CANDIDATES

My name is Matthew Johnson, and I am running to be your Student Union President. I am a second-year political science major and currently an executive in the Political Science Association, playing an active role in my department and faculty. I have worked in both city and federal politics and looking forward to fighting for you!

1. Put Students First.

• Personally engage with students on the issues that matter to them, by bringing back presidential townhalls, groups discussions, and much more.
• Establish a Meeting of the Presidents, to hear from faculty clubs monthly on pressing matters in their respective faculties and advocate for their needs.
• Utilize Instagram to make video content, consistently participate in Reddit Ask Me Anything’s (AMAs) and explore all platforms for student outreach.
• Raise the profile of the Students’ Union to extend the conversation out into the communities in Calgary and Alberta.

2. A Real Plan to Fight for You.

• Use the full weight of the office to advocate for greater internet infrastructure, by pushing the University Government Relations department to lobby the province for more funding.
• Develop a new strategy to create and maintain both media and public pressure on the Government in the fight against tuition hikes.
• Fight for the re-implementation of the STEP program, by advocating through all means for students at provincial level.
• Work with other Albertan Student Unions to fight to restore University operation funding to 2019 levels.
• Push the Ministry of Advance Education in staffing to Alberta Student Aid Services to fix financial aid arriving on time for students.

3. Prioritize Supporting Students and Student Life. 

• Utilize the Student Union’s management rights in Mac Hall to create study spaces, club spaces, and more for students.
• Prioritize the next tenant of Mac Hall to provide Halal/Kosher/Vegan options.
• Explore hours of operation for The Den and source ways to provide drink options that are affordable for students.
• Work to find a non-profit construction outfit to build affordable housing for students in the University District.
• Press university administration to use available classrooms as prayer spaces for students to support faith and spirituality on campus.

Hi everyone,

My name is Naomie Bakana and I am running to be your SU President! As your current VP Internal, I’ve spent the past year fighting for you—advocating for student rights, pushing for better campus initiatives, and ensuring your voice is heard. I know the struggles students face because I’ve been working alongside you to tackle them. Now, I’m ready to take that fight to the next level.

If elected, I will champion bold, meaningful changes to make university life more affordable, more inclusive, and more student-focused. Here’s how:

Tuition

• No more insane fees! I will oppose all tuition increases by advocating for the provincial government to maintain the 2% cap on domestic tuition
• International students deserve stability! I will demand the implementation of a cap on international tuition to protect students from unpredictable financial burdens
• Where is our money going? I will fight for full transparency on funding allocation within the University

Student Jobs

• I will continue the work being done to advocate the Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP) so students are provided with essential job opportunities
• Ensure the program offers long-term benefits for students’ financial stability and professional development

Affordable Housing

• Housing should NOT break the bank! I will use the SU President’s Seat on the UCalgary Properties Group to advocate for affordable and accessible student housing

Student Rights

• We deserve protection! I will push the University to adopt the Student Bill of Rights to ensure fair treatment of students
• Advocate for provincial legislation that addresses sexual and gender-based violence in Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) placements.

MacHall Expansion

• I will lead the development of a comprehensive plan for the expansion of MacHall so it meets our growing student needs

This is YOUR University. Your tuition, your education, and your voice matters. I’m here to support and fight for YOU and create a supportive and inclusive campus community.

Vote YAY for NAE! Voting will take place from March 4-6th. Follow me on Instagram @naomie4pres for more info on my campaign. Your voice matters, today and always!

Hi UCalgary students! I’m Gabriela Dziegielewska, a 5th year in chemistry and computer science, and I’m running to be your next Vice-President Academic!

As a Science Representative this year, I butted heads with senior administration over a proposed Science Exceptional Tuition Increase, where I extracted commitments to improve consultation processes. Despite budget cuts, I coordinated with multiple university offices and secured $16,000 from the faculty budget for six PASS sessions, creating 8 student jobs.

These are just some of my wins, and here’s my plan to build on them:

STUDENT RIGHTS:

1. Organize a widespread academic rights campaign that helps students oppose paywalled assignments, attendance-taking, deadlines over Term Break, and more.
2. Reform MyCreds to include document previews, customizable documents, and a refund policy.
3. Finally pass a Student Bill of Rights to ensure students’ academic rights are officially protected.
4. Address the backlog of student appeals by calling for increased staff capacity at the Ombuds office.
5. Utilize Reddit, Instagram, and mass emails to broadcast major changes to academic policies.

QUALITY OF EDUCATION:

1. Pressure the university to fulfill its promise to comprehensively review academic advising offices.
2. Push the university to improve their quality assurance standards for curriculum and unit reviews, to ensure more thorough evaluations of programs and faculties.
3. Advocate for program evaluation criteria to include how often professors offer flexible deadlines, access to free open-source textbooks, and other student-friendly policies.
4. Fight for the implementation of technology that will enable widespread hybrid learning and consistent access to course materials.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING AND RESEARCH:

1. Advocate for the expansion of Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs), which help professors embed research experience into courses.
2. Work with the university to create an easily searchable webpage for research job opportunities, furthering the work I started as Science Representative.
3. Push the university to address Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities, such as practicums or co-ops by:
   1. Prohibiting employers with documented SGBV complaints from further collaborating with co-op offices.
   2. Developing clear procedures to support students experiencing SGBV in WIL environments.

Hello! I’m Sheroog Kubur, a 4th year political science and communications student running to be your Vice-President External! This year will see a federal and municipal election, which means you need a candidate willing to stand their ground no matter who they’re up against. As an outspoken advocate, I have developed a government lobbying and community-outreach campaign for culturally relevant mental health services in high schools, co-written a report criticizing the proposed curriculum changes and directly lobbied the Minister of Education, and served as FASA’s Director of Academic Advocacy. The SU has made progress over the last couple years, and I will carry that momentum forward by:

Federal

• Securing funding for post-secondary education by lobbying the federal government to create a Canada Post-Secondary Education Transfer from the Canada Social Transfer
• Pushing for Canadian work experience to count towards International student PR points
• Defending the Canada Summer Jobs Grant from any government cuts
• Maintaining Canada Summer Grants at $4200 from the proposed $3000
• Developing a robust federal Get Out The Vote campaign

Provincial

• Organizing a provincial campaign with other SUs and business groups to advocate for increased operating funding to post-secondary education
• Continuing to build a coalition of SUs, business groups, nonprofits, and municipalities to collectively lobby for the restoration of the Summer Temporary Employment Program.
• Advocating for undergraduates to become eligible for Alberta Student Grants as well as federal grants
• Calling on the Advanced Education Ministry to address the backlog in student aid applications by hiring more personnel

Municipal

• Reallocating the $25 million downtown student housing fund to be available for student housing projects near campus
• Collaborating with the city to increase the frequency of bus and train lines around campus
• Building a robust municipal Get Out The Vote campaign by bringing back SU-hosted mayoral and Ward 7 candidate forums and securing on-campus polling stations
• Pressuring the city to follow through on its commitment to implement landlord licensing

You need a VP External who is willing to fight for what we deserve as students, something I have and will always do. Vote Sheroog Kubur for VP External, March 4-6!

Hello, UCalgary! My name is Julia Law and I am a Bachelor of Design in City Innovation student. I served as the first-ever SAPL representative on the 82^nd SLC this past year and now am running to be your next VP External!

I am completely committed to advocating for students, ready to communicate with all involved in determining quality of education and student life.

My advocacy priorities include:

Affordability

1. Fight budget cuts
   1. Push for a restoration of funding for post-secondary institutions in Alberta.
2. Fight for affordable and safe housing
   1. Attend public city planning meetings to advocate for affordable housing, transit access, and access to essentials.
   2. Push for landlord licensing to ensure safe housing for student renters.
3. Pursue student economic stability
   1. Reinstate the Student Temporary Employment Program to reemploy hundreds of students.
   2. Fight for a higher minimum wage, bridging the gap between Calgary’s living wage ($24.45/h in 2024) and minimum wage itself.
   3. Work alongside practicum providers to provide practicum students with financial compensation, starting with transportation compensation.

