Emma Innes Staff writer Picture of Abbas Hill. Taken from his LinkedIn profile. Update Mar. 25: In an email on Mar. 25, Vice President of Student Affairs and co-chair of the searching committee Lisa Landreman said “I am a bit concerned about the impression that may have been given about why we invited a 5th candidate to interview for the Dean of Students for Community Care and Inclusion position.” Landreman explained that Hill was given a finalist invitation with the other four candidates but a family emergency made him unavailable until the interview process was underway. The search committee then decided it would be in their best interest to proceed with giving him an interview. The search committee for the new position Dean of Students for Community Care and Inclusion (CCI) held a forum for a fifth finalist. The forum came as a surprise, as it had not been previously announced with the other four forums and it appeared Willamette University only had four finalists. The Dean for CCI will have [several responsibilities] working for a campus environment that [includes and supports] all students. The fifth finalist is Abbas Hill, currently the associate dean of student life and director of residence life and housing at [Roger Williams University] in Bristol, R.I. His resume lists him as currently as coordinator the Multicultural Advisor Program at [Central Michigan University] in Mount Pleasant, Mich. For notable things in his background, Hill pointed out how he established the housing department at [Purdue University Northwest] (PUNW) in Hammon, Ind. Also at PUNW, Hill developed the resident conduct process and the chief conduct officer position. During his video introduction, Hill said he is a first-generation college student. Hill also expressed that he is proud to be Muslim and proud to be Black. Hill said he has a strong appreciation for the sacrifices families make for students, having experienced that with his own family. For what informs his why, Hill talked about how he knows the importance of inclusion, how even small acts can make a difference, the effect opportunities can have on students’ lives and the importance of sharing essential student resources. Co-chair of the searching committee, Professor of Chemistry and Director of First year experience Sarah Kirk asked Hill why he applied toWillamette and why now. Hill said the role [Dean for CCI] excites him because it aligns with his passion and experience. He believes student experience matters a lot because students are the cornerstone to institutions such as Willamette. Gretchen Moon, associate dean for student success, asked Hill what part of the role would be new for him. Hill stated that while he is very knowledgeable in Title IX regulations, he does not have much experience actively practicing them. The Collegian asked Hill how he would handle pressure from each side of the political spectrum and the right wing protests that have been occurring at the Capitol across the street from campus. Hill said he would work with Campus Safety on student safety. He said that it is important to highlight the right of free speech, but also to teach students the impact words can have. Hill acknowledged demonstrations such as the far right ones Willamette has been near can bring up a lot of emotions and do harm. He said he would do his best to support students and navigate discussions about the protests together. Kirk asked Hill how he practices self care, pointing out how much the role has to handle. Hill said he practices meditation and prayer, as well as just getting out into nature and listening to music. Hill continued, saying that students should be taught self care. Professor of Anthropology Rebecca Dobkins asked Hill about his experience with mentoring students as well as how he would go about that at Willamette. Hill said mentorship is where the strongest impact is. Hill said that at times he would mentor without realizing it, telling about a student who was Residence Hall Association President and had one hour weekly meetings with Hill, later calling him an important mentor.

Chrissy Ewald Staff writer Members of the far-right anti-government group Patriot Prayer and counter protesters are expected to stage demonstrations on the steps of the Oregon State Capitol building on Sunday Mar. 28, according to an email sent to the Willamette community by Director of Campus Safety Ross Stout on Mar. 25. The rallies are scheduled to begin at 11 a.m., but attendees have been known to show up at similar rallies hours in advance. Stout advised students to avoid the area where the rallies are expected to take place because of past violence at similar rallies, the likelihood of protestors open-carrying weapons and continuing COVID-19 prevention concerns. Open carry of firearms on public property is allowed under Oregon law. However, weapons of any kind are not allowed on the Willamette campus. While Stout encouraged students to stay away from the rally, if students observe someone with a weapon on campus, they should keep their distance and call Campus Security at 503-370-6911. Patriot Prayer is a far-right anti-government group founded in 2016. They are active in the Pacific Northwest, especially in cities like Seattle and Portland, where they [seek out] confrontation with counter protesters in hopes of provoking violence. Patriot Prayer [encourages] members to be armed at all of the organization’s rallies. Though Stout’s email characterized Patriot Prayer and “Antifa” as “two groups with opposing views,” antifascists are neither an organization nor a coordinated movement. This makes it difficult to predict the motivations and tactics of the antifascist actors at the upcoming protest. In general, antifacist protesters have been known to destroy property at protests.

