Voter's Guide

The Bengals Den Party 

Franklin Spicer and Gracie Funk

College is a time of discovery, growth, and connection. Both of us—Franklin Spicer and Gracie Funk—have found a home at Idaho State University, and we are excited for the opportunity to give back by running for ASISU President and Vice President. ISU has provided us with incredible opportunities, lifelong friendships, and the chance to develop as leaders. Now, we want to ensure that every student experiences the same Bengal spirit and pride that we have.

Upon election, we will place a greater emphasis on student life. We want to create a vibrant campus experience by organizing better events that students actually want—concerts, bonfires, winter sports, and more support for our athletes. We also plan to fully support Greek life by advocating for its priorities and implementing a system to help it grow.

Idaho State’s facilities are an asset that we must take full advantage of. In the past, the ICCU Dome hosted major concerts, rodeos, monster truck rallies, and football games in the same week. We want to restore that tradition, using our facilities to bring excitement and engagement back to campus.

Idaho State University is the best higher education institution in the state, there is a great opportunity to help more people recognize the value it offers. We want to elevate Idaho State’s marketing strategy to showcase its full potential, attracting more high school students and ensuring ISU earns the national recognition it deserves on key college rankings and lists. Doing so will increase application rates and catalyze a Bengal Spirit that students look for in the college experience. 

Campus safety is also a top concern. We will explore ways to ensure that every student feels safe—whether walking to class, studying late at night, or even seeking mental health support.

Beyond their time at ISU, students should continue to feel connected to their Bengal roots. We want to strengthen alumni engagement, creating opportunities for students to network and succeed in their future careers.

At the core of our campaign is a commitment to putting students first—before, during, and after their time at Idaho State. With stronger student engagement, better events, a safer campus, and a bolder ISU presence, we will help every Bengal unlock their ROAR.

A vote for Franklin and Gracie is a vote for real action and a stronger, more connected student community. Together, we will make it happen!

Go Bengals!

The Bengal Spirit Party 

Sky Halter and Charles Medema

Hello wonderful Bengals!

The Bengal Spirit Party is excited to announce its running in the 2025 ASISU Election! As a party we are going to bring a tremendous campaign to the table, one that you will not forget. Together, we are an experienced group with both familiar and varying backgrounds.

We have running with us four current senators in ASISU, who bring vast knowledge and experience. Along with this, members of our party are club presidents, RA's, and overall highly involved students on campus. With our togetherness, we will continue to build ISU further into the great environment that it already is. We have three pillars that we will focus on as a party, which are student safety & well-being, student success, and student spirit.

These three pillars support every single student on campus, whether its with improved safety and education, more feedback from departments, or enhancing Bengal Spirit in every which way, including at ISU events, sports games, or through everyday life.

As the Bengal Spirit Party, we will be with you every step of the way and work together towards growing the ISU tree.

Because it's not ASISme, it's ASISU. 

We encourage and welcome write-in votes at this time, as there are no official candidates.

Geraldine Barrios, Bengal Den Party

Hey Bengals!

My name is Geraldine Barrios and I am running for your College of Arts and Letters Senator! I am so excited and honored to have a chance at representing our college! In my opinion, our college is one of the most diverse colleges we have on campus! Whether you're studying Music, Philosophy, Spanish, Anthropology, or Political Science; if elected as your senator I will aim to ensure that every student's perspective, passion, and backgrounds are not only heard but also celebrated. One of the main issues I am passionate about is the lack of events and student engagement within our college! We have such a variety of talents and disciplines that should be shared and showcased more! I will work hard to organize more events, workshops, and networking opportunities that stress connection and collaboration between students from all different fields.

I believe our College of Arts and Letters deserves more recognition, and I am dedicated to making sure that happens. Thank you for your time and support—I’m ready to represent you!

Mica Kankolongo

I had to experience a significant life adjustment as a black woman when I moved to Pocatello, Idaho. It has been a true voyage of self-discovery for me while attending Idaho State University, where I have come to believe in standing by my principles. At this pivotal moment in my life, I recognize now is the time for me to take action and advocate for my beliefs; joining the college of Arts and Letters will enable me to do just that.

