The ASMSU Senate is the elected student government responsible for representing the voice and interests of the MSU-Bozeman student body. If you, as a member of the MSU student body, have an issue that you want the Senate to address, please contact the Senator representing your college or an At Large Senator. Senate may take action on such requests in the form of a resolution or a bill, which would be presented to the entire Senate to be voted upon. Senate leadership consists of a Senate President and Senate Vice President, who are elected by and from the Senate. 

 

 

The ASMSU Senate holds public meetings during the academic year every Thursday at 6pm in the SUB Alumni Lounge except during the first and final weeks of each semester and holidays.

 

 

 

The ASMSU Senate allocates student activity fees to ASMSU programs through annual budgeting each spring semester.

 

 

 

 

The ASMSU Senate consists of 21 senators elected from their respective Colleges. 
Seats for 2023-2024 are apportioned as follows:

College Number of Seats
Agriculture

2

Arts and Architecture 1
Business 2
Education/HHD 2
Engineering 4
Letters and Science 4
Nursing 1
At Large 5

 

2023-2024 ASMSU Senate Bios

College of Agriculture Website

Mission

Montana State University provides education, research, and outreach programs focused to meet the changing needs of Montana. The College of Agriculture and the Montana Agricultural Experiment Station generate and disseminate superior knowledge and technological solutions to increase the competitiveness of Montana's communities, preserve environmental quality, and improve the quality of life for all our citizens.

Vision

To create environments where students, faculty, staff and stakeholders benefit from innovative learning, discovery and outreach programs in agriculture and natural resources.

 

Agriculture

Siera Harrison

Office Hours: Tuesdays & Thursdays: 12:10pm- 1:00pm

My name is Siera Harrison and I am a Junior studying Animal Science and Pre-veterinary medicine, from Steamboat Springs, CO. I am an active member of Sigma Alpha Sorority, Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society and the Pre-Veterinary club. This last year I served on Sigma Alpha’s leadership team as the fellowship chair and as the club liaison for the pre-veterinary club. Additionally, I represented my sorority at two national conferences, including our national senate meeting. Outside of class and extracurriculars, I showcase my core values of service, women empowerment, and dedication by volunteering as a coach for Girls on the Run and working night shifts and weekends at the emergency veterinary clinic here in Bozeman. I am passionate about agriculture, community service, and leadership and believe that I can be an advocate for the students in the College of Agriculture.

Agriculture

Oliver Co:lepm - :pm

Office Hours: Wednesdays: 1 - 3pm

Hello! My name is Oliver Cole, and I am a junior Cell Biology & Neuroscience major and Biochemistry minor. I grew up in Bozeman and thus have long been aware of the positive impact ASMSU and student leaders at MSU have had and can have in the community.   I am active as a volunteer for several community organizations in the Gallatin Valley, including Eagle Mount, HRDC, BridgerCare, and others. My goal in being part of ASMSU is to advocate for College of Agriculture students and create ways for students to effectively and efficiently make a positive impact in the community through involvement in organizations such as those mentioned above.

College of Arts & Architecture Website

Mission

The College of Arts & Architecture fosters a vibrant and inclusive environment of learning that prioritizes creativity, innovation and risk-taking—cultivating graduates who are historically engaged, technically sophisticated and creatively motivated.

Vision

Relying on the uniqueness of our place in Montana and the special talents of our faculty, the College of Arts & Architecture will inspire and challenge students and communities to engage with the world through creative and critical inquiry and expression.

 

Arts & Architecture

Emma Poole

Office Hours: Mondays (Cheever) & Wednesdays (SUB 221): 10 - 11am

My name is Emma Poole. I am a second-year student at MSU majoring in graphic design. Over the course of this last year I have been involved as a graphic designer for the ASMSU Office of Student Engagement and have moved from my previous position to my current position as the liaison between the ASMSU marketing team and the Off-Campus Student Life office. Being associated with the Associated Students of Montana State through my job has allowed for insight into the inner workings of student government and has given me a voice within university-affiliated events. I will strive to give a voice to those who cannot speak and make sure that I carry their best interests at heart throughout my time with ASMSU.

An At-Large Senator is a member of a legislative body, such as a student government, who is elected to represent the entire student body rather than a specific constituency, college, or department. ASMSU At-Large senators typically focus on broader university-wide issues and concerns, working to ensure that the diverse perspectives and needs of all students are considered in the decision-making process.

