New Director of Student Governance & Leadership
The director of Student Governance & Leadership is responsible for overseeing all
operations and programs related Associated Students of the University of Utah (ASUU).
Reporting to the Associate Dean for Student Engagement and Leadership, this role involves providing guidance on university policies, procedures, regulations,
as well as ASUU's Constitution, Bylaws, and related processes.
Canela will assist students and advisors in planning, developing, budgeting, implementing, and evaluating student government initiatives and programs. The team of advisors in ASUU will report to her. She will also collaborate with various university departments and central administration, fostering strong partnerships across campus. Canela will be responsible for providing vision and strategic direction for undergraduate and graduate student involvement within the Associated Students of the University of Utah (ASUU).
“We are thrilled to have Sierra as our new director of Student Governance & Leadership. This position will be instrumental in providing additional and focused support to our student government leaders and staff in ASUU,” says Erica Anderson, associate dean for Student Engagement and Leadership. “With Sierra's hands-on experience in working with student leaders and organizations, it was evident that she is passionate about making the experience in student government meaningful and developmental. Additionally, Sierra's research interests in policy and equity in education will bring a new skillset to the department, and serve our students well as we explore and address issues of access and equity in student government.
Canela holds a Master of Public Administration from Southern Utah University, a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy here at the University of Utah. She previously worked as a manager for Events and Student leadership in the School of Medicine, where she supported student leadership development, advocacy, and mentoring. Canela’s experience with student leadership development, promoting student representation, and advocacy work, including coaching and mentoring 33 student body officers and 76 student-led organizations across the School of Medicine, has prepared her well for closely working with the Associated Students of the University of Utah. She is passionate about serving and supporting historically underrepresented students on university campuses.
Additionally, Canela is fluent in American Sign Language and is a certified Clifton Strengths coach. In her free time, she enjoys running, painting, and traveling to new places.