The Martlet has sent out its 13 questions for UVSS elections 2013. The candidates were asked to keep answers short (under 30 words) where possible, and responses can be found above. The UVSS board handles decisions about the Student Union Building, how student fees are spent and many other aspects of student life, including clubs. Voting will be open to elect the five executive directors and 11 directors-at-large at webvote.uvic.ca from 9 a.m. March 6 until 9 a.m. March 7.
If a candidate questionnaire is not available here, it means the candidate did not submit responses in time for this posting. The Martlet will make every effort to continue uploading candidate responses as they come in.
Kelsey Mech for chairperson (EDGE UVic)
Kelsey Mech is running with the EDGE UVic slate for Chairperson of the UVSS board of directors, an executive position. She is the sole candidate for chair, though students will vote whether to acclamate her or not. Below are the questions the Martlet sent her and her responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
I’m just finishing my fourth year of a double major in Biology and Environmental Studies.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I have been the co-director of Common Energy for the past three years. I have also done work with the Alliance of BC Students and the Make Transit Work campaign as part of my role as a director-at-large.
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
I have been to almost every meeting this year since I started my term as a director-at-large in May and also attended some meetings prior to that as an audience member for a total of about twenty.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I’m very excited about the renovation. That being said, I want to really push to make sure it is completed on time and is as inclusive and transparent a process as possible. Our job is to represent students and I’m committed to finding ways to engage with interested members of the student body on this project.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
Accessibility is very important to me, particularly with the upcoming renovation. I am committed to ensuring the renovation meets high accessibility standards and to working with relevant student groups on this issue.
How are you with policy?
I have sat on the Policy Development Committee this year, recognize the importance of policy and have a fairly good grasp of it. I am looking forward to working on improving existing policy and potentially creating new policy in the coming year.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
First and foremost, building relationships with students and ensuring opportunities for student involvement in the society. Secondly, we must also be sure to provide up-to-date information about the work we are doing through social media and other outreach tools and provide opportunities for feedback. And finally, make sure all processes are accessible and open to students.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
Honestly, I’m just so looking forward to the experience. Being a director-at-large this past year has taught me so much and given the opportunity to grow a lot as a person. I’m just really looking forward to continuing that further.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
I am stoked to continue working with the Alliance of BC Students on continuing our work to pressure government for more post-secondary funding. I’m also planning on continuing the Make Transit Work campaign.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
Executive Directors get paid for 35 hours per week, but typically they work for upwards of 40 to 50 hours per week. I will put in however much time is needed to get the job done and do it well.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
I sat on the board this year and it has been a really great learning experience. I honestly think that overall this year’s board and exec team has done a really great job and I respect the work they have done. There are little things here and there I would change, but I’d rather look forward toward implementing those for next year rather than critiquing what was done right or wrong this past year.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
Oh my favourite part! Actually. I have done a lot of work with administration both on sustainability initiatives and socially responsible investment. I am committed to continuing to engage administration on these issues, and others, including ensuring opportunities for student collaboration with the campus plan on environmental sustainability, accessibility and gender inclusive washrooms, as well as any other relevant issues.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Definitely the dahl and wrap combo at the International Grill in the SUB. If you haven’t tried it already, you should. J
Sam Hagen for executive director of events (Ignite UVic)
Sam Hagen is running with the Ignite UVic slate for Executive Director of Events on the UVSS board. He is one of two candidates for the position. Below are the questions the Martlet sent him and his responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
I am a fourth year Psychology and Business student at the University of Victoria. I am focusing on social and consumer psychology and continue to graduate studies in the form of an MBA of MGB.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I am highly active in UVic intramurals such as volleyball, basketball and flag football. Along with this I have been a part of the UVSS events committee for the past two years.
