Meet the Candidates

Bio:

My Name is Cyrus Dean Holt. I am a current sophomore at MSU dual majoring in Political Science and Africana Studies. I am a dedicated student and a result-based leader. That means I GET THINGS DONE. I am deeply involved in campus community; I work with the Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion’s (CMEI) Brother-2-Brother. I also am a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha, with this membership and position I hold on to campus grants me a special position on our campus. I am a strong communicator and believe that compromising is essential in a governing body.

Platform:

My platform is based around building working bonds and consensus between all three universities and AHEC as well as to garner support and transparency about our unique system of government here at MSU Denver. My pillars include Collaboration, Transparency, and Advocacy at the state level.

Bio:

My name is Emma Fox and I am in my sophomore year at MSU. I am perusing my degree in political science with a minor in legal studies after transferring to MSU last fall. Like many MSU students, I commute to campus from Lakewood where I live with my two cats. I am born and raised in Colorado, and when I have free time I love to go skiing in the winter and roller skate at the park in the summers. I have a passion for government and want to work towards using my skills and knowledge of local government here at MSU to improve the lives of my fellow students.

Platform:

If elected, I want to expand accessibility of campus events to students who may not be able to fit the events into their schedule. Expanding online resources to students who may commute to campus and have additional jobs and responsibilities during the day when events are traditionally held. This includes expending access via online events or events held outside the traditional 9-5 hours which campus operates. I want more students to feel included in student life and feel like they are a part of the campus community. I promise strong leadership and advocacy on behalf of all students and their needs.

Bio:

Hello MSU students! My name is Maria Garcia and I’m a third-year student double majoring in political science and marketing. I was raised in Denver, but I have roots from Mexico. I plan to go to law school in the future and focus on either civil rights or immigration law. I’m passionate about getting things done no matter what it takes. Right now, I’m a part of the Environmental Science Club and I recently joined the Debate Club. But when I’m not in school I love spending time with my dogs either playing with them or going on walks. Baking is another hobby of mine and I often make homemade treats for my dogs. I also enjoy working out at the gym whenever I get the chance!

Platform:

• Every student at MSU Denver deserves to feel included, supported, and valued.  If elected, I will work to ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to do well in school.  My key priorities include:  

• Student Discounts: Advocate for reduced costs on essential expenses such as RTD passes, campus parking, student ID fees, and other expenses on campus.  

• Campus Sustainability: Promote environmentally friendly initiatives and advocate for sustainable practices to make MSU Denver a greener campus.  

• Safety for Undocumented Students: MSU Denver’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, yet many undocumented students live in fear of ICE presence on campus. I will push for MSU Denver to become a sanctuary campus and work alongside immigrant services to provide resources that help undocumented students feel secure.  I will also work to ensure that undocumented students know their ability to join the student government.  

• Access to Feminine Hygiene Products: Ensure that all female restrooms are stocked with free feminine hygiene products so students never have to worry about availability.  

• Expanding Mental Health Services: Advocate for increased mental health resources, including counseling and support services for LGBTQ+ students, undocumented students, veterans, and those facing stress and other challenges.  

• Overall, I will amplify student voices by actively listening through town halls and encouraging anonymous feedback forms.  It is important to represent student concerns in decision-making, I will ensure their voices help shape the university.  MSU Denver should continue to be a place where every student feels heard, valued, and supported.  If elected, I will put in a lot of effort to make that vision a reality.

Bio:

Sky is a Junior studying Gender, Women, & Sexuality Studies. She is a student fighting for trans rights, immigrant justice, and Palestinian liberation. She believes in action, not bureaucracy, and organizes through direct advocacy. She will be the connect for students to admin’s negotiating table. 

Platform:

• “Solidarity in Action” 

• Trans Rights – Push for gender-neutral bathrooms, better healthcare access, and LGBTQ+ training for staff.  

• Immigrant Justice – Protect undocumented students, expand legal resources, and fight discriminatory policies.  

• Palestinian Solidarity – Demand divestment from occupation, amplify student voices, and resist censorship.  

• Basic Needs – Expand food pantries, emergency housing, and textbook assistance for struggling students. 

• I’m an organizer, not a politician. I’ll fight for marginalized students, challenge admin inaction, and center real solutions—not empty promises. 

Bio:

Platform:

Bio:

• Hello MSU Denver Students! I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for Student Advocacy Councilor. 