 

At-Large  

Katie Delker

Office Hours: Mondays: 9:45am-11:45am

 

Hey, y’all! My name is Katie Delker, and I am a sophomore here at Montana State from Soldotna, Alaska studying Microbiology on the Pre-Veterinary Track. Next year, I hope to be one of your At-Large ASMSU Senators! I joined ASMSU at the beginning of my freshman year, and during my two years as a senator, I’ve had the honor of meeting tons of my fellow Bobcats through my work on projects oriented around enhancing student life here on campus. I have collaborated with numerous campus partners such as the VOICE Center and the Office of Health Advancement to find new and innovative ways to address sexual assault at MSU and to improve prevention education for incoming students. Additionally, alongside another senator, I worked with club sports to reallocate money to help offset team expenses and to establish an endowment to sustain the accessibility of club sports at MSU for future generations of students. Outside of senate, I work as a Student Ambassador and tour guide for the Office of Admissions, and I also serve as a member of the Club Nordic Ski Team, the Country Dance Club at MSU, and the LCM campus ministry. I have loved the opportunity to serve the student body of MSU, and alongside spending my free time hiking, skiing, and camping, I am ecstatic to continue to represent you lovely folks into the school year!

At-Large  

Josie "Jo" Kaufman

Office Hours: Wednesdays: 8:00am- 9:00am

Thursdays: 8:15am - 9:15amam

Howdy Bobcats! Josie Kaufman, although you may know her as Jo, is a second-year student pursuing a degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience with hopes of attending medical school after graduation. Josie is from Sturgis, a small town in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Over her time on campus, Josie has experienced growth as an individual through classes but also through various communities of people at Montana State. She is active in campus ministry, tutoring, and the Honors College. Josie works as a lifeguard and swim instructor at the Bozeman Swim Center. In her free time, Josie enjoys swing dancing, climbing, and running, and she wants everyone to feel welcomed and supported at Montana State by promoting the success of students’ goals and outreach.

At-Large

Miller Rijfogel

Office Hours: TBD

My name is Miller and I am a senior with a background in psychology and sociology, I am currently focusing on pre-medicine. In my five years on the MSU Bozeman campus, I have been a part of many organizations, including, but not limited to, the VOICE Center, Students Against Sexual Assault, and the Disabled Students Association. Throughout my time here, I have learned how important students' wellbeing is to their academic success and life growth. Whether it is due to a crisis or any impactful identity, if a student is not supported, given the resources they need or made to feel accepted on campus, every aspect of that individual's life suffers. My goal is to advocate for students and get the resources and accommodations on our campus to continue to grow students wellbeing.

At-Large

Joseph (Lenny) Triem 

Office Hours: Tuesdays: 11:00am -12:00am  & Wednesdays:12:00pm-1:00pm

 

At-Large

Walter Scheldorf 

Office Hours: TBD

 

At-Large & Senate Pro Tempore

Taryn Van Steeland

Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 12pm - 2pm

Tuesday & Thursday: 11am - 12pm

 

 

What’s up Bobcats?!  

My name is Taryn Van Steeland and my official title is the Senate Speaker Pro Tempore, or Pro Temp for short. The Pro Temp position is essentially the Vice President of the legislative branch. They help run the Senate alongside the Speaker, they are a member of the Administrative Council, they chair The Club Funding and ASMSU Finance board, all while performing the normal duties of a Senator! This position has an awesome plurality that allows the Pro Temp to work in so many parts of the government. 

Serving as Pro Temp this year is my second term in ASMSU; my first term was as a Senator for the College of Letters and Sciences. I was drawn into ASMSU because I was encouraged and invited by some of the student driven efforts to make MSU a more accessible place, where the needs of even our diverse and minority students are being met. I want every student to have an equal chance at succeeding and I acknowledge that that takes proactive action and assistance on behalf of our university. I continue to serve in student government to leave MSU a kinder, more accepting place where everyone feels safe and free to be the most authentic version of themselves while they receive an education."

College of Business Website

Mission

To educate our future leaders by creating inspiring, innovative, and engaging experiences that prepare our graduates to serve the evolving needs of business and society. This is achieved through a culture of trust and mutual respect, free expression and inquiry, and a commitment to truth, excellence, and the entrepreneurial spirit.