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
I have attended one to understand how our Board of Directors interacts together and come to conclusions. Along with several AGM’s and SAGM’s.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I believe the renovations are extremely important to the growth of our SUB. I believe there should be collaboration with students to make sure their needs are met with the new additions. It is important for the students to have a say in how the renovations progress.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
SUB accessibility goes along with the renovations in the sense that with the new additions we can provide more accessibility to all students on campus.
How are you with policy?
I have reviewed UVSS policies but my focus will be on events.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
To ensure transparency with UVic students, I believe the board should take measures to reach out to the community and provide a monthly newsletter that provides information concerning current decision-making and future plans.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
As Director of Events, I would be very excited to provide students events that can become staples among the UVic community. University is a social place, and I would make it my ultimate goal to provide a variety of events that everyone can enjoy. Along with this I look forward to working with students to bring large conferences that promote different faculties and provide networking opportunities for all students on campus.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
I would like to make sure we continue to focus on leaving the CFS-BC. In the previous referendum, it was shown that a majority of students wanted to leave this organization and the student society should respond accordingly by making sure the students’ demands are met.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
If elected, I look forward to putting this position at the top of my priorities by allocating as many hours as need be to provide UVic students with the best events on a weekly basis. Director of Events is a full-time job, and I am committed to working hard.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
I would make the board more transparent and hold each member accountable for their respective position. As I stated before, I would like to provide a monthly newsletter that lets students know what we are doing for them.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
Events are a solid way of engaging the university and government alike. My plan is to host relative events where students can become more involved with their university and make it easier to effect change.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
I am quite partial to the sandwiches available at Mac’s café.
Ariel Mishkin for executive director of events (EDGE UVic)
Ariel Mishkin is running with the EDGE UVic slate for Executive Director of Events on the UVSS board. She is one of two candidates for the position. Below are the questions the Martlet sent her and her responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
I am a second year business student.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I was involved with the Photography club last year, but now I have fun with the Hoola Love Club! On a more political level, I am also an advocate and member of the Alliance of BC Students.
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
Because I was a director-at-large this past year, I have attended over 20 board meetings within the past year.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I am very excited about this project! I have been a member of the SUB renovations committee this past year and have advocated and campaigned extensively for the yes side of the referendum. I believe this is a great opportunity to build campus community through events as well as promoting our clubs and course unions!
My expectations are that the renovations will be completed on time and transparently, as the committee creates as much student engagement as possible. By having the Felicita’s renovation completed over the summer, I expect to have an even bigger and better Campus Kick Off! With a new face, Felicita’s can be the center of campus life that students have always wanted!
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
Accessibility is a very serious issue that the UVSS Board should constantly be striving to improve. When we are discussing services, events, committees, or any other aspect of the society, we should be advocating for all forms of accessibility.
How are you with policy?
I actually find UVSS policy quite fascinating because of the society’s political history that has influenced several of our guidelines. That being said, there is always more to learn and different ways to interpret it, so I will be giving it a once over quite often!
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
To continue to market and expand our outreach with students in a way that spreads awareness about the society. We will of course be as inclusive as possible with all committees and work to involve as many different groups as possible in our decision-making processes.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
YES! I am very excited to promote the arts on campus! I feel that the arts are very under-represented and I would love to promote cultural events from all over Victoria!
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
I am interested in working on the Where’s The Funding Campaign, Vote Education, and expanding UVSS awareness campaigns.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
I will work 35-40 hours a week.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
I want to support Clubs and Course unions by educating them on how to market their events as effectively as possible. It would be great if people who want to throw events in the SUB would give presentations at Events Committee that describe their strategies to throw a successful event!
Also, as I have already said, I want to expand cultural and artistic events on campus!
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
One of my main goals is to work with the director of external relations to promote advocacy events on campus. I believe that one of the main aspects of this job is to build on that relationship.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
The bagels at Bean There are legendary. An everything-bagel with the roasted red pepper cream cheese is a must have on a daily basis!
