They're biochemistry majors dreaming of forensics labs, aspiring librarians fighting for user experience, and DJs determined to uplift campus morale. Phoenix College's student government board, PC United, isn't your typical leadership group. From President Galilea Guzman, a self-described "shy observer" who found her voice advocating for fellow students, to Vice President JJ Joyner, who jokes about being "a menace" while championing disability rights, these six student leaders share one common thread: an unwavering commitment to service. Whether connecting students with resources, amplifying marginalized voices, or simply making someone laugh, PC United proves that student government is community service in action.
Galilea Guzman, President
Major: Biochemistry. "This is my first semester at Phoenix College. I'm in my sophomore year." Student government Inspiration: "I've always loved being involved in my community. When I'm helping people, I feel my best." Galilea has helped with St Mary's food bank and a toy distribution on campus. For her, student government is community service within a student organization. When she signed up for college, she had a lot of trouble navigating the system and noticed a lot of issues, but had many ideas on how to improve it. "I'm really shy, but also a really big observer. I love public speaking. I realized that I should be the person who speaks out and helps students. I'm very driven, and if I want something, I'm determined. That's why I joined student government. I love helping people. It truly brings me a lot of joy." Goals: "I would love to create a more positive and inclusive environment and have more events for students to be involved in. I will also bring resources to students who are unaware of what we have." Activities outside of school: "I have an internship with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and want to go into forensics. That's why I'm studying biochemistry. I go to career fairs and talk to students about my internship and what to expect. Favorite campus spot :"Library, second floor, near a window. I love seeing the trees outside."
Felix DeLay, Vice President of Academic Affairs
Major: Information Technology. "I'm getting my bachelor's in Applied Science. I have already completed an associate's degree in English. I plan to get a master's in Library and Information Science (MLIS). I want to be a librarian." Student government inspiration: "I am nosy, you know? It's important to be informed about the institution that you're learning within, and make sure that you understand the motives and mission. As an information scientist, I'm naturally drawn toward that because it's important to see the biases in the data set." Felix actively convinces students to come to meetings and have a stake in their education. "There isn't a better way to do that than to interact with student life and the students who care to get involved." What's your role? "My role is to follow through when students come to me with concerns about classes and coursework. It's also important for me to stay aware of academic opportunities on campus and keep my finger on the pulse of what's happening, especially regarding academics. I care a lot about user experience, and as a college, it is our job to ensure people are actually getting what they pay for." Activities outside of school: "I work in the Student Union Resource Room. I feel very blessed to have had this experience with Dr. Martinez, who has mentored me. You have to think, Who are we serving? What community do we sit within? What resources matter to this community?" Felix also works as a home health aide in the evening. Favorite campus spot:"I spend a lot of time in the library. That's not shocking. I'm friends with over half the library staff."
Noemi Lucero, Vice President of Involvement
Major: General Business with plans to transfer to a university. "I want to be an entrepreneur, have my own business, and be able to contribute back to the community." Student government inspiration: "I was a co-chair of MEChA (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán) for a year, so I have experience in a leadership role. But I decided this is a good opportunity to grow and see things from the other side because MEChA is a club, and PC United serves the school." Goals: "I graduate this semester, so I'm trying to figure out what I can do before I leave. I want to be remembered for doing something big." Activities outside of school: "I'm mostly working. I work at PC's welcome desk as part of my DREAM.US scholarship." Noemi's supervisor, Deborah Roseke, has been supportive in helping her find the resources to figure out where to transfer: ASU or GCU. Noemi also has a mentor, a PC alumnus, who is asking important questions regarding the decisions she has to make about her future. Favorite campus spot: "Library study room 119."
Jahred Joyner, Vice President of Advocacy
Major: Music Business. Student government inspiration: JJ admitted he becomes bored easily and loses motivation, so staying involved keeps him active and engaged. His goal for his PC United role is to uplift student morale: "Go out there and talk to people, hang out with them, and make them laugh," which is one of his favorite things to do. JJ joked that his goal is to run over 50 toes with his wheelchair. With a smirk, he said, "I'm a menace." What's your role? "I work with a lot of smaller communities, such as people with disabilities or marginalized groups, to see how we can better represent them at PC." Activities outside of school: "I deejay and produce music." JJ has a home music studio, but often travels with his studio. He deejayed for the Welcome Back party last year. His favorite music is EDM (Electronic Dance Music). Favorite campus spot: "Student Union, hands down. That's where all the cool people are."
Anthon Higuera, Vice President of Communication
Major: Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting. "I'm trying to get both done; while I'm on a waiting list for one, I can still do the other and continue school. My ultimate goal is to attend NAU and become a dentist or orthodontist." Student government inspiration: "A year ago, this was something I probably never would have done. I consider myself quiet and reserved, but I had a friend help me come out of my shell, and made me realize that this is something I like doing. I want to build on my leadership skills." What's your role? Anthon sees his role as supportive. "I wasn't very talkative or involved, but I want to change that now. I want to be involved as much as possible, help out when possible, and make it easier for everyone else." Activities outside of school: "I volunteer a lot. Last week, I helped out with the food bank. Helping people out is a passion of mine."
Ludwig Chavez Gonzalez, Maricopa Student Senator
Major: Public Safety Administration. Ludwig received his associate's degree in Administration of Justice at PC and is pursing a bachelor's degree. "My final goal is to become a Juris Doctor (JD)." Student government inspiration: "To listen and bring the student voice to Maricopa and advocate for their interests." What's your role? "I take the suggestions from Phoenix College to the District. I meet with the different clubs, or the presidents of those clubs." Every second Friday of the month, Ludwig attends a districtwide meeting of student senators from the other nine campuses. He shares the issues and motions he hears about on campus and in the PC United meetings, which are open to students on Mondays from 1 - 2 pm in the Student Union. One concern students have brought to his attention is the need for more internships, to put into practice the knowledge they are gaining in their classes. Activities outside of school: “I study in the library. I also share time with my classmates and enjoy the knowledge of my instructors.” Outside of school, Ludwig spends time with his parents, who have supported his educational endeavors, and his two sisters, one of whom serves as a social worker in Arizona. Favorite campus spot: The library, desk B14.
PC United is building community. Shape the future with them! Learn more about how you can become involved!