Student Government

MEETINGS

Join us for the UNM-Taos Student Government's weekly meetings, where every voice counts! Whether you're a student eager to contribute, propose ideas, or simply curious about the discussions shaping our campus community, all are welcome to attend. Have a topic you're passionate about? You can request to add it to the agenda and help steer the conversation. Plus, at the start of each meeting, there's an open floor for students to address the Student Government directly. Your input matters, so join us and let's make a difference together!

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Ashlynn Vigil

President

I grew up here in Taos/Taos Pueblo, New Mexico. I am of both Native American and Hispanic background. I enjoy learning new things and teaching others, especially little ones, as I am an assistant teacher in pre-k. I strive to be a positive role model and leader in my community. My job has allowed me to connect with families from all around our community, and I really enjoy supporting these families in raising the next generation of leaders. As a first-generation college student, I want to support my peers in their journey of higher education and inspire those around me to know that anything is possible by paving a new path for those behind me. I have a strong sense of commitment, perseverance and resilience, so I believe that I can make an impact in anything I do.

Alan Hernandez

Vice President

I spent my formative years in Taos, New Mexico, particularly in the Ranchos De Taos area. My passions revolve around music and staying active—whether it’s through exercise, mountain biking, or hiking. What sets me apart is my insatiable curiosity about the world and life itself. I’m driven by a desire for knowledge and a commitment to living life to its fullest potential. 

Throughout my journey, I’ve always been dedicated to reaching my goals. I’ve embraced leadership roles in both sports and professional environments. As a General Manager at a cleaning company, I was responsible for overseeing key projects, but I never shied away from taking an active role. I always rolled up my sleeves and made sure to support my team whenever necessary. Being bilingual allows me to connect with a wider audience, breaking down language barriers to reach those who need assistance. I believe in the power of listening and forming connections with individuals facing challenges beyond their control. My message to them is simple: “You can achieve anything if you set your mind to it and work hard.” 

I am committed to advocating for my peers' academic needs, as I’ve navigated similar struggles myself. My goal is to inspire my classmates to chase their dreams and realize their potential.

Yoly Alvarado

Secretary

I was born in Mexico and raised In California and later moved to TX. I became a travel CNA through NM and decided to settle in Taos and continue to pursue my education here at UNM in Pre Science and my goal is to obtain a BSN. My hobbies include collecting miniature things and vintage books and spending time in nature. 

I am proud to be a part of SGA and represent my community of students. I hope to be an example and help and motivate my peers to succeed as well as be an Asset to our SGA to bring together new ideas that will support our students and community. 

Juan Carlos Rodríguez

Treasurer

I grew up in Taos NM, my interests are in the medical field. I am LGBTQ and look forward to being part of SGA.

I would make a good representative for the nursing department here in UNM Taos. I’m currently a nursing student and understand what you’re going through. I have experience in SGA so I know what to do and what I’m signing up for. I want to be able to provide a smooth transition for new SGA members. And look forward to hopefully serving SGA again in the future.

Chloe Matthews

Senator

My name is Chloe Matthews. I am currently a nursing student in the 2025 cohort at UNM-Taos. I am a transplant to Taos out of the Midwest and settled into Taos about two years ago. Rock climbing brought me to Taos and the nursing school and healthcare community is going to keep me here. I am excited about representing students as an SGA Senator; the primary reason I pursued a position with SGA is to get to know our Taos community, offerings, student body more familiarly and understand what drives our students and community. If you see me around campus, don't hesitate to say Hi or let me know any concerns you have! 

Jesyka G. Pacheco

Senator

Over the past year, I’ve faced significant challenges, including the loss of my home to a fire in May 2023. This event was more than just losing possessions—it was a profound emotional upheaval. Yet, from this experience, I found strength and a renewed sense of purpose.
During a difficult moment on campus, I met Ms. Cami Hartman at the Thrive Food & Resource Center. Her compassion inspired me to become a Student Resource Navigator at UNM-Taos. In this role, I’ve had the privilege of helping students navigate their challenges, whether they face financial difficulties, food insecurity, or academic pressures.

My journey has taught me the importance of resilience and community. Every day, I’m driven by the belief that education should be accessible to all, regardless of circumstances. Helping students access vital resources and seeing them succeed brings me immense joy and fulfillment.

