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John Muir College Council Election

Below you will find candidate information as part of the 2025 student government elections. Students can vote starting April 7 - 11, 2025 via Triton Link. For more information about the election, please visit the elections page or contact the Muir Elections Manager at mecarlson@ucsd.edu and Representative at jen025@ucsd.edu .

Candidates for Office

Candidates are listed by position and in alphabetical order by last name.

President

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    Luke Pedersen

    Slate Affiliation: Summit

    Candidate Statement:

Vice President of Internal Affairs

  • Vincent Lopez

    Vincent Lopez

    Slate Affiliation: Summit

    Candidate Statement: I’m Vincent, and I’m excited to be running for Vice President of Internal Affairs

    In my two years in Muir College Council, I’ve helped plan events like Spirit Night and Celebrating Muir College Week. To uphold my slate’s value of inclusion, I will organize regular Council team-building programs to foster a collaborative environment to support our Muir community.

    Together, let’s rise to the Summit!

Vice President of Administrative Affairs

  • Michael Pieniaszek

    Michael Pieniaszek

    Slate Affiliation: Summit

    Candidate Statement: I’m Michael Pieniaszek, and I am honored to be running for Vice President of Administrative Affairs!

    For the last two quarters, I’ve worked on events like Spirit Night to strengthen Muir pride. To uphold my slate's value of transparency, I will create an “MCC Recap” that highlights the most important decisions and events impacting the Muir Community.

    Together, let’s rise to the Summit!

Vice President of External Affairs

  • Kaylie Hough

    Kaylie Hough

    Slate Affiliation: Summit

    Candidate Statement: I’m Kaylie Hough, and I’m excited to be running for VP of External Affairs for MCC! 

    As MCC’s current Commuter Representative and U-Pass Referendum Election Manager, I’m familiar with programming and conversing with large student bodies. As VP External, I will uphold my slate’s value of inclusion by ensuring that students have an equal opportunity applying to MCC.

    Together, let’s rise to the Summit!

Vice President of Marketing

  • Alexander Testman

    Alexander Testman

    Slate Affiliation: Summit

    Candidate Statement: I’m Alexander Testman, and I’m excited to be running for VP of Marketing for MCC! As MCC’s current Historian, I have developed methods for effective outreach and engagement. As VP of Marketing, I will uphold my slate’s value of progress by developing strategic marketing campaigns to enhance the visibility and appeal of Council events and services. Together, let’s rise to the Summit!

Vice President of Programming

  • Saniya Harlalka

    Saniya Harlalka

    Slate Affiliation: Summit

    Candidate Statement: I’m Saniya Harlalka, and I'm eager to be running for Vice President of Programming! As your Health and Wellness advocate for the past two years, I’ve addressed food insecurity via cooking workshops, promoted basic needs resources, and organized events as an HA. As VP Programming, I will uphold my slate’s value of progress via unique and intentional programs. Together, let’s rise to the Summit!

Student Org. Ambassador

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    Julian Gonzales

    Slate Affiliation: Summit

    Candidate Statement: I’m Julian Gonzales, and I’m excited to be running for VP of Student Organizations! 

    From my experience as your Resident Representative, I know how to serve as the liaison between MCC and our diverse student organizations. I will uphold my slate’s value of transparency by strengthening communications and creating space for our leaders to connect and grow!

    Together, let’s rise to the Summit!

Associated Students Senator (2)

  • Rachel Alarcon

    Rachel Alarcon

    Slate Affiliation: Independent

    Candidate Statement: Hello! My name is Rachel Alarcon, and I am a Social Psychology major with a minor in Law and Society. As your college senator, I plan to promote diversity and inclusion, stronger mental health resources, and push for more campus sustainability. Through my academic journey as an engaged student and community volunteer, I will advocate for underrepresented voices and ensure that every student's needs are prioritized.

  • Katie Johnson

    Katie Johnson

    Slate Affiliation: Independent

    Candidate Statement: Muirons, I know college is a lot—but having someone who listens and supports you makes a difference. I’m running for senator to make Muir that place. No empty promises, just real action and real results. I care about what matters to you—not just the big stuff, but the everyday things that shape our community. If you want a leader who listens, shows up, and fights for you, vote Katie E. Johnson!