Jake Procino News editor Picture of SevaPriya Barrier. Courtesy of NPR. The fourth and final finalist applying to the vacant Dean of Students for Community Care and Inclusion is SevaPriya Barrier, who currently works as the Director of Resolutions, Institutional Equity at the University of Arizona in Tucson. Barrier participated in a forum open to the Willamette University community on Mar. 18, where she presented about herself, explained why she wanted the position at Willamette and answered questions from the community. Barrier started the forum by showing a pre-recorded presentation, as all finalists have done, about her values and her background. Barrier said her values are represented in her name. Barrier said that Seva means service, representing “a meaning that is both material, or grounded in matter and spiritual impacting the heart, emotions and soul;” Priya means dearest and represents “the firmly held beliefs and wanderings of the heart;” and Barrier represents “family culture or values that serve to form a protective barrier, as well as these forces that prevent achievements.” Barrier concluded this portion saying: “For me, what matters is service, love and gratitude, for those arms that envelope and support. And an understanding that values must be born out in actions to look at another person's ideas and cultures.” Barrier continued in the pre-recorded presentation to explain her background. She said that her family has a history of working in education, “While this did not have a conscious impact on my career choices, it certainly impacted my intense appreciation for education, both as a means of individual fulfillment and growth, what we might call holistic development, as well as for a tangible mobility and societal advancement and uplift.” Barrier herself grew up and attended school in Little Rock, Arkansas: “My K-12 educational experience laid bare stark inequalities. The school district remained under court ordered, racial desegregation plans for the entirety of my time there.” After graduating high school, she followed her “dearest heart desires” of “med, studying feminist theory and cultural studies” and attended New School University in New York City. Afterwards, she earned a Master of Education degree at the University of Texas, Austin. After working in student activities at Reed College in Portland, she decided that wanted to pursue mediation as a career and attained a law degree at The Ohio State University. But she ended the pre-recorded presentation saying she went back to working in student affairs at the University of Florida (UF) and most recently at the University of Arizona. When Barrier was asked live to explain why she wanted to work at Willamette, she pointed to Willamette’s ability to offer a greater connection to the individual student. “I really treasure the opportunity to be right within the complete timeline of the student experience to contribute to the community in a very deep and meaningful way,” said Barrier. Associate Dean for Student Success Gretchen Moon started off the Q&A portion of the forum, asking Barrier what in the position would offer a new challenge for Barrier. Barrier said, “I think the new challenge would be the opportunity to look at this access issue for students access,” and explained that connection points need to be created for students to better allow access for the segmented services offered by the university. Interim Associate Dean Clemette Haskins asked Barrier how she will foster relationships and how she envisions her first few weeks on campus. Barrier said that there are two important actions for when she comes on campus, the first being “making connections, understanding context, and understanding what's important to that university and university constituents.” The second is that Barrier wants to ensure she is available when someone on campus wants to have “a more kind of intimate, personal exchange.” “If I was in person, in general I tend to be pretty silly, have a really good sense of humor and have a big boisterous laugh. And so I found that this is always kind of a good connection point,” said Barrier. Assistant Professor of Physics Daniel Borrero Echeverry asked several questions in a row, asking about how Barrier would serve the specific needs of PNCA students, neurodivergent students and graduate students on campus. Regarding PNCA’s distant campus, Barrier pointed to her experience of working on large college campuses, and said that she would want to establish “contact points to ensure that services are seamless across areas, but also really tailored to the individual student population, because what might work or be impactful in one of those locations might not have that same impact at the other location.” Regarding neurodivergent students, Barrier said she has experience serving on UF’s neurodiversity council and said: “What would be important is to know is that individual displaying behaviors that are impacting others in a way that's in violation of something at the university, are they displayed behaviors that's preventing connection in a way that they want to seek connection? And then look in a tailored way to see how needs can be met to that student and their individual preferences and concerns.” Regarding graduate students, Barrier said, “Graduate students will often come in with a broader diversity of needs than we might see and an undergraduate population,” pointing again to the need to understand the individual. Emily Drew, associate professor of sociology, department chair, asked two questions, first asking Barrier what the national social context means for racial equity for students and staff on campus, and secondly wanted to hear Barrier’s response to: “What it would look like for you to be caught in between what the institution can do and what the students are demanding and asking it to do with regard to racism. We have a very vocal and active group of student activists and frequently their issues are not with fringe groups and certain individuals or clubs, but much more likely with the institution itself.” Barrier said the US tends to center the white, male, privileged perspective, and that it is the responsibility of individuals and organizations to commit to anti-racist actions. Speaking on the tension between students and the institution, Barrier said, “In terms of students and needs, some of it is empowering students about their ability to take action and what that looks like in terms of their actions.” Clemett asked how Barrier will go about ensuring that students of color feel safe and that their needs are met. Barrier said: “It’s kind of twofold: trying to take action that I think is reasonably tailored to provide those structures, to the degree that I could, support wellbeing, safety concerns and general support. And then try and have a good enough relationship with students, whether it's me or someone else. They don't have to connect with me as long as they have a connection point on campus.” Director of Academic Support Kelvin Clark asked Barrier what she will need to do her best, most effective work. Barrier said that she would need to rely on others to tell her gaps in where needs and concerns are, and said: “My goal is about ensuring individual students best. So what I would want for my community, is that understanding of context, people speaking freely and clearly where there are gaps. Even if it hurt me emotionally, it's all going to impact the work that I do.” To end the forum, Vice President of Student Affairs Lisa Landreman asked if there was anything Barrier wanted to conclude with. “I think the Dean of Students for Community Care and Inclusion is an incredibly important role. And it plays a pivotal student’s lives, but certainly an important role in the life of Willamette, the next steps that Willamette will take, how their structures are organized and how the community itself is organized.”

