Designee:
There were no significant incidents this Halloween. A few minor incidents and medical transports occurred, but these were consistent with what is typically expected. Appreciation was extended to all students who remained safe and promptly reported incidents when they arose. - Caryl Montero-Adams, University President’s Designee, reported on the following:
A significant incident occurred in which an individual set off a sprinkler, affecting approximately half of the apartments furthest from the Viejas Arena. Three organizations were impacted, and initial assessments indicate that the damage is more severe than usual, with further information still being gathered.
Students requiring support or resources are encouraged to reach out, and any additional updates should be shared as they become available. Notably, some students proactively called in to support others, contributing to a safer and smoother Halloween weekend for the community.
VII. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
- A.S. Staff Compensation Adjustments (Information) – Patty Rea, Associate Executive Director (Time Certain 3:45 p.m.)
Discussion focused on general employee groups in relation to compensation adjustments and classification. The proposed adjustment includes sliding the grades by 3% for full-time Associated Students staff, ensuring that all employees are compensated fairly according to these updated guidelines. - General Consent Agenda (Action)
It was moved and seconded to approve the General Consent Agenda.
ALVARADO/LOZA CARRIED (10-0-0)
C. General Consent Report (Information) - The General Consent Report was reviewed.
VIII. CLOSED SESSION -
None.
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IX. BOARD OF DIRECTOR STUDENT AT LARGE REPORTS
- Student-at-Large, Ava Alvarado:
The Bill of Rights was reviewed with staff as the letter was finalized using the correct language. Staff will take time to consider the document, with a vote scheduled for next Thursday. The proposed changes were well-received. - Student-at-Large, Julia Biesman:
Spoke about transparency related to new Registered Student Organizations, specifically regarding their finances and event planning. While business-related activities were functioning appropriately, she emphasized the need for greater transparency across all Registered Student Organizations. - Student-at-Large, Marco Loza:
Work is ongoing with the Fowler Graduate Network, including meetings with experienced business professionals to establish and strengthen the network. Efforts are focused on engaging individuals at management levels to build connections and opportunities for students. - Student-at-Large, Karen Sawouq:
A meeting was held on the 10th to finalize the SWANA survey. - Student-at-Large, Noah Stuart:
No Report. - Student-at-Large, Jasmin Zeis-Khalil:
No Report.
X. EXECUTIVE REPORTS
- A.S. President, Kareen Holstrom reported on the following:
The Instructionally Related Activities fee was discussed last week, and Campus Fee Advisory Committee members are encouraged to reach out for further information. Questions regarding the Canvas pop-up were raised, and additional details can be provided upon request.
The E-Sports Center, in collaboration with Milan, is being promoted to students, with efforts underway to enhance communication about opportunities in the gaming industry; the center will also feature a flight simulator.
Feedback is being collected regarding academic partnerships, and Nadia will engage her Vice Chair to gather input on potential improvements.
The SWANA Center will hold a meeting on Monday to finalize the survey.
Additionally, updates to the charge letter will be made following a meeting with Dr. Manning. - Executive Vice President, Milan Rawls reported on the following:
Appreciation was extended to all attendees of Homecoming activities and to those who supported the students participating in the Homecoming court.
C. Vice President of External Relations, Abby McLachlan reported on the following:
The special election will conclude tomorrow, and students are encouraged to participate and vote. Efforts are underway to raise awareness through initiatives such as Rock the Vote, particularly as midterms approach, recognizing that many students will not be on campus during the voting period.
Students are invited to provide feedback to Associated Students as needed. Meetings with legislators across the state are taking place to build support for housing initiatives, ensuring preparedness when relevant bills are introduced. Questions regarding SNAP and other benefits were also raised, and updates will be provided as information becomes available.
D. Vice President of Financial Affairs, Aliza Siddiqui reported on the following:
Efforts continue to advocate for students, particularly as EBT and SNAP benefits are being impacted.
Aztecs Rock Hunger Pie Day is scheduled for Wednesday, and students were encouraged to stop by; the ARH dunk tank provided a successful kickoff to the event. SDSU supported the event with an Instagram takeover, a rare opportunity that was well-received and highlights important student engagement during these times.
E. Vice President of University Affairs, Nadia Gallarzo reported on the following:
Ongoing work with Career Services and the College Council Presidents, including initiatives related to AI credentials.
XI. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ADVISOR REPORT:
- Christina Brown reported on the following:
Students concerned about CalFresh payments, particularly those who rely on these benefits but have not received them, are encouraged to apply through ECRT to receive their standard monthly amount. Additionally, the hours of the food pantry are being extended to better support students during this time.
The Vacancy Ad-Hoc Committee meeting is scheduled for November 19th, with 15 applicants submitted for the Elections Coordinator position.
XII. ANNOUNCEMENTS:
None.
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XIII. ADJOURNMENT
It was moved and seconded to adjourn the meeting at 5:36 p.m.
ALVARADO/MCLACHLAN CARRIED (9-0-0)
