Niagara Region Transit (NRT)
The new U-Pass agreement was officially signed and returned to us on November 21. This agreement will be in effect starting Fall 2025 and run until April 2028.
BUSU GSV Advisory Committee
We held the first meeting of this committee, which had been inactive last year. I am collaborating with Katie Keays on this initiative. Together, we outlined the agenda and roadmap for the next three committee meetings.
- A call for student members went out in late September, with applications closing on October 7. All seven applicants were selected to join.
- During the first meeting, we reviewed the policy, selected co-chairs (I am one of three), presented an overview, and discussed next steps.
- The co-chairs plan to meet soon to explore ways to involve more campus departments in the committee’s work.
USAC Senate Presentation
On November 21, I successfully delivered a virtual presentation on BUSU to the USAC Senate Committee.
Strategic Plan Launch
Carleigh and I attended Brock University’s Strategic Plan launch. Carleigh, who played a pivotal role in the plan’s development, was invited as a panelist at the launch, providing a valuable student perspective.
BUSU was also invited to the International Strategic Plan Launch, which took place last week. I was able to be there on behalf of BUSU and was able hear the panelists who played a vital role in bringing the Strat plan together.
Events – Halloweek/ Wellness week/ Food security week/Night Market
Over the last month, there were several events that were held:
Halloweek: Featured Karaoke Night with lively performances and a costume contest, Paint It Your Way for creative relaxation, and a free ice cream event.
Wellness Week: The sold-out Puppy Yoga event, was a highlight, providing students with a much-needed stress-relief activity during the busy end of term season.
Food Security Week: This was a week that was something new this year for the team. Events like the Taco Bar, Mac and Cheese Giveaway, and Sandwich Bar at Marilyn I. Walker Campus addressed food insecurity concerns.
Night Market: An event that was part of the International Education Week. Another sold out successful event that took place last week. A celebration of Brock’s diversity, with 15 student clubs showcasing cultural food and performances. Organized with Brock International, it highlighted inclusivity and cultural exchange.
A heartfelt thanks to the Events Team - Celyn Talaue, Street Team, Shinaya, Marketing Team -Jessie. Dayna and all our comms coordinators and finally the Clubs Team -Chloe, Jamie and Tatiana for their hard work and creativity, making these events a resounding success!
Food First Letter Follow-Up
As mentioned in my previous report, we followed up on our initial communication about the Food First letter.
- After receiving no response post-acknowledgment, we followed up again on November 7.
- A meeting with Brad Clarke is now scheduled for November 26, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
- Kayleigh, Ron, Carleigh, and I will attend, along with representatives from GSA.
Goal Setting
During Reading Week, the executive team refined our goals for the year and developed an actionable plan. This plan will be presented at today’s Board meeting.
Student Alumni Center
We’ve moved into the room design phase of the Student Alumni Center project, focusing on detailing the requirements for each room. We are excited to provide an update to the Brock Board of Trustees on December 4 and 5.
A-Team
I hosted an introductory meeting with my committee, attended by two members. Another meeting is planned for this week before our next full A-Team gathering in December.
OUSA General Assembly (GA)
The 60th OUSA General Assembly, hosted by Brock, was a significant success.
- We welcomed delegates from eight other OUSA schools over four smooth-running days.
- The entire executive team poured their heart and soul into this conference, and I couldn’t be prouder of their efforts. Their hard work truly paid off, reflected in the incredible feedback we received from attendees.
- A huge thank-you to the Food and Beverage team, as well as Celyn, Kayleigh, Jessie, and their teams, for their hard work and support.
Director of Governance, Advocacy, and Clubs Hiring
With Kayleigh’s maternity leave beginning in January 2025, we’re working on hiring an interim Director.
- I am collaborating with Kate, Kayleigh, and Robert on this process.
- Four interviews have been conducted so far. Special thanks to Kate and Kayleigh for their hard work on this project.
Meeting with the Provost
On October 23, Carleigh and I met with Brock’s new Provost, Arja Vainio-Mattila. We look forward to establishing regular meetings, which I am coordinating with her office.
Executive-Marketing Communication
To enhance engagement with students, we’ve implemented the following:
- IG Lives: Four sessions have been hosted so far, every Monday.
- Office Hours: Started on November 13 and are held every Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Isaac’s Lounge, offering coffee and snacks.
- A huge thank-you to the Dave, Jessie and Dayna for their hard work and support.
Winter Semester
As my term enters its final months, my focus is on ensuring a strong finish by:
- Advancing Goals: Driving the execution of our action plans and setting up a solid foundation for the next team.
- Strengthening Collaboration: Building stronger partnerships with university departments to support a seamless transition.
- Maximizing Impact: Prioritizing initiatives that leave a lasting, positive legacy for students and the campus community.