Jake Procino News editor The ASWU Executive Council election results were announced Friday evening. Giovanni Bautista (’22) was elected President, Angel Park (’22) was elected Vice President and Michael Burke was re-elected Treasurer. Bautista currently serves as an ASWU Senator for the class of 2022, works as a Resident Advisor (RA) and is a student representative on the Academic Council. Park currently works as the ASWU Clerk, a role she has been in since Fall 2018. Burke is currently the ASWU Treasurer and previously served as a Senator. The election was marred by negative campaigning committed by Instagram accounts, none of which were associated with any candidate. This garnered a statement of condemnation by the current ASWU Executive Council and caused one candidate for Vice President to drop out. The five constitutional changes also passed. Graphic made by Jake Procino in Canva. Three of the constitutional amendments change wording in the document. According to an email sent by ASWU Vice President Mary Robicheaux (’21) to the student body, the first two changes “adds equity and accessibility to the preamble” and “adds "promote equity" to the Executive roles.” The third amendment “changes 'College of Liberal Arts' to 'College of Arts and Sciences' to match the recent change in the college's name," according to Robicheaux. The fourth and fifth amendments change the structure of the ASWU Senate more substantially. The fourth reduces the number of ASWU Senators for each class from five to four. Robicheaux said: “This decision was made in an effort to ensure that ASWU Senators are held to a high standard of accountability and responsibility, and are not only there because of recent non-competitive elections. This is not an attempt to keep students out of ASWU, but to ensure that they are the right fit and maintain high standards of service. This puts Willamette in line with other institutions of our size.” The fifth amendment removes the “Whip role” from each of the senate classes. According to Robicheaux, this change was made because: “Removing the Whip role was part of a re-shuffling of Senate roles that came in part from the addition of the Equity Officer role and from the desire to have the Governing Documents match how caucuses naturally operate.”

Emma Innes Staff writer Two different anonymous accounts were discovered on Instagram attacking candidates in the Associated Students of Willamette University (ASWU) executive elections. The first was a hate account targeting Senator Inéz Nieves (‘24) who was running for the Vice President position. She dropped out in the aftermath of the discovery of the account. The second account was advocating for Senator Giovanni Bautista’s (‘22) presidential campaign and attacked Oliver Kushen (‘23), who was also running for president. The account against Nieves had no posts and was deleted. It was titled “saynotoinez,” and the account’s description unfairly labeled Nieves as only caring about the administration and not students. The second account is named [@wustudentsfortransparency], and targeted Kushen for his ties to Sigma Chi. The second account’s three posts have all since been deleted but the account has not been. It is unclear when exactly the accounts were created. The Collegian found out about the first account the evening of Mar. 17. ASWU had learned about the account earlier. The second account was discovered by ASWU and the Collegian on Mar. 18 as voting began. ASWU Vice President Mary Robicheaux sent out an email on Mar. 18 on behalf of the ASWU Executive council, condemning the accounts. The email stated: “This is not how we hope to see campaigning occur, even if it’s done by those who are not running. While this type of behavior is common in political campaigns, ASWU campaigns exist within our community and should be handled with community expectations in mind.” During the Mar. 18 ASWU meeting, ASWU President Claire Mathews-Lingen (‘21) said they did not believe any candidate to be behind either of the accounts, and for one it was confirmed to not be a candidate. Mathews-Lingen explained that ASWU has no jurisdiction with how the student body interacts with campaigns, as they can only take action against candidates and within ASWU. In the Collegian’s email correspondence with ASWU Exec, ASWU Exec was unable to confirm whether or not the students behind the accounts were connected to the candidates. When reached out to for comment, Nieves said in an email that it is valid to hold representatives accountable and she has done her best to be transparent about her work within ASWU, but the week has been hard for her, saying: “Willamette is a small community, a tight-knit one, and I thought that would make me feel safe. Indeed, it did, for the longest time: all of the friends I've made here, the people I work with on ASWU, they've been so kind and compassionate. To have that security ripped out from underneath me, something I relied upon, something I trusted to feel physically safe, meant more than just a scuffed ego - it meant I was falling, falling in a free-fall, and I didn't know when or where I was going to crash.