CUSG Representative At-Large candidate Carly Malamut answers a question during the CU Independent Debate on Wednesday Oct. 30, 2024. (Scott Tan/CU Independent).
The University of Colorado Boulder Student Government Representative At-Large race is crowded, with 10 candidates running for only five seats. To assist voters in determining their preferred candidates, the CU Independent sent out a questionnaire to all 10 candidates asking them four identical questions. Candidates Zach Lugenbill, Sophie Hoffmann, Suvan Das and Carly Malamut responded. The candidates are listed in the order in which they appear on the ballot.
The CU Independent also hosted a debate on Oct. 30 where candidates discussed various campus issues. Additional information on the election and candidates can be found on the CUSG website. Voting closes Friday, Nov. 8.
Why are you running for Representative At-Large?
Lugenbill: I am running for Representative At-Large because I believe that every student deserves access to the resources and opportunities that make CU Boulder an exceptional place to grow and learn. I want to ensure all students feel supported and empowered. Through my platform, I aim to enhance mental health awareness, promote sustainability and improve accessibility on campus, helping to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.
Hoffman: I am running for Representative At-Large because I am passionate about making meaningful changes to improve the CU community. As an out-of-state student, I understand the importance of creating a safe, close-knit environment at CU that makes all students feel comfortable and supported. I want to advocate for initiatives that enhance campus life, increase safety and amplify the voices of underrepresented groups – especially by increasing Jewish representation – to ensure our campus is inclusive and supportive for all.
Vas: I am running for Representative At-Large because I am committed to fostering a transparent, inclusive and accountable student government that prioritizes the needs and voices of all students. I aim to create a community where every individual feels heard, supported and empowered. My vision is to strengthen student engagement, advocate for meaningful change and ensure that our university remains a place where innovation and collaboration thrive.
Malamut: I am running for Representative At-Large for various reasons. I have a deep passion for government affairs and thrive under leadership. Additionally, I want to be the reason positive change happens on our campus and will strive to make a difference that affects everyone.
Why are you qualified to represent the undergraduate student body?
Lugenbill: As a sophomore at the Leeds School of Business, I’ve gained skills in finance and leadership that equip me to advocate effectively for my peers. My work with Patagonia on environmental projects has shown me the power of community-focused initiatives. My dedication to mental health, sustainability and accessibility aligns with the priorities of many students and I am committed to making positive changes that reflect the needs and values of our campus.
Hoffman: My diverse leadership experiences and dedication to public service make me highly qualified to represent the undergraduate student body. In high school, I held multiple leadership roles, including serving as president of the HELP Animals Club and as an officer of the debate team. I also gained hands-on experience in government by shadowing New York government officials and interning with the Westchester District Attorney, where I observed how leaders operate and learned how to advocate effectively. Now, as a student in the Leeds Scholars program, I have access to valuable resources and connections to support me as a representative.
Vas: With extensive leadership experience, including serving as a campaign manager and active participant in campus organizations, I possess a unique blend of strategic thinking, dedication and firsthand understanding of student concerns. My commitment to integrity, my work ethic honed through rigorous internships and my track record in advocating for fairness make me well-suited to represent the student body effectively and impartially.
Malamut: Despite being a first-year student, I am highly qualified for this position. I have student government experience in high school and have also maintained other leadership positions in the last four years. I also possess a strong work ethic and passion for this role which I intend to exhibit if elected.
What do you think is the biggest issue affecting students on campus?
Lugenbill: The most pressing issue facing CU Boulder students is access to mental health resources. Many students struggle with academic pressures, stress and personal challenges, yet often find it difficult to access timely, effective support. Addressing this issue is essential to fostering a campus where students can thrive both academically and personally.
Hoffman: I believe the biggest issue affecting students on campus is having insufficient safety mechanisms. Systems like NightRide, which are designed to promote safety on campus, are extremely hard to access and do not operate for long enough hours. As a result, students often end up walking alone, putting themselves in potentially unsafe situations.
Vas: The biggest issue affecting students on campus is the lack of transparency and fairness in student governance and administrative decision-making, which undermines trust and discourages participation. Students often feel disconnected from decisions that directly impact their academic and social lives.
Malamut: Currently, I find that antisemitism and Israel/Palestine advocacy are the most pressing issues on our campus right now. Freedom of speech is one of the most important amendments to our constitution and people are both abusing this power and diminishing others rights to use it on our campus. As the war continues in the Middle East, Boulder should not feel like a battleground itself but a place for students to express their opinions peacefully.
What would you do to address that issue in office?
Lugenbill: In office, I would advocate for enhanced mental health support by increasing awareness of available resources and ensuring services are accessible to all students. I would work to establish partnerships that provide additional funding and resources for mental health programs, reducing wait times and improving overall accessibility. My goal is to make mental health support a visible, approachable part of campus life so students can access help whenever they need it.
Hoffman: To address this safety concern, I would work on expanding the CU Nightride program to offer longer hours and more coverage, making it accessible to every student. Additionally, I’d advocate for reinstating the NightWalk program for shorter distances, as students are often hesitant to call a car when walking from one dorm to another. I believe that increased safety measures are essential to ensure all students feel secure and supported while navigating campus, particularly at night.
Vas: To address this issue, I would champion open forums for student input, ensure timely and clear communication from the student government and establish a process that allows students to hold representatives accountable. I would push for policy reviews to eliminate bias and promote fairness, making student government more reflective of and responsive to the diverse needs of our community. I want a holistic and pragmatic approach to governance.
Malamut: With my candidacy, I would like to provide educational opportunities to inform people about the war in the Middle East. Additionally, I want to establish stronger legislative restrictions on protests and advocacy for both Israel and Palestine support groups on campus.
Candidates Anthony Caruso, Jake Degani, Kailee Candice Woo, Tara Tarabucco and Thomas O’Dell did not respond to the questionnaire before the publication of this story.