Although ISU has a lot to offer students, I personally believe there are several areas where it could be improved. I wish to serve as the College of Arts and Letters senator because I want to:
● Create a stronger sense of inclusivity and diversity in all possible areas of my university.
● Increase financial opportunities for students in my college.
● Promote artistic events for students who are passionate about their talents/interests.
● Encourage international students to make their voices heard on campus by promoting engagement and community.
● Improve the school networking opportunities for students in my college.
● Better the engagement of students within the Pocatello community.

I want to show my university that it is important to have representation. Allow me to introduce ideas that come from the perspective of a student with a more diverse background who is ready to relate to students who are different from me and who have a similar story as mine.

Denis Arturo Vargas Bravosa, Bengal Spirit Party

Hey Bengals, my name is Denis Arturo Vargas Barvosa, and I am running to be a senator of the College of Arts and Letters. I am so excited to be running in this election and can’t wait to see what connection I can make as a Bengal family. My reason for running in this election is to better connect our students. I think that being able to have our ISU students get together and be able to make new connections is very important. Not only that, but I’m also hoping to bring in many different varieties of communities, cultures, and races a little bit more connected and unified. I, as well as many other students, want this unity at ISU. Being able to represent something like a club, racial group, or even our college means a lot to many, including me. I would like to unite our various colleges and provide students with an opportunity to showcase their skills, allowing their talents to be recognized not only by their peers but also by the broader community. If I were to get elected, I would work extremely hard to get events that let our students express themselves and their personal identities a little more to be able to feel welcomed in our ISU FAMILY!

Bryson King, Bengal Spirit Party

I want to be a senator and representative for my college of arts and letters because I feel passionate about my own journey through filmmaking and want to allow everyone who is enrolled in this college the same fulfillment from their work as I have. In regards to this broader community, whether it’s visual or physical arts, music, philosophy, or psychology I always look to commit time toward the refinement and success in all those who share this passion for art.
Seeing people thrive in their study against the weight of the world is what keeps me going and to be a active participant in this myriad of amazing, compassionate, and dedicated people would be a privilege and an honor.

With my role as senator I plan to connect to all faucets of my community to enrich the experiences of these groups with more fundraising/awareness opportunities, more collaboration with the outer school and city population, and generally a more ensured basis for the students of arts and letters to be secure and free to explore their interests through increased avenues of expression. When it comes to this I would also like to propose bills that grow and condense certain classes up in terms of scope, resources, and curriculum. My goal here is to provide optimal and applicable means of quality education for each student, class, and major throughout their entire college experience.

CJ Lopez, The Bengal Den Party 

My name is CJ Lopez, and I am running for College of Business Senator for ASISU. I am a passionate double major in marketing and finance, and I am the current sitting senator for the College of Business looking for another successful term. As a student leader at ISU, I have a passion for helping students see and achieve their potential. I aim to prepare them for future careers while having a fun time doing it. In this role, my two goals are to shape students' views on career readiness, and to create an inclusive environment where anyone has an opportunity to be successful. Overall, I hope to leverage my platform to bring the student body together, and to work with bright minds to contribute to a thriving campus culture through creative solutions.

Andrew Vaccarella Jr, The Bengals Den Party

Hello my name is Andrew Vaccarella, and I would like to run for Senator of the College of Business. I am a sophomore and I am a business major with a finance minor. My biggest goal that I would like to accomplish in this position is more student involvement. I have noticed for the past few months that whenever there is an event being held on campus there are fewer and fewer people attending those events. I want to make it my goal, to get as many people out to
those events as possible. To resolve this I would advertise the type of  vent being held more. I will make it my goal to get students involved. I would like to add that I encourage all students to try a club that sounds interesting to them. Another goal that I would like to accomplish is to reach out to the students and let them have a bigger voice in what goes on at their school. I would take the students' opinions into account in every decision that is made with ASISU. It is
very important to me that every student here at Idaho State University has a voice and I will make sure that that voice is heard throughout the school. To resolve this I would like to ask students to fill out a questionnaire on the jobs that have been done throughout the year. Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Koby Gould, Bengal Spirit Party 

Hello, I am Koby Gould and I am running for a College of Business senator position.  I am committed to making ISU a better environment for students and everyone else by listening to the student body.  I understand the needs and wants of the students and would like to make sure everyone is heard and accounted for.  If elected I would like to; expand the outreach for students, work on effective ways of communication between students and the school, and create more school spirit.