“ Nieves said she knows this semester has been hard on everyone, and she’s angry too, but lashing out at those trying to help will only make it more difficult for the community to move forward. The Collegian reached out to Bautista and Kushen for comment along with another presidential candidate, ASWU Senator Zeke Druker (‘24). All replied over email. Bautista said: "My heart goes out to Senator Nieves. She has been strong through a painful ordeal. I firmly condemn all these political attacks and hope the Willamette community will learn from them." Kushen said he strongly supports people speaking up for the candidates they want, but there is no need to attack candidates in a student government campaign. He went on: “As leaders of our school government, our role is to unite the students and serve as a voice for their needs and concerns. Furthermore, I truly believe that all of the candidates running seek to make our school a better place. That certain individuals should anonymously attempt to attack students who are trying to improve our school is concerning and should not be tolerated by the Willamette community.” Kushen acknowledged that he was not the only candidate attacked and hopes the other student is okay, encouraging them to reach out to him. He also said he talked to Bautista and they agree this behavior cannot be supported. Druker said: “I want to be absolutely crystal clear that this is totally not tolerable and I express my disgust at the personal attacks levied at Senator Nieves. In my capacity as a Senator, I have sought to balance robust debate and care for our University community, and the account in question is totally incompatible with those values. There is a place for productive discussion about policies that affect the student body, and that account is not it.” See the Collegian’s statement on the accounts attacking ASWU candidates [here].

Campus Safety Report March 15 - 21, 2021 Provided by Ross Stout. Medical Escort March 20, 4:48 p.m. (Stadium): Campus Safety received a call reporting a player from a visiting team was in need of transport to the ER. An officer responded and picked up the injured player and their coach and transported them to ER. The individuals were later transported from the ER back to the stadium after they were treated. Suspicious Activity/Persons March 15, 12:37 a.m. (Smith Fine Arts): Campus Safety received reports of an individual on campus screaming erratically. An officer responded and located the individual who appeared to be intoxicated. The officer contacted the Salem Police Department and requested assistance in removing the individual from campus property. March 15, 1:14 p.m. (Skybridge): While on patrol, an officer encountered an individual passing through campus without a mask on. The officer informed the individual the campus is closed to visitors and that masks are required on campus. The individual was then escorted off campus. March 16, 6:25 a.m. (Jackson Plaza): Campus Safety received a call from a student after seeing two maskless individuals on campus. An officer responded and searched the surrounding area, but the individuals had already left the area. March 17, 9:45 p.m. (Olin Science): Campus Safety received a call reporting an individual loitering outside the building with a suitcase. An officer responded and checked on the individual. The individual then left campus. March 18, 7:42 p.m. (Sparks Center): Campus Safety received a call from Sparks staff reporting an unknown individual claiming to be faculty trying to access the building. An officer responded and searched the area and located the individual heading off campus towards State Street. March 18, 11:40 p.m. (Quad): While on patrol, an officer encountered an individual passing through campus carrying two bags filled with cans. The officer informed the individual that the campus is closed to visitors and that they would have to relocate. The individual then left campus. March 19, 11:40 p.m. (Winter Street): While on patrol, an officer encountered an individual on a bike passing through campus. The officer observed the individual as they passed and ensured that they were off campus. March 20, 2:29 p.m. (State Street): Campus Safety received a call reporting a large group of anti-mask protestors near Ford / State Street. Individuals were reported to be not wearing masks and were vandalizing campus signs. Officers responded and checked on the situation and found the individuals moving over to the State Capitol from campus. Officers then monitored and patrolled the area to ensure the individuals do not enter campus property. March 21, 6:10 p.m. (State Street): While on patrol, Willamette Watch encountered a family under the Star Trees without masks on. A Campus Safety officer responded and located the group leaving towards the State Capitol.

Statement from the Collegian’s editor-in-chief, Noah Dantes: Anonymous accounts with unsubstantiated and thoughtless attacks against peers have no place in our community. Transparent, honest and respectful dialogue is the lifeblood of any democracy, and this type of behavior actively erodes our institutions and culture. It’s important to remember that all those involved in this election are our friends, peers and community members, and deserve to be treated as such. It’s natural to prefer one candidate over another, but those conversations must happen respectfully, truthfully and on the record in order to be productive to our community.