•  My name is Stefy Calero (She/Her) and I am a junior double majoring in Biology and Psychology w/ concentration in Clinical & Counseling with a minor in Chemistry. I am originally from Italy and I moved to Colorado at 12 years old, and I consider myself a Colorado native as I’ve been here ever since. I Speak 3 languages (Italian, Spanish , English)! I am a proud Dream.US recipient and Dreamer who came to this country for a better future. I wasn’t always comfortable to share that but being at MSU, I know I am not the only one. I am grateful for the resources and support I have had, and I am ready to pay it forward and being an advocate. I am passionate about health equity to improve patient care, advocate for diverse communities, and contribute to advancements in healthcare accessibility.   

• I have been an active member of Psi Chi and DUHOP while having leadership roles.  My goal is to create supportive, inclusive spaces where students—especially those from immigrant, first-gen, and BIPOC backgrounds- feel valued. I want to bring this commitment to Student Government and help make MSU Denver a place where every student has what they need to thrive—academically, emotionally, and professionally. 

• I look forward to serving the student population. Thank you for your support! 

Platform:

• If elected, I will advocate for the following  

• Support for First-generation, Immigration, and Undocumented students 

• Advocate for inclusive academic advising and culturally responsive support services. 

• Organize events that uplift marginalized voices and ensure student organizations are well-funded and represented. 

• Promote awareness of undergraduate research fellowships, internships, and mentorship programs. 

• I want to serve as a voice that reflects our diverse student body and ensures our needs are not only heard—but acted on. 

Bio:

Hello MSU Denver, I’m Urvi Pal, a proud resident of Colorado with Indian Ancestry, and I’m excited to run for my candidacy as a Student Advocacy Councilor. As I progress from my sophomore year into junior standing, I’ve been actively involved in our campus community, contributing to the Urban Leadership Program, MSU Denver Student Advocacy Delegate, and Girls Who Code while also engaging in AI research programs. My motto has always been simple: “Take every opportunity that comes your way, grab it first, and then figure out how to make it work.” MSU Denver has provided me with endless opportunities, shaping my vision and allowing me to grow, and I want to ensure that every student has the same chance to succeed. I am currently majoring in Business Intelligence, but beyond academics, I have a passion for singing, dancing, traveling, and spending time with my friends and family. 

Platform:

• My Vision for the Future: As your Student Advocacy Councilor, my goal is to make sure every student at MSU Denver has the support, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed. Here’s how I plan to make a difference: 

• Creating More Opportunities – So many amazing resources exist on campus, but not everyone knows about them. I want to change that! Whether it’s scholarships, leadership programs, or career workshops, I’ll work to make sure every student knows what’s available to help them grow. 

• Stronger Student Support – College can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’ll advocate for more mentorship programs, career guidance, and networking events to help students connect with the right people and the right opportunities. 

• Building a More Inclusive Community – Everyone deserves to feel valued and heard. I want to help create a campus where students from all backgrounds feel supported, empowered, and connected. 

• Bringing Innovation & AI Awareness – The future is all about technology, and I want to make sure MSU Denver students are ready for it! By encouraging AI and tech-focused initiatives, I will help students gain the skills they need to stay ahead in the job market. 

• Together, we can create a campus that thrives on opportunity, support, and innovation. Let’s make MSU Denver a place where every student feels empowered to chase their dreams! 

• Let’s connect, collaborate, and let’s make change happen. Vote for Urvi Pal! 

Bio:

Rowan Linden East (they/them) is a passionate advocate for justice, equity, and student rights at MSU Denver. As a Gender, Women, and Sexualities Studies major, they dive deep into the histories and futures of social movements—not just in the classroom, but in the streets, where change is made. When they’re not organizing or hitting the books, you’ll find them nurturing their plant babies, because even revolutionaries need roots.

Platform:

• Divest from War, Invest in Our Future  

• Lockheed Martin fuels violence worldwide, arming oppressive regimes and profiting from genocide. MSU Denver must cut ties now. We demand full transparency on the university’s partnerships with Lockheed Martin and immediate divestment from all corporations that profit from war and human suffering.  

• Trans Rights Are Non-Negotiable 

• Every student deserves dignity, safety, and respect. MSU Denver must guarantee:  

• Name & Email Autonomy – Students should have an MSU email, campus ID, and records that reflect their true names.   

• Pronoun & Identity Respect – Students, faculty, and staff must be referred to by their true name and pronouns.  

• Safe Access to Facilities – Trans students have the right to use the restrooms and spaces that align with their gender.   

• Privacy Protections – No one’s trans status should be disclosed without their explicit consent. 

• Sanctuary Campus Now 

• No student should live in fear of deportation. We demand:   

• ICE-Free Campus – Explicit policies banning ICE from MSU Denver.   

