Introducing Associated Students Senator for the College of Humanities, Kimberly Yvette Basilio.
The College of Humanities’ newest Associated Students Senator is Kimberly Yvette Basilio, a junior with a double major in Chicana/o Studies and Political Science.
Basilio initially set her sights on CSUN because the campus is close to her home. She credits the Educational Opportunities Program (EOP) as being instrumental through the application process and with her successful transition into higher education. Soon after classes began, Basilio was introduced to a subject that would subsequently become one of her major fields of study and help define her educational goals. “I made this choice after having an amazing experience with Chicana/o Studies professor Tony Sandoval here at CSUN.” She says. “He helped me realize my passion for learning about my history and that of my ancestors.”
Basilio first became interested in student government while working as a student assistant in the Associated Students (AS) Office when she was a freshman. “I was able to observe their work from the outside and that sparked my desire to do similar things that previous leaders have done,” she says. “They encouraged me to get involved. First as a committee member last semester and then to apply for a senate position for Spring 2025.” Basilio is proud to represent the student body and takes her senate responsibilities seriously. Senators are expected to attend weekly meetings and are appointed to various standing committees where their work includes researching student issues, creating reports, formulating resolutions, and developing policy or statements in response to those issues. She adds, “In addition, our most important duties are to vote on issues that concern the student body, and to serve and act in the best interests of our constituents.”
In addition to her position in AS Leadership, Basilio is also the secretary and a founding member of California Teachers Association-Aspiring Educators (CTA-AE), a club that is committed to advocating for a fair and just world for educators and students alike. Clearly a mission that aligns with her professional goals. “I joined this organization because of my interest in teaching Chicano/a studies to high school students, especially because an ethnic studies course will become a requirement for graduation in California starting in 2030,” she says.
After completing her undergraduate education at CSUN, Basilio plans to get her teaching credential for Chicano/a Studies and then go on to law school to study immigration law. “I want to continue my advocacy for the people in my community and for the students that come after me.” Adding, “I hope to one day represent these same groups in the United States Senate and possibly as President of the United States.” Admirable aspirations to be sure. But for now, Basilio is happy and honored to focus her efforts on the students she currently serves here at CSUN. She encourages anyone with questions or concerns, especially those related to clubs that promote advocacy, to visit the AS Leadership office during her office hours on Mondays and Wednesdays from noon – 2:00 p.m., or to contact her directly via email at humanities2@csunas.org.