The 2025–26 ASNMU presidential race comes down to two tickets, being freshman Manny Idoko with VP pick Seanna Stine, and junior Cassidy Gibson with running mate Benjamin James Brock. Both bring strong ideas to the table, with their approaches differing. Manny brings new energy and a student-first mindset, while Cassidy leans on experience and structural reform.
Idoko, currently serving as Birch Hall president, says his campaign is about connection. His platform highlights inclusion, mental health, and giving students a stronger voice across campus systems.
Gibson, the current Chair of Student Affairs within ASNMU, is focused on long-term impact. She’s prioritizing stronger communication between students and administration, improving resource visibility, and holding the university accountable on student-facing issues.
One of Manny’s key proposals is a Peer Buddy System, where students can connect for meals or casual meetups to reduce isolation and provide peer support. Cassidy, on the other hand, wants to strengthen existing campus wellness services by increasing awareness and encouraging deeper collaboration between ASNMU and the Wellness Center.
When it comes to student-admin communication, their approaches differ again. Cassidy wants to host regular student summits and expand visibility for ASNMU initiatives, building off recent public forums with university leaders. Manny is focused on ending the “Northern Shuffle,” or the frustrating experience of being bounced from office to office, by pushing for clearer, more direct ways of communication.
Both candidates are aligned on expanding support for DEI and nontraditional students. Manny proposes mailing “Green Bags” to commuter students with information on student orgs and campus resources. Cassidy wants to livestream ASNMU General Assembly meetings to make it easier for all students to stay informed.
Financial relief is also on both agendas, but with different solutions. Cassidy is advocating for cost-marked courses so students know upfront what textbooks and materials will cost. Manny wants to reduce fees on the university’s payment plan and collaborate with local businesses to create more scholarship opportunities.
In terms of experience, Cassidy has a deep resume within ASNMU. She’s served as Student Affairs Chair, Off-Campus Rep, and Rotaract president. Manny, while newer to NMU, has a strong leadership background with three years as high school class president and current involvement in campus committees.
Both tickets support continuing ongoing initiatives like the Period Project and Wildcat Wallet. Cassidy is especially pushing for the university to take over full funding of the Period Project so ASNMU can redirect funds toward student events.
Online voting will open April 9 at 8a.m. through April 11 at 5p.m.
