Senate Education Committee recommends Aden Cain Vo for Arizona Board of Regents

Aden Cain Vo, Governor Katie Hobbs' nominee for student regent on the Arizona Board of Regents, urged the Senate Education Committee on March 25 to let students’ perspectives help shape policy for the state’s three public universities.

Vo, who said he recently completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biomedical engineering at Arizona State University and is pursuing a Ph.D. while working as a full‑time graduate researcher, described research on biomechanical sensors, orthopedic implants and wearable health technologies. "Public education in Arizona had an astounding impact on my life, and I wish to give back by serving as a resource and voice to students," Vo said.

Why it matters: The Board of Regents governs Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University and the University of Arizona. A student regent sits on the 12‑member board and is expected to represent student views on tuition, academic programs and systemwide priorities.

During questioning, Sen. Lela Diaz asked how Vo’s engineering training would shape his role. Vo said his background "gives me a lens of problem solving that I think I can bring to the board and making data‑driven decisions," and that being a graduate student provides a perspective on advanced research programs. Senator Dunn pressed Vo on student accessibility and tuition, and Vo said cost of attendance and cost transparency are major concerns; he cited his own scholarship experience as central to being able to plan and complete degrees.

Vo identified two priorities he would pursue on the board: expanding STEM and health‑care professional education across the state to meet workforce needs, and improving access to student mental‑health resources. On rural campuses, Senator Dunn urged outreach to expand educational opportunities beyond main campuses; Vo suggested encouraging graduates to return and educate their home communities to create a "positive ripple across the state." He also described research work at a Deer Valley orthopedic practice and printing customizable prosthetic limbs for pediatric patients.

Vice Chair (name not provided) moved that the committee recommend Vo’s confirmation to the full Senate. The committee recorded 6 ayes, 0 nays and 1 not voting and recommended the nomination.

The recommendation now goes to the full Arizona Senate for final confirmation. The committee adjourned after completing the two confirmation hearings.