Tuition & Fees

1. Secure stable tuition supports
   1. Make the $4200 “temporary” raise to Canadian Student Grants a permanent value.
2. Push for transparency
   1. Ensure students are aware of where their money is spent.
      1. Push for transparent reporting of Mandatory Non-Instructional Fees, which includes things like Student Services, Athletics, etc..

Student Experience

1. Enhance student voices in Municipal affairs
   1. Mobilize students to participate in community planning efforts such as zoning or transit feedback groups.
2. Elevate students during elections
   1. Create Get Out To Vote campaigns for the federal & municipal elections.
3. Increase awareness of advocacy efforts
   1. Inform students of issues that impact them.
      1. Social Media campaigns
      2. Table in high traffic areas
      3. Class talks
4. Assess outcomes of campus culture
   1. Connecting with representational non-profit organizations to evaluate students’ feeling of belonging on campus.
      1. Develop programs to assist in bettering campus culture.
      2. Host workshops to increase positive contributions to campus culture.
   2. Engage with local officials to create solutions for growing conflicts on campus.

My name is Lorraine and I am a 4th year Social Work student. I have been honoured to serve as the Social Work Faculty Representative in this past year. I am running to become your next Vice President Internal. Advocacy has been at the forefront of the lens through which I view my degree and a lot of the other work that I do. I intend to bring this perspective to the Vice President Internal role.

ENHANCING ACCESSIBILITY

1. Collaborating with Student Wellness and Accessibility Services on communicating resources available to students on campus regarding obtaining additional academic support and accessing other student services that contribute to student wellness
2. Prioritizing physical accessibility for different common spaces and larger campus events such as convocations by collaborating with students and offices responsible for organizing such events. This could also include conducting a survey or another form of student consultation to better understand areas for change.
3. Advocating for enhanced and increased student services for international students and others who are underrepresented.
4. Utilizing communications that will reach students to make knowledge of resources and support provided by the Students’ Union more comprehensive and therefore accessible.

NURTURING STUDENT DIVERSITY

1. Advocating for the university to work towards more concrete policies regarding combatting ignorance and intolerance towards underrepresented groups.
2. Dedication to working on the Culture in Motion event that the Students’ Union planned this year and working to highlight the plethora of cultural identities represented in the broad campus community by also working to highlight different cultural groups who wish to be provided the space to do so.
3. Working with the Women’s Resource Centre and the Faith and Spirituality Centre to increase awareness about said spaces.
4. Working closely with the Writing Symbols Lodge to increase wider knowledge of Indigenous student experiences

FOSTERING A RICHER SENSE OF COMMUNITY

1. Finding unique ways of incentivizing student engagement with different events that the Students’ Union hosts and collaborating with students to host events and therefore increase students’ connections to the Students’ Union and fellow students at large.

My name is Simchah Atanda, and I am running for re-election as your Faculty of Arts Representative. As a 4th-year International Relations and Security Studies student, I have dedicated my time to serving our community through the International Relations Students’ Association, the Faculty of Arts Student Association (FASA), and now as your Faculty of Arts Representative. Over my term, I have fought for equity, international student funding, and defended students against tuition hikes, budget cuts, and program suspensions. But the university experience we were promised has not been delivered. We already worry about our future—we should not have to struggle in the present.

If re-elected, I will continue advocating for students on these key issues:

1.  Combatting Tuition Hikes

• Establish a student consultation framework to ensure transparency and student input on major Faculty decisions.
• Demand improved teaching quality and a wider selection of courses to reflect rising tuition costs.

2.  Supporting International & Underrepresented Students

• Push for increased funding to International Student Services to expand advising and student programming.
• Advocate for equitable resources for BIPOC and underrepresented students.
• Create a Quality Money bursary fund specifically for BIPOC and international students.

3.  Enhancing Professional Development

• Develop a mentorship program for first years exploring graduate and law school pathways.
• Partner with the Centre for Career and Personal Development and the Arts Coop office to expand access to job opportunities, mentorships, and scholarships.
• Establish a Faculty of Arts scholarship for students who demonstrate leadership in clubs and departments.

My candidacy for Faculty of Arts Representative reflects my commitment to the progress I have made in my first term for students within the Faculty of Arts. Over my first term, I have learned, adapted, and fought for students. With experience, a fresh perspective, and an unwavering commitment, I am ready to finish what I started. Let’s keep pushing forward—together.

An Open and Honest Relationship

Students deserve an open and honest relationship within their campus life. This includes the Student Union as well as the University itself. Students should be entitled to know exactly why tuition increases every year, and students should receive an answer more comprehensive than the cost of living is increasing. We deserve to know how our money is being spent, and I pledge to foster a more open and honest relationship between the students and the institutions they interact with.

Everyone Deserves a Voice

Everyone deserves an opportunity to have their opinions and grievances heard. Regardless of race, gender, religion, sexuality, and political opinions. There has been a lack of this protection in past years and the Student Union needs to provide the opportunity to speak their mind to everyone. Even if we may disagree with each other that does not mean we cannot have civil conversations in these areas of disagreement. Your voice matters, and I will work tirelessly to make sure it is recognized.

Why Re-Elect Edom Girma:

During my time as your Faculty of Arts Representative, I’ve worked hard to make real change happen, from advocating for more student resources, pushing for events that bring us together, and continuing to push for student affordability, including lower tuition.

The Students’ Union should be the heart of campus community spirit, but it’s been missing that energy. We need a campus where students feel connected and excited, with more events, better club support, and spaces that encourage community.

Here’s why you should elect me:

More Student Events & Community Building – I’ll bring back exciting, student-led events to strengthen campus connections.
Stronger Support for Clubs – I’ll advocate for clubs and push for changes that make it easier for them to host events, as they play a key role in making student life more engaging and fun.
Affordable Resources for Students – I’ll continue pushing for free printing and initiatives that prioritize affordability.
Improved Student Spaces & Services – I’ll continue advocating for dedicated spaces that support students’ well-being, productivity, and campus experience.

What I’ve Already Done:

Sweet Success Event – A celebration of student achievements with free treats.
Started a Proposal for Free Printing – Ensuring affordability for all students.
Submitted a Quality Money Application for Napping Pods – Providing spaces to rest and succeed.

Let’s work together to build a vibrant, connected, and engaging campus.

Vote Edom Girma for Faculty of Arts Representative!

Make sure to follow me @edom4artsrep on Instagram and TikTok!

#EdomIsGettingItDone

My name is Salam Jesudamilola, I am a third-year political science major and a fellow member of the Faculty of Arts, and I would be honored to be elected your Faculty of Arts representative. Right about now, I could list my contributions, however small, to the campus community. My active roles in clubs, and my volunteering for campus organizations like the Gauntlet. But I think my greatest qualification is that, like you, I’ve watched our programs be consistently sidelined. Budget cuts, tuition hikes, talented professors leaving, and overcrowded classrooms with overworked TAs.

We can’t change everything, but as students, we have power. One of which is electing representatives to the Student Union. If you use this power to elect me, here is my action plan:

BUDGET AND TUITION

• Effectively raise awareness on budget decisions to the student body at large
• Protest unnecessary tuition hikes.
• Fight waste and ensure funds are used to actually improve our quality of education.

STUDENT WELFARE AND CAMPUS COMMUNITY

• If elected, I will work with the ISS to ensure that international students are immediately connected with existing national clubs on campus to serve as a support system in their early days.
• Clubs are the social lifeblood of this school, and integrating students into them seamlessly is important to improving social life on campus. I will push for more specific informal ‘club spaces’ on campus for clubs to display their projects and hopefully recruit more members.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• Networking is key here. I will pressure the faculty of Arts administration to host more seminars, workshops, and fairs designed to connect students in the Arts to Art Alumni.
• I aim to organize a general termly workshop, open to all years for students in the arts, which would go over foundational skills. E.g. writing a paper, citing, using research tools effectively.

