Why are you running in the ASUO Elections?

Hey Ducks! My name is Justin Begley and I am a sophomore majoring in Political Science and PPPM. I am running to support and fund all ASUO recognized clubs and organizations on campus, especially our affinity and cultural organizations here at the UO. During these uncertain times it is important for student leaders especially next year to ensure the funding and safeguards to these organizations as they create a sense of safety and familiarity to many students on campus. Student organizations and clubs on campus are truly the heart of this university and what makes it feel like a community. My priorities are to unite students on campus through connection and transparency, showing up to student events, and by protecting our affinity groups and cultural organizations. As a Senator I want to be a partner and collaborate with organizations and help foster a Senate where all feel welcome and comfortable. While Senate and Senators are the ones distributing your funds, they are student dollars at the end of the day and they belong to you! Students should not feel attacked when asking for their money. Overall I want to connect UO students, be more transparent to UO students and ultimately I want to Unite UO.

As one of the most front facing parts of ASUO, how do you plan on making these interactions as positive as possible for students? 

Over this past year I had the great privilege to serve on PFC as the executive designee and interact with many student ran club and organization leaders. Over this past year I have learned the struggles and frustrations club and organization leaders have to go through when dealing with ASUO and ASUO policies. If elected to serve on Senate I intend to continue to be a partner with student organization leaders to enact changes that would best benefit them and make the ASUO process easier to navigate. I intend to continue to be upfront with student organization leaders whether it be Senate’s fiscal priorities or why stipends aren't coming through on time, I intend to be transparent. Finally I want to support student clubs and organizations not just through funding but through showing up at events, meetings, and common areas to answer any questions or just show support. It is important now more than ever to show all of our clubs and organizations on campus support so they can do what they know best, build communities and places of inclusion.

Is there a particular ASUO funded service or organization (or multiple) that you are passionate about and hope to work with? Why?

Over this past year as a member of PFC the majority of my TAGs were law organizations both graduate and undergraduate. Over this past year many of the graduate law organization leaders brought to PFC’s attention valid concerns around the timing of deadlines for PFC and ASUO related items and how they conflict with Law school finals. Over this past year I have been passionate about working to find the best conclusion for these organizations. This passion would continue into next year if elected. On top of continuing to support graduate law organizations if elected it will be a priority of mine to secure funding and instate safeguards to best support our cultural and affinity organizations on campus. Over the past few weeks these areas on campus have become under attack and it is important for all students and leaders to rally to protect these spaces that provide so many great resources and services to students.