2025-2026 ASG Elected Positions are Closed
Applications for Appointed Positoins will be open in late April.
ASG Candidate Forums
- April 9, 2025, 2:00pm - 3:00pm: OCN Aztlan B and Zoom
- April 10, 2025, 10:00am - 11:00am: SAN1131 and Zoom
- April 14, 2025, 3:00pm - 4:00pm: CLC127 and Zoom
Are you interested in
- Promoting student life, diversity, and learning outside of the classroom
- Supporting students clubs & organizations on campus through the Inter-Club Council.
- Listening to student concerns, suggestions and issues, then collaborates with other governing bodies on campus to implement or address the students' needs.
- Providing representation and activities for students at all three campus locations: Oceanside, The Community Learning Center and San Elijo.
Candidates running for Elected Positions
President (listed in alphabetical order by last name)
Gabriella McField
I’m running for ASG President because my vision is to give every student the same empowering community college experience that I’ve been lucky enough to live out myself. I know firsthand that community college can be challenging—and I’m committed to changing that. As President, I’ll lead bold initiatives that ensure everyone at MiraCosta has a fulfilling social, academic, and extracurricular experience. Right now, I’m an advocate at the campus, local, and state levels. I’ve collaborated with California lawmakers, county officials, school district leaders, the MiraCosta administration, and—most importantly—thousands of fellow students. Here on campus, I serve as a Senator in the Associated Student Government and as the Founder and President of the Political Action Society. I know what it takes to lead a large organization—and how to navigate the challenges that come with it. During election season, I led a team that mobilized more students than ever to vote, helping MiraCosta achieve the highest voter turnout in its history. I’m currently working with campus leadership to expand library hours, so every student has access to the study space and resources they deserve. I also represent students at the statewide level. As Chair of the Sustainability Caucus, I’ll be working this April alongside student leaders from across California to take action at every community college in the state. Most students haven’t heard of ASG—and I’m ready to change that. As President, I’ll work to connect with every part of our student body—truly listening and making sure every student feels heard, supported, and proud to attend MiraCosta. With the experience I’ve gained and the passion I bring, I’m ready to lead a student government that truly serves you.
Diego Padilla
Hello, my name is Diego Padilla, and I am running for the Associated Student Government President. I want to serve in this role because I have the leadership skills and passion needed for such an important role. Every decision made by the student government should prioritize the students of MiraCosta and we should advocate for what is needed most. Advocating for mental health awareness and resources is one of my biggest priorities along with; building meaningful connections, emphasizing solidarity amongst different communities on all campuses, and ensuring students have the necessary tools, support, and opportunities they need to thrive on and off campus. As president of ASG, I believe in creating an environment where everyone is heard and not afraid to voice their opinions on various subject matters. As a member of the Associated Student Government, I’ve had the opportunity to enter different roles with varying responsibilities that have helped me develop a well-rounded understanding of student leadership and campus advocacy. This school year, I’ve worked as an Oceanside Senator, ICC Vice-Chair, and currently, the Executive Vice President. As a Senator, I involved myself in many engagement opportunities, joining multiple workgroups, and shared governance committees. I volunteered for the ASG-led “Earn Our Vote” event which empowered student voices in local government. I also helped with a League of Women Voters workshop to increase voter turnout, especially among young adults. As Inter-Club Council Vice Chair, I worked closely with the Chair to ensure clubs received the necessary support, guidance, and resources to flourish on campus. These roles all prepared me for the responsibilities of the Executive Vice Presidency, where I’m able to help bridge the gap between administration, faculty, and students. Apart from ASG, I am a political science major intending to transfer in Fall 2026. With this degree, my experience as a student, and community member- I hope to become involved with politics advocating for meaningful change. I am also a member of various clubs on campus including; MEChA, the International Club, and the Veterans Club. I greatly value the diversity on our campus and emphasize solidarity among all student organizations. Besides my involvement on campus, I am the secretary for the Student Senate of California Community Colleges Veterans Caucus which advocates for veterans on a statewide level. I volunteer with nonprofit organizations that aid immigrants with the process of obtaining citizenship, and organizations that help formerly incarcerated, and individuals with cognitive disabilities find work through farmwork. I am passionate about creating inclusive policy and change for all individuals, especially those who are historically disenfranchised.