Chrissy Ewald Staff writer Graphic by Anushka Srivastav. All Oregonians age 16 and older qualify to receive a COVID-19 vaccine starting May 1, according to [new guidelines] released on Mar. 19 by Governor Kate Brown. This includes all members of the Willamette community. Frontline workers, including Willamette faculty, staff, contractors and administrators whose jobs require close or routine contact with people outside their household, qualify for COVID-19 vaccinations starting April 19 as part of Group 7 of Phase 1b of Oregon’s [vaccination timeline]. Group 7 of Phase 1b also includes members of multigenerational households and adults 16-44 years old with one or more underlying health conditions that increase risk of susceptibility to infection or symptoms of COVID-19. Vice President for Human Resources Shana Sechrist specified in an email that the Willamette administration understands the “employees whose jobs typically require them to interact with other people (students, faculty or staff) will be eligible to get the vaccine” on April 19. The list of Willamette employees who will become fully eligible for the vaccine on April 19 [includes] any administrators, faculty, cleaning staff, Bon Appetit employees, student employees or contractors whose work necessitates close or routine contact with people outside their household. Several additional changes are happening at Willamette as part of the Reopening Committee’s (ROC) process of revisiting “Willamette specific guidelines that are in excess of what is required by the current and evolving public health guidance.” The ROC has approved the removal of directional signage in College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) academic buildings, though the College of Law and Atkinson Graduate School of Management (AGSM) will retain directional signage in their academic buildings at least through the end of spring semester 2021. The ROC also announced intent to resume hearing proposals for lecturers and presenters to hold talks on campus. Though the Bishop Wellness Center is not currently administering vaccines, Director of Bishop Wellness Center Don Thomson said in an email that “Bishop is currently applying to be a distribution site for the vaccine for students.” Since most Willamette students are unlikely to be eligible for vaccinations before the end of spring semester 2021, Thomson said Bishop would be unlikely to get vaccines before summer 2021 at the earliest if its application is approved. “However, we are all learning about new virus variants and the possible need for booster shots in subsequent years. We expect vaccinations to be an issue lasting beyond the spring semester, and will continue to stay abreast of the emerging public health guidance,” Thomson said. Eligible Willamette community members can receive vaccines at vaccination sites like the Oregon Convention Center, the State Fairgrounds and local hospitals. They may also be able to get a vaccine at certain local pharmacies. To find out whether you are eligible and to schedule a vaccination date with a vaccine provider once you are, Oregonians can use the Oregon Health Authority website [Get Vaccinated Oregon].

David Flanagan Opinions editor A profile picture of Jen Miller pulled from her LinkedIn profile. The third finalist for the position of Dean of Students for Community Care and Inclusion, Jennifer Miller, Ph.D., participated in an open forum on Zoom on Tuesday, Mar. 16. The Dean for CCI position replaces the previous Dean of Students position which was vacated in Fall 2019 by Domanic Thomas. The Dean for CCI will be responsible for conflict resolution, operating as the deputy Title IX coordinator and engaging with various on campus and student CARE team protocols, detailed [here]. Miller currently works as the Special Assistant to the Vice President for Student Life, among other titles, at California State University - Los Angeles, a public university with around 26,000 students enrolled between undergraduate and postgraduate programs. She has extensive experience with social justice initiatives on multiple university campuses and prides herself in her holistic approach to serving students. Her complete resume can be viewed [here]. Many of the questions during the forum concerned her role at Willamette, her background with social justice and evidenced-based problem solving at other campuses where she has previously worked. Miller began the forum by speaking about why she is applying to work at Willamette at this time. She described challenging leadership shifts at California State University - Los Angeles and expressed a desire to serve students intentionally. She noted that, “I’m just looking forward to getting back to the core values of who I am and the work I know I’m meant to do, in the right work environment. Willamette certainly seems to be a fit.” Associate Dean of Student Success and Professor of English Gretchen Flesher Moon asked Miller what she anticipated being among the greatest challenges she would face if hired at Willamette. Miller indicated that establishing trust in situations involving majority and minority groups is an important part of her work and emphasized the fragility of trust. Miller noted that her largest “trust buster” occurs when students don’t feel like they are being listened to, and emphasized the need to clearly communicate to students what exactly is being done to address their concerns. Professor Omari Weekes of the Willamette English department posed a question asking Miller to provide a time where BIPOC students approached her about an issue on campus, what she did by way of response and what she thinks she could have done better. Miller recounted a story where Black male-identifying students were dropping out of California State University - Los Angeles between enrollment and registration. Miller made many of the calls to the students herself, and identified that part of the problem was the payment method of the school. She took concrete steps to fix the concern, and felt that the outcome was ultimately positive. However, Miller was clear that in hindsight, having the white Dean of Students making the calls could have been done differently. Miller indicated that, “I would have wished I could have been more intentional. I’m glad I made those calls; we got students to stay. I think when we’re rushed and we’re doing things quick, we don’t have the opportunity to holistically care for students the same way. It will look different next time.” Additionally, asked by V. Maldonado of the Pacific Northwest College of Art about her definition of equity, Miller said that equity must go beyond numbers. She told the forum that making students feel like they are being invested in is one of the most important things an administrator could do. Miller said that equity on many axes is important, from frontline staff to training for faculty. Miller said that, “Students shouldn’t have to be activists for us to make sure we’re using an equity lens to the approach to our work.” She was clear that things are not equal right now, and that institutions are not set up to fix inequities currently. Miller later fielded questions concerning topics including the needs of neurodivergent students, the kinds of programming that help graduate students feel included in campus communities and the challenges and benefits of coordinating administrative efforts between multiple campuses. Her responses remained focused on creating space for discussion about student needs and recognizing the role that administration has in creating a more accessible learning environment for all students, incorporating their backgrounds and lived experiences while not limiting them in any way.

