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Monday, May 5, 9 a.m. - Thursday, May 8, 6 p.m.
Vote online at UODuckStore.com/vote
Voting is restricted to current University of Oregon students, faculty and staff. Please see complete election rules at the bottom of this page.
CANDIDATES
Freshman position for a two (2) year term
- Alfredo Alvarez
Two (2) Sophomore positions each for a two (2) year term
- Joseph Lorance
- Shane Fair
- Oliver Richards
- Kyle Stephenson
One (1) Graduate position for a two (2) year term
- Martha Tejeda
One (1) Graduate position for a one (1) year term
- Miranda Ingram
One (1) Faculty position for a two (2) year term
- Mike Urbancic
CANDIDATE STATEMENTS
Alfredo Alvarez
Major: Business Administration, Finance focus
Freshmen
Why are you interested in serving as a Board member of a nonprofit corporation?
I’m interested in serving as a board member for the University of Oregon Duck Store because it presents a unique opportunity to blend my academic interests with hands-on leadership experience in a nonprofit, student-centered environment. As a student, I know how essential the Duck Store is—not just as a place to buy textbooks or Duck gear, but as a vital part of the student experience and campus culture. Being involved in its operations would give me a chance to contribute to something that directly impacts everybody at the U of O.
I’m also eager to gain a deeper understanding of how a nonprofit organization like the Duck Store functions—from financial planning and marketing to customer service and community engagement. These are critical areas that I hope to work in professionally one day.
Beyond the professional development, I’m passionate about ensuring that the Duck Store continues to evolve in ways that meet student needs by improving the shopping experience, or strengthening the store’s connection to the diverse Duck student community. I want to be a voice that represents students’ interests and works collaboratively to make the Duck Store a resource that truly serves everyone on campus.
What experiences and skills would you bring to The Duck Store Board of Directors?
I bring a mix of dedication, leadership, and real world experience that I believe would make me a strong asset to The Duck Store Board of Directors. I’ve always taken pride in giving 100% to everything I commit to, whether that’s on the field, in the classroom, or within my community.
My background includes competitive club sports, where I learned the value of hard work and perseverance. I wasn’t always the most naturally gifted athlete, but through discipline and consistent effort, I earned a starting position and even captained games. That same mindset, built on teamwork, and pushing myself beyond expectations is exactly what I would bring to this board.
Academically, I attended De La Salle High School, a prestigious college preparatory school that emphasized not only academic excellence but also integrity, accountability, and service. That foundation shaped my approach to leadership and gave me the tools to think critically, communicate effectively, and take initiative.
At the University of Oregon, I’ve continued to build on those skills. I’m currently running for the Treasurer position in my fraternity, a role that requires financial responsibility, strategic thinking, and a commitment to the well-being of the entire organization. I’m also taking courses that touch on business operations, and marketing, which give me a deeper insight into how a nonprofit like The Duck Store operates.
As a student who regularly uses The Duck Store, I understand its importance and want to help ensure it continues to meet the needs of all Ducks. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to its mission while gaining valuable leadership and nonprofit experience.
In what areas do you feel The Duck Store could improve to better meet its mission?
Even though I believe The Duck Store already does an excellent job meeting its mission, I also feel there are always opportunities to build on its strengths. One area where continued focus would be valuable is on ensuring affordability for students. The Duck Store has made great strides in offering affordable school supplies, and merchandise, and I believe this should remain a top priority.
Another opportunity for improvement is continuing to enhance the in-store and online shopping experience. While the current services are strong, ensuring efficient customer service, and a user-friendly digital platform will keep The Duck Store competitive and aligned with student needs.
Overall, I think the key to The Duck Store’s success will be to continue to evolve in response to student feedback, while staying committed to its core mission of serving our diverse campus community.
What can you contribute toward these improvements?
I believe I can bring a unique combination of leadership, financial responsibility, and a deep understanding of students’ needs to help drive these improvements. As a Business major, I’m gaining insights into organizational management, budgeting, and strategic decision making, all of which would be valuable in implementing cost effective strategies, such as expanding affordable options for Duck gear and school supplies.
From a student perspective, I am also well-connected to my peers and can bring forward very valuable feedback about the shopping experience. Whether it’s offering input on ways to improve online shopping or sharing suggestions for enhancing customer service, I can serve as a liaison between my colleagues and the Board.
I am passionate about ensuring that The Duck Store continues to evolve in ways that are beneficial for all students, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute toward making those improvements a reality.
Joseph Lorance
Major: Entrepreneurship
Freshman, Sophomore standing
Why are you interested in serving as a Board member of a nonprofit corporation?