As I continue my studies and work at UNM–Taos, I’m filled with hope for our community. Together, we can create a supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Marteen Vigil

Senator

I live nestled in my family's cattle ranch in enchanting Taos New Mexico. It was here where I was born and aspired to better both myself and my community. I have always had an interest in the medical field as I have previously worked in surgery and Cardiopulmonary Rehab. I currently have a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science and now look to acquire my bachelor's degree in nursing. It is my hope to provide my nursing services to a cardiac department within Taos one day as it is a service in high demand for our community. Outside of school I enjoy my time outdoors whether it be hiking, gardening, ranching, or doing my wildlife & landscape photography. I currently work at UNM as a Tutor for nursing and pre health sciences, so don't hesitate to ask for help. I hope to serve our school as best I can!

Aubrey Cheatham

Senator

Hi all, my name is Aubrey Cheatham. I recently graduated from the Yoga Teacher Training program, offered here at UNM last spring. This semster, I'm finishing up classes to receive my Holistic Health & Healing arts Certificate, by the end of the fall. While simultaneously taking art classes since fall semester of 2024 to work towards my associate's degree in Fine arts. I'm originally from Gwinnett, Georgia and moved to Taos 5 years ago. I'm also in TRIO club here at UNM. Since being certfied in Yoga, I've been teaching locally in a communal setting at a community holistic healing collective, called Mountain Heart Collective. Moving forward in the community, I would like to make a impact on the awareness of personal health and wellness. Striving to provide accessible wellness offerings to the community. I'm excited to be apart of the Student government to bring healthy changes to our University. 

Deazia Cardenas

Senator

My name is Deazia Cardenas and I was born and raised in Taos NM. I am involved with the university on three different levels. I am an advisor, a nursing student, and a freshman senator for student government. If you have any questions about advising, nursing or government, I’m happy to answer them.

Would you enjoy representing the student body of UNM-Taos as a member of the Student Government Association (SGA)?

Serving in this capacity means you will act as:

• Ambassador:Support your fellow students and positively represent UNM-Taos for UNM sponsored activities/events;
• Advocate: Act for the rights of individuals and identified groups of the student body so they may achieve academic success and find opportunities to thrive.
• Leader: Work as a team to achieve identified goals, develop leadership skills, mentor new members and network with professionals/leaders in our community.
• Liaison: Talk with students so that you may understand the needs of students and communicate those needs with campus leadership.
• Recruiter: Identify and invite new members to Student Government with interest in maintaining an active and robust membership.
• Promoter: Share resources and student engagement opportunities, events and activities.

The UNM-Taos Student Government performs with integrity, honesty, trust and inclusiveness.

Our mission is to encourage and support student participation, to advocate and lobby on behalf of students, to facilitate alternative dispute resolution, and to ensure individual and collective student rights. We intend to build constructive relationships among faculty, staff, students and our community.

Student Government 2023-2024

President Alyson Martinez
Vice President Darien Isaacs
Secretary Juan Carlos Rodriguez
Treasurer Alan P Hernandez Dominguez
Sen. Kyle Knyazev-Julinski

Student Government 2022-2023

President Madelynn Gonzales-Mascareñas
Vice President Kyle Knyazev-Julinski
Secretary Sydnie Pino
Treasurer Maximillian Knyazev-Julinski 
Sen. Logan Martinez
Sen. Marissa Tafoya
Sen. Adrian Rodriguez
Sen. Manuel Baca-Villalobos
Sen. Juan Carlos Rodriguez  
SGA liaison to the chancellor Kenyon Olsen

FAQs

The Student Government Association provides funding for initiatives on campus that will benefit all students.

Some examples of initiatives funded include security cameras, a student lounge and a library fundraiser. If you have a project you would like to fund, you may download the form and bring your proposal to an open meeting. You may also contact us with questions at jspiper@unm.edu

Can I attend meetings?

Yes, meetings are open to the public. Each meeting has an open forum at the beginning where you can present your ideas or concerns.

How do I join?

Student government elections are held in the fall. Students currently taking 6 credit hours and a 2.0 GPA are welcome to apply. You may contact us by email to find out more.

GET INVOLVED

Attend a meeting.

Meetings are held once a month. 

Join student government

We are happy to hear from you.