• Undocumented Student Protections – TSAC, MSU Denver, and AHEC must collaborate with immigrant rights groups to create real sanctuary policies.   

• Resources, Not Raids – Expand legal, financial, and academic support for undocumented students. 

• Let’s make MSU Denver a place where every student—regardless of gender, immigration status, or background—can thrive. 

Bio: 

Hi, I am Matthew (Matt) Rathbun (he/him/they/them), and I am both an MSU Denver Alumni and a current graduate student in MSU Denver’s Master of Social Work (MSW) Program. My focus with his MSW degree is to work in policy and legislative advocacy. Over the last couple of years as a councilor on TSAC I have helped with student outreach, revamping our constitution, helping Rowdy’s Corner with funding, advocating for more food security on campus, creating TSAC’s accountability committee’s procedures, and assisting other councilmembers in their initiatives. I have been, involved in making MSU Denver a better place since I was in my undergrad. In my undergrad, I was the Treasurer and then President of the Genders and Sexualities Alliance (GSA) which earned me an Ally award from the GLBT Student Services department in 2015. I have worked in The Student Care Center as a Peer Mentor with the HOPES Program, helping low-income students navigate their personal, academic, and professional goals by helping break down barriers to their success. I always enjoy working with other students to achieve their goals. In my free time I enjoy chilling with my cat Reggie, exploring and doing wildlife photography, or just going on adventures with my friends. 

Platform:

• Advocating for Justice-Impacted Students 

• Advocating for a more trauma-informed process in Title IX cases through our Office of Equal Opportunity 

• Working with the JustIS Alliance in (https://www.msudenver.edu/justis-alliance/#:~:text=Who%20are%20justice%20impacted%20students,impacted%20by%20the%20justice%20system.) and relevant student organizations such as Justice impacted scholars and other student and student organizations (https://roadrunnerlink.msudenver.edu/organization/justice-alliance) 

• Student Fee Transparency 

• Advocating for all of our student fees to have easily accessible and understandable definitions on how these fees are spent and what benefits students get from paying these fees.  

• For example, we all pay a health and wellness fee that gives all MSU Denver students access to free psychiatric health care through the Auraria Health Canter regardless of insured status but this is not clearly stated anywhere on the MSU Denver website (https://www.msudenver.edu/bursar/tuition-and-fees/undergraduate/#mandatory-fees) 

• Food Accessibility 

• Continue to work with Rowdy’s Corner to support them in their mission “Rowdy’s Corner is working to reimagine food support and destigmatize the need for assistance and to help ensure there is Food for All.” 

• Investigating and advocating for how to get EBT accepted on campus. 

Bio:

I’m Patrick Cervera, a first-generation Junior Business Management major at MSU Denver, and I’m excited and eager to serve as your Student Trustee this year. My journey as the son of Peruvian immigrants and my experiences navigating higher education have instilled in me a deep commitment to ensuring equitable opportunities for ALL students. During my first term with the Student Advocacy Council, I served as Chair of the Budget Committee and Co-Chair of the PR Committee, this year I have my honed skills in financial responsibility and the importance of effective communication with the student body. My involvement extends to the Vice President of Student Affairs Student Advisory Board and a significant role as Co-Chair of the Student Advisory Board overseeing the $3 million student activities fee, providing me with a comprehensive understanding of university finances and student needs within our university. My professional experience co-founding and managing CMS Carpentry LLC has further equipped me with practical leadership and business acumen. This year I am running for Student Trustee to amplify student voices, advocate for accessible and affordable education, and ensure that the diverse perspectives of our community are represented at the highest level.

Platform:

This year, I’m looking to continue projects that I have learned are needed by our student body , such as establishing a direct line of communication between TSAC and all Clubs and Organizations on campus to create an even stronger unification of MSU Denver. My mission, as last year, is to continue the improvement of promoting TSAC, our achievements and our resources. This includes promoting events and voice for students like me and family who need further support. Being the voice for our student body at the highest level needs someone who can speak confidently and who doesn’t waiver. MSU has been a diverse and equitable university for many students, and as Trustee, I will ensure that our diverse community still has a voice and is represented at the highest level for us as students can continue to achieve our dreams though a supportive and secure campus. 

