CANDIDATES – GE2026

I’m Gabriela Dziegielewska, a 5th year B.Sc. student, and I’m running to be your next SU President!

I’ve fought for you as VP Academic, improved my faculty as Science Rep, and learned the ins-and-outs of government as a constituency assistant for the Calgary-Varsity MLA.

I believe the SU can serve students well, but it has lost its focus. I will restore vision and a sense of fight to the SU. Here’s my plan to fight for you.

1. Standing up for Students 
   1. Mobilize students to defend the 2% tuition cap and reduce international tuition increases.
   2. Mount aggressive campaigns to secure provincial funding for student employment programs, campus maintenance, and making undergraduates eligible for Alberta Student Grants.
   3. Fight for affordable student housing in University District through the SU President’s UCalgary Properties Group seat and relationships with housing providers.
   4. Utilize every SU resource to fight any use of the notwithstanding clause to crush students’ protest rights.
2. Quality of Student Life
   1. Overhaul the SU Clubs Office by:
      1. Decreasing the minimum notice for event requests from 3 to 2 weeks.
      2. Ending the requirement for returning executives to complete ClubHub 101.
      3. Increasing the Club Activities Fund and removing the $100 per event spending maximum.
   2. Use the SU’s clubs and alumni network to disrupt the university’s current effort to eliminate the SU Quality Money Fund.
   3. Cut low-impact SU events (dw, puppy therapy’s safe) to restore the SU Breakfast Program and other direct student supports.
3. Academic Wellbeing
   1. Use the SU’s Board of Governors seat to free up funding for quality of education improvements by restricting the university’s wasteful consultant spending.
   2. Crack down on paywalled assignments and other academic rights violations.
   3. Explore adding one additional day off per semester to accommodate one holiday each for Muslim and Jewish students.
4. The Future of MacHall
   1. Build more study and club spaces and increase food options by leveraging the SU’s MacHall survey results to guide the expansion of MacHall.
   2. Fight university attempts to erode the SU’s MacHall management rights during upcoming contract negotiations.

My name is Michael Harris, and I am running to be your Student Union President to represent students who are tired of paying more, being heard less, and watching decisions get made without them. I am a third-year political science major and President of Students for Liberty UofC. I have spent my time in federal and provincial politics advocating for individual liberty, freedom of speech, and pushing back against the growing authoritarianism on campus. I believe the Students Union should exist for one reason: to serve students, not administrators, not politicians, and not their own paychecks.

Students are being squeezed from every direction. Tuition keeps rising, student fees quietly increase, and yet students have less transparency in how their money is spent.

Lower Tuition & Student Fees

• Oppose unnecessary student fees and demand full transparency on where student money goes
• Fight to reduce the financial burden on students, balance the Student Union budget and decrease Student Union fees

Students should not feel disconnected from the people representing them.

Real Student Representation

• Bring back regular presidential town halls and open forums
• Create direct channels for students to raise concerns without administrative filtering
• Pushing back against the growing violent authoritarianism on campus

Freedom of speech on campus is non-negotiable. Universities should be places of open debate, not ideological enforcement. I will defend the right of students to speak, organize, and express differing views without fear of the hammer of Edmonton or Ottawa.

Freedom of Speech on Campus

• Defend free expression, assembly and peace on campus
• Oppose deplatforming, ideological enforcement, and speech restrictions
• Protect students right to organize, debate, and speak without fear

Finally, the Student Union must stop acting passively when tuition rises. That means applying real pressure, publicly and politically, against tuition hikes, working with other student groups, using my connections within the UCP and NDP to demand that the government stop treating students as a revenue source.

Students deserve representation that is principled, accessible, and willing to say no. That is what I intend to bring.

Hey UCalgary!

I’m Julia Law, a Design in City Innovation student, and I am running to be your SU President.

This year, I’ve been proud to be your VP External. I’ve represented you to an Expert Panel on Alberta Post-Secondaries and organized a Get Out The Vote campaign that included the only all-candidate Ward 7 forum. My advocacy for student issues lead to the International Student tuition cap dropping to 5% and helped to increase funding for non-market housing in Calgary’s Budget 2026.

I’m running for President because I’m still locked in for students and this time, I’m aiming to continue improving student life, both on and off campus.

Connect & Communicate with Students

• Create “The President’s Series,” a bi-weekly video that updates students on all things SU in under 2 minutes.
• Continue consulting students and clubs on the MacHall expansion, ensuring development considers all students’ needs, including faith spaces, places to study, and areas for socializing.
• Strengthen connections with off-campus students by hosting and engaging in more satellite campus events.

Make Post-Secondary Affordable and Accessible

• Oppose all tuition increases and push the University to publicly advocate for increased post-secondary funding.
• Urge the Province to provide clearer timelines on changes to post-secondaries, including new funding frameworks and tuition models.
• Advocate for equitable student financial support including the permanent expansion of Canada Student Grants and digital processing for part-time student loans.
• Pressure University facilities to address inaccessible spaces across campus.

Improve Student Quality of Life

• Push for more affordable housing across Calgary, especially near campus and transit.
• Call on the City to freeze the UPass fare or extend low-income pass eligibility to students.
• Collaborate with other organizations on a campaign addressing youth unemployment and summer jobs.
• Push for greater diversity of on-campus food options, including in MacHall.
• Urge the University to expand SafeWalk on satellite campuses, including extending downtown

On March 3^rd-5^th, vote Julia Law for SU President, and follow my campaign on … Instagram @jlaw4pres! 

Still locked in for students. It is the Law, after all.

Hey UCalgary!

My name is Zoe Zeritsch, and I am an honours biochemistry student here at UofC. I am honoured to be running to serve as your next SU VP Academic.

In my time at UofC so far, I’ve been invested in how academic policy, clarity and accessibility plays a role in the post-secondary experience. I’ve had my own experiences with advising struggles and deadline pileups, and it’s because of that that I want to make a change here on campus.