Vision

To be the leader in business education and entrepreneurial innovation for Montana, meaningfully advancing the economic, environmental, and social prosperity of the communities in our state, region, and beyond.

 

Business

Josey Blazer

Office Hours: Mondays: 12:00pm-2:00pm

Fridays: 12:00pm-1:00pm

 

Business

Zane Horst

Office Hours: Wednesdays & Fridays: 11:00am - 12:00pm

Hey what is up bobcat nation! My name is Zane Horst and I am a sophomore studying business marketing here at MSU. I was born and raised in Spokane, WA, but have a lot of family history here in Montana. Last year as a freshman I worked in the Residence Hall Association (RHA) as an executive board member, as well as helped with planning rail jam as an RHA liaison. I currently serve as an At-Large member of ASMSU's finance board, work in ASMSU's new Off Campus Student Life office, and am on the MSU Spirit Squad. I am running to be one of your At-Large members for the ASMSU Senate, working as a voice for all students in not only allocation of student fees, but also in writing legislature that benefits and supports every bobcat.

College of Education, Health & Human Development Website

Mission

As part in the state’s land-grant university, the Montana State University College of Education, Health and Human Development integrates education, creation of knowledge and art, and service to communities.   

Vision

Montana State University will transform lives and communities in the people’s interest. VALUES: Excellence, Integrity, Inclusion, Collaboration, Curiosity, Stewardship

Education, Health & Human Development 

Vacant

 

Education, Health & Human Development 

Taylor Bookwalter

Office Hours: 

Tuesdays 12:15- 1:15pm

Fridays 11:10- 12:10pm

Hi, my name is Taylor Bookwalter, and I am a sophomore pursuing a dual degree in hospitality management and environmental studies with a minor in Hispanic studies and a leadership certificate. I am looking to be an ASMSU senator for the college of EHHD because I want to increase our college’s involvement on campus and provide more networking opportunities for the various majors in EHHD. In addition, I want each one of us to have a voice in matters happening on campus and make sure that the events we throw align with our purposes. I have held various leadership positions around campus and will use the combined experiences to be the best senator for EHHD possible!

College of Engineering Website

Mission

The Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering at Montana State University will serve the State of Montana and the nation by

  • fostering lifelong learning
  • integrating learning and discovery
  • developing and sharing technical expertise
  • empowering students to be tomorrow's leaders

 

Vision

The Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering at Montana State University will be an outstanding collaborative community that achieves excellence in learning, innovation, discovery, and knowledge transfer. To realize this vision, the college will

  • Leverage shared interests and talents among faculty and students in order to create knowledge across disciplinary lines.
  • Effectively and efficiently balance breadth with depth in undergraduate education in order to prepare students for the global workforce.
  • Be a leader in innovation and discovery in our identified focus areas.
  • Successfully integrate research and innovation into the learning experience of both undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Be recognized for the level of knowledge transfer to industry, governments, and citizens in the state of Montana.

 

Engineering

Marissa Pattison

Office Hours: Mondays & Wednesdays: 10:00am-11:00am

 

Engineering

Luna Richards

Office Hours: Mondays & Wednesdays: 1:00pm - 2:00pm

My name is Luna Richards, and I am a senior studying Computer Engineering here at MSU. When I'm not doing schoolwork, you can find me working at the American Computer & Robotics Museum, where I help with curating new & exciting exhibits, or down at Last Best Comedy, where I regularly perform stand-up. I am also an Eagle Scout, having earned the honor in 2019 with my project creating access to technology for a local non-profit helping those coming out of homelessness, and I continue to dedicate myself to a life of cheerful service to the community.

Engineering

Josef Cordero

Office Hours: TBD

 

Engineering

VACANT

 

College of Letters and Science Website

Mission

As the intellectual foundation of Montana State University, the College of Letters and Science (CLS) is the largest and most academically diverse of the University’s colleges. It is the critical teaching and research unit in Montana’s land-grant institution. Our mission is to prepare students to think analytically and creatively in a liberal arts tradition, to engage in research of the highest caliber, and to make meaningful contributions to our local community, the state of Montana, and national and global society.