Effective communication: I will be actively involved in taking the thoughts and ideas of the students and bringing them to administration to ensure everyone has a voice here.

Creating more school spirit: I plan to help organize and improve many on-campus events, sporting events, and social gatherings so that there is a stronger sense of pride and community here at ISU.  

Outreach for students:  I would like to make sure that our outreach is strengthened and ensure that every student is equally supported, connected, and proud to be part of ISU.

I am committed to making a positive impact here at ISU improving everyone's experience and strengthening the spirit of the university.  With your support, I can make this a place where every student is proud and is a part of something special!

Robert Saunders, Bengal Spirit Party 

I love ISU and the amazing education and opportunities it offers me. I am running to be a College of Business senator because ISU has helped me become a better person so I want to help ISU become a better school. If I am elected my main goals are to increase student safety, spirit, and support. Some ideas on how to accomplish this are to improve upon new student orientation to help incoming freshmen better transition to college life. This could include better and more resources about healthy relationships and how to stay safe in common day-to-day situations. Improving campus engagement by promoting exciting and educational events and clubs as well as supporting our student-athletes are all things that I hope to accomplish. We want all of our students to be proud to call themselves a Bengal and to show how amazing ISU especially the College of Business is. Finally helping to support my fellow students is my number one goal. As someone who has used many of ISU's excellent services like the writing center, and math help center, and being an embedded tutor myself I know that these resources are vital to help further the education at ISU. I want to continue to support these programs as well as improve others like the book bundle to help make student learning and access to school materials as easy as possible.

Paige Little, Bengals Den Party

My name is Paige Little, and I am a Sport and Exercise Science major at Idaho State University. I am running for College of Education Senator because, I am passionate about ensuring students
have greater access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Our college is home to future educators, physical and occupational therapists, and sports professionals, fields that
shape lives and communities. It’s essential that we create an environment where students feel supported, connected, and prepared for their future careers.

As senator, I will work to increase awareness of volunteer opportunities, expand access to tutoring services, and create more pathways for internships and shadowing experiences. These
real-world experiences are critical to our education and professional development, and I want to make them more accessible for all students. Additionally, I will advocate for making clubs and
student organizations more visible and easier to join, fostering a stronger sense of community within our college.

By working together, we can enhance the student experience, build meaningful connections, and create a brighter future for the next generation.

I would be honored to represent you as College of Education Senator, and I look forward to making a lasting impact on our college and its students!

Silas Smith, Bengal Spirit Party 

I’m running for College of Education Senator with the Bengal Spirit Party because it’s time for a shift in how we approach student life. As a student, I’ve seen firsthand the toll that lack of events, poor communication, and the growing disconnect between students and their leadership have on our well-being. We deserve an environment that energizes and supports us—not one that leaves us frustrated and unheard.

My priority is to keep the momentum we built in the Fall going into the Spring. We can’t afford to let student engagement die down just when we need it most. I will push for consistent, dynamic events that foster connection and build a thriving community all year long.

Equally important is communication. We must ensure that students are always in the loop and that concerns don’t get lost in the shuffle. As your senator, I’ll be the voice that listens, understands, and takes action on your behalf. I’ll make sure the dialogue between students and leadership remains open and productive.

How many more semesters are we willing to accept a culture of complacency and half-measures before we demand something better? It’s time to stop waiting for change to happen on its own and start creating the environment we need.

I’m not here to maintain the status quo. I’m here to drive progress, and I’ll be there every step of the way to ensure we create a campus culture that thrives. Vote for me, and let’s demand the progress we deserve.

