Why are you running in the ASUO Election?
Hey everyone! My name is Filsun Omer (she/her), and I’m a first-year student at the University of Oregon majoring in Public Policy, Planning, and Management with a minor in Legal Studies. I’m originally from Portland, Oregon, and I’m deeply involved in campus life through organizations like the Muslim Student Organization, where I serve on the board, as well as the Arab Student Association, Black Women’s Achievement club, and Women in Law group. As a first-generation college student, my experiences have shaped a strong commitment to advocating for underrepresented communities and fostering a sense of multiculturalism on campus. Through my involvement, I’ve seen firsthand how vital student organizations are in creating spaces of belonging, empowerment, and support. I’m running in the ASUO Election to amplify student voices, especially those of BIPOC and first-generation students and ensure they are meaningfully represented in decision-making spaces. I am passionate about increasing transparency in budgeting, improving accessibility to institutional resources, and strengthening support for multicultural organizations. ASUO has the power to create real, lasting change behind the scenes, and I want to be part of that work. I’m committed to helping build a more equitable, inclusive, and student-centered campus for everyone
As one of the most front facing parts of ASUO, how do you plan on making these interactions as positive as possible for students?
As someone deeply involved in student organizations, I understand how important funding is to sustaining the communities that make our campus feel like home. As a Senator, I would approach Senate Hearings with empathy, transparency, and a commitment to making every interaction as welcoming and constructive as possible. Having seen aspects of the budgeting process within different organizations, I recognize that it can often feel intimidating or unclear. I want to help change that by ensuring students feel heard, respected, and supported when presenting their requests. I plan to actively listen to each organization’s needs and advocate for fair, equitable funding decisions. Drawing from my diverse background and involvement in multicultural spaces, I would work to cultivate an inclusive and understanding environment that values different perspectives. This means asking thoughtful questions, offering guidance when needed, and making sure organizations leave hearings with clarity and confidence in the process. Ultimately, my goal is to make Senate a space where student organizations feel empowered rather than discouraged where their work is recognized, their voices are amplified, and the budgeting process becomes more accessible and transparent for everyone.
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 working with ASUO funded multicultural and identity-based organizations, as well as services that address students’ basic needs. Given my involvement in groups like the Muslim Student Organization, Black Women’s Achievement, and other cultural organizations, I’ve seen firsthand how essential these spaces are in fostering community, belonging, and support for students from diverse backgrounds. I would prioritize ensuring these organizations have consistent and equitable access to funding so they can continue to serve and uplift their communities. In addition, I am deeply interested in supporting programs that address basic needs insecurity, such as campus food pantries and resource centers. Many students face financial challenges that impact their ability to succeed academically, and ASUO plays a critical role in bridging those gaps. I would advocate for sustained and increased funding for these services to ensure they remain accessible and effective. These priorities align closely with my broader commitment to equity, accessibility, and representation. As a Finance Senator, I would work to ensure that funding decisions are transparent, intentional, and centered on supporting the well-being and success of all students, especially those from underrepresented and first-generation backgrounds.