Evan Okamura When I first arrived at UCLA, I
was proud to be at such a prestigious university. I soon found my
way to the External Vice President’s Office where I began
working on issues that affect us as students. The work we do in the
office continues to motivate and drive me.
I am running with Student Empowerment! for the position of
external vice president. As the current EVP, the office staff and I
want to continue the work that we’ve begun. The role of the
EVP is to work on issues that affect us as students on the local,
statewide and national levels. Such issues include increased
financial aid and housing affordability.
Secondly, the EVP’s job is to ensure that the student
voice is part of the decision-making process.
This year we worked with the United States Student Association
and the University of California Student Association and met with
our elected officials. Through our collaborative efforts, the
maximum Pell Grant was increased by $450, the largest increase
ever.
In addition, this year we have worked with the cultural affairs
commission to put on open mic programs for alternative education
and expression.
Since the EVP is connected to students nationwide, we have
access to information on issues that affect all of us. Nearly all
issues are student issues because they affect access to
education.
If re-elected, I want to continue bringing back information
about current issues and bills so that we can play an effective
role in the decision-making process.
Finally as EVP, I want the office to provide the avenues,
resources and support necessary to empower us as students to work
for ourselves.