The Academic Senate of the Associated Students of Boise State University (ASBSU) provides representation for each of the academic schools at the university. Two senators from each school are elected by their constituent students, as well as two senators who represent all students at large. These are the College of Health Sciences representatives.
Maxwell Whitted
Maxwell Whitted, a kinesiology major set to graduate in May 2026, has been a Bronco fan for as long as he can remember. Now, as a Boise State student and ASBSU senator, he is proud to be part of the community that he grew up cheering for.
“My favorite thing about Boise State is the iconic blue turf as well as the energetic Bronco athletic atmosphere,” Whitted said. “Growing up a Boise State fan, it’s awesome to actually be a part of the community.”
Whitted decided to get involved with ASBSU because of his desire to make an impact on campus life. With so many resources available to help students succeed, he saw an opportunity to advocate for initiatives that strengthen student life and access to opportunities.
“I want to advocate for opportunities and campus initiatives that greatly affect student life here on campus,” he said.
For him, ASBSU plays a vital role in ensuring that every student’s voice is represented. The organization provides a platform for students to connect with leadership, address concerns and work collaboratively on projects that benefit the campus as a whole.
“Faculty and staff should know that ASBSU is an essential and dynamic aspect of campus life,” he said. “We are driven to ensure that concerns of the entire student body are heard and addressed.”
Through his role, Whitted hopes to strengthen the connection between students and campus leadership, building on Boise State’s tradition of school spirit, community and support. It’s about more than governance, it’s about making sure every Bronco feels included in the campus experience, he said.
Lei Dribben
Lei Dribben, a senior majoring in health studies with an emphasis in medical and healthcare science, will graduate in May 2026. For Dribben, the most meaningful part of her time on campus has been the strong sense of community found among peers, faculty, staff and campus organizations.
“Within my major, I particularly value the opportunity to closely engage with and learn from my professors and learning assistants,” Dribben said. “Their expertise, perspectives and passion have significantly broadened my understanding of the medical and healthcare fields.”
That appreciation for mentorship and collaboration led Dribben to step into student leadership. Encouraged by a friend, she applied for a vacant position in the ASBSU Academic Senate. After learning more about the role, the decision to get involved felt like a natural extension of their commitment to community.
“I was eager to collaborate across the College of Health Sciences community to contribute to meaningful improvements for both staff and students,” she said. “Involvement can take many forms, but I strongly encourage others to take the initiative, whether by joining a club, participating in an organization or running for an elected position. The connections you build and the exposure to diverse perspectives can greatly impact your college experience and personal growth.”
As part of ASBSU and the Academic Senate, Dribben helps ensure that student voices are heard in academic decision-making. Senators address issues, policies and initiatives that directly impact students’ educational experiences, serving as advocates and points of contact for both students and faculty.
“The Academic Senate is dedicated to addressing academic issues, policies and initiatives that directly affect students’ educational experiences,” she said. “By engaging with both ASBSU and the Academic Senate, faculty and staff have valuable opportunities to partner with students in shaping our academic community.”
Dribben has helped strengthen collaboration within the College of Health Sciences and ensure that the perspectives of students remain central to institutional decisions through this work.
As graduation approaches, Dribben reflects on the lessons of leadership and the importance of stepping forward when opportunities arise. “The connections you build through involvement can greatly impact your college experience and personal growth,” she said.
Boise State has been more than a place to learn, it has been a place to build community, advocate for peers and prepare for the future of healthcare, she said.