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Shortly after meeting representatives from ASPSU at Party in the Park last October, Collin LaVallee found himself presenting ballot measures to classes at Portland State.

It was a familiar position for LaVallee, 26, who had come to PSU to pursue a graduate degree in conflict resolution after completing his undergraduate work at the University of Wisconsin-Steven’s Point.

“I came in right during the vote drive,” LaVallee said. “It was crazy.”

LaVallee, ASPSU’s federal affairs director, was involved in student government while he was double-majoring in Spanish and religious studies at Steven’s Point.

“Most of the state schools in Wisconsin are very active,” he said. “It was a pretty easy transition.”

LaVallee’s transition has happened rather quickly. He moved to Portland last September and spent a few weeks exploring the city, seeing shows and checking out cafes before fall term started.

“I got a FlexPass and explored on my own,” LaVallee said. “I was fortunate it didn’t take me too long to find people who shared some interests.”

Now that he has settled in, LaVallee is concentrating on his job. He is working with ASPSU State Affairs Director Zach Martinson on several state legislative issues, as well as working to foster a better relationship with the United States Student Association.

“It’s been a pretty slow process,” LaVallee said. “Hopefully, by the end of the year we’ll be able to help them with federal issues.”

He said another area he would like to help with is creating a smooth transition from this year’s administration to the next one that takes over in June.

LaVallee said his interest in politics emerged during his time at Steven’s Point.

“There’re obviously plenty of conflicts” in religious studies, he said, which helped lead him to PSU’s conflict resolution program.

“I really enjoy it,” LaVallee said. “There are students interested in international issues, criminal justice and family mediation. We have students from all over the country and world. It creates a unique dynamic.”

Student body President Hannah Fisher referred to LaVallee as a valuable member of her executive staff.

“Collin has really jumped into his position,” Fisher said. “He is incredibly proactive, which is what we need on ASPSU. He has an incredible sense of responsibility.”