Presidential Debate
March 30, 2026
LBJ Ballroom at 6:00 p.m.
Senate Town Hall
April 1, 2026
LBJ 323 at 5:00 p.m.
Presidential Tickets
Johanna Ajayi - Bobcats in Bloom
My name is Johanna Ajayi, and I’m a proud Bobcat who has found community and my voice here at Texas State. I’ve seen how easy it is for students to feel overlooked or shut out of decisions that affect their daily lives, and that’s exactly why I’m running for Student Body President.
I’m running because I believe every Bobcat deserves a voice. That includes quiet students, first-gen students, transfers, internationals, minority students, and anyone who’s ever felt overlooked or unheard. I want to be the kind of leader who is reachable, who you can walk up to on the Quad, DM on Instagram, or talk to after class and know you’ll be heard. I want to make Student Government feel closer to students, not out of reach from them, and make sure every Bobcat feels like this campus was built with them in mind.
Keller Hammack - Bobcats in Bloom
My name is Keller Hammack, and I am running for student body Vice President. I am a junior Accounting Major, and a proud student of the McCoy College of Business. I know firsthand how difficult outside circumstances can make the college experience, and how they can impact your ability to feel seen.
I have made it my mission to do everything I can to empower all students regardless of what their life looks like off campus. I want to lend a voice to first generation students, international students, students who struggle financially, commuter students, non-traditional students, minority students, students who have yet to find their community, and every bobcat in between. I want to lend a voice to you. I think that absolutely every Texas State student has something to contribute to our campus, and it is my goal as a leader to give every bobcat the experience they deserve.
Seth Huteson - New Horizon
When I first came to Texas State, I was just looking for a fresh start. I transferred here from an SEC school that I thought was my dream but turned out more like a nightmare. TXST wasn’t originally part of my plan, rather a place my mom suggested, and like most times in life, she was right.
The moment I arrived in San Marcos, something felt different. It felt like home.
Soon after, I was given the chance to help build a fraternity from the ground up as its founding president. Starting something from nothing taught me what leadership truly means: uniting people, believing in a shared vision, and working every day to make something better than it was before.
Through that experience, my love for Texas State grew into something much deeper. This university gave me a place to belong, to lead, and a community that believed in me.
That’s why I’m running for Student Body President. I want every student to feel the sense of belonging that Texas State gave me. This university changed my life, and now I want to give back to the community that gave me everything.
Nathan Marquez - New Horizon
My journey at Texas State University reflects both personal growth and the values rooted in my Colombian heritage. Raised in a culture that emphasizes resilience, family, and hard work, I learned early on to pursue opportunity with purpose. Initially, I approached college as a quiet path to a degree, but everything changed when I stepped into Phi Delta Theta. What began as uncertainty quickly became a defining turning point. Through leadership roles such as Judicial/Standards of my fraternity, and later as Vice President of Member Development for the Interfraternity Council, I found my voice. I led structural reforms, created systems to promote accountability, and worked to unify organizations across campus. Balancing these commitments, including my role as an Autopilot Engineer at Tesla, has strengthened my discipline and drive. My background has shaped my commitment to building inclusive, connected communities. I aim to continue collaboration, breaking down stigma, and creating opportunities for others to grow. I am dedicated not only to personal success, but to leaving a lasting impact on the communities that have shaped me. I have made a complete turnaround from a student, shy to even raise his hand, to wanting to be the voice for those same students.
Meet Your Candidates
Note: All information below was provided by the candidates directly. Any statements, including false claims and potential errors, were made by the respective candidates.