Nadia Hamdon for executive director of student affairs (EDGE UVic)
Nadia Hamdon is running with the EDGE UVic slate for Executive Director of Student Affairs on the UVSS board. She is one of three candidates for the position. Below are the questions the Martlet sent her and her responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
Political Science and Women Studies
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I am the president of the HulaLove Club, a member of Equity and Outreach, as well as a volunteer for the Alliance of BC Students.
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
I served a term as a Director at Large 2010-2011, so I have attended many board meetings.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I would want to ensure that the SUB renovation process happens in a timely manner. Furthermore, I would like this to be a consultative process for students, to ensure that the space is accessible to everyone. The SUB should be a place where students want to be and a way of doing that is by allowing students to engage in the process and feel a sense of ownership and pride when everything is complete.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
Ensuring that the SUB is accessible for all students is imperative in creating an inclusive space for all which is a value that I think the SUB should always be striving for. With the upcoming renovations there is an opportunity to increase accessibility in the SUB and if elected I would want to work with SSD members and all students to ensure their needs are met.
How are you with policy?
As a Political Science student I have learned about public policy in the classroom, and serving as a director-at-large I had some first-hand experience. However, I think I do have a lot of learning still to do, and if elected, would be excited to expand my public policy capacities.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
If elected, I would want to work on ways to engage students more in the processes of the board. I think there is a misconception that the majority of the work/decisions are made at the board level, however, a lot of that work occurs in committee meetings (such as Events, Campaigns and Finance), which are open to students. If elected, I would like to have a table at Clubs Days dedicated to UVSS committees. The executives could provide information about the committees they chair and have interested students sign up, directly involving students with the decisions made in the society.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
As I mentioned above, I would like to work on increasing student engagement with UVSS committees. A more personal goal of mine would be to attend as many events put on by clubs, course unions and advocacy groups as possible. Students do such amazing things and I really want to take the time to appreciate all that they do.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
All of the work on the current UVSS campaigns is vital to continue and carry on. Specifically, it is important now more than ever to push our Vote Education campaign. With a new government taking office in May, it is important to continually lobby and advocate for increased core funding, re-instate the needs-based grants programs and eliminate interest rates on student loans.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
I would work between 35-40 hours a week. Although I also recognize that at certain times during the year (Weeks of Welcome and Clubs and Course Union Days) I may have to work longer hours to ensure that those events run successfully.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
I would work with Ariel Mishkin, running for Director of Events, to create an End of the Year Showcase for students to celebrate all the amazing work that they do. Students throughout the year participate in clubs, course unions, advocacy groups, theatre groups, bands, etc. and it is important to take the time and recognize how valuable these creative endeavours are to the community.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
I would take proactive steps in opening up streams of communication with university faculty and administration as well as with government officials. I am also running for a student senator position which, if elected, would allow me opportunities to advocate for student issues by engaging in dialogue with professors, staff and faculty. It is important to stay in the loop on what is happening inside the university and ensure that decisions made are transparent to students.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
I have a huge sweet tooth, so I really like the cupcakes at the Munchie Bar with a coffee that has an unnecessary amount of sugar in it.
Deryck Harry for executive director of student affairs (Independent)
Deryck Harry is an independent candidate for Executive Director of Student Affairs on the UVSS board. He is one of three candidates for the position. Below are the questions the Martlet sent him and his responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
I am currently perusing a double major in English and History with a focus on the Tudor-Stuart and Victorian eras.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I have no current club affiliations, however I was part of the ballroom club in my first year, and the fencing club for the following two years. I am a member of the Golden Key Society, however I have never attended a meeting.
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
None, however I try to keep abreast of activities within the UVSS through the online publications, as well as the Martlet.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
From what I have seen so far the renovations seem to be making a great improvement in the SUB and I believe they were indeed needed. I hope to advocate for financial changes that will ensure more renovations within the current budget.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
The SUB is for all members of the UVSS and so if there are accessibility issues then these should be addressed. However, as with all things, this must be reasonable.
How are you with policy?