My goal is to be your advocate—ensuring you get the most from this university, professionally, socially, and from a purely economic standpoint. True change is possible,

but only if we act together. Thank you for taking the time to read. Reach me at Jesudamilola.salam@ucalgary.ca.

Hello Arts! I’m Malia Jolly, and I’m running to be your Faculty of Arts Representative because our faculty—the largest at UCalgary—is being neglected and underfunded. Programs are being suspended, leaving students uncertain about their academic futures. Cuts to programs like Classics and Religion Studies reduce course diversity, threaten professors’ jobs, and make it harder for upper-year students to complete their degrees.

Protecting Arts Programs and Holding the Faculty Accountable: I want to push for clear answers from the Faculty of Arts about what’s happening to our programs and how it affects students. I will advocate for stable funding so that Arts programs aren’t deprioritized or quietly cut. Students in affected programs deserve structured pathways to complete their degrees without unnecessary stress or uncertainty.

Fixing Academic Support and Advising: Navigating a degree shouldn’t be this confusing. Advising is inconsistent, course registration is frustrating, and many students feel lost when looking for research or experiential learning opportunities. I will work to improve academic advising with clearer guidance on degree planning and better access to support. I will advocate for more program transparency so students aren’t left guessing about what courses they need.

Improving Student Spaces and Campus Resources: Arts students deserve better spaces and better infrastructure. Right now, we deal with WiFi issues, a leaky building, and a shortage of accessible study spaces. I will work to secure Quality Money funding for Arts study spaces, lounges, and classrooms. I will push for upgraded campus infrastructure so students have reliable WiFi, functional classrooms, and better resources.

Building a Stronger Arts Community: The Faculty of Arts is home to some of the most diverse and creative students on campus, yet many feel disconnected from decision-making. I want to advocate for students facing racial and equity concerns, create more networking opportunities so Arts students can connect with industry professionals, and push back against the idea that an Arts degree is “less valuable” by highlighting the impact of our work.

Your voice matters! Remember to vote on March 4-6. Reach out with questions at malia.jolly@ucalgary.ca or on Instagram: @maliajolly_ #Malia4artsrep

Hello students of the arts! My name is Tommy McMahon. I am excited to announce that I am running to be your Faculty Representative. As a first-year International student, I understand that while our lives may differ, the challenges we face are ones we face together. Whether in academic support, career development, or obtaining campus resources, I will work for your needs to strengthen your experience at the University of Calgary.

Expanding Academic Support

Despite encompassing a large array of programs, all Arts students can agree we deserve better academic resources. I will push to have more PASS sessions and Advising workshops, ensuring we have the proper support to understand the path of our future classes and careers.

Enhancing Study & Learning Spaces

Many of us have suffered from unreliable, outdated or seemingly unnecessary technology and facilities, especially during the weeks leading up to our midterms or finals. I will advocate for technology upgrades, improved insulation, and additional quiet study areas in dorms. All these improvements will work to create a campus recognized for its functional learning environment.

Stronger Career Development & Networking

Since it’s obvious that success goes beyond just your classroom experience. I will expand career-building resources, including relevant Elevate job postings & networking events, resume-building workshops, and other preparations you can make for our on-campus job fairs.

Improving Student Well-Being

It’s time we prioritize student mental health. As your representative, I will advocate for designated destress spaces across campus, more mental health workshops, and increased volunteer opportunities that help students build foundational experience. I would also strive for additional pet therapy events during our exam weeks and holidays.

Your Voice Matters

As our year continues, I will push for student involvement in decision-making in campus events. I will work to create a simpler yet even more personalized way to submit Student Union surveys and ensure that student concerns are heard and felt as the future of our school develops.

I may be your representative, but the future is in all our hands.

Vote Tommy McMahon for Faculty Representative!

Make haste Arts Students, the game is afoot! My name is Mahad Rzain and I’m a second year Law and Society Student. I am excited to run for the Faculty of Arts Representative Position! Here are my four areas of focus.

 More PASS sessions:

Peer Assisted Study Sessions mainly target classes involving math and calculations. Expanding the PASS framework to other courses will enable students to have the opportunity to enhance academic performance. This is because PASS sessions provide an opportunity for studying together, opportunities for extra practice, and additional perspectives on concepts.

Multi-Year Degree Guide (MYDG):

Although the First Year Degree Guide exists, after a year you’ll probably never look at it again! We need further advice on which courses we need in our upper years and example schedules to help us picture things. Implementing the MYDG simplifies degree planning for students, increases their independence, and reduces the burden for Arts Academic Advising Services.

Resource Awareness:

Do you know about the Focused Writing Badge or even the Ready4Research Badge for students? Do you know about the decision to suspend programs in the Department of Classics and Religion and the School of Languages, Linguistics, Literatures and Cultures? Keeping students in the loop is incredibly vital to ensure we benefit from new developments. Failing to adequately consult students and faculty members along with failing to consider alternatives are practices that we cannot tolerate within our university!

Connection:

I intend to hold the university accountable to its promise of improving the Wi-Fi on campus, but I also want to stay connected with my faculty too. Oftentimes, students vote in SU elections and then never interact with or see their representatives ever again. I don’t want this to be the case with me. I want to simplify things for you and ensure that we stay connected and have fun (speaking of which, check out my Instagram to learn about a competition with a prize at stake).

Thank you so much for reading my platform and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Email: mahad.rzain@ucalgary.ca
Instagram: rzain4arts

Hello, fellow Arts students! My name is Aitazaz Shah, and I am a second-year Global Development Studies major excited to announce my candidacy for re-election as your Faculty of Arts Representative! Serving you this past year has been an honor, and I am committed to continuing my work to create an inclusive, supportive, and thriving Arts community. Here’s my action plan for the upcoming year:

Protecting Arts Programs and Expanding Opportunities

Program Preservation: Over the past year, many programs in the Faculty of Arts have been suspended or terminated, limiting opportunities for students. I will continue advocating to ensure that no further programs are cut, preserving academic diversity and protecting the interests of future students.

Career Development and Academic Support: I will organize faculty-specific workshops, networking events, and skill-building resources to better prepare Arts students for their careers and academic goals.

Affordability and Student Welfare

Tuition Advocacy: With tuition fees continuing to rise, I will work to prevent further increases in the coming years while advocating for more bursaries and financial aid opportunities. By addressing both tuition and financial support, I aim to reduce the financial burden on students and ensure everyone has access to affordable education.

Food Security Initiatives: I will work to expand programs that provide affordable and nutritious food on campus, collaborating with the campus food bank to ensure that no student goes hungry.

Strengthening Student Engagement and Advocacy

Monthly Feedback Surveys: To ensure your voice is heard, I will implement monthly surveys to collect feedback from students. This information will be shared with the SU, Faculty leadership, and university administration to drive positive changes based on your concerns.

Arts Clubs Network: I plan to create an “Arts Clubs Network” to connect and support student-led clubs within the Faculty of Arts. This initiative will provide resources, collaboration opportunities, and a centralized platform for clubs to showcase their work and engage more students.

As your representative, my mission is to ensure your concerns are addressed while fostering a sense of community within the Faculty of Arts. I look forward to your support in making this vision a reality!

Hello arts students! My name is David Staddon, and I am campaigning to be your Faculty of Arts representative. As a first-year Political Science student, I have experienced many difficulties that I feel many of you have also encountered. The high cost of living, cuts to university funding, and a lack luster campus social life have all contributed to a feeling of apathy. During my term as Faculty of Arts Representative, I promise to advocate on your behalf, to champion your ideas, but most importantly, enhance our shared experience as University of Calgary students.

