Meeting Minutes
Associated Students | San Diego State University
Wednesday, February 4, 2026 - 3:30pm
Council Chambers, Student Union
I. CALL TO ORDER
A.S. Vice President of University Affairs, Nadia Gallarzo called the meeting at 3:51 p.m.
II. ROLL CALL
- Voting Members Present: Nadia Gallarzo, Kareen Holstrom, Milan Rawls, Abby McLachlan, Aliza Siddiqui, Celina Ramirez, Caroline Walton, Kate Bylsma, Jack Dubos, Quentin Hansen, Grace Muldoon, Everett Richards, Alex McMurray, Marco Loza, Noah Stuart, Karen Sawouq, Myah Moreno (left at 5:11 p.m.), Leo Formighieri Pereira, Nicholas Camacho, Jackson Patterson, Peter Athey (left at: 5:13 p.m.), Sabrina Esteban, Jace Peter (left at: 4:42 p.m.), Tatum Vittitoe, Eric Krog (left at 5:21 p.m.), Andy Lopez, Cesar Ramirez
- Voting Members Absent: Mila Valdivia, Jesus Guzman, John Ferris, Sabrina Esteban, Ari Cohen,
- Non-Voting Members Present: Olivera Jovanovic, Araya Williams, Christine Molina, Dr. Taharka Ade (arrived at 4:57 p.m.)
- Non-Voting Members Absent: Christina Brown, Caryl Montero-Adams
- Guests: Sam Ramtin, Gigi Gonzalez
III. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
It was moved and seconded to approve the agenda February 4, 2026.
LOZA/DUBOS CARRIED (28-0-0)
IV. APPROVAL OF THE PREVIOUS MINUTES
It was moved and seconded to approve the previous minutes.
MCMURAY/VITTITOE CARRIED (28-0-0)
V. PUBLIC COMMENT:
- There was a public comment made regarding the IRA fee discussion which was conducted online, which created challenges for students to ask questions and engage fully during the session. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding student representation, specifically that the designated student leader for GSA meetings did not effectively convey or represent the collective voice of the student body during this discussion.
VI. PRESENTATIONS AND UNIVERSITY REPORTS
- University Senate Designee:
The use of AI and digital assistance tools was discussed as a potential, cost-effective means of improving communication, accessibility, and student support in future sessions. Students were asked to identify and provide proof points from relevant email communications, as this matter is currently being discussed at the Senate. - Vice President for Student Affairs and Campus Diversity Designee: No report.
VII. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION
- #BA F25-03 Student Bill of Rights Proposed Amendments - Ava Alvarado, A.S. Board of Director Student-at-Large (Information, 2nd Reading)
Ava provided an overview of the proposed amendments to the Student Bill of Rights, explaining that the goal of the revisions is to strengthen clarity, accessibility, and accountability within the document. She noted that several sections are being updated to better reflect current student needs and to ensure alignment with institutional policies and state guidelines. - Resolution Process Update - Abby McLachlan (Information)
Made editorial revisions to the document to facilitate approval at the next UC meeting, reflecting the committee’s discussion regarding the resolution process. It was agreed that prescriptive language be softened, replacing “shall” with “encouraged” or “may” to allow appropriate flexibility. Accordingly, the language was updated to state that a minimum of two executive officers are encouraged to participate, rather than required. The committee noted that these changes align the document with current practice and support timely approval. - Semester Goal Setting (Information)
The purpose of delegating representatives is to provide them with the opportunity to thoughtfully reflect on and assess the goals for the semester. By assigning this responsibility, representatives can evaluate progress, identify areas for improvement, and contribute informed insights that support effective planning and decision-making moving forward. - General Consent Agenda ( Action)
It was moved and seconded to approve the General Consent Agenda.
QUENTIN/STUART CARRIED (24-0-0)
E. General Consent Report (Information)
The General Consent Report was reviewed.
VIII. INTRODUCTION OF NEW LEGISLATIVE MATTERS:
None.
-
IX. REPORTS OF UNIVERSITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
- Karen Sawouq, ASBOD Student-At-Large:
Reviewed results from the SWANA Center survey, noting 44 student responses and ongoing outreach efforts. A proposal was initiated to inquire whether the university would approve the first-ever Middle Eastern, focused ceremony for students who identify with the community.
Additionally, a visit to Oaxaca was discussed, including brainstorming strategies to increase student awareness of the Oaxaca program. She highlighted sustainability efforts within the Oaxaca community and discussed how these practices could inform and strengthen sustainability initiatives for students on campus. - Marco Loza, ASBOD Student-At-Large:
Attendance was made at the LGBTQ+ community meeting last semester to discuss the presence and visibility of LGBTQ+ culture within SDSU. It was noted that there has been a significant decline in visibility, and efforts are underway to better assess and understand the current state of the community. A final meeting with the group is planned for this semester, with the intention of establishing a connection with a representative from the Campus Life Council. - Noah Stuart, ASBOD Student-At-Large:
Ongoing efforts to advertise and promote the SWANA survey to increase student participation. Additionally, members explored the development of an Associated Students requirement or pathway aimed at supporting students who feel alienated from AS involvement. The discussion focused on improving inclusivity, access, and representation, with next steps to be evaluated as part of continued outreach and implementation planning. - College of Arts and Letters:
The committee received a presentation from the Entrepreneurship Initiatives team, highlighting ongoing programs and opportunities for student engagement.