If elected, I will push forward student academic issues, ensuring that every Ucalgary student is treated equitably and fair. As your VP Academic, I would:

Improve class accessibility, learning environments, and open-access resources

• Advocate for wellness days and flexible deadlines that can be used at the student’s discretion to lower incentive for students to come to class unwell.
• Consult students on hybrid learning opportunities and promote accommodations for all learning styles, including alternative assessment options.
• Pressure the university to establish an AI usage policy to address the growth in AI use on campus and clarify when it should be used in course materials.
• Urge coordinators to utilize open-access resources and to limit mandatory course expenditures.

Tackle advising, enrolment, and program transparency

• Improve clarity revolving around program advising, implementing an easier-to-follow system allowing students to monitor degree progression.
• Alter seat allocation, ensuring students have the ability to take required classes so that degree progression is not interrupted.
• Ensure proper student consultation on degree requirement modifications and maintenance of certain programs, so students don’t feel blind-sided by changing program components.
• Push for all graded components to be released before final examination, ensuring students have a good grasp of their preliminary stance in the class.

Improve access to research, internships, and experiential learning opportunities

• Ensure all students have access to research, practicum, and internship experience and improve clarity revolving around accessing experiential learning resources.
• Push for higher funding for experiential learning opportunities and advocate for an increase in research awards and funding for undergraduate students.

Coffee Brewing, Pot Boiling, Pan Sizzling, Let’s Get Cooking! Hello UCalgary students, my name is Mahad Rzain and I’m a third-year Law and Society Student with a Psychology minor. I’ve already crafted some amazing arts dishes as a Faculty of Arts Representative, and now it is time for me to prepare some delicious advocacy cuisine as your next Vice President External! Like any great dish, I’ve got some secret ingredients to keep you coming back for more.

Tuition

Tuition is a substantial burden for many students. I aim to alleviate this by advocating for:

1. Increasing Canada Student Grants from $4,200 to $5,000.
2. Aligning UCalgary’s tuition practices with the recommendations of the Mintz Report, such as advocating for stable tuition rates throughout students’ programs.
3. Alongside other Students’ Unions, increases to provincial government spending for post-secondary institutions.
4. Alternate ways to reduce the burden of student loans such as zero-interest provincial student loans (zero-interest federal student loans already exist).

Housing and Student Employment

Students shouldn’t have to stress about placing a roof over their heads and their source of income, midterms already offer enough stress! I hope to:

1. Push for more affordable housing options and resources that inform students about housing options.
2. Participate in meetings at the municipal level to advocate for more opportunities for city employment and more transit access.
3. Cook up a Housing and Employment Guide to help students in navigating their search.

Access to Politics and Mental Health:

Students need a reliable representative and accessible mental health resources. I intend to:

1. Advocate for student interests at the federal, provincial and municipal level, and to report on my activities to help students understand key developments.
2. Enhance student engagement in politics through methods such as social media materials, town halls and formulating a Guide to Getting Involved in Politics.
3. Advocate for increased funding and availability of mental health resources catered for students.
4. Craft a Mental Health Resources Guide.

Thank you so much for reading my platform and remember You Gain with Rzain!

Email: mahad.rzain@ucalgary.ca
Instagram: rzain4vpex

Hello fellow students! My name is Abdulrahman Negmeldin, and I am a third-year Computer Science student and your current Science Representative. I am running to be your next Vice President Internal.

Mental Health

Student wellbeing should be treated as a priority, not an afterthought. I will advocate for improved access to mental health support by working to reduce barriers to care. I will push for clearer communication about mental health services, so students know where to turn when they need support, especially during high-stress periods such as midterms and finals.

Valuing Student Voices

Every student deserves to be heard, especially when decisions directly affect their academic experience. During my time as Science Representative, I regularly spoke with students and ran a survey to better understand their concerns. As Vice President Internal, I will work to strengthen direct lines of communication between students and the Students’ Union, especially with other student leadership groups.

Student Experience

1. As the student population continues to grow, campus spaces have become increasingly crowded. I will advocate for more study and social spaces across campus, as these spaces are central to the university experience. Additionally, our campus is home to a diverse range of faith and spirituality groups. While spaces like the Mac Hall Multi-Faith Room and Vitruvian Space have served students well, they are often at capacity. I will advocate for the use of suitable classrooms in accessible locations as additional multi-faith spaces when not in use.
2. Student services are a cornerstone of a positive student experience. I will advocate for services that are inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the needs of all students. Building on ongoing efforts, I will work to support the establishment of an International Students’ Association to better represent international student voices and connect them with the support and resources they need.
3. Clubs play a vital role in building community and belonging on campus. In recent years, it has become increasingly difficult to manage the vast clubs that exist on campus. I will try to find feasible improvements that can better support both clubs and administrators.

Hi, Faculty of Arts! My name is Davina Elesin. I am a Nigerian international student in my 2nd year of International Relations, with a minor in Health and Society. I am in Scholars Academy and an Associate Director of Academics and Advocacy in the Faculty of Arts Students Association (FASA). I am running to be your next Faculty of Arts representative.

Professional development, mentorship, affordability, and equity: these shouldn’t be ‘challenges,’ yet for many of us, they are. I have experienced these gaps personally and seen how they hinder our potential. These challenges have affected students before us, and will continue to affect students after us unless we stand for a change.

If I am elected, I will address:

Tuition and Affordability-

Raise students’ concerns on tuition affordability to the Dean’s office and hold them accountable to provide us with value for our tuition.

Advocate to safeguard the funding our faculty needs to thrive and address funding cuts affecting Arts’ programs and classes caused by the Arts Curriculum Renewal program.

Professional development- 

Host Career Fairs with the Centre for Career and Professional Development that highlight the variety of interests within our faculty.

Connect a cohort of dedicated students with professionals in Calgary and across Canada to receive formal mentorship in the careers they aspire to pursue after university.

Equity for all students- 

Collaborate with International Student Services and the Office of Student Experience to improve international student welfare and create a social association to encourage networking.

Advocate for equitable resources for EDIA and underrepresented students.