How am I with policy? The question is a little broad, but if I have to answer I would say that I believe I’m good with policy. While at UVic I helped develop policies while I was a member of Residence Council and while I was a Community Leader. I learned about government policy in Ottawa while attending the Forum for Young Canadians (2008), and again in 2009 during the Rotary Adventure in Citizenship program. I also have extensive legal knowledge from my summer job as a legal assistant and from the OxBridge Academic program. Personally I would like to review the UVSS policies, bylaws, and budgets to ensure they are efficient and equal to all students.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
I believe in Open Government and if elected I would advocate for all meetings to be recorded in written, audio and video formats and posted on the UVSS website in a timely manner. Furthermore, I believe monthly e-newsletters should be sent out informing UVSS members of current events.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
I have two personal goals. One, I want to increase club funding from the paltry amount it now receives. Two, I want to take a fine tooth comb to how student money is spent and ensure that it is spent according to the wishes of all students.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
There are many student campaigns on campus, but the cause I want to support most is club funding. I believe that clubs are a great part of university life and getting to know other people. Clubs are essential to student expression, advocacy, and fun.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
I would assume that this varies week to week, but I would assume 25 to 35 hours a week depending on the need.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
I’m sure there are many things I would do differently, but the one that stands out most to me is the Gender Neutral Washrooms. I believe that the BoD was trying to address a very real issue, however I believe it was done poorly. Instead of doing a full renovation creating more individual bathrooms without any gender attachment they merely took down the gender signs and called the bathrooms multi-gender. Many people are now uncomfortable using those bathrooms as they are sharing it with the opposite gender, which is understandable. If I was part of the BoD I would have argued for a full renovation to make sure everyone’s needs were met.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
Unless government policy drastically changes, I do not plan to engage with the government. The role of the Executive Director of Student Affairs is to work with students and I plan to put all of my energies into this. As for the university I already have a working relationship with the Rez Life managers from my work as a CL (community leader) and will continue to work with them to ensure that students living on and off campus can have the best experience with their student union.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
This is a difficult question, which I can only narrow down to my top three: popcorn at the SUB, onion rings at the International Grill, and the occasional O’Henry chocolate bar.
Bowen Macy for executive director of student affairs (Ignite UVic)
Bowen Macy is running with the Ignite UVic slate for Executive Director of Student Affairs on the UVSS board. He is one of three candidates for the position. Below are the questions the Martlet sent him and his responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
Economics, with a minor in watching romantic comedies and eating microwaveable popcorn.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I am member of The Amnesty International Club and African Awareness Club. I have worked with the Nutrition Club, the sailing team, and have been trying to gain membership to the Go-Go dance team for some time without much luck, or skill, or talent.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
Summarize what we do into simple points, and publicize it.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals
you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
Yes, more microwaves and honey around campus. More frequent busses. And more friendship.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
How many hours are there in a day? 24? Okay, probably about 9 of those then. But as much as is needed.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing
BoD?
Lobbied more for library hours, cheaper parking, better public transportation, and more smiles.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect
change?
Hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Along with rallying students together, establishing committees, and coalitions, and picking up the phone.
What’s your favourite snack on campus?
I enjoy the taste of student satisfaction, and involvement. And nothing fills me up more than seeing a campus filled with culture and happy inhabitants. Also, I enjoy pesto pollo sandwiches.
Matthew Hammer for executive director of finance and operations (EDGE UVic)
Matthew Hammer is running with the EDGE UVic slate for Executive Director of Finance and Operations on the UVSS board. He is one of two candidates for the position. Below are the questions the Martlet sent him and his responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
History major and minor in biology.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I have done work with CommonEnergy, the Environmental Studies Student Association, the University of Victoria Sustainability Project and the UVic Debate Club.
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
Three, and I also am an active member of two UVSS Committees.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I think the renos need to be directed by student engagement and focused on getting concrete things that students need, as well as making the SUB more sustainable, in many cases saving us money in the long run.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
We need more of it, something the current board has been committed to and I will continue to push for.