Presidential Candidates
| Name | Alliance | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|---|
| Johanna Ajayi | Bobcats in Bloom Alliance | Our campaign is built on the belief that every student at Texas State deserves to feel secure, supported, and seen. We are focused on three core priorities: Food security: Expanding the campus food pantry, creating an emergency meal-swipe program, and improving access to groceries so no student has to choose between eating and other essentials. Inclusivity: Strengthening support for first-generation, transfer, international, and minority students through tailored orientations, clear communication of resources, mental health support, and a diverse cabinet that brings all voices to the table. Transportation: Improving bus routes, schedules, and access to key locations on and around campus so students can reliably get to class, work, and necessities. |
| Seth Huteson | New Horizon Alliance | I am running to lead Texas State into a new era as we transition from the Sun Belt to the Pac-12. This moment is an opportunity to rebrand our university and ensure students have a real voice in the decisions that affect them. My agenda is focused on creating a transparent student government driven by student needs, increasing funding to address issues like parking and accessible dining, and strengthening the value of a Texas State degree. I will work to build connections with Fortune 500 companies to reduce post-graduation unemployment and strengthen our alumni network. I am also committed to increasing Texas State’s national visibility, moving beyond the party-school stigma, and improving student safety by addressing gun violence and protecting the San Marcos community. |
Vice-Presidential Candidates
| Name | Alliance | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|---|
| Keller Hammack | Bobcats in Bloom Alliance | Our campaign is built on the belief that every student at Texas State deserves to feel secure, supported, and seen. We are focused on three core priorities: Food security: Expanding the campus food pantry, creating an emergency meal-swipe program, and improving access to groceries so no student has to choose between eating and other essentials. Inclusivity: Strengthening support for first-generation, transfer, international, and minority students through tailored orientations, clear communication of resources, mental health support, and a diverse cabinet that brings all voices to the table. Transportation: Improving bus routes, schedules, and access to key locations on and around campus so students can reliably get to class, work, and necessities. |
| Nathan Marquez | New Horizon Alliance | My focus is turning vision into results. I plan on making student government more accountable and accessible to students through stronger and more frequent communication. I want to work towards a future where the university is more connected to the needs of everyday students and a future where unity is the backbone of student success. I want to work towards this by strengthening student organizations, building unity across different communities on campus and supporting leadership development. I will also help expand opportunities that strengthen the value of a degree at Texas State University, including career readiness and alumni connections. As we enter a new era with the move to the Pac-12, my goal is to help build a student government that is responsive, effective, and focused on making a real impact on campus. |
Senator At-Large Candidates
| Name | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|
| Abriana Campana | Our agenda is focused on creating a transparent student government driven by student needs, increasing funding to address issues like parking and accessible dining, and strengthening the value of a Texas State degree. We will work to build connections with Fortune 500 companies to reduce post-graduation unemployment and strengthen our alumni network. We are also committed to increasing Texas State’s national visibility, moving beyond the party-school stigma, and improving student safety by addressing gun violence and protecting the San Marcos community. |
| Ana Maria Burnette | My campaign agenda as a Senator At-Large is to form connections and encourage collaboration with the entire student body and administration at Texas State to make our university the best it can be in every aspect. I have encountered many complaints from students, whether hearing them in person or seeing them through social media, and I want to contribute to solving those issues and make a difference within our community. I am huge on communication, problem solving, and reliability when it comes to finding solutions on concerns/ideas, and I want every student to not feel intimidated by our organization or have the fear of reaching out/not feeling heard. I am confident that I have what it takes to advocate for all students and I am open to all concerns and feedback when it comes to finding ways to make change here at Texas State. |
| Ariel Guthrie | My name is Ariel Guthrie, and I am running to be your next Senator At-Large at Texas State University! If elected, I will improve the student experience in three key areas: strengthening connection and belonging, increasing resource equity and access, and supporting academic success. I will advocate for raising the minimum wage for on-campus student workers from $7.25 to $10 to increase financial stability. I will push for greater equity in on-campus housing by addressing disparities in affordability and facility quality. I will implement stronger recycling accessibility and sustainability programs across campus. I will also establish “Bobcats Beyond the City,” a program that strengthens outreach and support systems for students from small-town and rural communities. Finally, I will defend academic freedom and promote access to diverse course offerings. Your voice matters. I’m here to amplify it. Vote Ariel Guthrie for Senator At-Large! |