Renewing Infrastructure

In the 2024 annual financial report by the university of Calgary it came to my attention that the university has accrued a near 800 million deferred maintenance balance. We can see the results of deferring maintenance on a weekly basis as internet across campus periodically shuts down effecting the quality and accessibility of student resources. I will drive an increased effort to refocus attention on restoring our aging university by;

• Wi-Fi outages
• Investment into Machall  
• Fighting for a cleaner campus
• Modernizing aging classrooms
• TFDL computers

Campus Revival

The absence of on campus social events, diminishes the feeling of community within the university. The Students Union relies on student voice, and without that voice the SU’s credibility falls too. Which is why I am committing to;

• Pushing for an inquiry into opening The Den on weekends.
• Making the SU’s actions and services more visible to students.
• Promoting SU to student association collaboration.
• Collaborating to make events that all students can enjoy both on and off campus.

Cost of Living and Student Well-being

The government of Alberta has year on year decreased funding for post-secondary institutions. I will promise to continue the pressure being put on the government of Alberta by the SU to restore crucial funding to the university to allow our campus to thrive once again.

• A decrease in tuition
• Greater affordable housing Options
• Better Mental Health services
• Higher quality of education
• Cheaper parking

Together, let’s build a dynamic and inclusive environment where all Arts students can thrive!

Hello! My name is Mohamad Aytour, and I am eager to be your next Cumming School of Medicine (CSM) Representative. As your future faculty representative, I am committed to improve the overall student experience at CSM through addressing key issues that impact our community. Here is an outline of what I will achieve as our future representative:

Student Welfare and Tuition          

 Tuition:

• Considering the costs for our faculty’s programs, my focus will be on increasing affordability, especially for international students.
• I will collaborate with advocacy groups to address recent climbs in tuition costs, while ensuring increased accessibility to scholarship awards and bursaries.

Food Security:

• To ensure food security, I will advocate for free grab-and-go food programs, which will come especially useful in exams season.

Academic Support and Wellness

Academics

• To support our students, I will propose optional assessments for classes at CSM. These optional assessments will give students the opportunity to go up a letter grade.

Mental Health Support

• Some of CSM’s programs may apply incredulous academic pressure on students, which creates the need for initiatives to improve our student’s mental well-being.
• To help counter this, I will advocate for and organize open programs meant to provide support and reduce stress to students struggling with pressure to ensure academic success.

Enhancing Student Spirit and Involvement

Community Building

• Through recognizing the competitive nature at CSM, I will work towards building a closer community to foster an improved experience for all.
• This issue will be addressed through the organization of weekly events that will include free food and drinks.

Clubs

• Currently, it is difficult for clubs to set up events due to Student Union policies that make it tedious for events to be approved. I will collaborate with current and future clubs and to resolve this issue to ensure a smoother experience for clubs and students.

Thank you for reading. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me via email at:

mohamad.aytour@ucalgary.ca

My name is Brandon, and I am a second-year medical student. Originally from Edmonton, I completed my undergraduate degree in Pharmacology at the University of Alberta before coming to Calgary. Outside of school, I enjoy playing squash, snowboarding, spending time with friends, and fostering cats.

The Cumming School of Medicine is home to a diverse group of students, from undergraduates in Health Sciences and Community Rehabilitation to graduate researchers and medical students. Each of us has unique experiences, challenges, and aspirations, but we all share the same goal: to learn, grow, and contribute to healthcare and research. As faculty representative, I am committed to ensuring that every student, in every program, has a voice that is heard and valued.

One of the biggest concerns among students is the inability to purchase parking passes, despite demanding schedules and clinical placements. I will push for a fair, accessible parking system that allows students to purchase passes like other faculties. Transportation should not be a barrier to education, and I will work to find solutions that make commuting more affordable and convenient.

Beyond parking, I will advocate for better food options on campus, ensuring students have access to diverse, affordable, and healthier choices. Student spaces should be welcoming and functional, so I will also ensure lounges are stocked with essentials like plates, utensils, and snacks.

Mental health support is another pressing issue. Wait times for therapists at SAWH are too long, and students deserve timely, accessible care. I will work to reduce these wait times and ensure students get the support they need without unnecessary delays.

Financial support is also a priority, and I will push for more bursaries and scholarships specifically for CSM students, making education more accessible and reducing financial strain. I will work to eliminate printing fees, ensuring that essential course materials and academic resources are available without extra costs.

Students in the Cumming School of Medicine deserve practical solutions to everyday challenges, and I am committed to making meaningful improvements. If elected, I will be a strong advocate for our faculty, fighting for real changes that benefit all students.

Hello CSM students! My name is Hannah Kim and I am a third-year Health Science student. I served as one of your faculty representatives on the 82nd Students’ Legislative Council this past year and would be honored to be re-elected.

Over the past year, I:

• Organized the first pet therapy event since 2018, open to all undergraduate and graduate students at Foothills, to promote student wellness.
• Collaborated with the SU VP Academic and the other med rep to secure a spot on the CSM faculty council, ensuring that undergraduate student concerns are brought to the table at the highest level.
• Spearheaded an application for a Quality Money scholarship program that aims to recognize and motivate established and emerging student leaders engaging in sustainability efforts on campus. This proposal was supported by the faculty, the Office of Sustainability, and sustainability-oriented student clubs on campus.
• Created and distributed a first-year survival guide to BHSc and CRDS students during orientation week containing tips and tricks, academic advice, links to SU supports and resources, and transit routes between main campus and Foothills.

Building on my experiences and efforts from this past year, my advocacy priorities for next year include:

• Establishing a D2L shell for a direct line of communication between the faculty reps and students in the faculty, to provide regular updates regarding SU advocacy efforts concerning all students, promoting events, etc, while continuing with social media engagement on the faculty reps’ account to maintain accountability and transparency.
• Continue leading advocacy initiatives for student mental health and wellness, such as:
  • Engaging in consultations with students and with student organizations to call on the province for increased per-capita mental health funding to post-secondary institutions.
  • Organizing a wellness week at Foothills with free food and drinks, and activities that promote student bonding, socialization, and wellbeing.
• Highlighting post-graduation career opportunities through speaker events and panels.
• Connecting students to experiential learning opportunities beyond research – such as global learning programs and internship opportunities.

Thanks for taking the time to read my platform, and feel free to reach out at my email address below!

Chaehyun.kim1@ucalgary.ca

Hello! I’m Nikhil Srivalsan, a second-year Biomedical Sciences student running for Cumming School of Medicine (CSM) Faculty Representative. My platform centers on three key priorities: academic support, meaningful representation, and mental health. I am passionate about amplifying student voices and ensuring that our academic experience is inclusive for all CSM students across MD, BHSc, and CRDS programs.

Enhancing Academic Support and Collaboration
As your representative, I will advocate for clearer, more detailed assessment rubrics, so you understand how your work is evaluated. I’ll push for grading scale adjustments in MDSC courses to reflect the complexity of the material. Additionally, I’ll work to increase accountability in assessments, ensuring that your feedback from class evaluations and TA surveys leads to meaningful changes in course design. I want every student to feel supported in their learning and see their voices reflected in academic improvements.

Greater Student Representation and Community Building
To strengthen our CSM community, I’ll work on enhancing student spaces, improving current lounges, and establishing a dedicated CSM lounge on main campus. I’ll advocate for more networking opportunities, such as an annual faculty-wide year-end barbecue, to help students connect across programs. I’m also committed to expanding opportunities in research, volunteering, and academia, while focusing on EDI through scholarships and professional development. I’ll champion cultural and representative celebrations to foster an inclusive environment where every student feels valued.

Supporting Mental Health and Well-Being
Mental health is essential for academic success, and I’ll work to increase awareness of available resources like the Student Wellness Advocacy Hub (SWAH) at Foothills and Student Wellness Services on main campus. I’ll advocate for expanding counseling services within SWAH to meet growing student needs and create a more supportive environment. Together, we can normalize and improve access to mental health support for all.