How are you with policy?
I’m extremely comfortable working with policy documents and am familiar with the UVSS constitution and bylaws.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
We need more venues for students to express their ideas and opinions and find out what the UVSS is doing, and they need to be where people are, literally. I wish I had pages to talk about this.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
An office with a window. But seriously I think my goals are transparent and out there in my platform. I want to make a real positive difference in real people’s lives.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
All of them? Transit, affordable education, responsible investment, anti-violence, safer spaces, it’s really hard to pick just one or two. My priorities are in my platform.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
At least 40, probably more.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
The BoD this year has done an awesome job in general. I think I will focus a little more actively on engagement with all students, but the BoD dealt with a lot of complicated issues this year extremely well.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
I have a lot of experience working with university administration, and the key is to establish good relationships while pushing them to go a little (and sometimes a lot) farther than they’re comfortable. I think the same principles apply to government.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Waffle fries. Or hashbrowns in the morning. Some kind of fried potato.
Yang You for executive director of finance and operations (Ignite UVic)
Yang You is running with the Ignite UVic slate for Executive Director of Finance and Operations on the UVSS board. He is one of two candidates for the position. Below are the questions the Martlet sent him and his responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
business / economics / philosophy / European studies
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
Commerce Students’ Society, Freshlook Consulting
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
All that have asked for my presence
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
The renovations can improve the SUB, but we must ensure that costs are kept under control
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
As with anything, it can be improved.
How are you with policy?
Great
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
Publicize the board’s meetings and activities as much as possible
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
Make the SUB profitable so our operations are not subsidized with student fees and increase quality and quantity of events
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
Supporting better student financial aid and longer hours in the library.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
As much as needed
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing
BoD?
I would have made the SUB profitable.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
Pick up the phone and build coalitions with other stakeholders.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Wrap and coffee from Mac’s
Eric Cameron for director-at-large (EDGE UVic)
Eric Cameron is running with the EDGE UVic slate for one of 11 director-at-large positions on the UVSS board. He is one of 12 candidates for the positions. Below are the questions the Martlet sent him and his responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
I am majoring in Biochemistry.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I am not currently affiliated with any clubs or organizations.
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
I have attended one UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meeting.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I hope to be working with those who were elected last year and have been working on it. I know they have invested much time and am very excited to finish planning.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
The SUB is quite accessible to anyone, having a wide variety of resources for students and staff.
How are you with policy?
Being new to the UVSS, I have not memorized the policies; however, I have picked up on the majority of them and feel confident in utilizing them in the future.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
My priority for the upcoming year is to establish a greater connection between the UVSS and students. This includes getting information out to the students and helping them be aware of what is going on, especially with decisions being made.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
I would like to work on managing bigger operations outside of my own experiences and improve on leadership.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
I will support campaigns within my interests.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
I will be working up to 15 hours each week, more or less depending on what is essential to get done in a timely manner.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
I would work more on marketing and engaging students through social media to bring the community together more.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
I plan to engage the students online and offline, merging marketing and technology to collect the student community’s ideas and opinions. This will work well with collaborating with the government.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Watermelon candies!!!
Kayleigh Erickson for director-at-large (Ignite UVic)
Kayleigh Erickson is running with the Ignite UVic slate for one of 11 director-at-large positions on the UVSS board. She is one of 12 candidates for the positions. Below are the questions the Martlet sent her and her responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
I am a first year Political Science major student looking to minor in
Sociology.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I worked with the UVic Students for Literacy Club last semester.
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
None as of yet as I am new to student politics at UVic! Looking forward to
attending some in the future!
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the
Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
The expectation that I have with any and all SUB renovations is that the
voices of the students are heard and clearly reflected in the additions
made.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
I believe that SUB can become more accessible through consultation with
students with disabilities in the renovation process.
How are you with policy?
