Member Testimonials

Sarah Olcott

Winona State University – Associate Director of Residence Life

I am proud to be part of ASF, which is an organization that I can truly say cares about the students at Minnesota State Universities more than themselves.

Jillian Quandt

Winona State University – Tutoring Services

As a second-generation union member, I saw how collective bargaining helped raise my family out of poverty and ensured essential benefits such as health insurance. I know that strong unions are key to a strong middle class and helping more people achieve the American Dream.

Jillian Quandt Headshot

Liz Steinborn-Gourley

Minnesota State University, Mankato – Campus President

I’m a proud ASF member because I know we are working for each other together. My voice is amplified and valued through my union.

Mandy Weister

Minnesota State University, Mankato – State Treasurer

United we bargain, divided we beg.  I am an ASF member because my membership leads to better wages, better benefits, and a better quality of life for members who do such important work in the lives of students.  Our work is critical and it’s vital we are fairly compensated with competitive benefits to ensure the survival our profession.

Katie Hodgden

Minnesota State University, Mankato – Campus Secretary

I am a proud MSUAASF member because of the incredible work that our membership does to bring light into students’ lives.  The journey to earn a higher education degree is not an easy path for many and I appreciate knowing that I am a part of a group that is committed to assisting students to better themselves and generations after them while also being a support system for each other.  We represent a part of students’ voices when we participate in conversations; being an ASF member means being committed to critical thinking, problem-solving and team work in those conversations to make the best changes happen.

Aspen Easterling​​​

Bemidji State University – Advising Coordinator​​​

I have worked in the university housing or learning communities for
my whole professional career (19 years) and I still love the variety and
intensity that comes with it. Outside of the work I enjoy my big
family, my church and getting outside as much as I can.

Oscar Gonzalez

Minnesota State University, Mankato – Assistant Director of Admission

I have been part of the Minnesota State University, Mankato since 2015 when I was a lost Maverick until I found my way and graduated with my undergraduate and master’s degrees. I have two beautiful children Logan and Lucia as well as a golden doodle named Lea. My spouse is a former Maverick and works as Dietitian at Mankato Clinic. I get to work with a team of energetic admission officers and we all take part in bringing future Mavs that will eventually become leaders in their fields.