Junior Gutierrez, CHC student senate president, looking to improve student engagement on campus
Junior Gutierrez joined Crafton Hills College’s student senate because he wanted to become more involved in campus life.
And as he continues his one-year tenure as senate president, Gutierrez wants to see more students follow his lead.
“I’d like to see more student engagement happen here,” Gutierrez explained. “When you go to (San Bernardino) Valley (College) at any time, there’s a lot of students hanging out, attending clubs and participating in events. I’m wanting to see students here stay longer after school.”
Gutierrez applied for a position on the student senate three years ago and moved up in the ranks. Before starting in his new role, Gutierrez served as the group’s vice president and says starting a recycling program on campus is one of his biggest accomplishments so far.
The program, which is not active now, raised money to support on-campus clubs hosts events and other student engagement opportunities.
“I knew that I didn’t want the money to go toward the student senate fund, but wanted it to go toward the students,” he said.
Gutierrez said he hopes the program will resume sometime in the future.
In addition to his student senate responsibilities, the 31-year-old Beaumont resident is on track to graduate in the Spring of 2020 with an associate degree in business. He plans to continue his education in the Channel Islands upon receiving his cap and gown from CHC, he said.
In the meantime, Gutierrez is happy to talk about his successes at Crafton and his desire to give back.
“When I hear random people talk about Crafton Hills College, I get kind of excited because I just want to pay attention more and hear what they have to say and then give them my two cents about how great Crafton is,” he said. “There are so many opportunities at Crafton, and the faculty tries to go above and beyond to help their students.”
The student senate meets from 10 a.m. to noon Fridays in the spring. Meetings take place in room CCR-156 and are open to all.
The student senate at Crafton is the governing board of the associated student body. Its goal is to establish a foundation of fostering involvement, awareness and unity to all current and future Roadrunners.
Learn more about the Student Senate.