Why are you running in the ASUO Elections?

Hello! My name is Sarah Berg, and my pronouns are she/her. I am a second-year sophomore studying Public Relations and Legal Studies. I am from Tigard, Oregon, and I love to travel, hike, write, and run in my free time. I am running for ASUO because I believe in the power of student leadership to create a truly inclusive, collaborative, and united university community. ASUO is more than just a governing body—it is a resource that should be accessible and beneficial to every student on campus. ASUO is responsible for ensuring that all resources are used effectively to support student needs, amplify diverse voices, and foster meaningful change. My goal is to strengthen partnerships between ASUO and the many student departments that make our campus vibrant and unique. By working together, we can break down barriers to opportunity, ensure that every student feels heard and valued, and provide tangible support for initiatives that promote equity and inclusion. I am committed to making ASUO a platform for all students—one that listens, advocates, and acts.

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 welcoming and constructive space for student organizations by prioritizing transparency, inclusion, respect, and collaboration. I will ensure that every group feels heard by actively listening, inquiring, and engaging with their concerns. Clear communication is always key, so I will work to simplify the funding process, guiding expectations and requirements to make it more accessible. Additionally, I will advocate for equitable funding decisions by considering the diverse and differing needs of all student organizations and ensuring that all voices—especially those from underrepresented groups—are valued. I will also encourage proactive engagement, reaching out to student organizations before hearings to help them prepare and feel confident in their requests and needs. Beyond hearings, I want to build ongoing relationships with student organizations by attending their events, understanding their missions and goals, and offering continuous support. By cultivating an environment of mutual respect and open discussion, I hope to make the funding process a positive experience that empowers student organizations to succeed and contribute to our campus community.

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

As a candidate for ASUO, I am particularly passionate about supporting the Women’s Center and the Holden Center, two essential resources that foster empowerment, leadership, and community engagement. The Women’s Center provides a crucial space for advocacy, personal growth, and societal change. From offering a welcoming lounge and lending library to providing childcare resources, the center ensures that all students—especially women and marginalized genders—have access to the support they need to thrive. Similarly, the Holden Center plays a vital role in equipping students with leadership skills and opportunities for service and growth. Through learning and community engagement, it connects students with meaningful projects that drive change. By strengthening the visibility and accessibility of these programs, I hope to help more students take advantage of these incredible resources. As a member of ASUO, I will work to increase awareness of both centers, ensuring students know how to access their services and get involved. Whether through outreach campaigns, events, or enhanced communication and advertising efforts, I am committed to making these organizations even more impactful for the student body.