Working in the SU to represent Arts interests will amplify these efforts, ensuring we all benefit from shared solutions. Join me in being that change we want to see. Vote for Davina Elesin from 9 am on March 3rd to 5 pm on March 5th.

I am running for Faculty of Arts Representative because I believe representation is about more than holding a title; it is about using your voice to advocate, uplift, and create real change. As a woman in the Faculty of Arts, I understand what it means to navigate academic and institutional spaces that have not always been built with us in mind. I also understand the importance of being heard, supported, and respected, and I am committed to ensuring that Arts students feel represented in meaningful and lasting ways.

If elected, my priority will be to advocate for students with intention and accountability. This means bringing forward student concerns and ensuring they are taken seriously, championing equity and inclusion by amplifying marginalized voices, and fostering transparency so students are informed and involved in decisions that affect them. I believe the Faculty of Arts is strongest when students feel connected to their community and confident that their representatives are working for them.

I am not running because I have all the answers, but because I listen, I care, and I am willing to do the work. To me, leadership is collaborative and rooted in empathy, integrity, and action. I want to be a representative who reflects the creativity, resilience, and diversity of the Faculty of Arts, and who works tirelessly to make sure student voices shape the future of our faculty.

Hi, I’m Xander Halsey-Dam, a BA student in linguistics, and I am working hard to earn your vote for SU Arts representative. Over my four years at UofC, I have come to appreciate the importance of a strong, supportive SU. If you struggle with academics, unaffordability, and finding employment as an arts student, I am the candidate for you. As your arts rep, I promise to:

1. Target Affordability: I plan to utilize SU programs like the Quality Money Fund, as well as external endowments and memorial funds to establish a needs-based bursary system to give financial aid to the students who need it the most.
2. Fight Tuition Increases: As your arts rep, I will mobilize arts clubs and student groups like FASA to organize student strikes to force the administration to the negotiating table.
3. Standardize Course Outlines: I will work with faculty leaders to create a standardized template for course outlines in all arts classes, which will include resources to access both academic and non-academic support.
4. Expand Academic Assistance in the Arts: I will advocate for the establishment of academic assistance programs, similar to PASS, tailored to arts classes in areas including academic writing, theoretical frameworks, and exam prep.
5. Build Bridges with Arts Employers: I will work with faculty to demonstrate the value, skills and experience of arts students and to build long-term partnerships with employers to ensure accessible employment opportunities for arts students and graduates.
6. Strengthen Services for Marginalized Students: I will advocate for greater resources and funding for campus organizations providing services and relief to students facing harassment or discrimination such as the Q center and the sexual and gender-based violence prevention and support office.

Students need the structure to build solidarity and support one another. I aim to be part of a movement of students across Alberta to use our collective power for change. I’m here to serve you, the students, and create a thriving student body where we support one another.

Hello Fellow Arts Students!

My name is Abbas Hussain, and as a third-year double major in International Relations and Economics, I’m extremely excited to be running to be your Faculty of Arts representative for the 84^th SLC. My aim is to serve as your voice and advocate for you, on the issues that matter to you the most, as well as enhance the campus experience!

1. Ensuring transparency in the changes made to the Arts Programs
   • Working to help ensure that the renewal process works out for students
   • Advocating ways to create a direct feedback loop between the Arts faculty and the student body
   • Maintaining a clear and accessible timeline of all upcoming program shifts
2. Cultivating Academic and Professional Development
   • Advocate for better and more personalized student advising
   • Work with FASA and the Career for Professional Development Centre to continue career development, advising and creating more career fairs for students
   • Promoting opportunities for students to enhance their degree, through summer research programs and & on-campus internships.
3. Fostering a Thriving Arts Community
   • Promoting Clubs on Campus More, and helping enable deeper collaboration between clubs, FASA and other stakeholders
   • Raise awareness about the Tri-Media Alliance, which includes CJSW, NUTV and The Gauntlet, and the opportunities it provides for people, as well as ensure more collaboration between the SU and Tri-Media
   • Organize interdisciplinary mixers and social events to build stronger connections across different Arts departments and combat student isolation.

To conclude, my candidacy for the Faculty of Arts reflects a deep commitment to making positive change and advocacy for all students in the Faculty of Arts. My experiences on campus, my expertise in Arts Programs and unwavering commitment to addressing the issues by our student community make me a well-positioned candidate for this role. Looking forward to chatting with you, and feel free to email me at … abbas.hussain@ucalgary.ca if you have any concerns or questions as I would absolutely love to hear them!

My name is Paul Mackay, and I am running to serve as the Faculty of Arts representative on the Students’ Union at the University of Calgary.

I am committed to strengthening communication between Arts students and the SU to ensure student concerns are clearly heard and effectively addressed. I also aim to support and expand academic, professional, and networking opportunities that help Arts students build connections and prepare for life beyond university. My goal is to provide consistent, transparent, and practical representation for all Arts students.

My name is Brent Rancier and I am a 4^th-year Communications student. As a student in this faculty, I understand the challenges we face and am committed to making tangible improvements to our academic and social experience.  My platform focuses on three main objectives are the My name is Brent Rancier, and I am a 4th-year Communications student. As a student in this faculty, I understand the challenges we face and am committed to making tangible improvements to our academic and social experience. My platform focuses on three main objectives. The first is Expanded Course Availability, adding more sections of high-demand Arts classes to reduce graduation delays. My second advocacy is Club Promotion, increasing the visibility of faculty clubs to help students find community and networking opportunities. My final objective is to establish direct feedback channels and town halls to ensure students in the Arts faculty are heard by the SU.graduation delays. My second advocacy is Club Promotion to increase the visibility of faculty clubs to help students find community and networking opportunities. My final objective is to establish direct feedback channels and town halls to ensure students in the arts faculty are heard by the SU.

As a CRDS student and current Students’ Union Senator, I have seen how easily smaller programs can be overlooked in large faculty conversations. My platform centers on practical, visible change through three priorities: fair representation, meaningful integration, and accessibility through understanding.

