Making an Impact for Nevada Students
Follow our journey on Instagram @ImpactNevada2024!
About Us
Dawson Deal
Candidate for ASUN President
Dawson Deal is a junior and first-generation student born and raised in Sparks, Nevada. He majors in Political Science with a minor in Political Communication & Advocacy. Currently, he serves as the Director of Government Affairs for ASUN, working to empower, educate, and advocate for students, connecting undergraduates to all levels of government in a nonpartisan manner. Dawson has interned for a United States Senator and lobbying firm during the 82nd Session of the Nevada State Legislature. Currently, he works for The Discovery, a local nonprofit, where he connects community members with hands-on learning, gaining invaluable experience in community engagement and strategy development. After graduation, Dawson plans to remain in Nevada, continuing his dedication to state policy and politics. Driven by a commitment to nonpartisan representation and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of fellow Nevadans, he envisions contributing to the state's rapid growth and development.
Liesel Kemmelmeier was born and raised in Reno, Nevada. She is a junior studying Social Research Analytics, Political Science, and International Affairs, with minors in Political Communication & Advocacy and Holocaust, Genocide, & Peace Studies. She currently serves as the Assistant Director of Government Affairs for ASUN, where she works to further nonpartisan student interests. Liesel also serves as the Vice President of the Nevada Blue Key Honor Society as well as the Co-Chair of Leadership Development and a campus tour guide for the Nevada Student Ambassadors. She plays oboe in the School of Music and previously worked in Residential Life and NevadaFIT. After graduation, she hopes to pursue a Master’s in Public Administration and Policy to advocate for Nevadan communities and develop equitable government initiatives.
Liesel Kemmelmeier
Candidate for ASUN Vice President
Our Platform
Our vision is built upon three foundational pillars, each representing our unwavering commitment to a thriving and inclusive Nevada.
Inclusivity
We believe in a Nevada where every voice matters. Our campaign is dedicated to fostering an environment of inclusivity, ensuring that diverse perspectives are not only heard but celebrated. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community.
Unity
Strength lies in unity, and we are dedicated to bringing people together. Our vision for Nevada is rooted in collaboration, breaking down barriers, and working hand-in-hand to address challenges and seize opportunities. Together, we can create a Nevada that thrives on shared goals and collective efforts.
Impactful Leadership
Leadership is about more than titles; it's about making a difference. Our campaign is fueled by a vision of impactful leadership that takes decisive action, prioritizes inclusivity, and tirelessly works towards creating tangible improvements. We envision a Nevada where leadership is synonymous with positive change and progress.
Affordability & Basic Needs of Students
Ensuring financial accessibility and reducing economic barriers is crucial for fostering an inclusive campus environment. By continuing initiatives like the Passion Fund and advocating for affordable housing, these goals strive to create an atmosphere where students can focus on their academic pursuits without financial constraints.
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Continue the Passion Fund, initiated by the current Guerra Alquiza Empower Nevada Administration, to ensure financial access for undergraduate students joining and remaining in student organizations with initial and/or semesterly dues, actively promoting these opportunities during and after the club fairs.
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Collaborate to secure external funding (public or private) to meet student demands for essential undergraduate student services, including ASUN Pack Provisions and UNR Counseling Services, through partnerships with the Center for Student Engagement and department heads.
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Increase space for ASUN Pack Provisions within the Center for Student Engagement for easier access and move smaller-form pantries closer to residence halls, fostering greater accessibility and shorter walking distances for students through collaborations with the Office of Residential Life, Housing, and Food Services and the Residential Hall Association (RHA).
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Increase ASUN funding of the Center for Student Engagement student services proportionate to student demand and use (e.g., ASUN Pack Rides).
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Advocate for affordable housing on and off-campus by communicating with the Office of Residential Life, Housing, and Food Services engaging elected officials within the Reno City Council, and collaborating with the Nevada State Legislature.
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Establish an Advisory Board on Undergraduate Affordable Housing Access under the Office of the President to explore private/public partnerships for more affordable off-campus housing, holding monthly meetings under Nevada Open Meeting Law for student input.
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Analyze prior ASUN approaches and study nationwide strategies for affordable housing, emphasizing a government-relations and community-based approach from ASUN officers.
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Advocate for increased student worker pay, minimizing differences between off-campus, part-time wages.
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Advocate for affordable and quality on-campus dining, liaising with the University Administration.
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Strengthen connections with Nevada Money Mentors to promote financial literacy resources for students upon arrival and throughout their undergraduate careers.
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During the 83rd session of the Nevada Legislature, work with state legislators to build on 2023's successful efforts, advocating for policies that fulfill basic needs for Nevada students and ensure affordable higher education.
Accountability, Transparency, & Collaboration
A foundation of transparent governance and collaboration cultivates trust and engagement within the university community. Strategic planning, regular communication, and accessible budget information empower students to actively participate in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the institution's well-being.
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Develop/modify a strategic plan with the 92nd Speaker of the Senate to set attainable goals for each committee chair and minimize unnecessary overlap of liaison positions between the Executive and Legislative branches.