We encourage and welcome write-in votes at this time, as there are no official candidates.

Rakesh Itani, Bengal Spirit Party 

With great pleasure, I, Rakesh Itani, a graduate student in Computer Science at Idaho State University, declare my candidacy for re-election as the Graduate School Senator in the forthcoming ASISU election as a representative of the Bengal Spirit Party.

Having had the honor of serving as Graduate School Senator this past year, I bring valuable experience and a strong record of contribution to ASISU. Over my current term, I have worked
diligently to amplify the voices of our students, advocate for their concerns, and foster a stronger connection between ASISU and the community. My experience in student governance has given
me insight into the challenges we face and the effective strategies needed to address them.

As I seek re-election, my commitment remains the same—to enhance communication and ensure that the needs, concerns, and aspirations of graduate students are heard and acted upon. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse academic environment, particularly for graduate students who are often underrepresented in student organizations and events. My goal is to continue working with university leadership and ASISU to push for practical solutions that
will improve the overall well-being of our graduate community.

I firmly believe that collaborative leadership and open communication can drive meaningful change. With my experience and continued dedication, I will advocate for policies and initiatives
that directly benefit graduate students. I am honored to put forward my candidacy for re-election and look forward to continuing my work to make Idaho State University an even better place for
graduate students. Together, let’s build on our progress and shape an even stronger, more supportive graduate experience at ISU. I look forward to the opportunity to continue serving ASISU as your Graduate School Senator.

Ashley Mahnami, Bengals Den Party 

Hey Bengals!

My name is Ashley Mahnami, and I am a current sophomore majoring in Nursing. Since being at ISU, I have filled my life as a Bengal by serving as an Ambassador for the Office of Admissions, acting as the president of the Future Nurses Club, and helping manage all of the university’s social media platforms. Through these experiences, I can confidently say I’ve seen both the benefits and opportunities this institution offers.

However, I have also encountered the challenges we face academically and socially as students. It’s no easy task to be a full-time student in the College of Health. We face balancing rigorous coursework, managing our well-being, and preparing professionally for in-demand careers in healthcare.

My first priority as a College of Health Senator would be to ensure that each student has the resources, opportunities, and support to meet their individual challenges while attending school. I will work toward enhancing professional development opportunities, increasing student involvement, and fostering an environment where every student feels supported and confident by:

• Connecting students with ISU alumni in their workplaces.

• Creating workshops focused on the needs of our related fields.

• Helping students understand the current resources available to them.

I believe that when we are empowered and connected, we can excel during our time as Bengals and be better prepared to enter the workforce.

Thank you for your consideration, and I’d be honored to earn your vote as your College of Health Senator! Go Bengals!

Makenna Baughman, Bengals Den Party 

My name is Makenna Baughman, a Health Science Pre-Physician Assistant major in the college of Health Science and I am running for a Senator position to represent students in health care. I believe in opportunity, accessibility, and community to shape the future of healthcare students at Idaho State University.

Idaho State University is known for its graduate programs in healthcare, yet many students struggle to find volunteer and shadowing opportunities, making it difficult to be competitive
applicants for these programs. My platform focuses on Clinical Skills Development, Expanding Resources, Networking, and Stronger Representation.

Upon election I will emphasize a need for more Clinical Skills Opportunities to enable more hands-on training with medical equipment and professional collaboration. I will work to expand
access to certifications like phlebotomy and CPR, making them more affordable through partnerships.

To support career growth, I will enhance networking opportunities through mentorship programs, shadowing, and professional events. I will also advocate for stronger student representation to ensure our voices are heard in student government for health students.

I want to create more opportunities for student involvement through workshops and events that bring healthcare students together to learn, collaborate, and grow. By fostering stronger connections within the college and the community, we can support one another academically and professionally. Strengthening partnerships with local healthcare providers and alumni can open doors for students, giving us access to real-world experiences and career-building opportunities.

My mission is simple: provide healthcare students at ISU with the tools, opportunities, and support to thrive.