Fair Representation for Smaller Programs

Students in CRDS and HSOC deserve to know their concerns are heard before decisions are made, not after. I will host program-specific listening hours each term so students have a dedicated space to raise issues early. When advocating at the Student Legislative Council and with faculty leadership, I will clearly identify which programs are affected to ensure smaller groups are not absorbed into majority narratives. After meetings, I will provide plain-language updates outlining what students raised, what actions were taken, and what comes next. I will also maintain an ongoing feedback channel for students who may not feel comfortable speaking in larger forums.

Integration Without Erasure

Collaboration should expand opportunities without forcing students into a single academic mold. I will advocate for opening under-enrolled courses across the Cumming School of Medicine when appropriate, reducing waitlists while maximizing access. I plan to organize targeted “pathways” panels showcasing the diverse futures of CRDS, BHSc, and MD students, from policy and research to community leadership and clinical care. Casual meetups on campus will help students feel connected to the faculty regardless of where their classes are held, while a centralized collaboration hub will highlight research roles, placements, and student initiatives.

Accessibility Through Understanding

Accessibility is not only about accommodations; it is about clarity, predictability, and respect for student capacity. I will advocate for clearer course expectations at the start of each term, encourage plain-language faculty communication, and promote accessibility checklists for events. Most importantly, I will push for proactive structures such as flexible participation options and multiple ways to engage, so fewer students feel the need to constantly explain their circumstances. A student-informed feedback loop will ensure barriers are addressed transparently.

Hello CSM students! My name is Nikhil Srivalsan, and it has been an honour to serve as your Cumming School of Medicine Faculty Representative this past year. I am re-running to continue delivering effective, results-oriented advocacy grounded in student feedback and faculty-level action.

What I’ve Delivered This Term

• Established a faculty-level D2L communication channel using the SFLC D2L shell, creating a direct and reliable line of communication between faculty representatives and students to share SU updates, wellness programming, and advocacy progress.
• Advocated for clearer assignment instructions and rubric transparency, raising student concerns directly with the Associate Dean and faculty leadership to improve accountability in assessments and ensure feedback is meaningfully used to inform course design.
• Spearheaded the inaugural Med Rep–led Foothills Wellness Week, partnering with the Student Advocacy and Wellness Hub, Working Our Way to Wellness, and Kinetix to deliver accessible, schedule-conscious wellness programming at Foothills.
• Advanced transportation advocacy, including sustained work toward a summer UPass for CSM students, recognizing that medical students maintain full course loads year-round yet lack equitable transit access.
• Elevated student concerns at faculty decision-making tables, including CSM Faculty Council, while maintaining consistent engagement with CMSA, BMSA, BHSc leadership, and individual students through drop-ins and direct outreach.

What I Will Deliver Next

• Expand the D2L communication model across the faculty, strengthening transparency and ensuring students consistently know what advocacy is happening on their behalf.
• Formalize a clearer, more accountable assessment feedback loop, advocating for a streamlined process where student feedback leads to tangible course improvements.
• Continue UPass advocacy for medical and research students, and push for fair transportation and parking considerations for those based at Foothills.
• Advocate for improved support during rural clinical placements, including housing equity and reduced financial barriers for medical learners.
• Institutionalize Foothills-based wellness programming, ensuring faculty-specific initiatives continue beyond individual terms.

I believe strong representation is visible, informed, and accountable. I’m proud of the work completed this year and excited to continue advocating with experience, momentum, and clear priorities.

If you have questions or ideas, feel free to reach out at … nikhil.srivalsan@ucalgary.ca.

Vote Nikhil Srivalsan for proven advocacy and continued results.

My name is Cooper Joy, and my goal is to be a strong, reliable voice for students by advocating for transparency, accessibility, and meaningful student input in faculty-level decisions. I am committed to improving communication between students and the administration, supporting initiatives that enhance academic and professional development, and ensuring that student concerns are heard and addressed. As a faculty representative, I will work to plan more accessible networking events to help students connect with more industry professionals. I will also advocate for greater transparency around tuition and explore avenues to reduce or offset student costs. By listening to student perspectives and working collaboratively with faculty and student leaders, I aim to help strengthen the Haskayne experience for all students.

Hello! My name is Elias Karayiannis, and I am running to serve as your Haskayne Student Representative. I am advocating for increased transparency around student costs and free access to transcripts and information. I want to ensure that students’ voices are heard across the board and your needs are communicated effectively on all levels of administration, both internally and externally, as well as with the greater Calgary area and beyond.

I am committed to building on student relationships, working to prioritize engagement, inclusivity and accessibility. Students deserve greater opportunities, which I intend to deliver, with increased access to internships, resume-building and career workshops, and working to minimize cost to students while maximizing benefits.

Hey Haskayne!

My name is Zahra Qazi, I’m a third-year student in International Business Strategy, and I am so excited to announce my candidacy for Faculty Representative! My primary focus is on practical change, transparency, and student well-being. I’m running to make sure Haskayne works for students, not the other way around.

1. Transparency, Fairness and Better Infrastructure

Students shouldn’t be surprised by costs or distracted by broken infrastructure. I will push for upfront disclosure of all course costs and eliminate hidden fees. I’ll advocate for real fixes to Wi-Fi, additional study spaces, and tech issues so that we’re no longer worrying about whether the outlet by our desk works or not.

2. Support That Actually Helps for ALL years

University is hard, support should make it easier, not harder to find. I will advocate for more PASS sessions, peer tutoring, and exam support because we all know how helpful they are for tougher classes, and there is currently a sever lack of them for upper-year courses. We need clearer expectations of what we’re taught and assessed on in order to ensure that students are excelling.

3. A Haskayne That Feels Human

Business School shouldn’t come at the cost of our well-being. Sometimes, we need to prioritize students and NOT hustle culture. I will advocate for dedicated de-stress and wellness spaces in Haskayne, as well as initiatives that improve shared spaces and hygiene so that every corner of Haskayne feels welcoming and clean.