I would like to think that I’m great with policy. I can easily understand
and find weaknesses in policies and am great at group collaboration on
policy issues regarding reformation.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
I will ensure that all meetings are summarized and publicized to ensure
that students are aware of what is being discussed and decided upon in the
UVSS.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals
you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
I would like to work closely with the Society for Students with a Disability to
ensure that their autonomous rights aren’t infringed upon and allow them
more accessibility, in classrooms and to alternate texts. I would also like
to lobby for longer library hours as I, much like many others, am a late
night studier!
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
How much time do we have? I honestly cannot begin to list the amount of
student campaigns that I wish to support and further as there are far too
many! I’m all about our student voice being heard.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
As many as possible and as needed!
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
I would like to lobby for longer study hours, a universal res card, and
the ability to have options as to the fees that students pay.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect
change?
The most effective way of doing this is to be persistent, and dedication.
I will work towards collaborating with the university and government to
effect change, and come up with compromises that are fair on both sides.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Hot chocolate and a chocolate croissant from biblio!
Lisa-Jane Hayfron for director-at-large (EDGE UVic)
Lisa-Jane Hayfron is running with the EDGE slate for one of 11 director-at-large positions on the UVSS board. She is one of 12 candidates for the positions. Below are the questions the Martlet sent her and her responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
I currently am a Political Science and Sociology major.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
UVic NDP
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
I have attended a few.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I am really looking forward to the remodeling by utilizing the resources we have and expanding on the infrastructure. In addition, providing students with a sustainable and practical SUB.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
In regards to the upcoming SUB renovations being split into phases, I believe the UVic population can benefit from the renovations as well as easily access the facilities.
How are you with policy?
Policy is an important aspect within the UVSS to encourage all issues and finances are done democratically.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
The board implies to work with the student population by advocating openness, communication and accountability by improving students’ involvement in the daily decisions of university life.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
I really want to improve student involvement and incorporate the diversity of the UVic population.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
I plan on working with students to prevent pass ups on the pass-up campaign.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
5-8 hours
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD? Approaching the students and really endorsing student involvement on the decisions regarding their school.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
Spending quality time with the UVic students in trying to see what can be changed or improved during the years spent at UVic.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Fruit and cheese at the Biblio Cafe
Marina Holding for director-at-large (EDGE UVic)
Marina Holding is running with the EDGE slate for one of 11 director-at-large positions on the UVSS board. She is one of 12 candidates for the positions. Below are the questions the Martlet sent her and her responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
Political Science and Environmental Studies
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
UVic Equestrian Club, UVic NDP Club
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
None
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I have high expectations for the SUB to become a better place for students on campus and that students can begin to feel ownership over their SUB.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
I would like to see the SUB to be as safe and accessible for all students as can be realistically done.
How are you with policy?
I understand the functions, purposes and importance of policy in organizations.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
I will continue to make myself available to student’s opinions and open to listening as much as I can.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
I have really high hopes for what Edge can accomplish this year. As a more personal goal separate from direct policy, I’d really just like to get to know more of the amazing minds on campus.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
I am most interested in continuing lobby work and work with the Alliance of BC students on affordable education.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
Approximately 5 – 25 hours.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
I hope to work with the Alliance of BC students and continue with their collective lobbying for affordable education.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Chicken Caesar wraps in the SUB!
Scott Robertson for director-at-large (EDGE UVic)
Scott Robertson is running with the EDGE UVic slate for one of 11 director-at-large positions on the UVSS board. He is one of 12 candidates for the positions. Below are the questions the Martlet sent him and his responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
Geography and Enviromental Studies
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
Common Energy, UVERT, UVision
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
0
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I expect the SUB and Felicita’s to be completed on time and in a transparent way; Have Felicita’s open for campus kick off 2013.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
Accessibility is very important in the SUB, creating a more inclusive SUB for all students is a big aim of EDGE UVic this year.