| Asher Anyiam | When Texas State students shine, we shine. Our institution's perception may be lackluster, but we offer great post-graduate and graduate opportunities, many of which are overlooked. As a member of the governing body, I will be the voice for all students on our campus, uplifting Texas State to new heights. I will promote academic inclusion at every level, work to eliminate barriers to entry, and increase awareness of career-forwarding opportunities. I will use my platform to increase transparency around high-impact programs, sponsor mentorship programs that connect motivated students with experienced mentors, and advocate for enhanced access to education for students of all backgrounds. Improving communication between student leadership and the student body will bring important issues to light. I will focus on students' top priorities, such as internship opportunities and financial aid options. Finally, I will back future-focused programs that prepare Texas State students for the emerging AI & Tech-shaped world. |
| Clara Plischuk | I want to be able to give more support to the Hispanic organization around campus and be able to make them be more seen and work directly with them. |
| Collin Ford | My campaign focuses first on making a TXST education more affordable and accessible. That means expanding on-campus job opportunities, advocating for fair wages for student workers, and working towards practical solutions to reduce the cost of parking and mandatory student fees. Second, I am committed to preserving and strengthening the diversity that makes TXST thrive. I will support initiatives that protect inclusive spaces and ensure that every student, regardless of background, feels represented in academic and campus dialogue. Finally, I will push for responsible environmental stewardship, protecting our river and natural areas while promoting sustainable practices on campus. At its core, my campaign is about real and practical change that improves the daily lives of students while protecting the long-term future of our university. Go cats! |
| Erik Brito | If I become a senator for Texas State University, I will push myself to fulfill the promises and be the representation for every student's voice. I pledge to enhance accountability to ensure concerns are heard and addressed promptly. I am committed to ensuring the promotion of academic excellence, student safety, mental wellness, and a vibrant community of engagement. By improving the facilities, supporting programs, and including diversity and inclusions, I aim to create an environment where all students can connect, interact, and thrive all throughout campus for the near future. |
| Irfan Kabir Zarif | My campaign platform is based on three pillars: 1. Advocacy for increased accessibility on campus and broader disability rights 2. Advocating for broader mental health services & campus safety 3. Advocating for increased visa & immigration support for admitted & continuing international students |
| Jacob Brown | '-To create a New Horizon at Texas State focused on 4 Pillars: Transparency, Safety, Value, and Experience |
| Jamaal Jones | As a candidate for Senator-at-Large at Texas State University, my goal is to make sure every student feels heard and valued. I will start by being present around campus, talking with students, and listening to their concerns so they know who represents them. I am committed to increasing communication between Student Government and the student body and making campus resources easier to access and understand. I plan to focus on better transportation around campus, especially during high traffic sporting events. I also want to promote academic support services, mental health resources, and professional development opportunities more clearly. In addition, I want to reach future Bobcats and help diminish the negative stigma around Texas State, showing our community that this is a wonderful place to learn and grow. As a Senator-at-Large, I will serve with integrity and consistency, making this campus truly for all, a campus where everyone feels supported. Jamaal for All. |
| Jcolby Joseph | I’m running for re-election because I believe EVERY Bobcat deserves to thrive, not just get by. This past semester, I fought for cleaner, safer campus restrooms, pushed for stronger health and safety conversations in the Senate, I’ve also worked with the Dean of Students and Fraternity & Sorority Life administrators to ensure students can have fun safely and responsibly. I stand for transparency, accountability, and real action,not empty promises. Now, I’m ready to go further. I will fight for upperclassmen on-campus housing so students can stay connected to campus. I will prioritize your health and safety, improve campus infrastructure, and advocate for a longer fall break — because Bobcats work hard and deserve it. I don’t just campaign on ideas — I deliver results, FOR EVERY BOBCAT. I’m asking for your vote to keep building a campus that serves us all. RE-ELECT A FIGHTER TO THE SENATE! |
| Jeremiah Sanchez | My campaign is grounded in a students‑first commitment to serving our community. Throughout the campaign, I will present specific ideas designed to improve campus life and deliver real benefits for the student body. |
| Meah McCoy | My campaign agenda is to serve as a consistent and reliable voice for students while improving how student government listens and responds. I want students to feel confident that their concerns are heard and taken seriously. I will work to make student government more approachable by encouraging regular feedback and clearer communication about decisions that affect daily student life. I am committed to advocating for the improvement of student involvement across campus. My goal is to help build trust between students and their representatives so student government reflects the realities and priorities of the people it serves. |
