Nadine Malhis

I’ve experienced firsthand the financial and everyday challenges that come with being a UCSB student: from rising student fees, to the realities of housing in IV, to simply making sure you have consistent access to affordable food. These are not abstract issues; they are part of our daily lives.

Through my involvement in Associated Students and the finance committee, I’ve developed a strong understanding of how student fees are allocated and how funding decisions directly impact our community. However, I’ve also seen how disconnected many students feel from these processes. As IVP, I want to make those systems more transparent, accessible, and accountable.

Looking ahead, AS fees are projected to increase, placing additional financial burdens on students. I will work to prevent unnecessary increases by restructuring AS to fit into its current budget and by developing AS-led enterprises subsidizing costs and reducing student fees.

My priorities are clear: advocating for responsible use of student fees, supporting initiatives that improve housing accessibility and stability, and expanding resources that address basic needs such as food insecurity and academic support.. Students should not have to navigate these challenges alone, and AS should play an active role in supporting them.

I also care deeply about strengthening communication between students and their representatives. Students deserve to feel heard and informed about decisions that affect their experience at UCSB.

During my term as a Senator, I have taken a project-oriented approach, completing two primary initiatives: establishing the AS Rent Support Program and advocating for the integration of dining dollars into the UCSB meal plan. As IVP, one of my central priorities would be to support AS units and senators in successfully developing and implementing impactful initiatives, rather than focusing solely on managing internal operations especially when many students are largely unaware of these processes.