ASUO Branches

Learn about the three branches of student government at the University of Oregon

🏛️ Executive Branch

The Executive Branch is led by the ASUO President and Vice President, who are elected annually by the student body. They oversee an executive cabinet of up to 24 appointed leaders who drive student experience campaigns, collaborate with campus decision-makers, and coordinate student appointments to university committees.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Represent student interests to university administration
  • Manage the Incidental Fee budget allocation
  • Appoint students to university committees
  • Advocate for student needs and concerns
  • Coordinate campus-wide initiatives and campaigns

Current Leadership:

President: Prissila Moreno
Vice President: Jordan Ackeman

🏛️ Legislative Branch (Senate)

The ASUO Senate serves as the legislative body of student government, consisting of elected senators representing different constituencies across campus. The Senate is responsible for creating and passing legislation that affects student life, allocating funding to student organizations, and providing oversight of the executive branch.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Pass legislation and resolutions on student issues
  • Approve the annual Incidental Fee budget
  • Provide oversight of executive branch activities
  • Represent diverse student constituencies
  • Hold public hearings on important campus issues

Senate Structure:

  • Academic Senators: Represent different schools and colleges
  • At-Large Senators: Represent the general student body
  • Special Interest Senators: Represent specific student communities

⚖️ Judicial Branch

The ASUO Judicial Branch consists of the Student Court, which interprets the ASUO Constitution and Bylaws, resolves disputes between branches, and ensures that student government operates within its legal framework. The court serves as the final arbiter of constitutional questions within ASUO.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Interpret the ASUO Constitution and Bylaws
  • Resolve disputes between branches of government
  • Review the constitutionality of legislation
  • Ensure fair and legal governance processes
  • Provide legal guidance to student government

Court Structure:

  • Chief Justice: Presides over court proceedings
  • Associate Justices: Participate in case deliberations
  • Court Clerk: Manages court records and procedures

🤝 How the Branches Work Together

The three branches of ASUO operate under a system of checks and balances, similar to the federal government. This ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful and that student interests are properly represented and protected.

Checks and Balances:

  • Executive: Can veto Senate legislation (with override provisions)
  • Senate: Can override executive vetoes and approve appointments
  • Judicial: Can declare actions unconstitutional
  • All Branches: Must operate within constitutional limits

📋 Get Involved

ASUO provides numerous opportunities for students to get involved in student government and make a difference on campus.

Ways to Participate:

  • Run for Office: Elections are held annually for President, VP, and Senate seats
  • Apply for Appointments: Executive cabinet positions and committee appointments
  • Attend Meetings: Senate meetings are open to all students
  • Join Committees: Serve on university committees as a student representative
  • Voice Your Opinion: Participate in public comment periods and town halls

Contact Information:

ASUO Office: EMU Suite 4
Phone: (541) 346-3724
Email: asuo@uoregon.edu
Website: asuo.uoregon.edu