Why are you running in the ASUO Election?
Hello, my name is TJ Weir, and I am a first-year student from Santa Barbara, California, studying business and environmental studies. I’ve grown up living at and attending boarding schools, where being part of such diverse communities exposed me to many different cultures and perspectives from around the world, while also providing me with the opportunity to serve on many committees and student governments. I believe in the power of community, and I have worked and will continue to work in this new position to bring people together through events, organizations, committees, and clubs. I am running for a seat as a Finance Senator because I want to contribute to enhancing the student experience here at UO by allocating funding and supporting organizations that strive to provide opportunities for students to engage and come together as a community outside of the classroom. I look forward to bringing my knowledge and passion for social engagement to help the Senate allocate funding to organizations and events that students find fun, engaging, and informative. I am a very social and passionate person who believes in making a noticeable and meaningful difference in the student experience here at the University of Oregon.
One of Senate's responsibilities is to interact with student organizations every week during Senate Hearings and makes decisions on their spending requests. 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 one of the Finance Senators serving on the Senate, I will make it a priority to ensure that every student organization receives the full attention, thought, and commitment needed from both myself and the Senate. This will help us reach decisions that benefit the organization while aligning with the Senate’s values, goals, and budget. This can only happen through a shared commitment between the Senators and the organizations that come forward to improve the student experience here at the University of Oregon. Through this shared goal of enhancing the student experience, every interaction between the Senate and student organizations should be productive and beneficial, as the students being affected will always be put first when making decisions. I am committed to the students here at UO, and by working with a passionate Senate that is just as committed as I am, every interaction between the Senate and student organizations can be mutually beneficial as we work toward serving our community and enhancing this college experience for ourselves, our peers, and many future Ducks to come.
ASUO oversees ~$10 million in student funds which get distributed to various units. Finance positions directly communicate with and make decisions on these units. Is there a particular ASUO funded service or organization (or multiple) that you are passionate about and hope to work with? Why?
If elected, I’d be excited to work with the Pit Crew here on campus. I personally believe that spirit is the best way to bring a community together, and who doesn’t love a loud student section cheering on our Ducks? Spirit is what brings and unites people together through a shared commitment to supporting what we love. I look forward to working with Pit Crew to continue building school spirit and pride while bringing our community closer together through supporting our fellow students. I also hope to work with Greek organizations on campus. As a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, I would value the opportunity to engage with Greek life through a constructive lens within the Senate and help improve our current system while contributing to future decisions regarding Greek life at UO. Along with these organizations, I am also passionate about the many clubs on campus. Clubs, whether small or large, provide spaces for students to explore their interests, connect with others, and find communities where they feel they belong and can thrive here at the University of Oregon.