It’s that time of year again for Bakersfield College’s Student Government Association election.
This year’s election was preceded by a debate held in the Levan Center, where students had a chance to meet several candidates, including BCSGA President and Kern Community College District Trustee candidate Cindy Ceja Miranda, BCSGA Vice President candidates Raya Arafah and Randy Arevalo, and Director of Student Organizations candidates Johana Solis and Abigail Tamayo.
The debate was moderated by Leonardo Ayala, Assistant Director of the Office of Student Life.
There were a variety of campus topics discussed, but the talks didn’t just encompass Bakersfield College, but KCCD as a whole. Miranda said as trustee, she would encourage “conversations with each college.”
Another topic Miranda brought up were the reported cracks in the Science and Engineering building, saying, “Students need to know about these issues.”
Tamayo said in her campaign statement that her ultimate goal “is to eliminate any delays, ensuring that student organizations receive immediate support and have a seamless start.”
Solis was the only candidate who, in addition to English, introduced herself in Spanish and American Sign Language. Solis also gave a land acknowledgement at the beginning of Thursday’s debate.
“I just want to be an advocate, to be an ally,” Solis said in her closing statement. “It may be seen like a job to some… but it doesn’t feel like a job to me.”
Arafah, an international student, currently serves as a senator and said in her campaign statement that “she brings a global perspective and promotes diversity and inclusivity.”
“Being on BCSGA means not only addressing the concerns they have, but also standing up for their voices,” Arafah said in her closing statement.
The debate finished with Arevalo, whose top concerns are safety and accessibility, according to his campaign statement.
“I want to be proactive, not reactive,” said Arevalo. “I’m not afraid of failure, but I do dream of success. I want other students to feel the same way.”
Voting for BCSGA elections will begin Monday, April 8 at 8 a.m. and will close on Thursday, April 11 at 4 p.m.