| Noah Hendrix | My mission is to unite our campus by empowering the students I serve and ensuring every voice has a place at the table. My goal is to bring purpose driven leadership that strengthens transparency, safety, value, and the overall student experience at Texas State. I am committed to advancing transparency through accessible student forums, clearer budget communication, and stronger student representation. I will advocate for enhanced campus safety through expanded lighting, study-focused spaces, and proactive education initiatives. To increase student value, I will support stronger alumni connections, career readiness programming, expanded advising access, and improved pathways to internships and professional development. Finally, I will work to elevate the student experience by strengthening campus traditions, improving transportation and parking advocacy, and supporting collaborative, cross-organizational events. |
| Shanti Iglehart | I want to bring in more guest speakers for different majors. I want to try and help to add more bus loops around campus. I want to host more job fairs for specific majors and I want them to happen more than just once during the year. I want to work on SLAC expansion and bringing more people to smaller sports events |
| Tatiana Molina | Allow students to participate in community service events to pay off parking tickets. Improve signage at parking lots. Permanent bus stop signage. Increased number of campus maps around campus. |
Senatorial Candidates - Applied Arts
| Name | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|
| Carey Cranor | I would like to see the student’s rights enshrined and that they be granted more protections and rights by the university. |
| Naomi Suez | As the Senator of the College of Applied Arts, I plan to improve the state of Hines Academic Center. The building is run down, and numerous students have issued complaints about problems with the A.C. so I will do my best to help resolve those issues. Furthermore, I will create more availability for all students to reach out to me with suggestions of what they would like to see changed within our college. |
Senatorial Candidates - Business
| Name | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|
| Carlos Diaz-Torres | As a candidate for McCoy College Senator, I’m running because I care deeply about building a community where every student feels valued, connected, and empowered. I believe leadership is about listening first. I want to be present in classrooms, student org meetings, and everyday conversations so your ideas and concerns directly shape what we advocate for. As someone passionate about finance, leadership, and student growth, I understand how important it is to graduate not just with a degree, but with real opportunities. I will push for stronger alumni engagement, expanded networking events, and practical workshops that help students build confidence in interviews, internships, and professional settings. Transparency and accountability will define my leadership. I will communicate clearly about decisions, budgets, and initiatives so you always know what is being done on your behalf. McCoy College is full of driven, talented students. I’m ready to serve with energy, integrity, and purpose, turning student voices into meaningful action. |
| Murshida Shabab | I intend to work with the dining hall committee and dining services to improve the dining options and reduce cross contamination to better serve individuals who have dietary restrictions. This includes vegetarian, halal, or even restrictions due to allergic requirements. This would also enable me to improve connectivity between various student bodies like the international students and niche communities in general. Providing accessibility to all students on campus is key to inclusivity in my opinion and working with the ISSS office as well as the dining committee would greatly serve this purpose. |
| Natali Molina | My goal as a candidate of McCoy College of Business is to implement McCoy specific advisors for freshmen, advertise our current support tools for students, and strengthen business and law internship opportunities. Guiding our freshmen to take the proper classes and set them up for success is a stepping stone for a strong undergraduate degree. Texas State University provides many opportunities and resources for students, but a lack of knowledge about these resources is a primary reason students do not utilize them. Strong, welcoming advertising can boost use of resources and benefit students. Furthermore strengthening our internships and employer relationships is imperative to the success of our students. Providing students with a clear path to success, from NSO freshman year to securing jobs senior year, is my mission. |
Senatorial Candidates - Education
| Name | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|
| Alexa Lubanga | Advocacy is something I am passionate about and is important to me. I am excited to have the opportunity hear the many voices of students in the College of Education and represent them in the places that we are absent. I am also very passionate about education. I believe my peers are too, as we are all pursuing a degree in the field of education. Because of this common interest and love for education I believe that the members of the College of Education have the ability to shift the academic climate of our university, positively. I hope that as a college we can become leaders at Texas State and serve as reminders that Texas State started as a teaching college! It is also important to me to represent those whose major falls in the College of Education that do not feel as connected to their college such as those pursuing ESS. I know that I have much to learn about the members of the College of Education, but my passion for education and advocacy , and, my willingness to learn set me up for success in any endeavor. |
