Legislative Branch- ASMSU Senate

Bio: My name is Stella Rapson, and I am a freshman at Montana State University majoring in Microbiology on the Pre-Med track, with a minor in Psychology. I am a member of the Honors College and currently work on campus through a work-study program. Currently, I hold a position in my sorority on campus, Alpha Omicron Pi, Director of Lifetime Engagement. Through this position, I get the opportunity to keep in contact with all AOII alum and hear their ideas as to how we can keep the chapter strong. This has taught me that leadership is not only important within a group but also past members and those who still support and show interest in the organization. In the past, I have served as student body president at Custer County District High School in Miles City, Montana, and as president of the Montana Association of Student Councils. These roles allowed me to develop strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, while deepening my understanding of governance and the importance of student representation. They also sparked a lasting passion for leadership that I am eager to bring to Montana State’s student government. Beyond leadership, I have been actively involved in community service, volunteering with youth groups, supporting local non-profits, and participating in various service initiatives. These experiences have expanded my perspective, strengthened my commitment to serving others, and taught me the importance of collaboration and listening to diverse voices. As I transition into university life, I am excited to engage with the broader campus community and help ensure that all students feel heard, supported, and empowered. I look forward to the opportunity to apply my experience and dedication to the student government at Montana State University and to continue growing as a leader committed to positive change.

Platform: My goal as a representative for the College of Agriculture is to amplify the voices within the college by advocating for greater academic support and voices from students within the college. I think that a stronger community engagement from those within the college of Agriculture would make a huge impact for students as well as members within the community. Additional mentorship programs and research opportunities for undergrad students on campus would aid for a larger number of opportunities within the college. I strongly believe in strengthening the communication between students, faculty, and admin within the college as I feel this has been a blind spot thus far. Thriving academically and personally is a main priority!

Bio: My name is Kate Johnson, and I’m a freshman majoring in Microbiology with a minor in Genetics here at MSU. Over the past year, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to serve as an at-large senator, proudly representing MSU students. In this role, I’ve participated in numerous community service events, collaborated with fellow senators to organize impactful initiatives like Rise and Reclaim, and served on the finance board along with several liaison positions. Now, I’m excited to take the next step and run for a position in the College of Agriculture to continue amplifying student voices, supporting meaningful projects, and building a stronger, more connected campus community. Let's make a difference together!

Platform: As I run for the College of Agriculture senate position, my platform is centered around three main goals: empowering others, building community, and supporting success through collaboration. I want to amplify student voices by creating more opportunities for open communication. Through listening sessions, feedback forms, and community forums, not only are on-campus student voices heard, but every Bobcat feels valued and represented. I aim to strengthen a more inclusive campus community by supporting events and initiatives that bring students together across different backgrounds and interests. I will work alongside student groups and university departments to develop resources and initiatives that support students' success, whether that is academic, professional, or personal. These goals are not just ideas, they are a reflection of how I lead, with humility, trust, and service. With your support, I will continue to lead in a way that empowers both ASMSU and the University as a whole. Go Cats!

Bio: My name is Jaylyn Thaut and I’m a sophomore in the music technology program at MSU. I am the current secretary of the Gallatin Trumpet Guild, a brother of the honorary band fraternity, Kappa Kappa Psi Beta, and a Hilleman Scholar. In the last two years, I have engaged in community service on campus and for the Bozeman community by performing and volunteering at events. I want to be a strong voice for the College of Arts and Architecture.

Platform: My main goal is to provide a voice for the College of Arts and Architecture. Another goal of mine is to become more involved with the university as a whole. I want to help others, not just within my own department.

Bio: I’m Gavin Thorson, a Chemistry student at MSU with minors in Economics and Global Studies. Beyond the classroom, I’m actively involved in research, focusing on chemical synthesis and its real-world applications. My leadership experience spans multiple areas of campus life. As Director of the Honors Presents Lecture Series, I helped bring distinguished speakers to MSU, including efforts to host renowned author Isabel Allende. I’ve also worked to foster cultural dialogue, co-hosting discussions such as a moderated event with poet Javier Zamora. Additionally, I’ve served as a Teaching Assistant for the departments of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Economics, and Modern Languages. If elected, I’ll advocate for student research opportunities, expand academic resources, and promote a more inclusive and intellectually vibrant campus. I look forward to the opportunity to represent and serve our student body.

Platform: I strive for ASMSU's increased visibility among the student population. It seems many MSU students, me included, don't have a clear picture of what student government does. As ASMSU senator, I'll make it my mission to increase students' awareness of and engagement with our student government.

