Chris and Dana Garcia-Mendez aren’t just siblings but also the leaders of ASG. As their time in office ends, they reflect on the change they brought to Palomar.
The Associated Student Government (ASG) is an integral part of every school. Here at Palomar, the ASG works tirelessly to make each student’s experience more comfortable, seamless, and, more importantly, welcoming.
“The mission of the Associated Student Government of Palomar College is to provide quality service to students and the community that enhances the safety, educational diversity, environment and health of the campus, where students, our employees, and the community can thrive in an atmosphere of courtesy, integrity, and respect,” as stated on the ASG website.
The Garcia-Mendez siblings, President Christopher and Vice President Dana, play an important role in fulfilling not only the set mission statement, but also the many challenges that the student body faces throughout their careers.
Kengo Hotta, Vice President of Communications, described Chris as a “guy with a really firm handshake” and Dana as a loyal member who is “always by Chris’ side.”
When asked about who Chris and Dana are off and on campus, Hotta said, “They have a professional side and a personal side. On their personal side they are really fun to talk to, they’re easy to get to know. When it comes to professional stuff he (Chris) is really professional and organized.”
When sitting down with IMPACT Magazine, Chris and Dana mentioned a time when a presentation was made regarding teacher wages. Chris smiled as he recalled the moment.
“I mean ask for more office hours, but them figuring out how to get paid for the office hours, they gotta go through their own route and advocate for that.” He added that this was an example of when he would step in during meetings to, “Make sure everyone’s on track. That our advocacy efforts are serving our students.”
As Palomar closes this semester, we also close in on Chris and Dana’s final term with ASG. It’s important to look back on what they experienced as President and Vice President, as well as their views for the future of ASG. With this knowledge, IMPACT Magazine sat down with Chris and Dana to hear what they had to say.
IMPACT: “Describe your time here at ASG.”
Dana first described her tenure as ASG Vice President as honoring. She referred to the value of working with faculty such as Palomar superintendent Star Rivera-Lacey.
“I’m really honored to be given this opportunity and this role to be able to help the students who have a voice but are too afraid to use it,” Dana said.
Chris added that his experience as ASG President made him happier, but more importantly, he feels privileged. He focused on the reality that Palomar ASG is a safe space to voice opinions.
“Here, we are very welcoming. We’re an open space. We will have disagreements, but we’ll be respectful about it,” Chris said.
IMPACT: “With you two being siblings, how does working together feel different as opposed to other work relationships?”
Dana answered first, “We do have our difficulties. We’re siblings and only one year apart, but it’s easy as we’ve always been together, we’ve gone to the same school together forever.” She mentioned the inspiration that their collective efforts are inspired by their goal to make their mother proud.
Chris added that the Vice President and President positions require an effort to work together.
“I couldn’t imagine myself being with a person that’s very difficult to work with. I have my sister here, she’s very helpful. I’ll have a question or I’ll need some help on something, she steps in and helps me out,” said Chris.
Both siblings agreed that their time in ASG has improved the way they talk to each other. They find little pressure, which removes stress from their work environment.
“Whatever we are trying to do, we do together,” said Chris.
IMPACT: “What do you believe is your most important accomplishment of your time as ASG president and vice president?”
Chris spoke on behalf of both when he pointed towards the amplification of the California Dream Act Service Incentive Grant (DISG) for undocumented students. This allows undocumented students to work on campus and receive compensation.
After about a year of consideration, Chris became the first participant in the new program. Dana followed suit shortly after when she was eligible.
After the program became more widespread, they worked together to open the Cariño Dream Village. The Cariño Dream Village is described on the Palomar website as “a safe and inclusive space where students can learn about different cultures and build community.”
Dana backed Chris by saying that DSIG allows for a great opportunity to gain work experience. She described it as the best opportunity she’s ever been given. She said that simple office tasks like using an office printer can be foreign to some students, which is why programs like DSIG and groups like the Cariño Dream Village are so important.
Another policy the siblings are trying to raise awareness about is making Palomar EBT accessible for students who rely on food stamps. Chris said, “Why not make that possible?”
The final point Chris was proud of was how they restructured ASG. After COVID-19 restrictions, ASG faced hardships in impact and the number of members. Chris talked about how members would come and go and that it was hard to set the precedent that everyone’s word is as good as his.
“I would try to have everyone speak and try to hear everybody out. I want to make sure I’m not representing my own opinion, but I’m representing everybody’s,” Chris said.
“The whole point of being a leader is representing others. If you’re in a position to represent the student body, don’t just represent yourself. Your opinion does matter but you’re trying to make a decision to make the whole entire student body better and not just yourself,” Chris said.
IMPACT: “What will you miss the most about ASG?”
Dana was quick to answer, “The people. That’s what makes a place better. I think I’ll miss working with Chris the most.” Dana went on to praise the community college experience citing the financial leniency it provides. She likes one aspect of the Palomar experience in particular, “Hearing the clock tower sing new songs.”
Chris answered the question with a bit of a laugh, “What I will miss? Well, running a meeting.” Chris showed his interest in the parliamentary procedures and the Brown Act, and stepping away from the role of president will take him away from using his knowledge in the most important way for students.
Both siblings will miss being involved with the college. Being the voice of the students is a role that only a handful of people get to have; for them, it’s an absolute honor.
IMPACT: “What do you hope for the current delegates in the future of ASG now that you’re leaving?”
“That they step up into a bigger role,” Chris quickly responded. The two agreed that the continued support for the student body is an integral part of ASG functioning.
Chris described a future of ASG where students can walk into the offices and meetings and cause “pure chaos.” It’s his dream that there will be many students looking to get their voices heard.
Dana and Chris ended the conversation with a smile on their faces and a laugh, discussing the idea of a statue of themselves being built on campus. The time and effort they put into the Palomar student body have not gone unnoticed, and Palomar will surely miss them.