| Edwin Jahir Escamilla Flores | My name is Edwin Jahir Escamilla Flores, and I am running to represent the College of Education because I believe student government must be rooted in three principles: empowerment, solidarity, and communication. My main priority is gathering input from students across all spectrums to understand the concerns and goals that exist. From there, I aim to help synthesize a collective language that leaves no student alienated. I am committed to being present not just in student government meetings but throughout the college wherever my advocacy is needed, while emphasizing respect and professionalism. I’ll work to strengthen collaboration between student organizations, student government, and the Faculty Senate, especially on issues like academic freedom and programming. I will also stay informed on TXST, state, and federal policies affecting students and work tirelessly to expand internships and job opportunities. Overall, I am running to create a culture of transparency, justice, and respect—where, again, no student is alienated. |
| Kate Krupczak | My goal as college of education senator would be to focus on networking with our college of education organizations to make them more known. As well as work on providing better resources for underclassmen students who are not “officially” in the college of education yet but still provide better communication and networking opportunities for them to know about all the different clubs and honor societies there is to offer within the college of education early on as well as answer questions regarding things like residency versus student teaching and so forth. I plan on improving these things by collaborating with college of education professors and updating all the information boards within the hallways of each floor of the education building. |
| Pedro Bernal | As a candidate for senate of education re-election, my agenda is to ensure students are aware of academic needs given by departments and advisors to ensure full path to graduate. I will advocate for clear transparent communication between students, faculty, and administration as communication gaps about clinical teaching placements, certification deadlines, and graduation requirements often create unnecessary stress. I will provide monthly updates summarizing issues at hand with college meetings, policy changes, and important dates, so students are not left searching for answers. I plan to host brief listening sessions each semester to gather feedback on field placement communication, course Scheduling and Exam preparation resources. I will organize these concerns and present them directly to administrators with practical solutions. I also will advocate for clearer advising pathways, especially for transfer students and those pursing alternative certification routes. Academic success highly depends on transparency and access to the right resources at all time. My goal is to ensure Consistent communications, accurate information, and steady advocacy is ensured to every student feel informed, supported, and prepared for success. |
Senatorial Candidates - Fine Art & Communication
| Name | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|
| Anthony Flores | Texas State’s transition from the Sun Belt Conference to the Pac-12 presents a unique opportunity to redefine the university’s identity and future. I aim to amplify the student body’s voice by creating a more transparent, student-driven government. Key priorities include securing increased funding to better address student needs such as parking and accessible dining, strengthening the value of a Texas State degree through partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, and building a stronger alumni network. I also seek to elevate Texas State’s national reputation, move beyond the party-school reputation, and address gun violence to improve student safety. |
| Emily Villanueva | My goal is to advocate for the students at Texas State University. I want to help expand more accessible online education for students, better campus living, and the safety and transportation options. My overall goal is to make sure our Bobcat community feels heard, safe, and supported throughout their time at Texas State and beyond. |
| Enrique Lara | Student government is more visible than ever, and the student body is expecting more out of our members. As a senator, I will capture this movement and continue advocating for students and their opinions while continuing to build on student government's image. Alongside that, I will build legislation on supporting campus sustainability through partnerships with sustainability organizations and the university. With this, I hope to expand this reach to students living on campus. Specifically, I want to expand easy, accessible recycling availability to all dorms across campus as well as extend the enrichment of public spaces through additional stations for pet waste disposal and walking trails. Our actions affect all students, but I hope to make quality-of-life uniquely special to Texas State for on-campus students as the population continues to grow. It’s a great time to be a Bobcat! |
| Mia Ocanas | As a candidate for Senator for the College of Fine Arts and Communication at Texas State University, my priority is simple: students deserve a voice, meaningful opportunities, and strong representation. I am committed to actively listening to student concerns and ensuring their ideas are brought directly to Student Government. Every student in our college should feel heard, informed, and supported. I will advocate for expanded professional development opportunities, increased awareness of internships and scholarships, and clearer communication about campus resources and events. Our college is filled with creative and driven students, and we deserve leadership that reflects that energy. Above all, I will serve as a transparent and dependable representative who prioritizes student voices and works to create opportunities for everyone. |
| Christin White | I am passionate about continuing to work with student government to implement more legislation and policies that will benefit students, staff, and faculty. I love putting student success at the forefront of my work, and I believe that we can do more together to improve our campus. |