Matthew Mahoney Contributor A profile picture of Jon Mathis taken from his LinkedIn page. The second finalist for the Dean of Students for Community Care and Inclusion, Jon Mathis, participated in an open forum on Friday, March 12. Mathis currently works as Title IX Coordinator and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Educator at Chemeketa Community College, a community college located northeast of Salem with an undergraduate population of around 8,500 students. Mathis started the forum with a presentation in which he discussed his values, methods and actions. He said his values were family, faith, compassion, sense of justice for equity issues, discernment, hope and humor. He also stated his commitment to growth, describing how he wants to be vulnerable and honest, bringing out the “unique brilliance” in himself and in others. Mathis then explained his method of approaching his job. In line with his values of family and compassion, he wants to prioritize relationships, to know people as they really are. He also wants to keep learning about injustices and inequities, being challenged to wrestle with what he knows and what he thought he knew. Finally, he mentioned having an action-oriented method, always trying something, and continuing to move on something even if it fails. Mathis also explained how he spends his time in his job. He stated that he tries to initiate a personal connection with the students, faculty and staff on campus. He also said he teaches and learns with students, faculty and staff, bringing opportunities they want. He said he is ready to offer a collaborative approach to vision casting and strategic planning, something he says he has fully contributed to in the past. He also said he did and wants to continue to inspire strengths development in staff and students. Finally, he wants to provide ongoing professional development on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion as he has done with workshops, book clubs, listening spaces and speakers. He concluded by saying that differences need to be embraced, diverse perspectives need to be accepted and that his values inform how he prioritizes relationships, education and action in his daily work and service. For clarification, a faculty member from PNCA asked Mathis how he defined equity. Mathis said that equitable practices are about dissecting systems and approaches have been oppressive and reforming them to be a provider of equal opportunities. When asked why he is applying to Willamette, Mathis said he loved the Willamette community, witnessing it from nearby Chemeketa Community College. Part of it for him lies in it being a liberal arts college which he believes allows for an active, dynamic experience of living and working. He said the greatest reward in his work in higher education is seeing students in the college community, especially first-gens graduating, which will forever change the future of their families with an increased sense of agency. A Willamette community member asked Mathis what would be new and challenging for him in this job. He said he is excited to connect and partner with local tribal communities and to understand diverse identities. University Chaplain Karen Wood asked Mathis how he supported LGBT+ students at his previous jobs at Pepperdine University and Multnomah University, both conservative, Christian universities, and how he will support the LGBT+ community at Willamette. Mathis said he created close relationships with LGBT+ populations, acting as a safe space within these conservative, Christian communities. He mentioned that Pepperdine had a LGBT+ club which recognized the LGBT+ population but at the same time, did not accept them. This boiled over when he had to deal with housing tensions between conservative Christians and LGBT+ identifying people in housing. He said he has always cared and strived to resolve conflicts and advocated on behalf of LGBT+ populations. Associate Professor of Sociology and Department Chair Emily Drew asked Mathis how he would balance disciplining and helping student activism. Mathis said that remaining silent on student activism matters causes bigger problems because students feel misunderstood or ignored. He said he is careful about coming down with the heavy hand of the institution, although he believes it is often kind. He said he would be an enthusiastic supporter of the why, understanding the reasons behind the actions and would work with the student or students to move in that direction. He also mentioned he would empower student activists to oversee him and make sure he does what he said he would do. The Collegian asked Mathis during the forum how he would serve neurodivergent students at Willamette and how he has done so in the past. Mathis said he has a growing passion for helping with neurodiverse issues, especially after being the director for disability services at Multnomah for four years. He said he has been working with a colleague at Chemeketa Community College to suggest better teaching methods that would not only benefit neurodivergent students, but neurotypical students as well. He said he has been actively debunking the common misconception that neurodivergent students are disruptive. He also said he has been finding their unique perspectives and contributions instead of holding them to the same standards as everyone else.

