Why are you running in the ASUO Election?
Jillian Brunolli (she/her) pronouns. I’m from Grass Valley, California, and currently a second-year student majoring in Elementary Education. Coming from a high school experience where I was deeply involved both in and out of the classroom, especially through volunteer work, I’ve always valued being part of a strong, supportive community. Transitioning to college, I’ve sought out ways to stay engaged and continue serving others, while also learning how to navigate a much larger and more complex environment. I’m running because I want to help create a campus where every student feels connected, supported, and heard. I know how important access to resources and opportunities is to students, and if elected, I will ensure that we are empowered and involved to advocate for ourselves, as well as amplify the voices of our international peers and those new to campus. I hope to encourage international students and those new to campus to feel empowered to get involved and advocate for themselves. As an ASUO Officer, I would bring a collaborative mindset, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for helping others. I’m committed to building community, increasing accessibility, and making student government feel approachable and relevant to 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 a Senator, I would approach every interaction with student organizations with respect, transparency, and a credible commitment to making the process as supportive and inclusive as possible. I understand that for many students, Senate Hearings can feel intimidating or overwhelming, especially when navigating funding policies and procedures for the first time. As a feminist, I am deeply committed to equity and ensuring that all voices—especially those consistently underrepresented—are heard and respected. I feel a strong responsibility to support international students, particularly in today’s political climate, where many may feel uncertain or overlooked. These values would guide how I engage with organizations that come before the Senate. I know it can be challenging to connect on campus. I struggled with making friends when I first arrived. Now established with my community I am motivated to help others become established. I hope to create a positive experience, I will prioritize clear, compassionate communication and accessibility outside of hearings so that organizations are confident in their preparedness and support from our university, something that I wish I could've received while first navigating college. Ultimately, I want every group to feel respected, empowered, and connected to the broader campus community.
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 programs and organizations that focus on student well-being, accessibility, and building community. Services that address basic needs—such as food security, mental health support, and access to affordable resources—are critical to student success, and I would be excited to help ensure they are consistently and equitably funded. I am particularly interested in working with organizations that support first-year and international students. Coming into college, I struggled to find my place and build connections, which showed me how important it is to have welcoming, well-resourced communities. I want to support programs that help students feel less isolated and more engaged on campus. Additionally, as someone committed to feminist values and equity, I am passionate about working with groups that uplift underrepresented voices and create inclusive spaces for all students. These organizations play a vital role in shaping a campus culture where everyone feels respected and empowered. Overall, I hope to approach funding decisions with care, fairness, and a focus on maximizing student impact, ensuring that resources are allocated in ways that are sincere and support the diverse needs of the student body.