Bio: Hello, my name is Jonah Metz and I am a freshman in the Honors College at MSU. I am currently undecided on my major, though I am pursuing a minor in Hispanic Studies, and continue to explore a variety of fields such as philosophy, political science, and community health. Since arriving in Bozeman, I have consistently volunteered within the community through the nonprofit Befrienders and the Office of Student Engagement, been an active member of Sigma Phi Epsilon serving as the community service/philanthropy chair for our chapter, and strive to maintain a high academic standing, earning a spot on the President’s List last semester. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy staying active and being outdoors!

Platform: If elected, I will work toward providing more accessible and impactful community service events for students, especially those living on campus and without transportation. I would also like to streamline the VIM Funding process to ensure that student organizations can easily access funding. Ultimately, I will be a strong advocate for community engagement by strengthening existing relationships to our community while building new connections within Bozeman and improve systems that will allow student organizations to thrive.

Bio: My name is Blake Lindemann, and I am a first year student in the Honors college, studying Political Science and Environmental Science. Outside of class, I have worked in organizing and activism both on and off campus, as well as hitting Bridger when I can. I have a passion for sustainability, and hope to bring my experience from managing solarization and conservation projects in my hometown of Kalispell, Montana to my role as a Senator here at MSU.

Platform: My platform is to promote choice, transparency and sustainability. For choice, I plan to open a dialogue to allow on-campus students to opt-out of a meal plan. I want to bring transparency both to the workings of university administration and as to how fees and tuition are being spent on campus. Finally, for sustainability I want to continue the work that the university at large, and ASMSU in particular, have done to decrease our carbon footprint such as the shuttle system or composting.

Bio: My name is Walter Scheldorf and I’ll be going into my sixth year in the fall getting dual degrees in environmental science and political science. I’ve taken an interesting path through college, to say the least, having been a resident advisor for two years and now attending as a part-time student, giving me a range of experiences to inform me in my role as a Senator. I've been in the role of a Senator for the past three years now and have had the honor of being the Senate Speaker this last year. Outside of ASMSU, I am also a Brother and the Risk Manager for the Sigma Nu fraternity and have been in leadership roles in multiple other student groups. Outside of school, I also work at Bridger Bowl and I'm big on cliff jumping, off-roading, photography, skiing, exploring, trees, and staring into the distance. I hope that y'all will elect me to continue to serve this campus in any way that I can. If you have any questions, comments, concerns, emotional outbursts, jokes, pick-up lines, or cool pictures of trees, hmu at 360-216-9025!

Platform: In my time as a Senator, I’ve made an effort to engage with our campus, not necessarily announcing myself as a student government leader but openly talking about ASMSU and campus issues with people in my classes, at work, or just hanging out. What I’ve heard is many people don’t know how to engage with our student government, even if they want to. They don’t know RailJam – the single largest event ASMSU puts on that I’ve fought for and want to see sustainably continue – is paid for by their fees and put on by their student government. In the past, I’ve written more of my own opinions and goals into my platform, but I’ve come to realize the best platform is simply to be a present and responsive student leader, anywhere and everywhere.

Bio: My name is Lizzie Ferrell, and I am a freshman in the English writing program at MSU with a minor in political science. I’m from a small town in Colorado and grew up on a hobby farm. I’ve spent the last two years working in public school systems with students aged 0-11. This last year, I’ve enjoyed becoming acquainted with MSU and Bozeman. I was inspired to run for senate when I attended ASMSU’s Rotunda Day and spoke to our legislators about upcoming education bills. I have a strong voice and many ideas to share with the student body.

Platform:My goals as a senator are to represent the College of Letters and Science and give a voice to the English and Political Science programs. I want to give opportunities for more students to get involved in local politics. MSU has a strong student body that deserves a far-reaching voice. I also want to listen to the concerns of the individuals within the College of Letters and Science and bring those to the attention of the university. We all deserve to feel heard and supported!

Bio: Hi! My name is Josey Blazer and I am a sophomore marketing student with a minor in political science. Last year, I had the privilege of serving as a senator representing the Jake Jabs college of business for a semester. I found the experience extremely rewarding and it encouraged me to join the ASMSU communications and outreach team. This past year, I had the opportunity to work as the ASMSU Assistant Director of Outreach and expanded my knowledge and love for all ASMSU programs. I can’t wait to give a voice to the wonderful students of Jabs!

Platform: As someone with food allergies, I am aware that there is limited access to tasty and affordable options for people with dietary restrictions. I also want to give more access to first generation students, and ensure that their needs are met. Finally, I want to work on creating a safe and sanitary space for breastfeeding students.