Candidates are listed in alphabetical order by last name. Candidates for ASWU President Giovanni Bautista In the face of a global pandemic, calls for racial justice, wildfires, an ice storm, and other challenges we may have faced individually, members of the Willamette community have been resilient and supportive of one another. I have witnessed firsthand how we, the student body, can promote and create positive change on campus. As a student representative on Academic Council, I have advocated for Willamette students’ interests—taking into account issues of equity and the unique challenges this year has presented—during deliberation on academic policies, programs, and standards, such as extending the credit/no credit deadline. During my time serving as an ASWU Senator, I have been a part of an effort to advance racial justice through my commitment to ASWU’s anti-racism plan. Alongside more than 30 dedicated resident advisors, I have also worked hard to foster a safe and inclusive community for all on-campus student residents. These experiences have taught me the importance of student involvement in the organizations that shape our experience at Willamette. As ASWU President, I will draw on this experience, strive to advocate for all students by seeking input from the different communities on campus, communicate regularly with the student body, and encourage transparency. Zeke Druker When I became a Senator, I promised to be a firm advocate, a good listener, and to do everything in my power to improve our community. I've committed myself to fulfilling that promise and ensuring every struggling student has a voice. I wrote an $18,000 ASWU grant for the Bistro, helping students who rely on that income for rent and groceries. During the wildfires and ice storms I led efforts to mobilize a robust student government response: standing up for our needs and making students heard. I've met with dozens of administrators to advocate for students on key issues: class cancellation, admissions equity, emergency preparedness, and more. I'll continue and heighten that bold leadership as President. As a queer person, I understand the struggles for recognition that many campus communities face. I've authored unprecedented ASWU legislation to protect the ability of all students to feel safe and valued in student organizations. As President, I'll call on the administration to match our commitments, and to bring radical advocacy all the way to the Board of Trustees. Together, we'll demand more from the people in power. Vote Zeke Druker for ASWU President—for bold and caring leadership. Oliver Kushen My name is Oliver Kushen and I am asking for your vote for ASWU President. After formerly serving the Class of 2023 as a senator, I am looking to now represent the greater student body. My campaign is centered around RESPECT. If elected, I want to ensure that all students are Represented, ASWU works as Efficiently as possible, our campus is a Sustainable leader, relationships with administrators are Personal, someone is in the position with a lot of Experience on campus, and that our admin improves its Communication and Transparency. As the Willamette community begins to return to normal next year, it is crucial that we have an experienced student leader capable of making the change that our campus needs. My number one goal is to ensure everyone’s voices are heard, so if you have any questions feel free to reach out to me @oliverkushen on Instagram or email me at ohkushen@willamette.edu. I hope to hear from you! Go Bearcats! Connor Robson I am a PPLE student from Corvallis, Oregon. In my free time I enjoy playing soccer, mountain biking, and making steel art with my homemade forge. Beyond my hobbies, I have spent a lot of time working to improve my community around me through activism and engagement with local and state government. In a year defined by protests against racial injustice, ice storms and wildfires, and, of course, a public health crisis, it seems like the students at this university are eager to see change. Despite having a school filled to the brim with young visionaries and activists, little has been done to harness any of this energy. As ASWU President my mission will be simple, to unite student interests into one force to impact change on Willamette campus and beyond. Under my presidency, ASWU will focus on directly engaging with issues of social inequity, university finances, climate change, and gun control at every appropriate level. It is past time for our energy to be focused into effecting tangible action, and this is what I will seek to do. Candidates for ASWU Vice President Gus Gunter Hello, my name Gus Gunter. Over my past two years at Willamette I have become involved in many extra curricular activities and I believe that campus life is a very important part of our community. While serving a a class of 2023 senator and a member of the finance board I came to understand how important it is that ASWU functions smoothly. As VP I hope to help ASWU serve the student body to its fullest potential. I feel that the position of the Vice President should work to keep ASWU attentive and responsive to student needs and able to make meaningful change on campus. I believe that I can effectively serve in the role of ASWU Vice President. Angel Park Dear Willamette community, my name is Angel Park, I am currently a second-year Biology major with a minor in Public Health. I have served in ASWU for the past two years as the Clerk and as rewarding as the position has been I believe I can better serve the community in a new capacity. If chosen for the opportunity to be the 2021-2022 Vice President I would like to continue the ASWU restructuring process within ASWU to fit the needs of present and future Willamette students. I’d like to do more outreach with the student body for there to be more transparency in what we do as ASWU to create more interest and to highlight the importance and how it can be a resource for students. Most importantly I want to support the students who will serve as senators and work on campus