I am interested so that I can make a genuine difference in real activities that affect the kids on campus, as with the textbooks, as well as the image of the University in general through the distribution of merchandise. I also am very excited for the experience to be on a board member for future entrepreneurial endeavors and positions.
What experiences and skills would you bring to The Duck Store Board of Directors?
I think my creative problem solving, as well as my small business entrepreneurial mindset would be a great asset in finding new ways of revenue or cutting costs, etc. I also think that my ability as a leader to aid a team to collaborate and communicate effectively is something that makes any team better and helps everyone rise together.
In what areas do you feel The Duck Store could improve to better meet its mission?
I think that partnerships are ways that the Duck Store could help with revenue and spreading image, as well as more on campus work, besides having a store in the EMU. Maybe something like pop-up stands with daily necessities or other partnerships like with DOAF.
What can you contribute toward these improvements?
I can contribute connections, or working to make those connections around campus. I think that my ability to meet and network with people is something that a lot of people in our current student stage are afraid of. Also I think just general leadership skills, and helping our entire team develop together is something I bring to the table and am very proud of. I think the best way for any organization to excel and grow is through the personnel and challenging everyone to grow personally so we can all grow together.
Shane Fair
Major: Business Administration
Sophomore
Why are you interested in serving as a Board member of a nonprofit corporation?
I am very passionate about getting involved on campus and want to gain more professional experience.
What experiences and skills would you bring to The Duck Store Board of Directors?
I have experience being real estate chair in my fraternity and various leadership roles around the fraternity as-well. Professional communication and problem solving.
In what areas do you feel The Duck Store could improve to better meet its mission?
The Duck Store could improve by expanding affordable options for students, enhancing outreach efforts to better connect with the campus community, and increasing transparency around textbook pricing and buyback programs.
What can you contribute toward these improvements?
I can contribute fresh student perspectives, strong communication skills, and a commitment to making the Duck Store more affordable and accessible. I am passionate about representing student needs and working collaboratively to create positive change.
Oliver Richards
Major: Business Administration
Sophomore
Why are you interested in serving as a Board member of a nonprofit corporation?
I’m interested because I genuinely want to help it grow and succeed. Im also looking for a new experience, i've never served as a member of a non profit.
What experiences and skills would you bring to The Duck Store Board of Directors?
I feel like I would bring good teamwork and communication skills that i've learned from places that I have worked in the past.
In what areas do you feel The Duck Store could improve to better meet its mission?
I feel like I understand how important the Duck Store is to students, so maybe the Duck Store could improve by making things more affordable and accessible for students.
What can you contribute toward these improvements?
As a student I can bring in a lot of feedback and updates on want other students are looking for.
Kyle Stephenson
Major: Business Administration, Sports Business Concentration
Sophomore
Why are you interested in serving as a Board member of a nonprofit corporation?
I am interested in serving as a Board member of a nonprofit corporation because I am passionate about using my skills and experiences to supportive UO Duck Store and maintain its meaningful, positive impact on the community. I am looking forward to devote my efforts to the organization to help the Duck Store put its best foot forward. By serving on the Board it would allow me to work and collaborate with individuals with similar goals and that are driven.
What experiences and skills would you bring to The Duck Store Board of Directors?
My exposure to numerous communities throughout the University like my fraternity, clubs and extracurriculars has allowed me to cultivate characteristics of leadership and problem solving. Being able to be apart of numerous different problems or unique situations has granted me the experiences to lead others around me to achieve a common goal. That is what I bring to the table to further the success of the organization.
In what areas do you feel The Duck Store could improve to better meet its mission?
I want to continue the value that this organization places on the well being of the students. Taking any opportunity I can to help keep the opinions, thoughts and values of each and every student in mind as we pursue continued success of the Duck Store. Seeing how we can produce an environment that is in the betterment of everyone and placing a high value and emphasis on our driven and committed team at the duck store.
What can you contribute toward these improvements?
I am a committed and driven individual. I strive to always put my best foot forward with 100% effort. I want to be there as a figure and leader that someone can always rely on. Offer a helping hand to continue the efficient and consistent well being of the organization. The Duck Store has always been apart of a community that has been crucial for the students and I want to become apart of the mission.
Martha Tejeda
Phd Student at the SOJC
Why are you interested in serving as a Board member of a nonprofit corporation?
