Humanities Senator Ryley Cottrell Shares Plans for Academic Year

LOGAN, Utah – Following the recent merger of the Caine College of the Arts, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and the College of Science into the new College of Arts & Sciences (ArtSci), Utah State University has welcomed three new senators for the 2025-2026 academic year. Representing the humanity and social sciences portion of the college is senior Ryley Cottrell.

Cottrell is majoring in law & constitutional studies with minors in criminal justice and sociology. During her campaign earlier this year, she connected with students in upper-level ChaSS classes, handed out hot chocolate outside Old Main, and actively promoted her platform on social media using the tagline “Rise with Ry.” At the time, she also served as academic director to former Humanities Senator Landry Hunter, gaining valuable insight into the role.

Now officially in office, Cottrell says she plans to build on the foundation Hunter established while implementing her own five key pillars aimed at benefiting USU students:

• Increase communication within ArtSci.
• Create an LSAT preparation course/partnership at Utah State.
• Amplify academic recognition for ArtSci students.
• Ensure ArtSci student concerns are addressed.
• Build a strong ArtSci community.

“A student spotlight format is in the works,” Cottrell said. “My academic director and I want to feature one student each month whether they are nominated by department heads or just someone we believe deserves recognition; we want to share their story.”

To support LSAT preparation, Cottrell is partnering with the Aggie Legal Network.

“We just sent out an email about a free LSAT workshop that’s coming up. We’re working to expand access to these resources,” she said.

To better understand and address student concerns, Cottrell has already sent out monthly survey emails, receiving more than 90 responses. The majority of feedback focused on improving communication within the college with students looking for active social media engagement, event information and navigating available student resources. Cottrell is collaborating with the ArtSci Dean’s Office to meet these needs.

One resource she frequently recommends is academic advising.

“A lot of people think advisors are just there to help with class schedules, but they’re also a huge support in planning your future,” Cottrell said. “I'm a first-generation college student and soon-to-be first-generation law student. I didn’t know how to apply for law school or how to prepare for the LSAT, but my advisor helped me navigate all of that. More students should take advantage of advising. It can really shape your career path.”

In addition to her role as senator, this is Cottrell’s third year with the USU Dance Company. Dance has been a passion of hers for over 18 years, and she continues to make time for it along with her busy schedule.

“I’m blessed to have a really good family, a good boyfriend, and good friends,” Cottrell said. “Their encouragement and support keep me going every day. When I’m not in office, at dance practice or busy with school, they’re what I look forward to most.”

As she steps fully into her new leadership role, Cottrell wants students to know that she is available and ready to advocate on their behalf.

“I know it’s been a scary year. We’ve dealt with budget cuts, college mergers, and even a tragedy last week,” Cotrell said in an interview Sept. 17. “I want students to know that I’m here to represent them. I believe the best leaders lead with the intent to serve, so please come to me if you ever need anything, or even if you just want to be friends. That’s what I’m here for.”

[AD1]The original sentence used the verb 'wanting,' I believe, which I softened (for reasons we can discuss in person); but what does it mean to want available resources? If they are available, they need not want for them. Are they asking for more resources? What kind of resources?