I am dedicated to creating a transparent CSM community. I look forward to sharing the great advocacy and initiatives I can make on your behalf if elected! Feel free to contact me at nikhil.srivalsan@ucalgary.ca with any questions or ideas.

Vote Nikhil Srivalsan for CSM Faculty Representative! Together, we can strengthen our community and enhance student experiences!

Hello CSM students! My name is Alex, and I am currently a second-year Biomedical Sciences student running to be one of your next faculty reps. My platform has three main points that I would like to advocate for and implement to improve our faculty!

1. Transparency in MDSC Course Design and Changes

MDSC courses can change rapidly year-to-year in content, format, and examinations. While this can lead to a dynamic and adapting course, there is also the possibility that these changes are inadequately communicated to students. I would advocate for the disclosure of relevant course changes to students at the beginning of term, along with rationale for why the change was made. This would reduce the volatility of on-the-fly changes and allow students to better prepare for novel challenges.

2. Career Guidance and Alumni Engagement Opportunity

Students in CSM programs deserve the opportunity for career development and guidance after their degree. CSM alumni have valuable insight that they can share as to how their paths unfolded after their degree and could serve as a resource for new or upcoming graduates. I want to host events that broaden students’ horizons and give them exposure to the diversity of careers available to them. I also want to connect current students and alumni to serve as mentors and connections.

3. Increasing Food Availability and Food Insecurity Resources

Food insecurity initiatives such as the Foothills community pantry have lots of potential and deserve to be better supported for students in need. Furthermore, students deserve healthy, affordable food options on Foothills campus. I want to advocate for the expansion of food insecurity initiatives as well as to increase the availability of student-affordable food on Foothills campus.

Thank you for taking the time to read my platform! Rest assured that if elected I am committed to making the CSM a better place for all students. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. You can find me at Alex.tam1@ucalgary.ca.

Hello Haskayne!

My name is Nicholas Dingle, and I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for Faculty Representative. As a dedicated student, active volunteer, and someone deeply invested in our community, I want to ensure that every Haskayne student has the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

Expanding Academic & Career Support

Navigating university can be challenging, whether it’s tough courses or preparing for life after graduation. I will advocate for:

• More PASS sessions and peer tutoring.
• Additional career-building resources like mock interviews, resume workshops, and mentorship programs.
• Stronger connections with industry professionals through networking events and job opportunities.

Enhancing Study Spaces & Campus Resources

Students deserve an environment that supports their success. I will push for:

• More reliable Wi-Fi, updated study areas, group rooms, and technology resources.
• Expanding the availability of online resources to support learning outside the classroom.

Strengthening Student Life & Mental Well-Being

University is more than just academics, its about balance, connection, and personal growth. I will work towards:

• A dedicated destress space in Mathison, with resources to support mental well-being.
• More student-led initiatives, volunteer opportunities, and leadership programs.
• Increased transparency in decision-making, ensuring students have a voice in shaping Haskayne’s future.

Your voice matters!

As Haskayne continues to grow and evolve, student input is essential. I will work to ensure your concerns and ideas are heard, and that every student has the tools they need to succeed.

Let’s build a stronger, more connected Haskayne together!

Hello Haskayne,

My name is Sukhwinder Singh Sangger, and I am excited to run as your Faculty Representative. As a 3^rd year student majoring in Accounting, I am committed to making tangible improvements to our student experience. My leadership experience in University of Calgary Dinos Men’s Rugby as a Jr. executive has given me the skills to effectively advocate for student needs. If elected, I will focus on academic support, career development, and student well-being.

Expanding Academic Support

Many students struggle with upper-year courses due to limited support. I will advocate for more PASS sessions, additional tutorial options, and enhanced instructor-student engagement to ensure students have the resources they need to succeed. Additionally, I will push for better alignment between course content and assessments to improve fairness and transparency.

Enhancing Career Development & Networking for All Majors

Career development should be accessible to all Haskayne students, not just those in Finance and Accounting. I will work towards more networking events tailored to various business majors, including Marketing, Business Analytics, Supply Chain, and Entrepreneurship. Additionally, I will push for expanded employer panels, industry mentorship programs, and sector-specific workshops to help students build valuable connections in their chosen fields.

More Co-op & Internship Opportunities

Real-world experience is key to career success. I will advocate for better access to co-op placements and internships across all business concentrations by strengthening partnerships with companies and pushing for an increase in job postings on Elevate. I will also work on bringing in more industry recruiters to Haskayne career events to ensure students have direct access to potential employers.

Addressing Infrastructure & Student Experience Issues

Mathison Hall has been a major investment for Haskayne, yet ongoing IT, WiFi, and heating issues have disrupted student learning. I will advocate for immediate improvements and, if necessary, propose a SU Quality Money application to fund these changes. Additionally, I will work to create designated de-stress spaces and promote greater transparency in Haskayne’s 2025 Strategic Plan by ensuring student voices are represented.

Hello Haskayne! My name is Griffin Stewart, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for Faculty Representative. As a third-year Finance student, I understand the challenges we face—whether it’s academic support, career development, or improving campus resources. My goal is to advocate for your needs and enhance the student experience at Haskayne.

Expanding Academic Support

Upper-year courses can be tough, and students deserve better academic resources. I will push for more PASS sessions and review tutorials, ensuring that students have the support they need to excel in challenging courses.

Enhancing Study & Learning Spaces

Many students struggle with unreliable Wi-Fi, outdated facilities, and limited study spaces—especially in Mathison Hall. I will advocate for technology upgrades, improved heating and cooling, and more quiet study areas, making Mathison a more functional learning environment.

Stronger Career Development & Networking

Success at Haskayne goes beyond the classroom. I will expand career-building resources, including:
✔ More Elevate job postings & networking events
✔ Mock interviews & resume-building workshops
✔ More student access to Haskayne mentorship programs

Improving Student Life & Mental Well-Being

University can be stressful, and it’s time we prioritize student mental health. I will advocate for a designated destress space in Mathison, more mental health workshops, and increased SU volunteer opportunities to help students get involved and build leadership experience.

Your Voice in Haskayne’s Future

As Haskayne develops its 2025 Strategic Plan, I will push for student representation in decision-making. I will work to create a Haskayne Student Oversight Committee, ensuring that student concerns shape the future of our business school.

Let’s work together to make Haskayne an even better place. Feel free to reach out via email Griffin.Stewart@uclagary.ca

Vote Griffin Stewart for Faculty Representative!

Hey Haskayne!

My name is Joseph (Joey) Szasz, and I’m a fourth year student in Finance running to bring realistic changes to Haskayne.

If you ask most business students what their representative does, they’d have no idea. This position has a history of neglect, which is a shame due to the ability SU reps have to make change. Often, representatives secure their positions making promises they never intend to keep, some of which are downright impossible.

It’s time to make the Haskayne SU position useful. With that being said, I will bring three specific changes to our faculty that will have a big impact on the student experience.

Eliminate Hidden Fees

My primary goal is to eliminate the hidden fees in business courses. Student often don’t know the cost of textbooks until classes start, and items such as business cases or practise work don’t reveal their price until the last moment.

This is unacceptable. Students are dealing with a cost-of-living crisis, and hidden fees bring pointless stress to those with financial insecurities. I will work to enforce a disclosure policy for Haskayne courses so that students know the cost of their classes in advance, enabling them to budget accordingly.

Improve Haskayne Job Board

I spent my Co-op year in a role I found on the Elevate job board. This was a great experience – the only problem is how few and far between such postings are, relative to the number of students.

As Haskayne representative, I will work to bring more listings to the Elevate job board, and I will advocate for a more user-friendly interface on the website itself.

Improve Hygienic Practises

Setting expectations regarding hygiene are a much-needed reform for our faculty. Leaving filthy bathrooms for cleaning staff or a messy table for students in the next class are avoidable issues we can take steps to resolve.

As representative, I will introduce initiatives such as “free deodorant” programs to de-stigmatize the hygienic conversation and improve the Haskayne experience.

