Rio Salado College is proud to introduce Daniel Ybarra as the 2026-27 Student Senator, representing Rio students in the Maricopa Community Colleges Student Senate.
A lifelong learner with a passion for public service, Ybarra brings a thoughtful perspective, a commitment to advocacy, and a desire to ensure every student has a voice.
Originally from Buckeye, Ariz., Ybarra began his college journey through dual enrollment while attending Youngker High School before enrolling at Estrella Mountain Community College. After starting his studies in the arts, he took a break. When he returned to college, he leaned onto a growing interest in politics, history, and criminal justice, and enrolled at Rio Salado College in 2025 to pursue the college’s new bachelor’s degree: Public Safety Administration— with aspirations of building a career in law and public policy.
Ybarra said Rio Salado's fully online program made it possible to continue his education while balancing his full-time overnight work schedule.
"I was originally studying art, but eventually realized my interests had shifted," Ybarra shared. "Rio offered the courses I wanted, and the online format allowed me to attend school without the challenge of commuting during inconvenient hours."
Looking back on his own experience, Ybarra encourages students to take advantage of everything Rio has to offer beyond the classroom.
"I wish I had known sooner how enthusiastic and dedicated the Student Life team is," he said. "I encourage every student to explore Student Life and the programs available. Getting involved can make a huge difference in your college experience."
Preparing to Lead
Ybarra pursued the Student Senator position because he saw it as an opportunity to grow as a future public servant while gaining firsthand leadership experience.
"I believe this experience will help prepare me for future government internships and public service opportunities," he said. "I'm especially interested in public policy and the process of developing it."
He is also an active member of Phi Theta Kappa and previously served as a Democracy Fellow with the Campus Vote Project, where he helped promote civic engagement and voter participation among students.
As student senator, Ybarra hopes to be an advocate who listens first.
"What I want to accomplish most is being in the position of someone who hears the concerns of the people they represent and works to address them," he said. "That's what's most important."
Throughout the coming academic year, Ybarra will represent Rio Salado College at Maricopa Student Senate meetings, collaborate with student leaders across the district, join Rio President Kate Smith’s President Advisory Council, and help bring student perspectives to conversations that shape the college experience.