Senatorial Candidates - Health Professions
| Name | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|
| Aidan Edwards | My stutter has shaped how I see leadership. It taught me how it feels to not always be heard, even when you have something important to say. Because of this, my campaign focuses on making sure every student’s voice matters. I want to create better campus events by starting with student input. Instead of guessing what students want, I will push for regular surveys, open forums, and direct feedback so events reflect real interests and needs. I will also advocate for stronger mental health support and more inclusive spaces where students feel comfortable speaking up, whether in class, in organizations, or in Student Government. My goal is simple: listen first, act second, and build a campus where students feel seen, heard, and represented. |
| Jordan Novell | As Health Professions Senator, I will focus on academic support, professional readiness, and student well-being. I will advocate for expanded tutoring and structured study groups for challenging science courses, along with increased access to MCAT, DAT, TEAS, and GRE prep resources. I plan to improve communication about internships, shadowing, and volunteer opportunities by creating a centralized information hub for students. Mental health is also a priority. Health majors face high stress, so I will push for wellness workshops and stronger promotion of counseling services during exam periods. Additionally, I will work to increase awareness of scholarships and ensure clearer communication about program costs and fees. Most importantly, I will hold regular listening sessions and provide updates so Health Professions students feel informed, supported, and genuinely represented. |
Senatorial Candidates - Liberal Arts
| Name | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|
| Ashlynne Reynolds | As a student senator, I plan to work with the transportation and parking committee to add parking counters to our parking garages. In addition, I plan to partner with the dean of the liberal arts College to address any issues within the liberal arts department and provide liberal arts students with more networking opportunities. In addition, campus safety is important to me and I hope to make Texas State a safer, better place. |
| Delilah Lopez | My campaign is rooted in strengthening the Liberal Arts community through representation, and meaningful student engagement. I am committed to expanding academic support resources, promoting inclusive campus programming, and elevating student voices in decisions that shape our learning environment. I will work to improve awareness of internship, research, and professional development opportunities so Liberal Arts students are prepared for life beyond Texas State. I will also champion initiatives that enhance campus belonging, from cultural events to mental‑health‑centered programming. Above all, I will serve with integrity, consistency, and a genuine commitment to listening. As your senator, I will ensure that the diverse perspectives within the College of Liberal Arts are not only heard but actively reflected in Student Government action. |
Senatorial Candidates - Science & Engineering
| Name | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|
| Ashley Caba | As a candidate, I want to put an emphasis on improving academic opportunities for students apart of the college of science and engineering. I will advocate for easier access to healthcare resources including condoms, Plan B, and expanded access to pads and tampons. I strongly want to push for more guest speakers, especially alumni who have been a part of the science and engineering, healthcare, and tech majors. I would like to step away from the “party school” stigma by updating the Texas State website with helpful information about the academic opportunities and really bring attention to the research done by Texas State professors. Additionally, I would like to advocate for improved campus environment and safety by prioritizing sustainable solar powered infrastructure across along common pathways on campus, additional trashcans in areas where littering is common, and required freshman advisor check ins for academic support in struggling students. |
| Belle Porth | As senator of the STEM College, I want to highlight the Financial Aid opportunities within our college, ensure all areas of STEM are represented and showcased at TXST and highlight the hard-working women in STEM fields of our university. |
| Enzo Taverna | I will try to promote the explanation of the engineering and science to their own specific colleges. More selection of majors in the science and engineering college. I want to allow more available study spaces for engineering students with more whiteboards. More student involvement in engineering along with more specific clubs for more participation. |
| Seth Lynch | I want to bring benefits specifically to the school of engineering. Promoting safety, affordable dining options, increase employment post-graduation and more. For the whole university I am advocating for cheaper off campus housing and more efficient use of commuting assets. |
Senatorial Candidates - Transfer
| Name | Campaign Agenda |
|---|---|
| A’cya Narcisse | At texas state university transfer students deserve full integration into campus life not just enrollment. My campaign centers on Transfer Visibility & Belonging. I will advocate for structured transition support, including a dedicated transfer orientation follow-up and a Transfer Welcome Week track to ensure continued engagement beyond a single day. To build community, I will support monthly Transfer Mixers hosted by Student Government and a peer mentorship program pairing upperclass transfer students with incoming transfers. I will also push for stronger promotion and accessibility of transfer-specific campus resources so students are fully aware of the support systems available to them. |