Serving others has been a guiding mission for me since my time in Mexico, where I actively participated in youth groups, community organizations, and volunteer initiatives. I believe that using our talents to support others is one of the most meaningful ways to make a lasting, positive impact, no matter how small the gesture. After earning my master’s in communication studies from Texas Tech University, I worked at a Title I middle school as a communications manager and homeless liaison—a role that profoundly impacted my life and deepened my commitment to serving youth across all age groups. Working for nonprofits and youth has been a goal of mine since I was younger because I believe we all can give back to our communities and make a positive impact in someone else’s life. Upon graduation, my goal is to work with a nonprofit organization, particularly one focused on empowering young people. I am confident that joining the board will help me advance this goal by strengthening my existing skills and exposing me to new ways of serving diverse communities.
What experiences and skills would you bring to The Duck Store Board of Directors?
I currently serve as one of the Duck Store ambassadors, a role that has provided me with the opportunity to learn more about the store, its campaigns, and its history. This experience has been incredibly rewarding—I’ve made new friends, modeled merchandise, and found a sense of belonging within the UO community. While completing my master’s in communication studies at Texas Tech University, I served as the social media manager for the Thomas Jay Harris Institute for Hispanic and International Communication, where I created content, planned events, and hosted guest speakers. While working at the middle school, I was responsible for creating content for social media platforms, taking photos, and sharing event updates. I also taught English as a Second Language and planned after-school events. It was an incredibly fulfilling role, as I was able to create safe spaces for my students while learning and developing new skills
In what areas do you feel The Duck Store could improve to better meet its mission?
As an international student from Mexico, I understand what it’s like to leave home, navigate unfamiliar systems, and discover who you are along the way. While the journey comes with challenges, being an international student is something I carry with immense pride. I believe the Duck Store has the potential to better support international and BIPOC students by offering more resources to help them succeed in college. I want to join the board to advocate for students with similar experiences—to remind them that, despite the obstacles, there are spaces where we can thrive, celebrate our heritage and stories, and, of course, rock some amazing merch while doing it. As a scholar who studies fandoms, I understand the deep connection students have with the university and its mascot. Showing pride and love for the school is an important part of the journey, and I look forward to helping create those meaningful experiences for others while also supporting students as they navigate college life through the resources and community offered by the Duck Store.
What can you contribute toward these improvements?
Having majored in communications and worked on various projects to serve youth, I believe my interpersonal skills will be valuable in starting conversations that help better serve UO students. I am an eager learner and extremely proactive and collaborative and feel confident that being part of the board of directors will give be a great place for me to keep growing both professionally and personally. I am also a creative person, constantly exploring new ways to express myself—whether through creating social media content for my own platforms or writing songs. I have been fortunate to be part of short films as a singer/songwriter, choreographer and costume design to bring stories to life. Being able to work in these projects with other UO students has allow me to keep my creativity alive while still being a grad student. As part of the DEI committee, I have collaborated with faculty to create events and come up with resources to support graduate students. It has allowed me to grow professionally while supporting my department. I draw inspiration from the experiences and people I encounter. I always bring my passion to every project and organization I am part of, while staying true to myself. I look forward to joining the board of directors and working with an amazing team to continue serving and inspiring UO students.
Miranda Ingram
Major: MBA - Business Sustainability
Grad Student (Year 1 of 2)
Why are you interested in serving as a Board member of a nonprofit corporation?
I’m drawn to nonprofit board service because it aligns with my core belief that leadership is about fostering connection and creating systems where people and purpose thrive. My natural approach—centered on collaboration, empathy, and strategic vision—fits well with the mission-driven work of nonprofits.
What experiences and skills would you bring to The Duck Store Board of Directors?
I would be honored to bring my passion for collaborative leadership and community-building to The Duck Store Board of Directors. With a natural ability to connect with diverse groups and build consensus, I serve well in roles that require both strategic vision and practical execution - qualities that align well with The Duck Store's mission to serve students and enhance campus life. My approach emphasizes active listening, creative problem-solving, and finding solutions that balance immediate needs with long-term goals.
I understand the importance of creating spaces that are both operationally sound and deeply connected to their communities. I'm particularly drawn to opportunities like textbook affordability initiatives, sustainability efforts, and programs that strengthen the student experience - all areas where The Duck Store plays such a vital role.
What excites me most is the chance to contribute to an organization that's more than just a store, but a true hub of campus life. I would bring enthusiasm for fostering collaboration between students, staff, and stakeholders, along with a practical mindset for addressing retail challenges and exploring new opportunities. My strength lies in seeing how different perspectives can come together to create meaningful impact, and I would be committed to helping The Duck Store continue evolving as an essential part of the University of Oregon community.
In what areas do you feel The Duck Store could improve to better meet its mission?