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Meet regularly with Senators from each college/school to understand diverse needs, co-sponsor bills supporting Nevada students, and encourage the Speaker of the Senate not to suspend Senate Rules over the summer, ensuring consistent committee meetings.
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Establish the Department of Campus and Public Relations and add additional student positions to bridge the gap between ASUN and the student body.
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Provide a weekly newsletter detailing progress and opportunities, create a guide for participating in ASUN meetings, and develop individual webpages for Senate Committees and ASUN Advisory Boards.
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Clearly communicate the mission and details of the ASUN Internship Program, advertise public information sessions for applying to ASUN Appointed Positions, and reach out directly to clubs and organizations for increased awareness of job opportunities in the executive branch.
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Examine the feasibility of greater virtual access to all ASUN public meetings.
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Publish an undergraduate-wide survey at the start of the 92nd session to inform ASUN funding priorities for the 2025 fiscal year, with monthly spending breakdowns and an interactive platform for budget transparency.
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Utilize student feedback from previous events and conduct an annual review of ASUN by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), making financial reviews public and publishing analysis and findings from Senate Committee on Budget and Finance each semester.
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Review fiscal efficiency of events from the 91st Session and allocate savings to programs benefiting the student body.
Accessibility, Diversity, & Inclusion
A commitment to accessibility, diversity, and inclusion reinforces the Association's dedication to equity and representation. By supporting underrepresented groups, promoting diversity in leadership, and fostering an inclusive campus through grants, this platform seeks to create an environment where every student feels valued and heard.
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Continue fostering diversity within the President's Cabinet and Executive Branch through the Department of IDEA.
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Conduct direct outreach initiatives, climate surveys, and focus groups to understand and support the experiences of underrepresented groups on campus.
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Sponsor identity-based groups, including the Multicultural Greek Council, and highlight their contributions during national recognition months.
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Advocate for increased state funding for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) infrastructure improvements in the 2025-2027 Biennial Budget.
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Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to advance initiatives for continued ADA infrastructure improvements, ensuring physical accessibility for students of all abilities.
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Establish a grant program for ASUN-registered clubs or organizations to design initiatives promoting inclusivity.
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Encourage proposals addressing service gaps or focusing on underrepresented populations.
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Spotlight grant recipients for their efforts
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Regularly engage with identity groups, offering support and resources through the Department of IDEA and addressing concerns raised through active dialogue.
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Maintain a strong and consistent presence in supporting marginalized communities throughout the academic year.
Community & Student Belonging
Cultivating a strong sense of community and belonging enhances the overall student experience. Supporting local businesses, reviving traditions, and investing in clubs and organizations contribute to a vibrant campus culture, where students feel connected and engaged in both academic and extracurricular pursuits.
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Continue the Passion Fund, initiated by the current Guerra Alquiza Empower Nevada Administration, to ensure financial access for undergraduate students joining and remaining in student organizations with initial and/or semesterly dues, actively promoting these opportunities during and after the club fair.
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Supporting the Wolves Den and driving student attendance at all men’s and women’s sporting events through substantive collaboration.
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Growing the Pack Friendly Business Program to make more discounts available to students in the Reno community and increasing awareness of discounts available to students off-campus by creating weekly highlights of Pack Friendly Businesses.
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Promoting and supporting local businesses in campus programming by utilizing local and small vendors for food and other services.
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Working with the Nevada Alumni Association to connect undergraduate students to post-grad opportunities such as Pack Connect and the Silver Thread Mentorship Program.
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Revive campus traditions, such as movies in front of the Joe, in collaboration with the Joe Crowley Student Union.
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Ensure sufficient funding is available in the Clubs & Organizations account for students and registered student organizations under ASUN following an analysis of funding utilization.
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Enhance communication between clubs and club commissioners by providing transparent breakdowns of club coalitions and contact methods while mandating commissioners to proactively reach out to each club within their coalition at least once per semester, offering necessary support and resources.
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Supporting Greek Life on campus through liaison positions with the UNR Panhellenic Council, Multicultural Greek Council, Nevada Interfraternity Council, and Reno Independent Interfraternity Council to open up vital conversations and opportunities for collaboration and support.
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Boost ASUN Welcome Week attendance by optimizing event formats for capacity and introducing diverse activities to cater to the student body's varied interests.
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Advance sustainability initiatives on campus and in the Reno-Tahoe community by directing the Department of Sustainability to actively promote enhanced and meaningful recycling infrastructure on campus.
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Championing for a greener Reno-Tahoe by taking the lead in organizing volunteer efforts with environmental- and recreation-based clubs and organizations.
Career & Academic Readiness
Preparing students for successful careers is essential in today's competitive landscape. Initiatives like the Advisory Board for Professional Development and efforts to connect students with resources and networking opportunities aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for a seamless transition into the professional world.
Additionally, providing research opportunities enriches the academic experience and fosters critical thinking skills. Allocating funds, streamlining processes, and improving communication with the Office of Undergraduate Research contribute to an environment where students can actively engage in research, enhancing their academic growth.
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Establish the ASUN Advisory Board for Undergraduate Professional Development to connect students with resources, networking, and job opportunities.
