President: Claire Mathews-Lingen '21
Major: Sociology and Spanish
Fun Fact: I got my black belt in Shaolin Kempo Karate when I was 12.
What have you been involved in at Willamette? Besides my involvement in ASWU, I am a captain on the debate team. I work at the Office of Admission. I dance on campus and am involved in environmental efforts.
What are your goals as president? Currently my goals include seeing us through this uncertain time of COVID-19, working on ASWU's communications to the student body, and I am interested in developing a university climate action plan for Willamette.
In light of the pandemic, what words of encouragement do you have for your fellow Bearcats? I think it is important for all of us right now to let ourselves rest. I know this is easier said than done, but it is important that we are gentle with ourselves and each other, especially right now. Something that has been encouraging to me is the way in which this experience has affirmed the community I feel with others. I've really noticed the importance random greetings on campus have in my life and the value of the community we have all cultivated together. We have that community in person and at a distance.
What is the best way for people to contact you? The best way to contact me is through email <cemathewslingen> or during my office hours next year. Feel free to reach out with any questions, ideas or needs.
Vice President: Dani Garcia-King '22
Major: Sociology, Women’s and Gender Studies (minor)
Fun Fact: I was born and raised right here in Salem Oregon. The Salem Hospital right next to campus to be exact!
What have you been involved in at Willamette? During my time at Willamette I have been involved in student government through ASWU as well as held multiple other leadership positions on campus through being apart of music and the student-run newspaper the Collegian. Aside from somewhat official or elected positions, I have tried my best to work hard for advocating for my peers through different university offices that would otherwise be difficult to approach.
What are your goals as vice president? I hope to advocate for understanding how to engage the Willamette community, in order to begin the manifestation of a strong community. I envision this being done in many different ways, mostly through the hard work of the students. I hope to empower the continuation of this work toward a better Willamette.
In light of the pandemic, what words of encouragement do you have for your fellow Bearcats? Always do your best, and know that your best is all that matters. Every day is a new one. Try your best to not have many expectations for anyone other than yourself, and even then, be nice to yourself.
What is the best way for people to contact you? Email is always the best way to make a first point of contact. Beyond that and depending on how the future goes, I am always willing to meet with others in person or otherwise.
Treasurer: Michael Burke '23
Major: Undeclared
What have you been involved in at Willamette? Mostly just involved with ASWU.
What are your goals as treasurer? My goal is to ensure all clubs get fair and equal funding going forward, without any bias.
In light of the pandemic, what words of encouragement do you have for your fellow Bearcats? Stay at home y'all. I know it sucks but this is how it be for now so we can all stay healthy.
What is the best way for people to contact you? Email me! My email is <msburke>.