130 students voted in this year’s Associated Students of Central Oregon Community College (ASCOCC) presidential election, said Lindsay Buccafurni, Assistant Director of Student Life. 55% of those votes went to Dray Aguirre. 

Aguirre, a nursing student, said he decided to run for ASCOCC President because he wanted to represent student voices on all levels. He believes that every student can have ideas that lead to positive change, and wants to create a safe space for students to voice their thoughts. 

“I want to hear [students]. I want to hear what they have to say,” said Aguirre. Aguirre plans to listen to students’ ideas and learn what makes them participate.

Once he learns what students need, Aguirre hopes to convey these ideas to faculty and staff so they can better support student success. 

When Aguirre’s term begins, his first priority will be gender inclusive bathrooms. Aguirre said he knows there are some gender inclusive bathrooms, but there aren’t enough. He believes the Bend campus needs more gender inclusive bathrooms in heavily used buildings like Coats Campus Center.

According to Aguirre, he will also write a plan for his presidency with the help of other members of ASCOCC. During his presidency, Aguirre wants all cultural communities to feel represented. He will remain conscious of this goal while writing the plan.

“It’s a we thing, not a me thing,” said Aguirre. He wants every student to feel taken care of during his presidency.