From left, Associated Students of Northern Marianas College Secretary Fei Fei Lei, Senator Vileene Norita, Senator Jason Lizama, President Maria Daniella Sablan, Treasurer Richard Baleares, Vice President Amy Rayn Soliman, and Senator Leliani Attao.
NMC photo
THE Associated Students of Northern Marianas College recently held student government elections for the 2025-2026 academic year, with new officers elected to represent the student body and foster student engagement and advocacy on campus.
Elected as president was Maria Daniella Sablan, 20, an Associate of Arts in Business major. Sablan, who has been at NMC for two years and is serving her second year in ASNMC, said her experience has been “incredibly fulfilling and meaningful” and has helped her better understand the needs of the diverse student community. “The outcome of the election makes me feel very honored and humbled. I will do my best to keep that trust and represent every student to the best of my ability,” she said, while expressing gratitude to students, her family, friends, and everyone who participated in the elections.
Serving as vice president is Amy Rayn Soliman, 21, a student in the Bachelor of Science in Education: Rehabilitation and Human Services program. Soliman previously earned an Associate of Liberal Arts in Social Work and is now in her fifth year at NMC. Motivated by her experiences as a student during the pandemic and her passion for strengthening student community ties, Soliman said, “I am beyond excited to work alongside my new team.” She thanked her family, friends, and the students who placed their trust in her.
Richard R. Baleares, 23, a Bachelor of Science in Business Management major, was re-elected as treasurer. A student at NMC since 2021, Baleares said he chose to run again to ensure continuity between last year’s and this year’s leadership. “I want to guide the new ASNMC officers in becoming familiar with the responsibilities of student government so that together we can make a more efficient, collaborative, and positive impact on the college community,” he said. Baleares expressed appreciation to his mentors, fellow students, and organizations that encouraged his continued service.
Serving as secretary is Fei Fei Lei, 20, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Education: Elementary Education. Lei, president of the NMC Club of Artists, has been with NMC since 2022. “I feel good about the results as secretary because it’s a position that I am familiar with while also being a good learning opportunity,” she shared, thanking her peers and club members for inspiring her to step into student government leadership.
Three students were elected as senators. Leilani Attao, 18, an Associate of Arts in Natural Resource Management major, ran to be more involved in the NMC community. “I feel grateful that my peers trust me to represent their voices as they matter to me the most,” she said.
Jason R. Lizama, 21, a Bachelor of Science in Education: Elementary Education student, said he ran because he believes student government serves as a vehicle for service and advocacy. “I feel deeply moved by this tremendous opportunity. Without my supporters’ faith in our student missions, this wouldn’t be possible,” he said.
Vileene Norita, 19, an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts major, ran out of a desire to learn about leadership and governance. “I will conduct my duties and be present in upcoming events as planned,” she said, thanking NMC students and ASNMC advisors for their support.
The newly elected officers will lead ASNMC in representing NMC students, advocating for their needs, and organizing programs and activities that enhance student life throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.
