WSU Vancouver student leaders report voter drives, sustainability and student‑union planning

Student leaders from Washington State University's Vancouver campus told the Board of Regents on Jan. 24 about a string of student engagement efforts, new sustainability programming and early work on a campus Student Union project.

"In just two days, we will also participate in Coug Day at the Capitol," Jacob Winstead, president of the Associated Students of WSU Vancouver, said, noting the campus will send 27 students to the systemwide advocacy event in Olympia. Winstead and Vice President Sonny Lee described voter‑registration and engagement activities that included a "GOATS VOTE" event using therapy goats to reduce stress and create an accessible environment for registration.

Student government also launched a Director of Environmental Sustainability and Advocacy role, which is driving projects such as invasive plant removal, bird window‑strike prevention and sustainability checklists for student events. ASWSUV said it has allocated $4.5 million in student fee funds toward the Student Union building planning and has engaged consultants for scope and cost estimation.

Graduate student leaders reported growth in graduate‑student programming and community building. "We have about 50 graduate students that I know and recognize by face and name across all different departments," said Katie Clare, president of the Graduate Student Association at Vancouver, describing growth in participation at events and workshops. GPSA and other graduate organizations described upcoming research expositions, recreation programs and professional photo sessions for graduating students.

Student leaders said they worked closely with campus administration on projects and thanked chancellors and staff for responsiveness. They also emphasized continued focus on mental health, career pathways and basic needs supports.