Aidan Hall, Bengal Spirit Party

As a candidate for the senator position at Idaho State University, I am committed to advocating for the needs of students in our college and ensuring their voices are heard at every level of student government. With my background as a medical assistant and experience in cadaveric prosection, I understand the challenges that health students face, including rigorous coursework, clinical experiences, and financial burdens. If elected, I would work to enhance student support services, increase access to resources, andfoster a more connected and engaged student community.

One of my priorities would be to improve access to affordable study materials, lab resources, and financial assistance. Many health students struggle with the costs of textbooks, equipment, and certification exams. I would push for expanded funding opportunities and advocate for more financial relief programs. Additionally, I would collaborate with faculty and administration to ensure that student concerns, such as class availability and scheduling conflicts, are addressed effectively.

Mental health is also a key concern in demanding health programs. I would advocate for increased awareness and accessibility of mental health resources, including peer support networks and wellness initiatives tailored for health students.

Finally, I want to strengthen collaboration between different health programs, encouraging interdisciplinary learning opportunities that reflect real world healthcare teamwork. By fostering communication and inclusivity, I believe we can create a more supportive and successful environment for all students in the College of Health.

I am eager to serve, listen, and take action to improve the student experience at ISU.

Prajakta Sharma, Bengal Spirit Party

Hi, I am Prajakta, and I am running for Senator for the College of Health.

As a pre-medical laboratory science major, I have a strong interest in research, healthcare, and student advocacy. I want to make sure that every student in the College of Health has the tools and support they require to succeed since my experience as an international student has allowed me to see firsthand difficulties that students encounter.

As a resident assistant, I have been actively involved on campus, which helped in the development of my strong leadership and communication abilities. Through these roles, I've realized how essential it is to foster strong connections between administration, instructors, and students to drive meaningful progress.

Advocating about more research and internship opportunities for students in the College of Health is what I aim to do. I also aim to encourage the development for better mental health resources to promote the wellbeing of students.

I want to speak for you in ASISU and make sure that the issues raised by students are taken seriously. Together, we can improve our college experience and create a healthier future for every College of Health student.

I would be honored to have your vote.

Let’s work together to make a difference!

Go Bengals!

Jason Colegrove, Bengals Den Party 

Hello Bengals,

I am Jason Christopher Colegrove, a Nuclear Engineering major running for a Senator position for the College of Science and Engineering here at Idaho State University. When elected I plan to help improve academic facilities, enhance academic support, and grow a stronger community.

I plan to meet these goals by improving existing lab and classroom equipment where possible. Increasing tutoring resources, study areas, and workshops for students to learn and grow. This will in turn result in better academic outcomes for all students. I’ll organize more social events and networking opportunities, such as friendly competitions to help build skills and comradery in the community, as well as making our college experience more enjoyable and a little less stressful.

With your support, we can improve your college experience into something better. Thank you for your consideration.

Christopher Zazueta, Bengals Den Party 

Hello Bengals,

I am Christopher Kevin Zazueta, a Civil Engineering major running for a Senator position for the College of Science and Engineering here at Idaho State University. When elected I plan to enhance our academic support, foster a strong community, and promote career readiness.

I plan on achieving this by increasing tutoring resources, study groups, and workshops to help every student excel. This means better grades and a deeper understanding of our subjects. I'll organize more social events and networking opportunities to build a supportive community, making our college experience more enjoyable and less stressful. Additionally, I'll work on establishing stronger connections with industry professionals and expanding internship programs, giving us valuable real-world experience and better job prospects after graduation.

With your support, we can make our college experience even better. Thank you for considering me.

Go Bengals!

Diya Pandey, Bengal Spirit Party 

With great enthusiasm, I, Diya Pandey, declare my candidacy for the ASISU Senate seat in the College of Science and Engineering as a proud representative of the Bengal Spirit Party. As a dedicated science and engineering major, I believe that serving as your representative will allow me to make a meaningful impact on our academic community.

