The newly elected Associated Students Inc. board has begun planning for the next semester in order to fulfill the plans they established as candidates.

Before the winners were announced, the candidates’ emotions were high as current president Laura Gonzalez took the stage in the University Union to announce the upcoming ASI Board Thursday night.

Surrounded by family, friends and huddling teammates, each candidate clung to every word from Gonzalez.

“I challenge all of you to stay involved and committed no matter what the outcome is,” Gonzalez said before announcing the winners. “We’re going to need each of you.”

After receiving her congratulations; Senior government major Monica Cortez walked to the stage to thank her loved ones and to reinforce her elected position.

“All the promises that I have made in this campaign, I will keep,” Cortez said. “I am honored to be chosen as your ASI president.”

Although the positions do not go into effect until the end of the semester, some of the new board members plan on getting a head start on their responsibilities.

“My primary promise during campaigning is that I wouldn’t disappear after the three weeks,” Cassidy said. “I plan to speak with students about their opinions on what ASI is doing for them, what they would like to see from the board and most of all, how they would prefer to have information provided on what’s new and happening. I have high hopes to make my time in this position successful from day one.”

The current ASI Government members do not plan on going anywhere after they step down from their positions.

Gonzalez, a senior government and women’s studies major, plans to remain involved with ASI and Sacramento State after she graduates this semester and moves to San Francisco.

“I have already registered with the Sac State Alumni Center,” Gonzalez said. “I’m going to stay around ‘til August to ensure the new president feels comfortable (enough to) take her responsibilities.”

As she prepares to step down, Gonzalez is content with the ideas she has introduced while in office. She hopes ASI only continues to advance development after she is gone and offers advice to those who are taking up their new positions.

“First of all, do what you’re passionate about. The things you introduce during the campaign should always be in the back of your mind. Second, leave a template for the upcoming individual who will take your place so they know what to expect. Lastly, be humble and have fun,” Gonzalez said. “It’s hard work and you may not be acknowledged, but remain engaged and students will respond.”

Maikalina Madali can be reached at [email protected].