Haskayne is full of capable and driven students. We all deserve a faculty that is transparent, supportive, and puts students first. Let’s work together to make that possible!

Feel free to reach out via email … zahra.qazi@ucalgary.ca

Vote Zahra Qazi for Faculty Representative

Hey Knes! My name is Esther Famurewa, I am a third-year Exercise and Health Physiology major, and I am running to be your Faculty of Kinesiology SU Representative.

I have had the honour to serve as your Student Discussion Leader on our faculty’s EDIA committee, a committee that has brought forth many initiatives, such as the women’s only workout time through active living, and most recently, a free snack cabinet. Through these student discussions, I’ve had the honour of hearing your voices, and I look forward to continuing to do that.

Scholarships

Our faculty currently doesn’t have many scholarship opportunities for kinesiology students. Fundraising and strategizing for this is something that the EDIA Committee has been working on since before I joined. I plan to utilize SU opportunities to help support the committee on this scholarship initiative.

Representation and continued creation of Inclusive spaces

Our faculty is filled with many people who have unique experiences, stories and backgrounds. While those before me have done an excellent job in the advancement of inclusive spaces, our faculty still has some identifiable gaps in representation. I recently had the privilege of facilitating a student discussion surrounding Indigenous Sport and a new course. One thing that stood out was how we can better support Indigenous athletes and sport within our faculty. This is something I look forward to taking on with Indigenous student athletes if elected.

I am dedicated to having an inclusive and representative faculty and creating spaces where everyone can feel safe, comfortable, and included, being exactly who they are.

As your faculty rep, I will be the liaison between our faculty and what happens in the broader university community through the SU. If elected, I plan to stay as a member of the KNES EDIA Committee throughout my time in office, so that I can continue to listen to your voices and mobilize them into real and tangible solutions.

I maintain an open line of communication and can be reached by email at … esther.famurewa@ucalgary.ca, or I’m always down for a quick hallway chat!

Hey Kines! My name is Vicky Iyalomhe, a second-year Kinesiology student, and I am excited to announce that I am running to be your next Faculty of Kinesiology Representative! As you read through my focuses, I hope you gain a clearer picture of what I stand for, and that it encourages you to vote for me!

Strong advocation for more and/or bigger KNES courses to meet students’ needs for graduation:

As a second-year student, I have already had conversations with other students about the frustrations about not being able to get into a required course simply because its full. I cannot imagine how much more frustrating it must be for students preparing to graduate soon. This shouldn’t be an accepted norm for us, especially as the faculty grows every year. Where it is applicable, I want to advocate for bigger and/or more courses so we can all be rest assured that we are meeting our graduation requirements right on time.

I want to further EDIA initiates by providing POC kinesiology students with support systems:

As a black woman, I completely understand the strong influence of representation in spaces where people like you are not as visible. Continuing with the mentorship opportunities that are already present in the faculty, I want to connect students with mentors of colour to promote professional and personal advancement, foster a sense of belonging, and access to networks.

Increasing transparent and accessible communication with kinesiology students:

You deserve to be informed about what affects you, whether indirectly or directly. I want to provide monthly recaps on the behind the scenes work in SU, utilizing social media presence to reach students. Let the information find YOU, not the other way around.

I am committed to not only making your voice heard, but that actions follows it.

Vote Vicky Iyalomhe for Faculty of Kinesiology Rep!

HEY KINES!

My name is Noah Karmali, and I’m super excited to run for your Faculty of Kinesiology Rep! This year, I’ve had the pleasure of being your Kinesiology Students’ Society VP Academic, where I focused on building up the Peer Tutoring Program and Kindustry, and highlighted opportunities for Kinesiology students to get involved in mentorship and research. With your support, I intend to introduce realistic and achievable projects to further improve the student experience in our faculty.

Expanding pathways for networking, jobs, and opportunities

This year, my most important goal was to create more academic opportunities for you. With your feedback, the Kinesiology Alumni Mentorship Program was launched, and if elected, I’ll scale up the program to allow more students to get involved. I will also work with the faculty to make research opportunities and summer studentships more visible, and forge partnerships with businesses and industry to create more volunteer and internship positions.

Better course weighting and fair spacing between exams

In some kinesiology courses, exams can be worth 30% or more, which doesn’t cater to the majority of students. Next year, with the faculty set to review curriculums, I will advocate for lower exam % weighting in these courses and more balanced assessments across assignments to fit the strengths of all students.

As we’ve seen over the past few years, course assignments and midterm exams are often clumped together with sometimes even 3-4 exams in a week! I’ll raise this concern with the faculty, and fight for more spacing when it comes to midterms and assignments. I’ll also advocate for more flexible deadlines and grace periods, especially during midterm season.

Improving student experience

UCalgary and our faculty have so many initiatives and resources that aren’t fully communicated to students, but could truly benefit you! If elected, I will raise more awareness about the mental health resources available on campus, and partner with the Centre for Career & Personal Development to host workshops on how to write resumes, CVs, and applications for graduate/professional school.

Vote Karmali 4 KINES, and let’s get things moving.

Instagram: karmali4knes
Email: noah.karmali@ucalgary.ca

Hi UCalgary Law!

My name is Mickail Hendi and I’m running to be your Students Union Faculty of Law representative!

I’m running because I see a disconnect between our faculty and the Students Union. Even though all of us are members of the SU, it can sometimes feel like we get nothing out of it. For this reason, I see this role as being equal parts Law representative at the SU and SU representative in the Law faculty. The SU does a lot of work that directly impacts students, such as mental health initiatives, food security programs, and club events funding. I would like to use my term to bridge that divide between the SU and our faculty, and to help law students realize the benefits of being part of the SU.

To me, bridging that divide means two things. Firstly, I plan to bring awareness to what the SU does for us. Seeing firsthand what the SU is able to offer us at the Faculty of Law is a really big step towards feeling like we’re part of a bigger campus culture. Second, and just as important, I will use my position as representative to advocate for more direct resources and opportunities directed towards law students. Being part of the SU can be a value added to our law school education, and I plan on finding ways to maximize this.

