Vanessa Manakova

Hi all! My name is Vanessa, and I’m a third-year History major running for Off-Campus Senator.

Food Security
Food insecurity is an issue I’m deeply familiar with. I work with UCSB Sustainability and serve as a UC-wide Food Security Fellow. According to a 2022 UC survey, 43% of UCSB undergraduates face food insecurity— I’m committed to changing that. I plan to work with other UC campuses to adapt successful strategies, while partnering with campus departments, dining services, and local nonprofits to expand access to affordable, nutritious food. I’m especially excited about launching pop-up food pantries in Isla Vista—so students don’t have to carry groceries across campus or wait until after class to eat. I’ll also advocate for weekend access and increased funding for the A.S. Food Bank, Miramar Pantry, and the Office of Basic Needs to ensure that no student is left unsupported or overlooked.

Housing
Housing is one of the most urgent and stressful issues UCSB students face. While some resources exist, they’re often underfunded, limited in reach, or difficult to access. I will push for increased housing navigation services, educational workshops on renter rights, and greater funding for programs that help students navigate Isla Vista’s rental market. I’ll also collaborate with Sustainable University Now (SUN) and local governments to hold UCSB accountable for fulfilling its housing promises and making sure students are included in long-term development plans.

Efficiency & Transparency
Having served on multiple AS Boards, Commissions, and Units (BCUs), I’ve seen both the strengths and inefficiencies in how student fees are used. UCSB students pay some of the highest fees in the country—we must ensure those funds are used wisely or cut. I’ll advocate for improved BCU onboarding, quarterly student surveys, a clear “AS Budget Breakdown,” and a fully updated AS website so students can easily access the resources they’re paying for.

I’d be honored to earn your vote! Thank you!