How are you with policy?
In the past couple of weeks, I have learned all about UVSS electoral policy and I look forward to learning more in the coming.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
Allow for student voices other than the BoD to be involved in all levels of decision-making through increasing the level of focused student engagement at UVic.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
Increase interpersonal relations with all students to reflect a wide variety of student views
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
Any student campaign on the subject of a sustainable campus.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
I will work as many hours as needed to complete the jobs I am assigned.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
I think the existing BoD has done a very good job. I plan to focus on further student engagement.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Bagel and cream cheese at the SUB
Negin Saadati for director-at-large (EDGE UVic)
Negin Saadati is running with the EDGE UVic slate for one of 11 director-at-large positions on the UVSS board. She is one of 12 candidates for the positions. Below are the questions the Martlet sent her and her responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
I am currently a Political Science and Economics (BA) major.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
UVic NDP
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
I haven’t attended many board meetings, but with my leadership experience I’m looking forward to have input on issues and ideas.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
With new SUB renovations that will start over the summer I would love to see sustainable materials being used throughout the SUB to ensure UVic is environmentally conscious.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
It’s important to keep in mind that the SUB renos will be happening in phases, and that renos will not interfere with regular day-to-day activity. The renovations for Felicita’s will be happening this summer, so students will still be able to enjoy Campus Kick Off that will be happening this fall.
How are you with policy?
I appreciate the policy that has already been established within the UVSS, but my main goal is to focus on issues that students care about.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
The board ensures transparency through the main referendum’s that are held to collect student input. We also are open to suggestions or questions from students about any topic regarding the UVSS.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
I would like to work with Ariel Mishkin to provide students with a worthwhile experience; academics need to be balanced out with enjoying your university experience. Students at UVic are working hard, and we need to provide them events to play hard!
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
I plan on preventing student pass-ups with working on the “Passed-Up” campaign.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
Every week is different, and each week reflects on what activities are taking place, but generally 5-8 hours a week.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
Providing first year students with more resources and education about the university experience.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
I plan on enforcing the provincial governments to keep their promises on transit and tuition in the upcoming provincial election.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Wicked Thai Soup at Mac’s
Nick Tang for director-at-large (EDGE UVic)
Nick Tang is running with the EDGE UVic slate for one of 11 director-at-large positions on the UVSS board. He is one of 12 candidates for the positions. Below are the questions the Martlet sent him and his responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
I am studying in the faculty of Science at UVic this year.
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I am affiliated with School District 68 and the Salvation Army of Nanaimo.
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
I have attended one UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meeting.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I expect the SUB renovations to be superb! The current board is doing a fantastic job and has already put a lot of effort and time to make this project one of a kind.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
I believe the SUB is quite accessible to all students and people that use the resources within the building.
How are you with policy?
I understand a majority of the policies within UVSS and will work towards working under all regulations if elected as a Director-at-Large.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
I will make sure students have the right to know how the process in decision making is made and allow for students to ask any type of questions regarding UVSS.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
If I was elected, my personal goals would include learning to become a better leader from all the executives and fellow other DaLs (directors-at-large) and continue to stand for my own values to make UVSS bigger and better.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
I wish to continue to advocate for all UVSS advocacy groups and support the campaigns of my interests.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
If I am elected as a director-at-large, I will work towards 20 hours a week for the student society.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
I would not have changed much from what the existing BoD did this year as I have truly enjoyed my first year here at UVic.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
I plan to inform students of upcoming referendums and lobbying campaigns through stations at events and allow them to gain more knowledge on what is currently happening.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Caps sandwich!
Taylor Verrall for director-at-large (Ignite UVic)
Taylor Verrall is running with the Ignite UVic slate for one of 11 director-at-large positions on the UVSS board. He is one of 12 candidates for the positions. Below are the questions the Martlet sent him and his responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
political sciences
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
Undergraduates of political science, UVic young liberals
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
One
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
The SUB’s renovation should be as absolutely cost-effective as possible as well as be redesigned with the intentions of bringing in food and beverage franchises, both major and local. We should strive to ensure that the SUB ends up becoming a more profitable entity so the UVSS can begin to transfer away from student fees as a means of raising funds.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
The SUB is accessible.