If you have any questions about the SU or my campaign, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at … mickail.hendi1@ucalgary.ca.

Hello! My name is Natasha, and I am a second-year nursing student, in the new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and the current Undergraduate Nursing Society (UNS) VIce President of Events. If elected, I will work to build a community and advocate for the initiatives that matter most to you.

Increased Notice of Clinical Placement

Nursing students know the value of being prepared. However, it can be hard for students to prepare for clinicals, when provided with short notice of placement. Therefore, I want to advocate for increased notice of clinical placement, so that students can enter their clinical experiences with confidence.

Initiatives for Skills Building and Career Growth

As the current UNS Events VP, I have helped to establish popular events for things like Naloxone training and blood drives. I hope to continue this work by expanding opportunities for students to engage in hands-on skills training to support and enhance their university education. I will advocate for continued funding for popular programs like ASPIRE and Naloxone training, as well as advocating to include new hands-on skills training, providing students with out-of-class opportunities to build their skills and resume.

Creating Continuity and Consistency in Clinical Expectations

It can be hard for both students and instructors to know what to expect from a new nursing program. Therefore, in this role, I hope to encourage consistency and continuity in clinical placements and labs by advocating for increased standardization for lab teachings and clinical skill assessment. This will ensure all students are evaluated and trained consistently, reducing students’ feelings of uncertainty surrounding clinicals and enhancing the continuity of skills training.

In addition to these initiatives, I commit to hosting consistent town halls for students to voice ideas and concerns and working with student organizations to promote student wellness and community. Other areas I plan to explore include creating more opportunities for undergraduate research opportunities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and supporting graduating students in preparing for the NCLEX through advocating for discounted learning materials.

Please feel free to reach out at … natasha.tenor@ucalgary.ca

Hello Schulich School of Engineering students,

My name is Jana Abdelrahman, and I’m a second-year Electrical Engineering student excited to announce my candidacy for Engineering Representative. Over the past two years at Schulich, I’ve experienced the challenges and opportunities that come with being an engineering student. From morning lectures to late-night labs, from circuit debugging to group design projects, I’ve learned that engineering is more than academics alone. It’s a community, a network, and an experience that shapes our future careers.

But I’ve also seen where we can do better.

After speaking with students across all years and majors, I’ve identified key areas where we, as a faculty, need stronger advocacy and meaningful action.

1. Lowering the Cost of Course Materials
   Engineering students face some of the highest textbook and equipment costs on campus. These expenses add up quickly. I will work toward:
   • Expanding open-source and low-cost textbook options
   • Increase the number of library textbook copies
   • Support equipment sharing, lab kit rentals, and used-material exchanges
   • Advocate for more bursaries and financial aid access
2. Better Academic Support Across All Departments
   Every engineering program has its own “hard courses,” whether it’s circuits, statics, data structures, thermodynamics, fluids, or digital logic. Students shouldn’t have to struggle in silence. I will push for:
   • Early-semester workshops for high failure rate courses
   • Peer mentorship between years and across majors
   • More communication between instructors/coordinators and students

3. Accessible and Visible Co-op Opportunities
   Co-op is one of the most valuable parts of engineering, yet many students feel unprepared or unaware of how to navigate it. I will work to:
   • Bring co-op advisors directly into core classes
   • Highlight internships available to students
   • Promote skill-building resources for competitive applications
   • Push for expanded placement opportunities across all majors

As a second-year student, I understand the pressure, the balance, the workload, and the transition from first-year to specialization. I’ve learned that the best engineering comes from listening, improving, and iterating. That’s exactly how I hope to serve you.

I am running because I believe we deserve support, clarity, and leadership that is present, engaged, and genuinely invested in our success.

Hello! My name is Khadiza Binte Ahsan, and I’m running to turn student concerns into action! I want to represent Schulich engineering students with clarity, accessibility, and meaningful follow-through. Through navigating heavy course loads, internship, and complex academic systems, I’ve seen how easily students can feel unsupported or excluded from important conversations.

If elected, I will advocate for more flexible and accessible course options during the Spring and Summer terms, including increased online offerings. Many engineering students balance academics with work, internships, research, and personal responsibilities, and our course structures should reflect those realities.

Supporting students from all backgrounds is a priority for me. I will advocate for the Engineering Student Centre to be better equipped to support diverse student needs, particularly for international students navigating internships, study abroad opportunities, and academic pathways. Accurate access to guidance should not depend on prior knowledge of the system.

I will also push for better access to information by advocating for a centralized portal that consolidates events, opportunities, and deadlines. Students should be able to easily discover opportunities and track what is relevant to them without searching across multiple platforms or poster boards.

Finally, I will also work to establish a year-round feedback mechanism for engineering students, so concerns and suggestions can be shared consistently, not just during limited periods. Representation should be ongoing, and students deserve to know their voices are being heard and brought forward in a timely way.

I believe effective representation is built on listening, transparency, and consistent advocacy. I am committed to representing Schulich students with care, accountability, and a focus on practical, visible improvements that make student life more navigable and inclusive.

Hey there science students!

My name is Warren Hamill, and I am stoked to announce my candidacy to represent YOU! I am a third-year environmental science student who wants to show up and put in the work. Here’s a glimpse of how I’ll do that:

Faculty Club

My first goal is to create a faculty club for all science students. This way, we can host faculty wide events, streamline communication to all science students and develop a science feedback system (seem more info below!)

Printer in EEEL

Have you ever gotten to the lab building, just to realize that you didn’t print off a paper copy of your lab for that day? The closest printer to the lab building is in the Taylor Family Digital Library, which is a long walk away! Let’s change that by putting a printer in the Lab building to make sure you’re never running late again.

Science feedback
There are currently a limited number of options to give feedback about courses, professors, TAs or programs. I want to create an easy to use, simple and anonymous feedback system to make sure your voice is heard whenever you have feedback to give. This will be available year-round and can be about anything! You are the heart of the faculty and if you’ve got ideas-I want to know them!

