USUSA inaugurates 2026-2027 officers: a recap of the new season

The Utah State University Student Association (USUSA) officially ushered in its next generation of student leadership on April 17, inaugurating the 2026-2027 officers during a ceremony focused on advocacy and campus inclusion.

The new Eastern council, led by Vice President Alyssa Chamberlain, begins its term with a specific goal of enhancing student life and strengthening the “Belonging Statement,” a university-wide commitment to fostering respect for diverse perspectives and to creating accessible, civically engaged environments.

Following the ceremony, advisors noted the significance of this time of year, emphasizing that the post-inauguration period marks the start of campus growth, new ideas, and a more welcoming atmosphere.

As Vice President, Chamberlain will chair the Executive Council, Advisory Board, and Presidency Cabinet. Her first priority is to lead the Appointment Committee to finalize key roles, including the Chief of Staff and Public Relations Manager, while she will oversee the Budget Committee and Student Fee Board.

The leadership structure is divided into specialized branches aimed at addressing the diverse needs of the Eastern campus:

• Cultural Engagement: Director Mabel Suarez will oversee cultural programming alongside Representative Boyd Bradford. Their efforts will focus on initiatives like Cultural Engagement Week and the annual Club Rush to ensure multicultural students have a dedicated voice in council decisions.
• Student Events: Director Lanie Anderson and Coordinator Julie Ivie will manage major traditions. Their portfolio includes high-energy staples like the “Golden Star” dance, “Foam” dance, “Hello My Name Is,” “Lite Brite,” and “High Stakes Bingo.” Anderson also chairs the Student Events Committee to ensure the smooth execution of Welcome Week.
• Student Advocacy: Student Advocate Ellanore McDonald will serve as the primary liaison for student concerns. She will chair the Student Advocate Committee and lead community-focused programs such as the monthly “Eagle Hour” feedback forums, “Day Without Hate,” and “Take Back the Night.”

The 2026-2027 council also features dedicated representatives for specific student demographics. Adri Abeyta will coordinate programming for bachelor’s, non-traditional, and alumni students through events such as “Trick or Treat for Families” and the “Day of Giving.” Athletics Representative Tyler Stilson will lead the “Scream Team”, USU Eastern’s student section, to boost spirit through “Meet the Teams” events, tailgating, and watch parties.

Logistics and community outreach will be managed by a support team including Chief of Staff Lily Thayn, who oversees meeting agendas and Nexus maintenance, and Operations Manager Brayden Zambos, who leads a volunteer committee for event setup and takedown. Public Relations Manager McKinlee Philpott will handle all campus communication, from social media to local news collaborations.

Rounding out the service branch, Sun Center Service Representative Cole Ehat will coordinate at least four service projects per semester, managing budgets and volunteer reflections to foster a culture of giving on campus.

Each officer is committed to maintaining five to seven office hours per week and attending required training to prepare for a year of shaping campus policy. The council begins its term immediately, moving into summer planning to ensure every student voice is heard in the year ahead.