Bio: I’m Zach Myers, a freshman pursuing a degree in Business Management with minors in Hispanic Studies and International Business. Over the past year, I’ve joined a fraternity on campus and will be serving as an Orientation Leader for this summer’s sessions. I am committed to amplifying the voices of the Jake Jabs College of Business & Entrepreneurship students here at MSU and advocating for their needs.

Platform: My goal for this position is to ensure that every student within the Business College has a platform to be heard. Every opinion matters because, at the end of the day, we are all part of the same community, working toward the same goals. I want to simplify the process for clubs and organizations to receive the support they need, ensuring that all student communities feel supported. I am passionate about making MSU a place where everyone feels valued, and I believe this position will give me the opportunity to help achieve that.

Bio:My name is Rebekah Storlie and I am a rising junior at MSU! I'm an Exercise Science Major with a Coaching minor and am hoping to follow an athletic training path. I served as your EHHD senator last year and would love to take on this role again! In my time as a senator, I not only spoke and voted for the betterment of students in EHHD, but also worked with our deans and leadership to open communication, support our clubs and organizations, and host a networking event for my peers.

Platform: If reelected, I plan to host the Mocktail Mixer event again, support the Bobcat Pounce 5k (which contributes to many of our college's scholarships), work closely with club leadership to serve their needs, and continue to be a resource for students who want their voices heard.

Bio: My name is Jillian Persicke and I am a Junior Studying Community Health here at MSU. During my time at Montana State, I have had the opportunity to work with Bozeman Health and the Student Wellness Office to promote and advance health behaviors here at MSU! I have also had the opportunity to volunteer in the Bozeman community with the Befrienders of Bozeman Organization, as well as with my sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi. I am very passionate about equity and equality, and hope that a voice in the ASMSU Senate will allow me to provide and expand resources to all students! I hope to represent the College of Education, Health and Human Development with any needs, concerns, or questions in the future.

Platform:With a position in ASMSU, I hope to expand the resources on campus for all students and provide a safe, healthy campus. I believe that all voices and opinions matter and must be heard by the governing student bodies at Montana State and hope that I can represent and be a voice for the College of EHHD. If elected as EHHD senator, I will encourage student excellence, equality, inclusion and opportunity!

Bio:My name is Maksym Makarchuk, and I am a junior at Montana State University pursuing dual degrees in Computer Science (Professional) and Data Science with a minor in Mathematics through the Honors College. My academic journey is driven by a passion for research, problem-solving, and fostering a strong community within MSU. Over the past year, I have been actively involved in undergraduate research, working on topological data analysis under the guidance of faculty in the Gianforte School of Computing. My research has led to presentations at academic conferences and collaborations on peer-reviewed publications. Additionally, I have served as an undergraduate teaching assistant, supporting students in their coursework and reinforcing MSU’s commitment to academic excellence. I currently serve as the president of MSU’s chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), where I work to foster a collaborative environment for students interested in computing, organize technical workshops, and connect students with industry professionals. Beyond academics, I am an honors presenter, helping to organize and facilitate discussions on meaningful topics that encourage intellectual curiosity. In my free time, I enjoy participating in sports clubs, staying active, and engaging with MSU’s student community. I look forward to the opportunity to represent the College of Engineering and contribute to a strong, supportive, and innovative student environment at MSU.

Platform: As a candidate for the ASMSU Senate seat representing the College of Engineering, my goal is to expand research and hands-on learning opportunities, ensuring that students gain the experience needed to be competitive in their careers after graduation. I want to advocate for better access to resources, stronger support for students balancing academics with extracurriculars, and more opportunities for real-world applications of their coursework. This includes revising ideas for capstone projects to ensure they provide meaningful, real-world experience that prepares students for industry challenges. By working with ASMSU, I hope to create an environment where engineering students can thrive both academically and professionally.

Bio: Hello! I’m Brynn Nelson, a freshman studying Mechanical Engineering from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In my spare time, I love climbing, hiking, fishing, and snowboarding. I chose MSU because of the incredible opportunities available to students, both indoors and outdoors. In high school, I was involved in Student Government and valued the community we fostered through our activities. As a Senate member, I’m excited to continue that passion by helping strengthen our campus community and advocating for the needs and goals of our fellow students.

Platform: My primary focus is to keep student cost low and affordable, increase inclusivity, and strengthen the outreach programs within the Bozeman community. Cost is often one of the biggest factors in education, and I am committed to ensuring that student voices are heard and prioritized in all budget discussions. As a woman in engineering, I understand how intimidating it can be to enter the program. I will support clubs like WIE to promote the success of female engineers and help implement more women-led study groups to ease the transition into the program and inspire more women to pursue engineering. I believe a strong community makes all the difference, and by enhancing our outreach programs, we can both give back to the city of Bozeman and boost student engagement. If given the opportunity to run, I’m excited to bring these ideas forward and work toward positive change on campus.

