Joclyn Flynn has always been a leader with an eye for creativity.
The sophomore majoring in 3D and extended media at the School of Art now brings that leadership to student government as the College of Fine Arts senator within the Associated Students of the University of Arizona (ASUA). In the role, Flynn serves as an advocate for arts students across the college, representing their needs, ideas and concerns at the university level.
Flynn approaches the position with confidence shaped by years of leadership experience and a deep commitment to the arts.
“When it comes to things you want done in the College of Fine Arts, you have to be really friendly, but know what you want,” she said. “I think that’s been a learning curve; it’s a lot of figuring out my own way.”
Flynn said she felt she could step into the role confidently.
“I did student government in high school. I was co–vice president for two years and then president my senior year,” Flynn said. “I’ve always had a passion for student politics.”
Her academic interests further fuel her advocacy. Flynn said her love for art history and visual analysis makes representing the College of Fine Arts especially meaningful.
“My family loves history—we love analyzing religion and art pieces,” she said. “That’s another reason why I really love my major.”
Relaying Concerns and Ideas
As senator, Flynn meets monthly with the College of Fine Arts dean to relay concerns and ideas from students across disciplines, including undergraduate, graduate and online learners. She also plays a role in student organization funding, helping arts clubs secure the resources they need to thrive.
Her goal, she said, is to be a voice for all students.
“A lot of people don’t know we even have a senator, so I’m really trying to showcase that I’m here,” Flynn said. “I want to be a voice, especially for art clubs. If you need anything, I’m here.”
Flynn is currently working on a plethora of improvements to be made within the college. These include raising awareness of lesser-known courses, such as relief printing, and advocating for funding to support them. She is also working to expand exhibition spaces for talent artists so showcase their artwork.
Building Stronger Connections
Another priority is building stronger connections across the College of Fine Arts.
“I would really love to get more connections from other majors besides studio art,” she said. “It’s really important to me that I find out what’s going on with the other schools, too.”
She also hopes to brighten classrooms and hallways with collaborative artwork from among the schools.
Flynn encourages students to reach out with questions, concerns or ideas related to the arts. She holds office hours Mondays from 11 a.m. to noon in the Center for Creative Photography building and Thursdays from 8 to 10 a.m. in the relief printing room in the Studio Art Building.