Showing up

The life of a student is busy and hectic. Not everybody has time to go to every event, consultation or conference. While I encourage everybody to come to events such as tuition and more or Tuition and Fees consultation committee meetings, I understand that not everybody is able to attend. In the past I have noticed an absence of SU officials at these meetings. If I am elected, I will be there to represent you and your interests from tuition increases to student life, and everything in between.

Let’s make sure you have somebody in the SU who you know has your back – all year long.
Feel free to reach out about anything: …Warren.hamill@ucalgary.ca

Vote Warren for SU Science rep!

Hey scientists!

My name is Yansing Huang, and I’m a 2nd-year Neuroscience student running to be your next Faculty of Science Representative.

Through conversations with science students, I learned that out-of-Calgary students are often discouraged from pursuing research opportunities due to the high cost of living over the summer. To reduce this barrier, I submitted a funding proposal with the Financial Aid Office to secure $150,000 to create a scholarship that reimburses living expenses for students who need to relocate to conduct summer research.

I’m running because I want to bring more initiatives like this to the Faculty of Science—initiatives that reduce student costs, increase internship opportunities, and improve access to research.

AFFORDABILITY

• Submit a Sustainability Fund application and work with the SU to create a program that allows students to borrow chemistry model kits and other lab equipment for free instead of having to purchase them.

SCHOLARSHIPS

• Work with the Financial Aid Office to create more scholarships and bursaries available to science students through the Quality Money program.

RESEARCH

• Advocate to increase research awards (ex. PURE, NSERC…etc.) from $7,500 to $8,000, through both donor contributions and lab top-ups.
• Create a centralized, transparent listings of research opportunities so students can more easily find and apply for positions.

INTERNSHIPS

• Increase the presence of science internships in career fairs.
• Leverage federal government employment funding and collaborate with the Science Co-op program to create a more competitive job board.

FLEXIBLE DEADLINE

• Push for a policy granting students a 72-hour, penalty-free automatic extension on one assignment in any given course.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

• Host workshops and networking events that allow students to explore different career options in science, whether it be research, biotechnology, industry, government, medicine or law school.

;lSTUDENT VOICES

• Develop a faculty-wide consultation process to gather student input (e.g., tuition increases, PASS sessions, internships), connect this feedback to faculty leadership, and incorporate it into decisions that affect the student experience.

If you have any questions about my platform or have issues that you’d like me to advocate for, feel free to reach out to me at … yansing.huang@ucalgary.ca!

Hi Science students! My name is Sehaj, and I am a first-year Neuroscience major running to be your Faculty of Science Representative. My previous experience includes student council, Model United Nations, serving as an executive in the Chess Club, and volunteering in hospital settings.

I am running because I understand what students are experiencing — unclear professor instructions, overwhelming exam stress, burnout, and the financial pressure of balancing work and academics just to make ends meet. My platform focuses on turning these shared challenges into concrete action that improves the everyday student experience.

MENTAL HEALTH & WELL-BEING:

I will improve the visibility of mental health resources during midterms and finals, when stress and burnout are highest.

I am advocating for timely, centralized communication of support systems such as pet therapy, counselling, and Distress Centre services, specifically during exam periods.

Working with Faculty of Science departments and professors to share mental health resources through D2L and course communications is an initiative I will advocate for during my time in office.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT:

I will strengthen academic support beyond standard office hours, recognizing that many students continue to struggle after attending professor office hours.

I am advocating for expanded TA-led help centres, building on successful models like the Math Help Centre and existing physics TA support rooms.

Once elected, I will continue support for greater access to Open Educational Resources and increased awareness of free, library-based learning materials.

AFFORDABILITY & FINANCIAL SUPPORT

I am advocating for increased awareness and accessibility of bursaries, emergency funding, and Alberta Student Aid services for students.

Supporting financial literacy initiatives such as debt management and tax support sessions is crucial in reducing stress on students and is something I am pushing for.

I am advocating for a stronger, year-round partnership between the SU Food Bank and the Calgary Food Bank to improve food security.

This campaign isn’t about me, it’s about you. It’s about helping students like you succeed without sacrificing your well-being. I would be honoured to represent you and bring your concerns forward with care and accountability. Thank you and see you on election day!

Hey UCalgary Science Students!

I’m Carrar Saleh, a 3^rd year biochemistry student, and I am running to be your Faculty of Science Representative.

In my years at UofC so far, I’ve become accustomed to the struggles of being a science student. I’ve had weeks with five, sometimes even six, deadlines all at once. I’ve watched my tuition go up and up, with little relief. And most importantly, I’ve been in the dark about change, and who can make it.

That’s why I am running to be your Faculty of Science Representative. To provide solutions to these issues that I know so many of us are dealing with. If elected, I plan on focusing on three categories to make meaningful change for science.

Academic Flexibility

• Pressure science departments to coordinate deadlines, preventing the occurrence of paper/assignment due dates during exams.
• Fight for flexible deadline options in science courses, helping to alleviate the stress of midterms and finals.

Ensure Science Students are Connected

• Increase the activity of the Faculty of Science Representative Instagram page to ensure science students know what is going on in the SU.
• Ensure that the opinions and perspectives of science students are communicated, and considered, throughout the MacHall Expansion process.
• Pressure the University to increase consultation and communication about the Multi-Disciplinary Science Hub, so that all science students can have a say.
• Organize a science specific research-fair to help connect students with opportunities and promote previous research work.

Maintain Affordable Education

• Utilize the Tuition and Fees Consultation Committee’s visit to SLC to oppose all tuition increases and advocate for the opinions of science students.
• Fight against any proposed Exceptional Tuition Increases, ensuring that student dollars are not stolen.
• Work with the faculty to increase promotion of science scholarships and research opportunities.

On March 3^rd through 5^th, vote for Carrar Saleh on your UCalgary Student Portal.

My name is Sam McFetridge, and I am a first-year student in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program within the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Calgary. I am originally from Medicine Hat, Alberta. Prior to entering veterinary medicine, I completed three years of undergraduate studies in biochemistry at Medicine Hat College and the University of Calgary.