Hi Kinesiology! My name is Amanat Panech and I am running to be your next faculty representative!

Throughout my three years within this faculty, I have noticed a trend of unfamiliarity related to research opportunities, Honour’s programs, and post-graduate endeavours, as well as a lack of inclusivity for women-only sports. To combat this, my platform focuses on enhancing research visibility, strengthening mentorship opportunities, and promoting gender inclusivity.

1.  Research VisibilityDespite the variety of research within our faculty, students are often unaware of opportunities, how to get involved within these opportunities and where to begin their research journey. Due to the systematic progression of opportunities, often a volunteer position leads to a summer studentship or practicum, which opens doors to an Honour’s program, which may lead to an eventual Master’s position. If students do not have access to information and resources to help them get involved at the inception of this continuum, it often becomes more difficult to acquire these latter opportunities. Thus, if elected, I will advocate for research visibility, help students gain exposure to research opportunities, and be well-informed about the immense and impressive research conducted within Kinesiology.
2. Mentorship opportunitiesAlthough a Kin Peer program already exists within our faculty, it consists of a couple of meetings-one hour duration- to address questions and help students navigate challenges in their academic transition. I believe that this program is a valuable first step that I can strengthen to become an individualized mentorship program, where more time and effort is committed to each student. This serves as an opportunity for senior students to gain valuable leadership experience, while first and second-year students are assisted within their academic journeys.

3. Inclusivity in sports leaguesAlthough the mixed intramural leagues are ideal for some, other women struggle with participation due to lack of women-only leagues. I strongly believe that the creation of women-only leagues will encourage full participation of women who deter from playing due to factors such as religion, comfort or trepidation. I intend to advocate for the creation of these women-only leagues and other opportunities to allow for more female participation.

Hi everyone! I am Faisal Baghazal, and I am running to be your Faculty of Law Representative in the University of Calgary Student Union.

Our faculty thrives because of the collegial, warm atmosphere we have all worked to create. Nurturing this environment is one of my chief goals. To this end, I will work to drive engagement among our student body. This involves connecting first year students with upper year students, increasing student-led panels, and ensuring availability of opportunities for students to relax and recharge. Co-ordinating with the Society of Law Students and the Faculty of Law, I endeavor to see that the student body enjoy events where we can all connect and collaborate.

Prioritizing our well-being, particularly as it relates to mental health, is crucial to our Faculty’s success and development. In support of this, I will work to ensure students can readily access mental health services. This includes providing students with access to counselling, coordinating drop-in peer support groups, stress-reduction workshops, and mental health awareness campaigns. As the liaison between the Student Union, the University of Calgary, and the Faculty of Law, I will collaborate with the Wellness Centre, ASSIST, and the Faculty to ensure these efforts are realized. Further, I will liaise between the Faculty of Law and resource centers, including the Q Centre, the Office of Indigenous Engagement, the Women’s Resource Centre, the Faith and Spirituality Centre, to make sure that law students are aware of, and can access, these crucial services.

I welcome the opportunity to advocate for you and our faculty. You can always approach me with any concern or question, whether you are a member of the faculty or the student body. We can achieve so much by working together. It would be my honour to act in a capacity which advances this objective. I can only do this with your support, so please vote for Faisal Baghazal as your Faculty of Law Representative in the University of Calgary Student Union.

My central concern for the Faculty of Nursing is in regard to clinical placement and theory course issues. Skill competency is essential for our practice, thus trouble surrounding our academic requirements can cause large disruptions to our learning. Streamlining the process of acquiring help though bringing issues to the representative of nursing will allow for a more guided process when confronting large scale concerns. Additionally, publication and transparency are essential when implementing changes that have an effect on the Faculty of Nursing. Through increased social media usage and informal conversations, visibility will be prioritized. Finally, an initiative I am interested in pursuing is gaining increased Naloxone training opportunities for interested students in the Faculty of Nursing, which will enhance their preparedness to respond to opioid-related emergencies. Expanding first aid training available to nursing students will in hand create safer responders.

Hello SAPL students! My name is Matthew Moreau, and I’m excited to run as your Faculty Representative for the School of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape. I’m passionate about student advocacy and ensuring that our faculty has the resources, opportunities, and support needed to thrive.

A Strong Voice for Students

I’ve always believed in the power of student voices to create real change. My experience in the Cadets Program shaped my leadership and advocacy skills, where I served on the Regional Cadet Advisory Council, acting as a voice for my peers on important issues. This past summer, I was the Chief of Sail Training, responsible for advocating on behalf of my department to improve training conditions and resources.

At the University of Calgary, I continue to push for student interests as the Undergraduate Representative for the Canadian Architectural Students Association, working at a national level to connect students, share knowledge, and improve our academic experience. Now, I want to bring this same dedication and leadership to SAPL as your Student Union Faculty Rep.

My Priorities

Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility – Our campus should be a leader in sustainability. I will work toward creating a greener campus and creating sustainability-focused academic programs and projects, encouraging students to engage in environmentally conscious decision-making processes.

Stronger Student Representation – Through my experience in student governance, I have learned that meaningful change occurs when all voices are heard and valued. As your representative, I will prioritize strengthening communication between students, faculty, and administration by implementing regular town hall meetings and accessible online feedback forms, ensuring that student concerns are actively addressed and translated into actionable solutions.

Wellness & Work-Life Balance – SAPL students work hard, and I want to push for better mental health support, fair workload expectations, and a collaborative, inclusive studio culture. 

Let’s Build a Better SAPL Together!

I have always been an advocate, a leader, and a problem solver. If elected, I will be your voice at the table, ensuring SAPL students have the support, recognition, and resources we deserve.

Vote Matthew for SAPL Faculty Rep!

As a fourth-year engineering student, I understand the struggles we face—limited class sections, unclear professor ratings, and a lack of research funding. That’s why I’m running to be your SU Schulich Representative. My goal is to improve professor ratings, increase class sections, and secure more undergraduate research funding.

My Platform:

1. Fix Professor Rating

Engineering students rely on professor ratings to choose courses, but the current system is flawed—outdated reviews, biased opinions, and missing feedback. I want to introduce a Schulich-specific professor rating system, gathering real-time student feedback after each semester. This will provide accurate, useful insights to help students make informed decisions.

2. More Class Sections in Engineering

We’ve all struggled with overcrowded courses and limited options, leading to schedule conflicts and delayed graduation. I will push for more class sections, ensuring students have access to the courses they need without being forced into inconvenient times or waitlists. By working with faculty and the SU, I’ll advocate for increased course availability.

3. More Undergraduate Research Funding

Engineering students deserve more opportunities to engage in research, whether for experience, personal interest, or career development. Research is often inaccessible due to lack of funding and awareness. I will work with the SU to secure more undergraduate research grants and push for greater transparency in research opportunities so that every student has a chance to participate.

Why Vote for Me?

I’m committed to fixing real issues that impact every Schulich student. Whether it’s helping you choose the right professor, ensuring you get the classes you need, or unlocking research opportunities, I’ll make sure your voice is heard. Vote Fardin Aryan for SU Schulich Rep—because your education should work for you.

My name is Emmanuel Fasesan, and I am running to be your next Engineering Representative.

Throughout my time at Schulich, I have had the privilege of engaging with both students and faculty. While our institution boasts many academic initiatives, more can be done to make Schulich a place that strives to uplift its students. Society expects the most from engineers and we in turn must expect the same from our education. We must ensure our education meets the high expectations placed on engineers. That means pushing for stronger industry connections, greater financial transparency, and a curriculum that prepares us for the future

1. MARKET RELEVANCE: With an ever-changing job market, our education should prepare us for success. I will push for faculty to engage with industry leaders when shaping academic programs and establish Engineering Advising Committees in each department, bringing together faculty, industry professionals, and students to align our curriculum with real-world demands.
2. INDUSTRY EXPOSURE: Navigating career choices, internships, and discipline selection shouldn’t be a solo journey. I will advocate for structured mentorship programs that connect students with upper-year peers and industry professionals, creating opportunities for guidance, networking, and career development.
3. FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY: Students deserve to know where their tuition and fees are going. I will push for clearer cost breakdowns and fight for an easier process to opt out of non-essential fees, ensuring fairness and transparency in how student money is allocated.

