President-elect Aaron Starks spoke with about 2,000 students during his campaign and said that about 70 percent of them were unaware of programs and athletic opportunities that Salt Lake Community College has to offer its students. He wants to give every student the opportunity to get involved in school activities.
“Information is the first step,” Starks said.
Starting with new student orientation, Starks wants to promote the growth of clubs and organizations and unite the student body through effective communication. He said that the current administration has done a great job in making necessary changes to represent students and he just wants to carry the momentum forward that they have created.
“I see my administration connecting with all the student body,” Starks said. “The unique thing about Salt Lake Community College is that we are so diverse.” He continued by saying that people sacrifice family and time to get a better education and they should get their money’s worth.
Starks is also looking forward to working with Executive Vice President-elect Carlos Artiles-Fortun.
“Carlos is a hard worker,” Starks said. “His experience will make us better individuals and a better team.”
Having served a two-year mission in Japan for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Starks knows that learning a new language and culture is difficult, so he tries to get to know others as a way of creating a connection with students. He called that time in Japan “…the greatest experience of my life.”
“I like to take every opportunity I can as a person to get to know different backgrounds and people,” he said.
Starks has four brothers and grew up in Ogden. He is majoring in international business. When he has spare time, he likes to workout.
“I really enjoy going to the gym,” Starks said. “It allows me to focus on something different.”
