By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
As the incoming Rio Salado College student senator for the Maricopa Student Senate (MSS), Marielena Aguirre is ready to advocate for education, students and acceptance.
“I want to represent the tremendous passion that Rio Salado stands for by supporting educational innovation, diversity and student success,” Aguirre said. “I wish to be an accountable ally to students for advice, resources, and guidance as they continue their programs.”
The MSS is composed of one student senator from each of the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges. The group works to promote the common interests of all Maricopa students as well as sharing achievements and concerns.
After a 10-year journey through addiction and recovery, Aguirre enrolled at Rio Salado in 2020 to pursue associate degrees in addictions and substance use disorders and social work.
“I chose Rio Salado because it allowed me to complete coursework on my own time,” Aguirre said. “As a full-time worker, I could not maintain my work and commute to an in-person college. Online classes have let me create a schedule that balances my personal, educational, and professional endeavors.”
Aguirre found success at Rio, joining the college’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the honor society for two-year colleges. She currently serves as the chapter’s vice president of public relations and communications.
Taking part in PTK activities helped Aguirre decide to further her leadership and advocacy skills by applying for the student senator position.
“As the incoming student senator, I will focus on the rising need for resources and advocate for the behavioral health crises that college students encounter,” Aguirre said. “From anxiety, depression, substance use, and more, students should feel confident to successfully navigate their education without facing barriers or stigmas.”
Aguirre also wants to expand on Rio Salado's DEIB mission by promoting self-care and behavioral health resources such as student or faculty-led support groups, self-care forums, and student life club initiatives.
“I have faced many challenges throughout my life, both circumstantial and self-induced,” Aguirre said. “I have learned that we cannot overcome obstacles alone. The support I have received from Rio Salado is invaluable, and I am humbled to join others in lending a helping hand.”
Aguirre plans to complete her associate degrees in 2026, and then transfer to Arizona State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in public service and public policy, and a master’s degree in nonprofit leadership.
Ultimately, Aguirre hopes to use her education and personal experience to create social awareness about the risks of alcohol and reform the Federal Alcohol Administration's allowance of alcohol advertisements.
If you want to reach our student senator, send an email to student.senator@riosalado.edu.