improvement projects that will directly affect the WU community. Regardless of outcome I hope that the new Vice President will continue to be a resource for students and the rest of the Executive branch to the best of their ability. Morgan Yamane Hi all! My name is Morgan Yamane, and I use she/her pronouns. I am a third year, an Exercise and Health Science Major, and I play for the women’s basketball team here at Willamette. Currently, I am serving as an ASWU senator for the class of 2022, and I am running to be ASWU Vice President. I decided to run because I want to continue to be more involved in campus life and be part of changes and improvements we would like to see across campus. Candidates for ASWU Treasurer Michael Burke My name is Michael Burke and I am running for reelection to the position of ASWU Treasurer. I am a second year here at Willamette and have been involved in ASWU since my freshman year, serving as both a Senator and Treasurer in my time here so far. In my time as Treasurer I have learned and picked up on all the tools it takes to keep ASWU finances running smoothly. Serving another term in this position wouldn't just allow me to keep ASWU finances on the right track, but also allow me to streamline the funding process. Without having to relearn the details of the position, I would be able to focus more on opening up the funding process to better fit the new needs of student organizations around campus. With your support I look forward to server another term as your ASWU Treasurer. If you have any questions, please reach out to my email at . Nate Rutter Hello there, Bearcats! My name is Nate Rutter and I’m running for Treasurer of the Associated Students of Willamette University. I’m really excited to have the opportunity to participate in our student government and help things run smoothly on campus! As Treasurer, I will be responsible for ensuring that funding is being distributed in a fair, equitable and reasonable manner. This includes making sure that money intended for the student body actually benefits the student body! I recognize the significance of spending our money in a strategic and mutually beneficial way and I strive to be as transparent as possible with the decisions we make regarding the distribution of funds. I also realize the importance of keeping accurate and complete records of our spending for the sake of transparency and accountability. With your vote, I can promise you that I will do my utmost best to uphold the duties of my position and my responsibility to you and the student body.

Campus Safety Report March 8 - 14, 2021 Provided by Ross Stout. Suspicious Activity/Persons March 8, 9:59 a.m. (Law School): Campus Safety received a call reporting an individual sleeping near the back entrance of the building. An officer responded and informed the individual that the campus is closed to visitors. The individual then left campus. March 9, 7:45 a.m. (YWCA): While on patrol, a Campus Safety officer noticed an individual without a mask on passing through campus. An additional officer responded and the individual was informed of the campus mask and visitor policies. The individual was was escorted off campus. March 9, 10:08 p.m. (Ford Hall): Campus Safety received a call reporting an individual loitering in the area. An officer responded and searched the area, but could not locate the individual. March 10, 9:51 a.m. (Ferry Street): While on patrol, a Campus Safety officer encountered an individual covered in a blanket passing through campus. The officer observed the individual and made sure they were off campus. March 10, 10:10 a.m. (Matthews Parking Lot): While on patrol, a Campus Safety officer encountered an individual without a mask on. The officer made contact with the individual and informed them that masks are required on campus. The individual then left. March 11, 11:54 a.m. (Skybridge): Campus Safety received a call reporting an individual camped out in the area. An officer responded and the individual was escorted off campus. March 12, 10:06 a.m. (Law School): Campus Safety received a call reporting an individual sleeping on the steps in front of the building. An officer responded and made contact with the individual and informed them of the campus visitor policy. The individual then left campus. March 12, 11:54 a.m. (Jackson Plaza): Campus Safety received reports of groups of individuals without masks on in the area. An officer responded and made contact with the individuals and informed them of the campus mask policy. March 12, 14:09 a.m. (Quad): Campus Safety received reports of groups of individuals without masks on in the area. An officer responded and made contact with the individuals and informed them of the campus mask policy. March 12, 2:47 p.m. (Law School): Campus Safety received a call reporting two individuals on bikes without masks on passing through campus. An officer responded and made contact with the individuals and informed them of the campus mask and visitor policies. The individuals then left campus. March 13, 14:09 a.m. (Quad): Campus Safety received reports of groups of individuals without masks on in the area. An officer responded and made contact with the individuals and informed them of the campus mask policy. Theft March 10, 9:59 p.m. (University Center): Campus Safety received a report of two bicycle thefts in the area. An officer responded and a report was filed. March 11, 1:09 (Law School): Campus Safety received a report of a bicycle theft in the area. An officer responded and a report was filed. March 12, 8:18 p.m. (Sparks Parking Lot): A student contacted Campus Safety to report the catalytic converter on their vehicle had been stolen. An officer responded and a report was filed. The student was also encouraged to contact Salem Police to report the theft. March 12, 8:26 p.m. (University Apartments): A student contacted Campus Safety to report the catalytic converter on their Toyota Prius had been stolen. An officer responded and a report was filed. The student was also encouraged to contact Salem Police to report the theft.