Why are you running in the ASUO Election?
I am running for ASUO Senate because I believe community is a huge part of the student experience, but not everyone feels like they have access to it. As an immigrant, I know how isolating it can feel to navigate unfamiliar systems on your own. That experience shaped how I see community and why I care about making sure students feel supported. My name is Ava Momtazi (she/her), and I am a second-year student majoring in Anthropology and Spanish. In high school, I mentored a student who was extremely shy and lacked confidence. Over time, I watched them grow more secure and start believing in their own potential. By the end of the year, they were ready to take on high school with confidence and even joined the wrestling team, something that once felt completely out of reach. Watching that growth showed me how much of a difference support and community can make. That’s what motivates me to run. I want to help create spaces where students feel supported, especially when they are struggling or unsure of where they belong.
As one of the most front facing parts of ASUO, how do you plan on making these interactions as positive as possible for students?
I plan to make Senate Hearings a positive experience by leading with empathy, patience, and understanding. I know how intimidating it can feel to ask for funding because I have been in that position myself. When I requested emergency funds during a tragedy within my community, I was nervous and unsure of what to expect. However, the kindness and patience of the Senate completely changed that experience for me. I felt comfortable because I was not rushed, I was listened to, and I was met with empathy. The Senators not only supported me financially, but also took the time to offer additional resources and guidance. That interaction showed me how impactful these conversations can be when they are approached with care. Because of that experience, I want to create the same environment for other students. I would ensure that every organization feels heard, respected, and supported, especially in moments when they may already feel vulnerable.
Is there a particular ASUO funded service or organization (or multiple) that you are passionate about and hope to work with? Why?
I am especially passionate about supporting cultural organizations and student services that focus on mental health and accessibility. As someone who is part of a cultural organization on campus, I understand how important these spaces are. It is a place where I do not have to explain myself, where people already understand what I am going through, and where we actively check in and take care of one another. It is also a space where I can speak my native language and feel fully understood. One moment that stood out to me was being invited to a home-cooked meal by our president, where I sat surrounded by people I met through this community. That was when I truly felt like I had found my place. I also care deeply about mental health and accessibility because I have a disability and have faced skepticism when trying to advocate for myself, even being dismissed as dramatic. That experience was discouraging, but it motivates me to push for better support systems and advocacy. I believe student funds should prioritize building community and supporting those who need it most.