As a business sustainability student deeply invested in the University of Oregon community, I see meaningful opportunities for The Duck Store to enhance its mission. Expanding sustainable practices—like offering more eco-friendly school supplies and UO-branded merchandise made from recycled materials—could reduce environmental impact while educating customers. The Store could further cement its role as a sustainability leader by implementing visible waste-reduction programs, such as reusable container incentives at the café, and hosting workshops on sustainable student living. Partnering with the new UO Campus Surplus Store to sell undersold inventory or collaborating with the Craft Center to repurpose Duck gear would turn waste into value while engaging students. My sustainability studies confirm that such changes often yield both environmental benefits and operational efficiencies, aligning with the Store’s financial goals while deepening its connection to campus values. By embracing these strategies, The Duck Store could evolve from a campus retailer into an innovative hub that advances student success and UO’s sustainability leadership.
What can you contribute toward these improvements?
I can contribute both practical sustainability expertise & proven collaboration skills to help advance these improvements. My business sustainability education provides a strong foundation in circular economy principles and waste reduction strategies, which I’ve applied through hands-on projects like coordinating with the UO Campus Surplus program. I’m particularly skilled at developing partnerships across departments—a skill that would be invaluable for initiatives like integrating surplus inventory into retail operations or launching reusable container programs. Having worked in projects heavily weighing institutional operations & student needs, I can help design solutions that are both environmentally impactful and operationally practical. My strength lies in translating sustainability goals into actionable plans—whether that’s creating student engagement strategies, optimizing supply chains for eco-friendly products, or implementing systems to measure progress. I’d be excited to bring this perspective to the Board, ensuring The Duck Store’s sustainability efforts align with campus values while meeting business objectives.
Mike Urbancic
Senior Instructor II of Economics
Faculty
Why are you interested in serving as a Board member of a nonprofit corporation?
I have greatly enjoyed serving on the Board of Directors of The Duck Store since 2013. As a faculty member who cares deeply about the University of Oregon, its students, its faculty, and its staff, my values are strongly aligned with The Duck Store's nonprofit mission. The experience has taught me so much about businesses, nonprofits, accounting, marketing, management, real estate, contracting, zoning, sports, and more.
More dear to me, though, has been the opportunity to work closely with The Duck Store leadership alongside dozens of Board members over the years. It's truly enriched my time at UO so far.
What experiences and skills would you bring to The Duck Store Board of Directors?
My background in economics is helpful for understanding the big picture ideas about running the business operations, and it enables me to ask good questions--and even make interesting suggestions from time to time.
Through my extensive service on campus over more than a decade, I've built one of the largest networks of contacts and relationships across faculty, staff, graduate students, undergraduate students, and the administration--up to and including its highest levels. Since The Duck Store is an independent nonprofit separate from UO, it has been really useful to have my institutional knowledge and connections at the ready disposal of the Board.
There are times when these duties more directly overlap in productive ways, For example, I served on the Textbook Affordability Task Force, which was a joint effort between campus and The Duck Store to help UO comply with new state legislation on tracking textbook costs and making plans for reducing them over time.
In what areas do you feel The Duck Store could improve to better meet its mission?
For decades The Duck Store has been an important partner in providing textbooks and course materials to students and faculty. The nature of the course materials has changed quite a bit, as have the methods for retailing and delivering them. The transition to ebooks and other new media is still ongoing, together with a push for more opportunities for low- or no-cost course materials such as Open Educational Resources (OERs). We’ve been in a similar transition with classroom response systems like iClicker, which while still having a strong contingent of users of the physical remotes has seen increased adoption of its subscription-based app platform.
As the central collection point for course materials and with its experience in negotiating with publishers, resellers, and vendors, The Duck Store has an important role to play in helping UO experience these transitions more smoothly and perhaps with lower costs.
What can you contribute toward these improvements?
In addition to my previous work on the Textbook Affordability Task Force, I bring the added perspective of an instructor of large courses who has experimented with OERs and dealt with the tradeoffs in play. As one of the most avid users and strongest advocates for iClicker on campus, I have a wealth of experience—and the funding of a Williams Instructional Grant together with Philip Matern in Human Physiology—to help smooth the iClicker transition.
My deep connections with faculty and students from across campus will be useful in any discussions about course materials, adoptions, possible integrations with our learning management system (Canvas), and more.
More broadly, my rapport with the university administration and campus at large is a potential asset for any number of conversations that The Duck Store might find itself having with the UO as a vendor, partner, or benefactor.
See the full election rules here:https://tds.tw/BoardElectionRules2025