Vision

We are the essential college. CLS faculty are internationally known scholars and teachers at the confluence of diverse intellectual traditions and cutting-edge research. Students benefit from a broad-based liberal arts and sciences education guided by distinguished scholars and teachers. The fifteen departments and three interdisciplinary programs in our College offer over 100 undergraduate majors, minors and options and our thirty-nine graduate programs generated 22 percent of master’s degrees and 54 percent of doctoral degrees granted by MSU during the 2014-2015 academic year.

CLS encompasses the Humanities, the Social Sciences and the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), preparing our students to be independent thinkers and bold visionary leaders. At the forefront of MSU’s external research funding, CLS faculty and students address the most pressing and complex issues facing our society, from the nature of the universe to the workings of the brain, from the roots of social inequality to the challenges of global sustainability. In the College of Letters and Science, we believe in a transformational education inspiring students to live responsibly, seek original answers, and effectively communicate practical solutions back to our local, national and global communities.

Letters and Science

Marguerite Kibodeaux

Office Hours: Thursdays: 4:00pm -6:00pm

Hey Bobcats! My name is Marguerite Kibodeaux, but most people call me Mags, and I am a Junior in the Chemistry and Biochemistry program here at MSU. I currently work in the Lawrence Lab on the undergraduate protein purification team; a joint project with the Cloninger, Dubois, and Lawrence research labs. In addition to my research work, I have been employed by the office of Student Engagement since 2021 as a Front Desk Associate. However I have moved to the brand new office of Off Campus Student Life as a Student Resource Navigator to help ensure the basic needs of all MSU students are met. In my spare time I enjoy skiing wherever there is snow, mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, and occasionally fishing. I am super eager to bring a unique perspective and representation to the college of letters and science on behalf of the department of chemistry and biochemistry. 

Letters and Science & Senate Speaker

Lorelei Michael-Owens

Office Hours:

Tuesdays: 9:30am-10:30am

Wednesdays:8:00am--9:00am

Thursdays:10:00am-2:00pm

Fridays:8:00am-9:00am

 

My name is Lorelei Michael-Owens. I'm a junior at MSU studying Political Science with a minor in History. This semester, I'm in Helena representing MSU students as the ASMSU Lobbyist. I've also been involved in political campaigns at the statewide level, worked with education-focused nonprofits, and worked with the MSU Leadership Institute for the past few semesters. I have experience representing student interests, and will be a strong advocate for Letters and Science students at MSU.

Letters and Science

Kiala Hirsch

Office Hours: Thursdays: 10:00am- 12:00pm

Hey Cats! My name is Kiala Hirsch, and I'm from Miles City, Montana. I'm a Pre-Law sophomore studying Sociology/Criminology. Outside of school I like to ski, hike, and spend time with my friends. I have always loved community service, and I'm currently the Social Media Manager for Circle K. I'd like to join the ASMSU senate because I want to be a student representative and learn more about leadership. I would love to be your student advocate!

Letters and Science

Madisen Dunne

Office Hours: Tuesdays & Thursdays: 10:45am-11:45am

Attention Bobcats! My name is Madisen Dunne, and I am a sophomore at Montana State University studying Sociology and Psychology. I was born and raised in Jackson, Wyoming and was attracted to Bozeman for the easy access to the outdoors. I am currently involved in the MSU First Generation Program, MSU swim club, and have assisted the MSU triathlon team with fundraising events, with the intent to join this fall. As an ASMSU senator, my hopes would focus on getting adequate funding for the resources Montana State University offers. I would also push for more education about the resources offered around campus that are in place for our success. I would do my absolute best to give a voice to all students in the College of Letters and Science regarding campus resolutions, concerns, and more.

 

College of Nursing Website

Mission

The Montana State University Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing enhances the health of the people of Montana, our nation, and the global community through education, creation of knowledge, and service.

Vision

The Montana State University Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing transforms lives and communities in the people’s interest. 

College of Nursing

Annika Lawrence

Office Hours: Monday: 11am - 1pm

My name is Annika Lawrence and I am a freshman in the MSU pre-nursing program. I was born and raised in Bozeman MT and I love spending time outdoors in the mountains. I participated in swimming and music throughout high school and continue to play my flute in the Montana State University Symphonic Orchestra. I am part of the honors college and am on track to join a research lab next semester. I will give a strong voice to the students in the College of Nursing at ASMSU.

 

ASMSU

Montana State University
221 & 222 Strand Union Building
P.O. Box 174200
Bozeman, MT 59717

(406) 994-2933
[email protected]