Throughout my time at the College of Science and Engineering, I have witnessed the incredible potential, talent, and innovation within our student body. I am running for this position to ensure that our voices are heard, our concerns are addressed, and our needs are met. My goal is to help create an environment that fosters academic excellence, creativity, and collaboration.

Having experienced firsthand, the unique challenges within our college, I am committed to working closely with students, faculty, and administration to bring about positive change. This includes advocating for improved lab facilities, increased research opportunities, and better access to resources that enhance our learning experiences.

I am eager to take on the role of Senator for the College of Science and Engineering, bringing dedication, fresh ideas, and a student-centered approach to the position. Together, we can create a stronger, more supportive, and forward-thinking academic environment.

I truly appreciate your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to represent you and work toward a brighter future for our college.

Thank you!

Saugat Acharya, Bengal Spirit Party 

Hi, I’m Saugat Acharya, and I’m excited to run for College of Science and Engineering Senator. I am a Computer Science and Software Engineering major, passionate about advocating for and representing the voices of students in our college.

My experience in leadership roles has given me a deep understanding of the challenges students face and the opportunities that help them thrive. These experiences have shown me the importance of student voices and the need to foster stronger connections between students, faculty, and administration. I am committed to continuing this role and creating an open and
supportive environment on campus.

As your senator, I want to be a voice for all students in the College of Science and Engineering. I am motivated to create a diverse and inclusive environment where every student feels welcomed
and valued. My focus will be on improving communication across the college, addressing gaps, and advocating for policies that enhance research opportunities, promote academic success, and improve the overall student experience. Whether that means more support for internships or better access to resources, my goal is to ensure that every student in the College of Science and Engineering feels heard, empowered, and supported to reach their full potential.

I would be honored to have your support and your vote. Let’s work together to make a difference.

Krysalynn Freitas, Bengals Den Party

My name is Krissy Freitas, and I am running for Senator of the College of Technology in the upcoming ASISU election. I am passionate about creating meaningful change and a lasting impact on our campus, and I believe that I can help redefine and elevate the campus culture. My goal is to bring students together from all programs through exciting events and activities that foster connection, collaboration, and school pride. I am committed to creating an environment where every student, regardless of their major, feels valued, welcomed, and empowered to thrive as a Bengal.

Throughout my first year at school, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible opportunities and resources within the College of Technology. However, I also noticed that it can sometimes feel disconnected from the broader campus community. This is where I see an opportunity for growth. As Senator, I will prioritize organizing more collaborative, cross-college events that not only enhance school spirit but also create a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere that all students can enjoy and participate in. By fostering stronger ties between colleges, we will create a unified campus culture that every Bengal can be proud to be part of.

As a senator for the College of Technology, I will ensure that all voices are represented in the decision-making process. I believe that true change comes from listening and working collaboratively with students to bring about the improvements we all want to see. I will dedicate myself to advocating for the changes that will make a tangible, positive impact on our campus, and I will always stand by my commitment to be a voice for all students.

Hannah Van Metre, Bengals Den Party

My name is Hannah Van Metre, and I am running to be your next senator for the College of Technology. As a student in the College of Technology and president of BPA, I have seen firsthand the incredible talent, innovation, and hard work that define our college. However, I believe we can do more to strengthen our presence on campus, improve our resources, and ensure that every student in our college has access to the best opportunities.

First, I want to bridge the gap between the College of Technology and the rest of campus. Collaboration drives progress, and by fostering stronger connections with other colleges, we can open doors to new partnerships, interdisciplinary projects, and shared resources.

Second, I will advocate for better amenities -more study spaces, upgraded lab equipment, and improved facilities that reflect the cutting-edge work we do. Our students deserve an environment that supports their success.

Lastly, I am committed to helping the College of Technology grow. Whether it's expanding internship opportunities, increasing funding for student organizations, or promoting our programs, I want to ensure that we continue to thrive and gain the recognition we deserve.

I am not just here to represent you I am here to work with you. Together, we can make meaningful changes that will benefit not only our college but the entire campus community. I ask for your support and your vote to make this vision a reality.