Additionally, members discussed the Associated Students Bill of Rights, as presented at the last council meeting, focusing on key provisions and their potential impact on student participation and advocacy.
Next steps include monitoring implementation and identifying ways to support student awareness and involvement. - College of Business:
The committee noted that Club Rush is scheduled for tomorrow from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, providing an opportunity for student organizations to engage with the campus community.
Several business meetings are planned in the coming weeks, and the CBC representative elections will take place on February 24th. Members were encouraged to support and promote these events as appropriate. - College of Education:
The committee was informed of the formation of a new Recognized Student Organization within the College of Education, focused on Child and Family Development.
Additionally, updates to the RSO’s website were shared to improve accessibility and communication with students. The committee encouraged continued promotion and support of the new organization to enhance student engagement. - College of Engineering:
Coordinating with the Secretary to finalize meeting minutes. An Engineering club organization fair, held last week, was reported as highly successful.
Additionally, efforts are underway to explore merchandise options for the College of Engineering to further engage students and promote college identity. - College of Health and Human Services:
Informed of an upcoming Health Panel in collaboration with the College of Sciences. Planning is underway for budget allocation and food options for student events, with additional engagement activities being considered, including rock climbing or an escape room. Members discussed strategies to encourage student participation and ensure a successful and inclusive event. - College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts:
The committee was informed of a joint Career Fair with CAL scheduled for March 17th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, which will include workshops for student professional development. Additionally, the PSFA Showcase is planned for April and will be open to students interested in performing. Members were encouraged to promote participation and engagement in both events. - College of Sciences:
The committee noted that a Health Care Panel is scheduled for tomorrow to provide students with insights into health-related careers and resources. Planning is underway for an Executive Retreat to support leadership transitions. Additionally, voting for representative positions will take place at the next meeting. Members were encouraged to participate and engage in these upcoming - Graduate Student Association:
During public comment, discussions included transfer student representation and graduate student travel, with the intention to revisit these topics next year. The committee reviewed bylaws and considered graduate student surveys and focus groups to address questions regarding disabilities. International students shared concerns about navigating insurance processes and expressed a need for support to feel secure and comfortable while studying in the U.S. The discussion also highlighted efforts to integrate disability-related initiatives, including collaboration with Sunflower, while ensuring broader inclusion of other disability needs. - Undeclared College Council: None.
X. UNIVERSITY SENATE COMMITTEE REPORTS
- Discussed adding new strategies within the my.SDSU login to enhance support for students within their majors. Proposed updates include introducing additional tools and resources and expanding available features to better address student needs.
The importance of gathering student input was emphasized to ensure the enhancements align with student priorities and address relevant academic and conversational matters. The committee agreed to incorporate student feedback as part of the development process before implementation.
XI. CAREER ADVANTAGE REPORTS/UPDATES -
None.
-
XII. EXECUTIVE REPORTS AND A.S. ADVISOR REPORT
- Nadia Gallarzo, Vice President of University Affairs:
The A.I. Committee remains open for discussion, welcoming student input on initiatives, with meetings held Tuesdays from 2:00 to 3:00 PM for those interested in participating. Updates were shared on the APA, which has successfully passed through the UC and is now moving through the Senate. Efforts are also underway to provide representation for undeclared students on campus, in collaboration with Olivera.
Additionally, UAB highlighted the YBM initiative, connecting with student support in the Union to engage students and gather data to inform planning for next year. - Kareen Holstrom, President:
Academic Partnership Agreement, which is being finalized in collaboration with the chair and will be brought to Academic Affairs for further input. A proof point is being developed to help identify fraudulent emails, with members asked to verify messages before opening.
The Senate discussed AI and its impact on student leaders, emphasizing this year’s goals to increase student involvement. Updates were also shared on the SWANA survey and efforts to engage both community and campus partners to ensure students feel supported amid current global challenges.
Members were reminded that elections will close Friday, February 13th, and that an open-door policy remains in place for any concerns or questions. - Milan Rawls, Executive Vice President:
The committee thanked members for attending the AS Retreat and noted that the retreat survey will be sent out within the next two days.
Planning is underway for the Aztec Achievement Award session with Peter Athey, which has been progressing positively. Members were encouraged to celebrate Black History Month by attending events hosted by Black student organizations and clubs.
Additionally, “Thursdays Together” continues to provide a space for participants to demonstrate dedication and engagement in these collaborative meeting sessions. - Abby McLachlan, Vice President of External Relations:
Informed that a new college-area plan has been approved, balancing community interests with zoning regulations.
The plan allows for increased housing density within the college area, which may impact future student housing options, particularly given the prevalence of surrounding family homes.
Members were advised to reference the BOD minutes for additional details. Updates were also shared regarding ongoing collaboration with the Monarch Center. - Aliza Siddiqui, Vice President of Financial Affairs:
No Report. - Olivera Jovanovic, Government Affairs Director:
Reminded members that elections will be held at designated polling places on Monday and Thursday.
Students were encouraged to vote and submit their ballots. Members were also invited to stop by with any questions or for additional assistance related to the election process. - Christina Brown, Executive Director:
No Report.
XIII. ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- Kareen: Highlight each other's successes. She got into a graduate occupational program, good job to Myah Moreno!
- Karen: Mecha is hosting a protest at 1:45 pm regarding ICE and will be a peaceful protest.
XIV. ADJOURNMENT
It was moved and seconded to adjourn at 5:37 p.m.
HOLSTROM/RICHARDS CARRIED (24-0-0)