Kathryn (Kat) Reese
Hello, my name is Kathryn (Kat) Reese and I am running for president of ASG. I am currently a first year student at MCC and I’m working toward transferring to a four-year university with a double major in journalism and political science. This role is particularly important to me because it represents something that is close to my heart as an MCC student—community building. In my time here I have experienced such kindness, empathy, and helpfulness from the students and staff of our college. I want to further contribute to this positive culture through work in this position! I worked as the assistant editor-in-chief of the newspaper at my previous school, so I plan to leverage these skills to make positive change as a part of ASG. In this role, I hope to make resources more easily available to our student body and foster community engagement through social events. Thank you so much for considering me for this position! Go Spartans
Student Trustee (listed in alphabetical order by last name)
Alexander Aurich
Hello, my name is Alexander Aurich, and I am running to be your Student Trustee. Having faced significant financial hardships, I understand the challenges many of us encounter in our pursuit of higher education. My experiences—personal, as a tutor, and as an active member of student government—have strengthened my commitment to ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has access to the resources and support needed to succeed. Throughout my journey, I have faced setbacks and obstacles, but these experiences have taught me the importance of resilience and perseverance. I believe these qualities are essential not only for personal success but also for the success of our student body. As your Student Trustee, I will bring this mindset to our community, fostering an environment where every student feels empowered to achieve their goals. I will work closely with the Board of Trustees to expand transfer pathways and create more opportunities for students beyond the classroom. I am passionate about increasing access to internships, strengthening campus culture across all locations, and enhancing transfer counseling and academic enrichment programs. MiraCosta should be a place where every student can thrive. I believe that where you start should not define where you end up, and I will use that belief to enhance the student experience at our college. With your support, I will amplify student voices at the highest level and advocate for the resources and opportunities that help us achieve our academic and career goals. I would be honored to serve as your Student Trustee, and I look forward to working together to enhance the MiraCosta experience.
Federico Caion Demaestri
As Student Trustee, I will ensure that student voices are not just heard but actively shape the decisions that impact our future. Governance should not be about maintaining the status quo – it should be about progress. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, ‘Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.’ I am committed to forging new paths that put students at the center of decision-making. Fairness, transparency, and student advocacy must be at the core of every institutional decision. ‘Until we get equality in education, we won’t have an equal society,’ said Sonia Sotomayor, and that starts with making sure policies reflect the diverse needs of our student body. There is no equality without equity, and there is no justice without fairness. As Student Trustee, I will push for greater oversight on policies that impact students, strengthen communication between student leadership and administration, and ensure that inclusion is more than just a principle – it’s a practice. Andrés Tapia put it best: ‘Diversity is the mix. Inclusion is making the mix work.’ A trustee’s role is not to be a passive observer but an active force for justice and progress. Together, we can build a more student-centered institution that truly serves us all.
Cory King
Hello my name is Cory King and I am running for Student Trustee. I want to serve in this role because I want to help the student body get what we need from MiraCosta. As the Inter-Club Council representative for the Gender and Sexuality Alliance, a position I have held for three years, I have been able to help ensure students' access to things such as an additional place where we can print for free, free events such as Prom, and brought the clothing swaps to the Oceanside Campus. Through my personal work with administrators in Student Life and Leadership, I have helped us get a place on campus where we can wash our clothes and have shower access. I believe that by becoming Student Trustee, I can help us achieve more. I listen to the needs of the student body, am good at finding creative solutions to issues, spotting possible pitfalls and am not afraid to speak up for what we need.
Kevin Tello
Kevin Tello for Student Trustee
“If you don’t fight for your dreams… then can you even call it a dream?”
My name is Kevin Tello — and I didn’t grow up dreaming about being in student government.
I didn’t think people like me ended up in rooms where decisions are made. But here
I am — because sometimes life doesn’t give you a perfect path, it gives you a fight.
And I’ve been fighting my whole life.
I come from a low-income family. I’ve worked jobs while taking full-time classes.
I’ve helped my family navigate their struggles while navigating my own. I’ve faced
homelessness, sleepless nights, and moments where I genuinely didn’t know how I’d
make it to tomorrow. But I kept showing up — not because it was easy, but because
I refused to give up on myself.
That’s why I’m running for Student Trustee. Because I know I’m not the only one.
There are so many students at MiraCosta just like me — students who feel overlooked,
unheard, or disconnected. Students balancing work, family, mental health, and school
all at once — doing their best with what they’ve got.
I’m not running for a title. I’m running because I believe leadership should feel
human. Leadership should feel real.
What I’ve Done:
I’ve served as an ASG Senator, sitting in rooms where student voices are often an
afterthought — and making sure they aren’t forgotten.
I’ve worked on the Courses & Programs Committee, fighting for student-centered decisions.
I’ve helped organize food drives, supported MESA students, connected with adult learners
at the Community Learning Center, and volunteered for charity events like running
a half-marathon to give back.
But what I’m proudest of? It’s not a position. It’s every student who told me “Thank
you for listening.” It’s every late-night conversation helping someone figure out
financial aid. It’s showing up for people when nobody else would.
What I’ll Fight For:
Transparency & True Student Representation
Equity Across All Campuses
Expansion of Basic Needs & Resources
Career Readiness & Internship Opportunities
And most importantly — a student government that actually feels like it’s for students.