Bio: Hi Bobcats!! My name is Hannah Ferguson! I am a freshman majoring in biological and chemical engineering, minoring in genetics, and pursuing a pre-med track. I am passionately involved in an on-campus research lab focused on cell culture and genetics. I also work for University Housing as an RA in Yellowstone Hall and volunteer as an Honors Ambassador for the Honors College. I am an officer in the Pre-PA club and am actively involved in the Pre-Med Club and Oaks International. Outside of school, I like to spend my time in nature: hiking, mountain biking, skiing, backpacking, trail running, or simply enjoying a sunset. I am excited by the opportunity to represent my student body and assist in making beneficial changes on our campus. I love getting to know new people, so if you have any questions or comments, please reach out!!!

Platform: As a member and leader of various clubs across campus I understand the difficulties in accessing and putting to use club funding. I want to make your student funds more accessible and streamline the purchasing process for clubs and on-campus organizations. In addition to club funding initiatives I also am passionate about MSU students' active involvement in groundbreaking research. As a student researcher, I understand the value of these hands-on experiences and how they can not only impact current learning but also provide amazing opportunities in the future. I will continually advocate for the research focused culture at MSU and look for new ways to make research more accessible to students across our campus. Lastly, in collaboration with the advising teams at MSU I will give students more opportunities to understand their future goals and how they can be achieved throughout their undergraduate experience. I want to provide current students with a network of alumni and professional contacts that can advise how best to prepare for a career. I am focused on continuing MSU’s culture of excellence and exploration. This culture can be exemplified by aiding clubs in pursuing new opportunities through more accessible funding, by increasing the accessibility of research to MSU students, and by allowing students the opportunity to explore their interests with the advice of seasoned mentors. I have always felt that the faculty and staff of MSU care about MSU students' success and will I work to make my experience of individualized consideration and support universal for all MSU students.

Bio: I’m Nathan Heiland, a freshman Engineering student here at Montana State University. I’m studying Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Aerospace. As a lifelong Montanan, I understand the value of hard work and dedication. Since arriving on campus, I’ve become a brother of Sigma Nu, a member of the Formula Club, and an active participant in the FSAE Collegiate Chapter. I bring leadership experience as the Scholarship Chairman of Sigma Nu and as an Eagle Scout. When I’m not writing on a whiteboard in Norm or the library, you’ll probably find me outside or connecting with others. I love skiing, exploring Hyalite, listening to music, taking photos, and staying up to date on the latest in technology. My top priorities are helping students get the most value from the time and money they invest in college and supporting students in overcoming the barriers they face while here. I believe I can be a strong representative for both engineering students and the broader student body.

Platform: I have two major goals as a senator. First, I want to ensure students are getting the most value possible out of their experience at MSU. College is a significant investment of money, energy, and time. As a student government, we must work to make sure that investment pays off, both inside and outside the classroom. Second, I aim to help students overcome the barriers that make college life difficult. These are the challenges that can discourage students from continuing their education, and I believe we can do more to support students through these issues.

Bio: Hi, my name is Sadie Jenkins and I am a sophomore majoring in Political Science and minoring in English Writing. I am originally from Juneau, Alaska, and love all things outdoors! When not working or studying, you will most likely find me knee deep in powder at Bridger Bowl. During my time at MSU, I have worked as a Student Ambassador with Gold Standard, which has fueled my passion for helping other students find internship and employment opportunities. As an Honors College Student Fellow, I loved guiding Freshman in their Text and Critics experience. This summer, I am excited to be working as an Orientation Leader for incoming freshmen!

Platform: My primary goal as a Senator would be to expand undergraduate internship and job opportunities as well as, increasing alumni mentorship opportunities while advocating for tailored career development workshops and continued funding for student success programs.

Bio: Hi, I’m Molly. An honors pre-law student at Montana State University, as it stands I’m majoring in Political Science with minors in Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship and Finance In Bozeman, I am on the state board for College Democrats of Montana, working specifically with community engagemet ands I’m currently involved with volunteering with Bozeman Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Indian/Alaska Native Student Success Services, Citizens Climate Lobby, and Gallatin High Schools Debate team. Prior to university, I graduated from Billings West High School with a 4.0 GPA and student engagement such as Track and Field (all state competitor), Speech and Debate (team captain and all state competitor), and the rotary club. I’m ranked top 1% (24th) nationally for Debate and public speaking, and have roughly 2,000+ hours of volunteering for various organizations. I bring an educated and well rounded perspective and I am confident I can represent and advocate for the voices of students within the Letters and Sciences college here at Montana State.