Through my involvement with the Calgary Association of Veterinary Students (CAVS) and my ongoing connections within the veterinary medicine cohort, I remain closely connected to student perspectives and day-to-day concerns. This engagement allows me to stay informed about emerging issues, communication gaps, and opportunities for improvement within the faculty. By maintaining these connections, I am well positioned to advocate effectively for veterinary medicine students and represent their interests in a meaningful and informed way.

If elected as the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Student Union Representative, my priorities would be:

Advocacy and Representation

To actively advocate for veterinary medicine students by listening to student concerns and ensuring they are communicated clearly and effectively to the appropriate faculty members and Student Union representatives. I am committed to keeping students informed on ongoing discussions and outcomes, and to serving as a reliable point of contact between the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and the Student Union.

Tuition and Clinical-Year Costs

To ensure veterinary student perspectives are represented in discussions surrounding tuition changes and the costs associated with fourth-year clinical rotations. These decisions have significant financial implications, and student input should be meaningfully considered.

Student Union Awareness and Accessibility

To improve awareness of Student Union services and resources available to veterinary students. Due to the Faculty’s location at Spy Hill Campus, veterinary students are often less exposed to SU services available on main campus. I aim to help bridge this gap and support better engagement with SU services and relevant SU Clubs.

I encourage you to make your voice heard by voting in this election. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions regarding my platform.

Email: … sam.mcfetridge@ucalgary.ca

Effective Communication, Tenacious, Actionable Change

My name is Siena Yee, and I am going into my final year of Education next year. I am very passionate about supporting my peers through advocacy and honoured to be a candidate for Werklund Faculty Representative this 2026 Students’ Union election. I am known by peers as kind, ambitious, and a great leader. Having been a Faculty Representative for Werklund for a year and a half, 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 and plan to continue to be the catalyst for positive change. I intend to create events where Werklund students get opportunities that the Students’ Union provides before students go on practicum, to help Werklund stay connected and have more of a sense of belonging. I hope to create initiatives that build a stronger community within Werklund and initiatives that help students de-stress.

In addition, I will continue to promote Students’ Union events, updates, and information so that Werklund students are informed and involved. I hope to improve student awareness, communication, and academic matters regarding students’ wellbeing, and welcoming students to exciting events to celebrate Werklund.

Thirdly, I intend to continue building stronger ties between the Students’ Union and the Werklund Faculty. I will continue to maintain consistent communication and advocacy between Deans, Associate Deans, and Werklund staff. This way, communication about policy changes, enhancements to structures for students, or anything that affects student campus life, will be current and timely. Furthermore, I aim to connect with Werklund students both online and in-person so that I am always current, informed and responsive to student concerns.

I would be honoured to be elected as your Faculty Representative for Werklund during the 2026 Students’ Union election. 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) – at your service.

Hello UCalgary,

My name is Aitazaz Shah, and I am running to be your next Student Representative on the University of Calgary Board of Governors!

For the past two years, I have served on the Students Legislative Council, where I have worked within university governance structures to raise student concerns, review proposals, and advocate for accountability in decision making. I am also the President of the MSA, the largest student club on campus, which gives me regular, direct contact with students across faculties and communities.

I am running because student representation should be grounded in listening, consistency, and follow through.

Bringing Student Perspectives into Board Decisions

Board decisions shape student life long after meetings end. I will focus on strengthening the connection between students and the Board by advocating for clearer communication, better explanation of outcomes, and more meaningful student input before major changes are finalized. Representation should not stop at consultation. Students deserve to see how their feedback translates into action.

Practical Support for Student Success

Through my work on campus, I have seen how gaps in support impact students differently. I will advocate for mental health and academic support systems that are easier to access, better coordinated, and more responsive to student realities. This includes improving pathways to accommodations, reducing barriers to services, and ensuring supports reflect the diversity of student experiences.

Financial Decisions That Put Students First

Cost pressures are real, but students should not absorb every financial shortfall. I will approach budget discussions with a focus on long term sustainability, questioning assumptions around tuition increases and pushing for clearer justification of fees. Students deserve transparency and confidence that financial decisions prioritize their needs.

Accountability That Leads to Action

As a Board representative, I will prioritize student interests, engage constructively with other members, and advocate for accountability in how commitments are implemented. Representation means staying engaged beyond votes and ensuring decisions result in meaningful change.

I bring two years of governance experience and strong connections to student communities across campus. If elected, I will represent students with care, clarity, and consistency.

March 3-5 Vote Shah for Governor!

My name is Ophelia Vecchione, and I am running to be one of your next University of Calgary Senate Representatives. In my second year of Kinesiology, I was honoured to be a panel speaker for the New Student Orientation and am the Co-President of the Breathe Easy SU club. Through my time working with students, I have learned that visibility, genuineness, and sincerity are key to strengthening trust among the student body.

I am a strong advocate for student well-being and mental health, and I believe in prioritizing health alongside excellence, not after. I want to improve your trust in university governance by utilizing available resources and acting as your voice to help you feel like you truly belong and can rely on the support available to you.

If elected, here is how I intend to do this:

1. Keep you informed about current Senate updates

The Senate connects us to the community and influences the university’s reputation. Unfortunately, for most students, the Senate is fully unheard of. You can’t benefit from a resource you don’t understand, so I aim to demystify its responsibilities and provide you with regular newsletters to update you on current discussions. By keeping you informed, we ensure that the student-community connection is a two-way street.

2. Advocate for higher-quality, more frequent wellness programming

While wellness programs exist on campus, a disconnect remains in how they reach students. I will advocate to make these resources more than just “available”, ensuring you feel cared for and supported every day you come to class.

3. Continue to recognize excellence with a broader, more holistic approach

This includes pushing for more scholarships to ensure leadership and genuine community impact are recognized just as highly as grades. By normalizing that success looks different in everyone, I want every student to know their potential to make a difference.

I ask that you vote Ophelia for Senate Rep this election and thank you all for being active members of the UCalgary community!