The Bottom Line?
I know what it feels like to wonder if your voice even matters.
I’m here to tell you: it does.
Leadership isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up. It’s about fighting for
people when nobody’s watching. It’s about building something that outlives you.
This isn’t just my fight — it’s ours.
If you trust me with your vote, I promise you this: I will never stop fighting for
students like us.
Vote Kevin Tello for Student Trustee.
Not just to represent students — but to fight for them.
Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (listed in alphabetical order by last name)
Darya Forutanpour
Hello, my name is Darya Forutanpour, and I am running for Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. I want to serve in this role because I believe in the power of diversity to enrich our community and create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. As someone with Iranian heritage, I understand the importance of representation and inclusivity. I am committed to ensuring that all voices are heard and respected and that our community fosters an environment where everyone can thrive regardless of their background. Through this position, I hope to create initiatives that support underrepresented groups, promote awareness around DEI issues, and make tangible changes that reflect our commitment to inclusivity. We can build a more welcoming and equitable community for all.
Aileen Garcia
Hello, my name is Aileen Garcia, and I am running for Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. I want to serve this role because I am passionate about serving my community and ensuring that every student at MiraCosta College feels they belong and has the resources to succeed. As a personal life goal of mine, I am dedicated to advocating for those who may not have a voice, and my goal is to create a more inclusive environment where all students can thrive. I aim to use my skill, knowledge and commitment, in my role, to improve MiraCosta College for everyone, fostering a community that values equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Vice President for the Community Learning Center (listed in alphabetical order by last name)
Gina Bonilla Cetina
Hello, my name is Gina Paola Bonilla c , and I am running for [President / Vice President] of the Associated Student Government at MiraCosta College’s Community Learning Center. I am passionate about creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all students, especially at the CLC, where so many of us are working hard to overcome challenges and reach our goals. As someone who has experienced the strength of this community, I want to give back by representing our voices and making sure we are heard and supported at every level of student government. Since 2022, I’ve been a proud volunteer with the CARE program at the CLC, where I’ve helped support various activities including the food market and food pantry. Through this work, I’ve seen firsthand how important community support and access to resources are for student success. These experiences have inspired me to step into a leadership role and do even more for our student body. If elected, I hope to: • Improve access to academic and wellness resources at the CLC • Create more opportunities for community-building and student involvement • Make ASG more visible and connected to CLC students • Advocate for expanded services such as tutoring, financial aid workshops, and mental health support at the CLC I believe leadership is about listening, learning, and leading with empathy. I want to work with you, hear your ideas, and make sure our needs are prioritized. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected CLC community. Thank you for your support!
Vice President for San Elijo (listed in alphabetical order by last name)
Dottie Amézquita Monahan
Hello! I'm Dottie Amézquita Monahan and I'm running for Vice President of the San Elijo campus. I'm asking for your vote because as a San Elijo student and current San Elijo ASG Senator, I want to keep improving this wonderful campus! My main goals include better transportation (both bike and car), more opportunities for student engagement, and of course ensuring student voices are heard. I know transportation is a big issue with students. Whether it is the successful completion of the bike lane project for San Elijo or having rides to clubs on the Oceanside campus, I will work hard to get the result you are looking for. When it comes to student engagement, I know you want more fun activities on the San Elijo campus, and that is exactly what I will strive to deliver! Besides being a part of Associated Student Government as a Senator for San Elijo, I am also the Co-founder/ICC Representative of the MCC Baking Club and a student worker at Student Life and Leadership! These experiences have helped me learn how to plan fun activities and create new ways for students to connect with each other. However, the most important thing I want you to know is - I plan on LISTENING TO YOU and implementing your suggestions on the best ways to improve San Elijo student life! VOTE D AND WE WILL SUCCEED!
Please review the 2025 Candidate Information Packet for the 2025 ASG Election Calendar and Review of ASG Constitution & Bylaws. Applications for appointed positions will open at the end of April. Appointed positions include Executive Vice President, Vice Chair of the Inter-Club Council, Director of Finance, Director of Legislative Affairs, Director of Public Relations, senators and students-at-large.
Please visit the links below and apply today
Appointed ASG Positions
- Executive Vice President
- Director of Finance
- Director of Legislative Affairs
- Director of Public Relations
- Inter-Club Council Vice Chair
2025 Election Commission
We appreciate our students who are participating in the Election Commission this year. Their contributions to the election process is invaluable. Thank you!
- Anastasiia Hrobova
- Nia Lopez
- Anthony Lynch
The Inter-Club Council Chair is also considered an elected position, however they are elected by the Inter-Club Council.
Elected members assume office June 1 and will begin interviewing the candidates for appointed positions at that time.
ASG Advisors: If you have any election-related questions, please reach out to Terrence Shaw or Colleen Maeder
