Diego Padilla, newly elected president of MiraCosta College’s Associated Student Government (ASG), focuses on one goal: ensuring students feel safe, supported, and heard on campus.

“I want to make sure students know that our administration and student leaders are here to serve students,” Padilla said. “We’re here for you.”

Padilla’s drive to lead comes from experience. He served five years in the U.S. Navy as a master-at-arms and petty officer second class. After leaving the military, he took his cousin’s advice to enroll at MiraCosta before committing to a university. The college became more than a stepping stone. It sparked his commitment to advocacy and public service.

Outside of ASG, Padilla works with organizations that help immigrants obtain citizenship and is an active member of MEChA, a student group focused on Chicanx and Latinx empowerment.

“Human rights is very important to me,” he said. “Immigrants are the backbone of this country, and I want to do whatever I can to help those people.”

Padilla began his ASG journey as the Oceanside Campus senator before serving as executive vice president. He now sees student government as a critical platform for future leadership.

“It’s a good stepping stone into politics,” he said. “It’s a great way to connect with people outside the college. I knew there were a lot of things I could learn.”

He credits ASG advisor and San Elijo Director of Student Services Colleen Maeder for her support and guidance.

“She’s always given me a lot of support,” he said. “She’s given me so much advice and I’m grateful for her.”

Padilla is majoring in political science and plans to graduate in Spring 2026. He hopes to attend law school and focus his career on immigration and human rights policy.

“I’ve been helped by so many people,” he said. “Now I want to do the same for others.”