Platform: Hi, I’m Molly. An honors pre-law student at Montana State University, as it stands I’m majoring in Political Science with minors in Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship and Finance In Bozeman, I am on the state board for College Democrats of Montana, working specifically with community engagement and local communications. As it stands I’m currently involved with volunteering with Bozeman Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Indian/Alaska Native Student Success Services, Citizens Climate Lobby, and Gallatin High Schools Debate team. Prior to university, I graduated from Billings West High School with a 4.0 GPA and student engagement such as Track and Field (all state competitor), Speech and Debate (team captain and all state competitor), and the rotary club. I’m ranked top 1% (24th) nationally for Debate and public speaking, and have roughly 2,000+ hours of volunteering for various organizations. I bring an educated and well rounded perspective and I am confident I can represent and advocate for the voices of students within the Letters and Sciences college here at Montana State. I bring an educated and well-rounded perspective, and I can represent and advocate for the voices of students within the Letters and Sciences college here at Montana State. As your senator, I would expand opportunity access, fight for a just representation, and encourage transparency and student input. Students are what makes the college, not the other way around. Make your voice heard and choose me as your senator.

Bio: My name is Izzy Watson and I am a Sophomore studying Political Science and Philosophy. This semester I have been serving as the ASMSU Student Lobbyist, a role which has enabled me to be a voice for students in Helena, advocating for or against bills that directly target students’ ability to study, work, and live in Bozeman. I am greatly excited to apply what I have learned on the hill to ASMSU politics.

Platform: As your senator, I would work to ensure that ASMSU operates in a transparent and accessible manner. Transparency means clear communication about decisions, budgets, and policies, ensuring that students know how their money is spent and how their voices shape university policies. Accessibility means breaking down barriers to participation—whether that’s making meetings open and understandable, simplifying the process for students to bring forward concerns, or ensuring that all students, regardless of background or schedule, have avenues to engage. Politics should be accessible at every level, and nothing should stand in the way of students and the government they represent. Students should have ample opportunity to engage in government, and such engagement should be encouraged. Student government should be student driven. Beyond participation in government, accessibility also means ensuring that essential resources—like food security programs, mental health services, and financial assistance—are easy to find and use. No student should struggle to meet their basic needs while pursuing their education. I will work to streamline the processes that help students access support systems, reducing the stress that too often comes with college life.

Bio: My Name is Emelia Wood, and I am a Junior in the History program at MSU with a minor in Museum Studies. I was born in Billings, Montana and moved to Joliet, Montana for my Freshman year of high school. Some of my favorite pastimes include cooking, reading, arts and crafts, as well as enjoying the beautiful outdoor spaces that Bozeman and the surrounding area provide for us. Over the past year, I have interned at the Museum of the Rockies working in both the Paleo-Histology Lab and the Cultural History Collections. I am also an active member of the Phi Alpha Theta History Club and Honor Society, holding an officer position for the last academic year. I plan to advocate and provide a voice for the Humanities and Sciences within the College of Letters and Sciences in ASMSU.

Platform: My main goal is to advocate for the Humanities in ASMSU, a field of study that many feel is often overlooked as MSU is a majority STEM and Business school. Aspects of the Humanities are present in every field and major, though it may seem minuscule. I feel that representation of the Humanities is vital to the ecosystem of the University. Another goal of mine is to provide a point of view from a major that is often not represented. Providing outlook from a new point of view is refreshing to collaborative projects, student government included. Other goals of mine include making sure that new students within the College of Letters and Sciences are supported by their student government, promoting mental health and wellness throughout the university, and fostering a welcoming space for all students at MSU.

Bio: My name is Mia Vroman, and I’m a sophomore in the Pre-Nursing program at Montana State University. I am President of Montana’s first chapter of Her Campus Magazine—a nationally recognized platform that uplifts, informs, and connects college women. I am an advocate for rural healthcare, dedicated to community service, and I value the voices of the student body. I believe students are powerful drivers of positive change in the future communities we serve.

Platform: My first goal is to actively understand and connect the perspectives of our student body so we can uphold and push forward the integrity, creativity, and boldness of the Bobcat Way. The students of Montana State University represent the youth of what our generation is going to stand for. We are shaking standards, celebrating tradition, crowding tables, and honoring what we now call home - the last best place - Montana. Balancing the old and the new, Bobcats are leading the future with a unique perspective that honors both as the way forward. My second goal is to be the bridge between students and faculty to continue what MSU represents and what that will mean for generations to come.