Bountiful native and Viewmont High grad Carter Ottley is finishing his sophomore year at Utah State University, but he’s already looking forward to 2022-23 when he’ll serve as a USU Student Association Officer.

A political science and journalism major, Ottley is one of 27 newly elected officers. He’ll serve in the Academic Senate in the role of College of Humanities and Social Sciences Senator.

“As soon as I came to Utah State, I got really involved with organizations. This year I’m the CHaSS vice-president of event planning,” Ottley said. “ I’ve been working with the previous two senators and I felt I was knowledgeable and capable of filling this position. I’m a really good listener and a hard worker. I listen to the students and learn about what they want to see happen.”

USUSA is a student-run organization and every student at USU is a member who can participate in all activities, committees, clubs, events, and initiatives. Students attending USU Eastern participated in USUSA elections for the first time this year. The organization now represents all 30 campuses and centers in the USU system.

“I am proud of our student body for showing up, making their voices heard, and coming together as a collective, strong, and capable family,” USUSA President-Elect Clara Alder said. “Elections bring people together, and our student body has brought together our newest 2022-2023 officers.”

One of Ottley’s goals for 2022-23 is to help build club participation back to pre-COVID levels by encouraging advisors and students who are interested in being involved. He will also engage the USU network to create statewide CHaSS events and activities. 

“I am really excited for the opportunity and can’t wait to get started making CHaSS more inclusive,” he said. 

Ottley has a couple of years left at USU but after graduation he’d like to get into public relations, perhaps helping a non-profit with fundraising and event planning. After a break, he’s considering a master’s degree or even a Ph.D. in media studies so he can continue in higher education as a professor. He’s excited to work with the newly elected officers.

“I hope you see just how amazing this year is going to be,” Alder said. “There are so many opportunities for us to work together, to support each other, and to be better together.” l