ABOUT
University Democrats were first registered at the University of Texas at Austin as a student organization in 1953. Since then, we have been committed to promoting progressive values, electing Democratic candidates, and turning Texas blue. You may also know us as Young Democrats and UT Democrats.
Our leadership team, UDLC (University Democrats Leadership Committee), is elected every semester to best serve the interests of our growing organization. As we enter once more into a busy legislative session, UDLC is excited to get students engaged in local politics and voting like never before.
TEAM
Raikolf Lopez
PRESIDENT
Raikolf is a senior Government & Sociology major from Plainview, Texas. He is passionate about economic inequality, immigrants’ rights, and healthcare. His hobbies include hiking, driving, and hanging out with friends.
Gabriella Howerton
VICE PRESIDENT
Gabriella is a senior pursuing a Marketing major and Government minor. She was born and raised in Houston, TX. She is passionate about voting rights, social equity, and education and healthcare policy, specifically. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, golfing, listening to podcasts, and FaceTiming Daniel.
Sarah Underhill
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Sarah is senior History and Sociology major from Mission, TX. She is passionate about reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, healthcare, and economic justice. Her hobbies include hiking, camping, playing the guitar, and painting. Sarah is a Gemini who enjoys long walks on the beach.
Emma Reed
SECRETARY GENERAL
Emma is a senior Communication and Leadership major pursuing a minor in Art History and a BDP certificate in Human Rights & Social Justice. She is from Scarsdale, NY, and loves TexMex and turning Texas blue with UDems.
Brian Peña
TREASURER
Brian is a sophomore Plan II/Government/Business major from Weslaco, Texas. He is passionate about greater access to healthcare, worker’s rights, and increased political transparency. His personal interests include The Settler of Catan, Elton John, pin collecting, and Pixar.
James Hallamek
CAMPUS DIRECTOR
James is a senior Government major from Cedar Creek, Texas. He is passionate about criminal justice reform, public transportation, and urban density. In his free time he enjoys playing basketball, disc golf, and watching Minnesota Vikings football.
Joseph Hoshing
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR
Joseph is a sophomore Biology major from Mission, Texas. He is passionate about reproductive rights, immigrants’ rights, healthcare accessibility, racial justice and economic inequity. His personal interests include consuming overtly artistic films, hanging with friends, and listening to music.