Vote Emmanuel Fasesan for Eng Rep! If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Engineering a Better Future. Thanks for your support!!

As engineering students, we often get too carried away with our studies and forget what engineering truly is: an experience. Engineering is about building, modelling, hands-on applications, engaging labs, collaborative projects, and, most importantly, valuable connections.

As a first-year student, I’m in the same boat as you. I attend daily lectures, participate in labs, complete assignments and quizzes, and then spend hours at home watching videos of course material. I recently chose Civil Engineering as my specialization, and I strongly believe in a better academic experience for all engineering students.

After listening to many students, I have identified three major areas that need to be addressed:

Firstly, many students are being unfairly penalized for AI use, even when they haven’t used AI dishonestly. These false accusations create stress and frustration. AI is becoming an essential learning tool, and our policies should reflect that. I will advocate for clearer guidelines, fairer review processes, and a balanced approach to AI usage so that students are not unfairly punished.

Choosing a specialization is one of the most important decisions an engineering student makes, yet many feel unprepared. While Schulich offers seminars and career fairs, students are still often left confused and unsure. I will push for: Field visits so students can see real-world engineering applications, presentations from industry professionals to highlight career paths, and networking events with upper-year students to offer guidance and insights.

Additionally, many students are unaware of our university’s co-op opportunities. If students in the first and second years of their degree take part in the co-op program, which provide industry experience, financial support, and stronger job prospects, they will be much more competitive candidates when they go out into the real world and enter the workforce. I will work to promote and expand co-op programs, ensuring that students gain the real-world exposure they need.

If studying engineering has taught me one thing, it’s that the best designs come from listening, adapting and improving. And that is exactly what I plan to do as your next representative. Vote Ibad Rehman for a stronger engineering community!

What’s Up Science! I’m Haris Naveed, and I’m thrilled to announce my candidacy to represent the Faculty of Science. I am a first-year computer science student dedicated to making your lives easier. Here’s a glimpse of my platform:

Advocating for Academic Flexibility 

I will establish a system that actively encourages improvement by tracking students’ progress within classes. I propose introducing a resubmission policy that allows students to resubmit one lab or assignment at the end of the year.

This will encourage students to pursue personal development, promoting a culture of learning and achievement. Recognizing and rewarding progress promotes greater engagement and improves the entire academic setting, benefiting students and the institution as a whole.

Optimizing Student Welfare

Supporting students means bridging the ideas of affordability and innovation. Reducing financial burdens allows students to focus on personal growth, while innovation ensures they have the resources to bring their ideas to life.

University already is costly enough- we don’t need it to be more expensive. I plan to collaborate with the SU and University management by pushing them to be transparent with where the tuition money is actually going and commit to finding ways to minimize the financial burden of tuition.

Inspired by prestigious schools like MIT, I plan to raise awareness for the Student Activities Fund (SAF), which provides additional funding for student-led projects across all science disciplines. This will foster an entrepreneurial mindset among students and empower them to turn their ideas into reality.

Embracing Student Voice to Drive Change 

Your feedback matters. To ensure real change, I suggest incentivizing monthly surveys for students in the Faculty of Science. This will allow students to share their opinions, problems, and suggestions for improvement, while also being rewarded for their valuable input.

I will address reoccurring issues raised in these surveys during SU meetings, advocating for direct solutions among faculty members. As your representative, I will prioritize being your voice and ensuring that your concerns result in meaningful improvements.

Let’s work together and make our faculty a place where every student can excel.

Hey everyone, I’m Emil Rasmussen!

I’m a second-year geology student, and I want to be YOUR SU Science Rep!

I get what it’s like to juggle school, work, and life—I’ve been both an international and domestic student, a student-athlete, and a regular student. I know the struggles of balancing time, studies, and finances, and I want to make things easier for you.

What if finding career opportunities, making money, and networking across faculties was simple and accessible? That’s my goal. If you want to set yourself up for success, I’m here to help.

My Focus:

Financial Help
Finding and applying for scholarships and bursaries shouldn’t be a headache. I want to make them easier to access and even push for new ones through the SU—because student life is already stressful enough without money worries.

Career Development
The Science Co-op Program is awesome, and I’ll keep supporting it while working to increase job opportunities for students inside AND outside the program. Everyone deserves a shot at meaningful work.

Networking
The person sitting next to you could be a future CEO, dean, or industry leader. I want to create more casual, cross-faculty events where students connect, make friends, and build career opportunities—because success is often about who you know.

Let’s make student life better together. Vote Emil for SU Science Rep! 🚀

Hello fellow students, my name is Abdulrahman Negmeldin, and I am a second-year Computer Science student running to be your next Faculty of Science Representative! I am passionate and ambitious  about representing the best interests of Sciences students.

I am running for this position because I believe the faculty needs to undergo changes that we all deserve. My platform is centered around four main goals that I feel are of the utmost importance:

Affordability

• Over the last few years tuition fees have only increased while university services and quality has only gone down. Many of the fees aren’t descriptive, nor would it allow you to opt-out.
• I will advocate against tuition increases and for more transparency regarding certain tuition fees and the option to opt-out.

Valuing Student Voices

• Every student deserves to be heard. Unfortunately, that is currently not the case, especially when it comes to degree-related issues that we all tend to face, such as course registration problems.
• I will work to create a direct system of communications for students to share their opinions and concerns directly with faculty representatives. It’s time we take our power back and ensure that our concerns are addressed in real time.  

Course Related Issues

• Grading: I will advocate for more flexible grading schemes, as well as more assignment resubmission opportunities for students to be able to bump their grades up.
• Due dates: I will push for a more balanced distribution of assignments across the semester to avoid unnecessary stress.
• Better Advising: Many students feel that Science Advising is not as supportive or useful as it should be. I will advocate for more personalized and accessible advising services. Every student deserves guidance that is proactive and tailored to their individual needs.

Internship and Research Accessibility

• Research and internship opportunities are the gateway to post-graduate success, but many students find it difficult to secure these opportunities.
• I will work to improve accessibility to research opportunities by partnering with other faculty representatives to create tools that help guide students towards finding the opportunities they are looking for.

My name is Stephanie and I’m a second-year student in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program in the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. I’m originally from Edmonton where I grew up then completed a Bachelor of Science specializing in Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology at the University of Alberta.

Currently, I sit on the Calgary Association of Veterinary Students which acts as the governing body for the University of Calgary faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Here, I am the liaison between the student body and the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association. I have been involved in making meaningful change for the students under the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine through this role. I hope to work collaboratively build ideas for meaningful projects this upcoming year. If elected my priorities would be:

1. To continue to advocate for the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine student body and act as a liaison both within the faculty and outside of it. In order to advocate for the students, I plan to listen to the student body on what they think is important and bring those concerns forward to the appropriate people. This will also include keeping the students updated on progress act as a liaison between them and the Student Union.
2. Make sure veterinary student voices are heard in regards to tuition changes and costs associated with 4^th year clinical rotations.
3. I aim to promote awareness of the services provided for students by the Student Union, as our unique location at Spyhill Campus removes us from the awareness being on main campus brings of the services the SU provides. This includes helping facilitate changes with SUClubs.

Make your voice heard by voting in this election.

