As the spring semester kicks off, the Associated Students of Colorado State University is preparing to hold the spring election to select CSU’s next student leaders. The process will determine who will serve as student body president and vice president, speaker of the senate and senators representing each college in the student senate. Students will also vote on the design of the next For-Ever-Green T-shirt.

Last year’s ASCSU election saw a 3.81% voter turnout, following the trend of a significant decrease in student engagement in recent years. In response to the lack of student engagement, Elections Manager Emily Arnow implemented various changes to the ASCSU elections code in an effort to increase student participation for the 2026 election cycle.

Changes made to the code include clerical edits, clarifications regarding social media policies and moving the election cycle to begin earlier in the semester.

“This year, we are expanding outreach to students who may not otherwise be aware of ASCSU or the importance of student government elections,” Arnow said. “We have added events throughout the election cycle to encourage students to run for office, engage with campaigns and, ultimately, vote.”

This year’s election is structured to give students several opportunities to meet with candidates and take part in elections, whether they are running for office or participating as voters.

“My goal is to see consistent student engagement from the very beginning of the process through the result announcement at every stage,” Arnow said. “While voter turnout is our clearest measure of engagement, it is built through early outreach, competitive races and accessible opportunities for participation.”

Candidate applications open Jan. 23 and close Feb. 13. Candidates for president, vice president and speaker of the senate must have at least a 2.25 GPA and be a fee-paying student in good academic standing. Senator candidates must meet similar requirements, but with a minimum GPA of 2.0. Those curious about applying for candidacy may attend the informational session at 5 p.m. Jan. 29 in the ASCSU Senate Chambers.

Submissions for the next For-Ever-Green T-shirt are being accepted until Feb. 9.

On Feb. 20, the full list of approved candidates will be announced for the upcoming election.

The official campaigning period will then begin at 8 a.m. Feb. 23, allowing candidates to promote their platforms and host events. While candidates may prepare ahead of time, no campaigning is permitted before the official campaigning period begins.

Following the start of the campaigning period, Collegian TV will host a debate, and ASCSU will host a candidate roundtable, giving students opportunities to meet and learn about those running for office.

Voting will open at 8 a.m. March 9 and close at 4 p.m. March 11. All students can vote online through RamWeb during this period, with results announced at 6:30 p.m. March 11.

“Ultimately, I hope this year’s election increases awareness of ASCSU’s role on campus and encourages greater student involvement and participation,” Arnow said.

Those with questions about ASCSU elections may find information on Instagram @ascsuelections or contact ascsuelections@mail.colostate.edu via email.