A Look at the AS President Role

Chris Sullivan currently serves as the AS President with Associated Students Government Affairs. Learn more about Sullivan's position and his experience below.

Can you describe your main responsibilities in this role?

In the role of AS President my main duties are being responsible for Chairing the Board of Directors which deals with making comprehensive corporate decisions on behalf of the organization. You are the CEO.

I am responsible for overseeing the team of 16 other representatives. I am also the official voice of all Chico State students including internal and external activities like campus committees and conferences where I represent the students of Chico State.

Lastly, I am a member of the California State Student Association (CSSA) which is a membership that AS Presidents are all a part of in the CSU system which holds monthly meetings.

What was something you didn’t know coming into this role that you think others should be aware of?

How quick you need to react to situations that are outside of your initial goals and also being prepared to respond to emails and delegate responsibilities to others. It's a balance of time and a constant battle to remind yourself that you are a student first.

What have you gained from this role that you’ll carry with you into your future career?

The ability to adapt and respond to any situation to your best ability. I’ve also learned how to work with a team and have or navigate difficult conversations where you aren't just advocating for yourself but for others on your team as well.

What tips would you give to someone who’s thinking about running for office?

Ask around about it, be prepared to structure your time and always ask questions to the people you are representing before assuming what they want and since you represent all students it's more difficult.

How would you sum up your overall experience in this position? Would you recommend running for office to others?

I would say my experience was wonderful overall. It comes with highs and lows but the opportunities are limitless and the ability to have an impact is rewarding. I would recommend being in student government in a different role first just so you are not blindsided by the amount of work and time it takes to learn the position of AS President.

Is there anything else about your role that you think students should know—something that isn’t commonly understood or might be overlooked?

You make the role what it is! Remember to own it once you are in it. Don't shy away from failure it makes you just as much human as the next person.

At Chico State, student representatives are elected each academic year to serve and advocate on behalf of the student body with AS Government Affairs. This election is held annually during the spring semester. All elected representatives serve a one-year term and contribute to Associated Students and University councils and committees, serve as representatives of the Colleges, and advocate on behalf of the students of Chico State.

Students interested in running for office are required to apply and declare their candidacy. 2025 applications for Associated Students Election Eligibility open on Monday, February 10th, and are due on Wednesday, February 26th by 12 p.m. Once confirmed eligible to run, the Election Supervisor will invite you to formally declare a position in which you wish to run. For information regarding the election process, please visit as.csuchico.edu/election.