How are you with policy?
I’ve got a very solid grasp of policy, both existing and new policies I’d like to bring in. I can discuss matters relating to finances, school spirit, events, free speech, food services, residences, long-term vision, etc etc etc.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
The key is outreach. Board members should do their due diligence to ensure that students are aware of what is going on, what matters are being discussed, what proposals are on the table etc.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
The slate goals are my personal goals. I want to bring food and beverage franchises to campus, lower student fees, have a FROSH week that rivals the best in Canada and ensure that the library is open later.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
I don’t believe it should be the job of the UVSS (an organization which is comprised of all students) to promote campaigns which some students may agree or disagree with. It’s unfair to take money from students in the form of student fees (which students have no choice over) and then spend it on partisan, political issues. I would vote to end all funding to any sort of political campaigns propagated by the UVSS.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
I don’t think that a certain number of hours is as important as how hard you will work to get results. The reality is that I have a number of goals I wish to accomplish and if I can get those accomplished by putting in only a few hours a week then so it will be.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
There are many matters which I would have done differently, but to pinpoint one, I would have never voted to censor the Catholic Students Association. Bear in mind that as an agnostic I don’t hold any vested interest in this matter, but the CSA as an organization has every right to free speech. In my eyes, they owe nobody an apology and should never feel bad for promoting themselves and their values. The UVSS should not be used as a means to censor groups we disagree with, rather it should be an organization which promotes a diversity of opinions including those of the CSA.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
Ignite UVic have five candidates for Senate and two candidates for Board of Governors (I’m running for both). We believe the best way to begin meaningful dialogues with the university is to have people on boards at all levels.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
Toughest question of all, but probably the hedgehogs at Biblio’s. Mind you, if Ignite is elected we will assure that students will have a wide range of snack options to choose from.
Kieran Wilson for director-at-large (Ignite UVic)
Kieran Wilson is running with the Ignite UVic slate for one of 11 director-at-large positions on the UVSS board. He is one of 12 candidates for the positions. Below are the questions the Martlet sent him and his responses.
What are your areas of study at UVic?
Political Science
What other clubs or organizations are you affiliated with?
I am involved in the Political Science Course Union.
How many UVSS Board of Directors (BoD) meetings have you attended?
Two or three. Mostly last year before the election.
What thoughts and expectations do you have regarding renovations to the Student Union Building (SUB) during the 2013–2014 term of office?
I think that the renovations should reflect the wishes of the students, while maintaining low building costs.
What is your position on accessibility in the SUB?
While there have been a lot of efforts made to make the SUB accessible, there can always be improvements.
How are you with policy?
Some of our current policy is inefficient and one-sided. I will work to maintain balance in the UVSS.
How will the board ensure transparency if you are elected?
Outline the motions made and hold more referenda to ensure we reflect student opinion.
Other than slate or platform items, do you have any more personal goals you hope to achieve in your capacity as a director if you’re elected?
I want to improve the frequency and quality of events on campus. I also want to look at ways in bringing more popular restaurants to campus.
What student campaigns do you wish to support and further?
The campaign to kick the CFS off campus, and the campaign to return control of the Engineering Student Society’s budget, to the ESS.
How many hours each week will you work in this position if you’re elected?
Minimum of 10 hours a week, more depending on the status of projects I will be working on.
What would you have done differently this year compared to the existing BoD?
Not suppress students’ right to free speech, and encourage student life on campus.
How do you plan to engage with the university and government to effect change?
Promote more student involvement with local politics, including a campus-wide campaign on the importance of voting.
What’s your favourite snack to get on campus?
The California Chicken Wrap in the SUB