My name is Siena Yee and I am currently in my third year of Education. I am very passionate about supporting my peers through advocacy, and honoured to be a candidate for Faculty Representative this 2025 students’ union election. I am known by peers as kind, caring, determined, and a great leader. Having been elected during the 2024 by-election in September, I had the opportunity to learn about and address students’ concerns. If elected, I plan on continuing to advocate for the Faculty of Education students so that students are not just heard but concerns are addressed. I plan to continue to be the catalyst for positive change. I am very approachable, and care deeply about what students have to say. I also hope to implement initiatives to build a stronger community within Werklund and to ensure student life is exciting and impactful. In addition, I will continue to promote Students’ Union events, updates, and information so that Werklund students are informed and involved. Whether it’s to enhance communication, increase support, facilitate events, celebrate Werklund students and their successes, or simply to share thoughts, ideas and concerns regarding policies, I am dedicated, hard-working and will strive to make this year a progressive one with actionable change. I hope to improve student awareness, communication, and academic matters regarding students’ wellbeing, and welcoming students to exciting events to celebrate Werklund. Therefore, I would be honoured to be elected at this upcoming 2025’s elections as Faculty Representative for Werklund. If you have any further questions or concerns regarding this statement, please do not hesitate to contact me via email (siena.yee@ucalgary.ca) or Instagram (@sienayee.education).

My name is Lujaina Eldelebshany, and I am running to be your next Student Representative on the University of Calgary’s Board of Governors. With 3 years of involvement with student advocacy, including the past year as a Students’ Union Faculty Representative, I’ve spent the past year advocating for engineering students, addressing their concerns on academic policies, mental health resources, and campus inclusivity. This role has given me invaluable experience navigating university governance and building collaborative relationships, skills I am eager to extend to represent all students at the Board of Governors.

Advocating for Affordable Education

The rising cost of education is an issue that affects every student. Instead of allowing tuition hikes to become the default solution to budget shortfalls, I will push the Board to seek alternative funding sources, from government grants to private partnerships, to offset provincial funding cuts. Our university must explore creative financial solutions that don’t put the burden on students. I will advocate for transparency in how funds are allocated and ensure that tuition and fees are justified, fair, and used to directly benefit the student experience.

A Campus that Supports Student Success

Student success extends beyond the classroom. I will advocate for robust mental health resources that are easily accessible and destigmatized, ensuring that every student feels supported. This includes expanding funding for wellness services, increasing peer-support programs, and making academic accommodations more responsive and effective. I will also push for improvements in campus infrastructure, from study spaces to essential student services, creating an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.

Equity, Inclusion, and Student Empowerment

Student governance should never be a box-ticking exercise. I will work to embed student voices at every level of university decision-making, ensuring that students aren’t just consulted but actively involved in shaping policies that affect them. This means establishing feedback loops between students and the Board, holding regular town halls, and ensuring that Board decisions are communicated transparently and openly. I will push for mechanisms that hold the university accountable to its commitments on equity, diversity, and inclusion, making sure that these aren’t just buzzwords, but principles that guide real, measurable change across campus.

Accountability & Transparency

Students are the backbone of the University of Calgary, and their voices should be front and center in all Board decisions. I will not act at the behest of university administration but will prioritize student interests in every discussion. I will work closely with other Board members to ensure that decisions reflect the needs and concerns of the student body, not just administrative convenience. I will advocate for transparent decision-making processes, ensuring that students are kept informed and that their feedback leads to tangible outcomes. This means pushing for public disclosure of key Board decisions and financial allocations, so students can see how their tuition and fees are being used.

I am committed to standing up for you, ensuring that student voices are not just heard but acted upon.

Vote Lujaina Eldelebshany for Board of Governors Representative!

My name is Amber Quo and I’m a third year Biomedical Engineering student. I am passionate about improving the student experience at the University of Calgary and am excited to be running for Senate Representative this year. Across campus, students are unaware of the capacity of the UCalgary Senate for change as a driver of community action, whether through scholarships, athletics, or entrepreneurial/industry activity. As someone who has not previously been involved in the SU, I understand how difficult it can be to stay informed about decisions that directly affect you. But as a past Vice President of the Engineering Students’ Society and current President of the Biomedical Engineering Students’ Society, I bring both an outsider perspective to the role and understand the need to make the Senate more transparent and accessible to students, while also having the advocacy experience to make that need a reality. My goal is to bridge the gap by ensuring that students have a stronger voice in university governance. Here is how I plan to make a difference:

1. Amplifying Student Voices:

Many students feel disconnected from decision-making processes that impact their education and campus life. I will work to increase transparency by providing regular updates on Senate activities directly at the faculty level, advocating for student concerns, and hosting open forums where students can directly voice their opinions.

2. Student Opportunities:

I will advocate for the extension of the Chancellor’s Scholars program to continuing students rather than just as entrance scholarships. Additionally, I will push for more student focussed events on experiential learning and research so students can gain valuable real-world experience. By prioritizing student input, I will ensure that Senate community initiatives always place students first.

3. Connections:

Understanding who our Senators are can open the door for mentorship, career development, and professional growth for students in all vocations. I will foster meaningful events between students and UCalgary Senators and the broader community, creating opportunities for networking and career advancement.

With your support, I will work to make the Senate more student-focused and transparent!

My name is Uday Singh Sandhu and I’m a 3^rd year Finance student. I had the privilege to serve you all as the 82^nd Haskayne School of Business Representative and this time, I’m running to be your Senate Representative. University is often described as the best time of our lives, but for many students, it can also be one of the most challenging periods. As an international student myself, I’ve experienced how mental health, a lack of opportunities, and system inequities can impact academic success and personal well-being.

As your Senate Representative, I am committed to advocating for solutions that address these challenges, ensuring that every student feels supported, empowered, and included in our university community. My platform revolves around the following key areas: –

• Mental Health – Taking care of mental health is one of the most important things for a university student as it not only affects one’s general well-being but also one’s academic performance. I plan to improve metal health services and ensure the availability of services such as accessible counseling services, peer support programs and culturally inclusive support. I also plan to advocate for expanding mental health initiatives on campus to create a supportive environment where all students feel heard and valued.
• Internship/ Co-Op Opportunities – In these times of worsening job markets, I want to introduce the Propel programs and similar opportunities given by University of Calgary to some of the graduate programs to undergraduate programs as well improving the chances of every student to get an internship or Co-Op.
• Scholarships and Bursaries – I want to assure transparency in the scholarships and bursaries process and advocate for increasing the number of scholarships and bursaries available.
• Student Empowerment – I am committed to amplify the voices of students and ensuring their concerns are addressed at every level. This includes advocating for systematic changes to tackle barriers such as food insecurity and lack of support for mental and physical health care and ensuring that equity, diversity and inclusion remain priorities in decision-making processes at the Senate.

Together, we can make a campus where every student thrives.

As a candidate for the position of Student-at-Large on the University of Calgary Senate, I am committed to fostering transparency, ensuring accountability, and amplifying student voices within the university’s governance structure.

Transparency is the foundation of trust between student representatives and the broader student body. If elected, I will firstly provide clear, accessible, and timely updates on Senate initiatives through regular written reports and open forums- utilizing our on-campus communication methods. I will secondly advocate for open communication channels between students and the Senate, ensuring that decisions impacting students are made with student input. Thirdly, I will work to simplify and publicize Senate policies, procedures, and decisions so that every student can understand how governance decisions affect them.

A Student-at-Large representative must be a direct link between the student community and university leadership. To achieve this, I will actively engage with students to identify concerns and relay them to the Senate, ensure that student interests are prioritized in decision-making processes, particularly in areas affecting academic integrity, affordability, and campus resources and hold myself and my fellow representatives accountable by maintaining a strong presence at Senate meetings and consistently reporting back to the Students’ Union.

Beyond governance, the role of a senator includes enhancing student engagement and promoting the university within the broader community. My plan includes encouraging student participation in Senate-related discussions and initiatives and attending and supporting campus events that align with student interests and university growth. I am incredibly active in the campus community and will continue to do so in my capacity as a senate representative

By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and student engagement, I aim to ensure that the University of Calgary Senate remains an inclusive and representative body that genuinely reflects the needs of its students. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and advocate for our community with integrity and dedication.