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Ensure representation from each college's advisory board/student council for broad major representation.
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Include diverse student representation, staff/faculty from relevant centers, and Alumni representation from the Nevada Alumni Association.
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Promote awareness of affordable professional development resources for incoming and upper-class undergraduate students and emphasize the acquisition of hard and soft skills to strengthen the Pack.
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Drive attendance at career fairs and create accommodating networking environments for students.
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Collaborate with University Administration to secure discounts and purchase campus-wide subscriptions on academic and pre-professional resources.
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Provide undergraduate students across majors access to online academic programs and physical resources, including preparation for graduate and professional school applications.
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Provide free scantrons to students through ASUN Pack Provisions to reduce individual financial burden.
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Establish a fund covering application fees for graduating undergraduate students pursuing post-graduate opportunities.
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Focus on those ineligible for fee waivers but face significant financial or social obstacles.
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Allocate more funds to the Pack Internship Grant Programs, increasing the number of paid student internships through the Nevada Career Studio.
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Work with the Nevada Alumni Association to connect undergraduate students to post-graduate opportunities like Pack Connect and the Silver Thread Mentorship Program.
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Connect the Nevada Career Studio and Nevada Alumni Association to increase awareness and utilization of undergraduate career planning and post-graduate resources.
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Allocate more funds to ASUN-funded undergraduate research initiatives such as the Nevada Undergraduate Research Award (NURA), Pack Research Experience Program (PREP), and the Undergraduate Research Travel Award.
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Provide more paid research opportunities to undergraduate students across majors.
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Ensure the ASUN Nevada Undergraduate Research Journal is fully staffed for streamlined submission and publication of research works.
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Strengthen communication with the Office of Undergraduate Research and the student body.
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Increase awareness about gateways to research and ensure students' needs are met.
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Ensure information about undergraduate research opportunities reaches students from the start of their academic journey at UNR.
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Collaborate with the future Chair of the Senate Committee on Academic Student Affairs to establish more liaison positions within the Executive Cabinet and the committee.
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Enhance communication between undergraduate students and University Administration regarding academics and student access to resources.
Safety & Wellness
Prioritizing safety and wellness creates a secure and supportive atmosphere for all students. Advisory boards on power-based violence, mental health resources, and inclusive programming initiatives underscore the institution's commitment to student well-being, ensuring a campus environment where everyone feels safe and supported.
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Under the Department of Campus Wellness, build off the outline for the Title IX Student Advisory Board to establish the ASUN Advisory Board on Undergraduate Power-Based Violence, adhering to Nevada Open Meeting Law transparency practices.
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Ensure representation from the ASUN Department of IDEA and an ASUN Senator on the Committee for Safety, Sustainability, and Wellness.
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Include diverse representation from Fraternity and Sorority Life, non-profit organizations, the Office of Equal Opputunity and Title IX, NevadaCARES, UNR Police Services, and other campus entities promoting resources for victims of power-based violence.
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Appoint a liaison from the ASUN Department of Government Affairs to provide comment to the NSHE Task Force on Power-Based Violence during Quarterly Board of Regents meetings.
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Allow non-ASUN student representation based on an application/nomination basis.
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Expand programming initiatives facilitated by the Department of Programming and the Department of Campus Wellness to connect students with resources addressing power-based violence.
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Facilitate connections between students and mental health resources on campus and in the community. Explore causes of wait times for Counseling Services, promote alternative spaces like the Downing Counseling Clinic, and disseminate information about community resources for comprehensive mental healthcare.
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Utilize data and research, including focus groups, surveys, and existing datasets, to understand perceptions of campus safety and awareness of safety resources.
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Work towards ensuring a safe campus environment for all students, with targeted outreach and needs assessment, particularly focusing on the safety of women and marginalized groups.
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Implement access to fentanyl testing strips on campus in alignment with ASUN Senate Resolution 91.
Civic Engagement & Education
Encouraging civic engagement is vital for developing informed and active citizens. Initiatives such as on-campus polling locations, advocacy efforts in legislative sessions, and sponsorship requests for political candidates reflect the university's commitment to fostering a community of socially responsible and politically engaged individuals.
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Ensure the availability of on-campus polling locations for the November 2024 Elections, emphasizing voter education access, especially for first-time voters residing in Reno or in the residence halls.
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Champion non-partisan priorities of UNR undergraduate students throughout the 83rd session of the Nevada Legislature (starting February 2025). Actively track bill draft requests during the summer and fall aligned with nonpartisan student interests.
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Serve as a robust advocate within the Nevada Student Alliance, holding the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents accountable for considering and acting on student perspectives and priorities. This includes issues related to affordable tuition.
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Advocate for affordability in high-student living areas, addressing concerns such as affordable housing and food access, with the Reno
City Council and Washoe County Board of County Commissioners.
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Sponsor requests for political candidates, including those running for U.S. President, to speak on campus. Maintain a nonpartisan stance without endorsements.
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Establish accessible online and in-person spaces for first-time voter registration and updates leading up to the November 2024 elections.
Our Team
Meet the minds behind our campaign initiatives and outreach efforts.