Bio: 

Hello, MSU Denver Students.
As a proud Denver native with deep roots in Mexico, I’m excited to announce my candidacy for the Student Government: The Student Advocacy Councilor. My journey at MSU Denver has been a transformative one, and I’m eager to bring my unique perspective and experience to the SG:TSAC.
As I approach the end of my junior year, I’m filled with gratitude for the learning journey I’ve had at our beautiful campus. My involvement in the Lambda Theat Nu Sorority, Inc. has been a catalyst for me to step out of my comfort zone and become more active on campus. This journey has led me to the SG: TSAC, where I’m a re-running council member. I’m excited to continue growing and addressing the evolving needs of MSU Denver students for a second term. Let me share a bit about myself. I’m majoring in Public Relations with a minor in Spanish. Most of my free time is dedicated to my personal growth and learning how to be more active on campus and in my community. And of course, I cherish the time I spend with my little sister and my TWIN!

Platform: 

My goal for the next 25′-26 academic year is to continue the work of the Public Relations Committee in bringing more students to more involved with the SG: TSAC, meaning creating events for students, letting more students know more about the resources we have on campus, and improving on our marketing game. I have so much to say about my future goals for the next academic year, but being a part of the SG: TSAC has shown me how to grow and work with other students about their issues on campus.

Bio:

Fae is an Art and GWS double major. They grew up in the Breckenridge, Colorado area and moved to Denver in 2020 to attend MSU Denver. They have been at MSU through three different major changes (couldn’t make up my mind) and now are working towards becoming an elementary art teacher. They love anything and everything creative, video games, and reading. They currently work at The Gender Institute for Teaching and Advocacy on campus and hope to use the skills they’ve built working there to advocate for the student body, especially those that are often talked over. 

Platform:

• Ensuring the continued funding of programs that support the needs of students including rowdy’s corner and all of its satellite spaces, student resource centers, and others. We are a commuter campus which makes services for students more important as the cost of living continues to rise and we are looking down the barrel of another recession. MSU has to support its students in any way it can during times of uncertainty.  

• Advocate for MSU to actively oppose the oppression of its students rather than a policy of “wait and see.” Especially as we witness the current federal administration push through policies and actions that harm the communities that attend this university, MSU must stand up for its students rather than having a policy not preemptively complying with a regime actively harming its students. The harm is already happening, if you are not opposing it, you are complicit.  

• Demand that MSU take active steps to support the Hispanic community and immigrants as it claims to be a Hispanic Serving Institution. We are witnessing a massive crackdown on all immigrants in this country, with revoking of green cards, detention and deportation. MSU must work with immigrant rights group to ensure all immigrant, undocumented and other, are welcome and safe in the community it claims to create. 

• MSU has an obligation to its students that administration and the trustees have forsaken for bigger paychecks and job security. They must do better. 

Bio:

• Hi, I am William Coats, a junior here at MSU. In the few years I have been here, I’ve seen some of the issues the campus and students have to work through. I feel I can solve this by being elected to our student government. I want to be your voice, the voice of the students, regardless of how you identify or present yourself. 

• Everyone has a story of how they got to MSU. So here is mine. After high school, I was unsure of starting college or even which direction I wanted to go. I knew I wanted to do something meaningful, so I joined the Marine Corps and spent the next four years of my life as a chemical defense instructor. After separating, I joined the trades, where I installed solar panels for two years on roofs. After a year and a half, I was ready for college, and where better than right here. I became a Roadrunner in the Spring of 2023. I’d love to hear your story sometime. 

• Based on my experience, I feel exceptionally qualified to represent the student body of MSU. I have two years of student government experience under my belt from the academic year 2023-2025. I want to improve the student experience while remaining true to my identity: Spanish-speaking Latino, Veteran, laborer, and, most importantly, student. I hope I can count on your support to make this university the best it can be. ¡Sí se puede! 

Platform:

• Reducing the cost of class: Even though our university has locked tuition, monetary barriers still exist on our campus. I will work with faculty and staff to reduce this burden by advocating for open-source textbooks and even looking into more services provided by the student government. 

• Veteran and minority support: MSU is home to almost 1,500 veterans and dependents. These individuals have chosen to dedicate their lives in support of our country. The transition is tough, and our prior service members deserve more support than they are given now. In addition to supporting this group, I will work to ensure our minority population is cared for and that MSU maintains its status as a Hispanic Serving Institute. 

• Campus safety: We reside on a public campus, so campus safety concerns are real. As a man, I cannot relate to the safety concerns of MSU’s mostly female population, but I can listen, learn, and develop strategies with the university and AHEC to address these concerns. 

• Welcoming Student Government Space: After about 2 years of being in student government, I realized that our office space had to become more open to students and student organizations. If we improve the office space to be able to be more inviting to students, advocacy can be facilitated for all. I aim to improve the different office spaces within SG: TSAC to try to fill in different potential needs or wants of the students