SU Elections 2025: Myer Horowitz Forum recap

The fifth forum of the University of Alberta Students’ Union (SU) 2025 elections was held at the Myer Horowitz Theatre in the Students’ Union Building (SUB) on March 3. The event was offered in-person and online. 

Gary Godinho, the chief returning officer (CRO), gave the land acknowledgement. Candidates were given 90 seconds each for opening statements. Referendums and plebiscites were given 60 seconds each for opening statements. 

Afterwards, each race was asked one question by the CRO and given 60 seconds to answer. Audience members were then given the opportunity to submit questions addressed to specific races through an online form. Candidates, referendums, and plebiscites were given 60 seconds to respond. 

The forum concluded with the presidential candidates having 60 seconds for closing statements. Candidates from all other races were given 30 seconds for closing statements. 

Here is the TL;DR version of this forum:

• President: advocating and ensuring transparency, accountability, and communication for all students
• Vice-president (external): securing more government funding, expanding student work opportunities
• Vice-president (operations and finance): ensuring non-student revenue, SU businesses, and utilizing SUB spaces
• Vice-president (academic): centralizing student resources, following up on student concerns, and extending North Campus resources to satellite campuses
• Vice-president (student life): sexual and gender-based violence, safety supports
• Board of Governors representative: initiatives towards affordability and advocacy
• FAUnA: supporting events and student wellness for ALES 
• IHCC: providing activities and events for IHouse
• Period Equity Initiative: expanding menstrual products across all three campuses
• Single Source Cold Beverage Agreement: SSCBA restricts choice, student group sponsorships, and possible vendors linked to human rights violations
• U-Pass: U-Pass referendum provides less transit fares

Presidential candidates discuss accountability and advocating for all students

In his opening statement, presidential candidate Joseph Sesek said that he believes the SU “did a miserable job last year and they did a miserable job this year.” 

He stated that, in response to increased SU fees over the past three years, he plans to “take a $10,000 cut [to his] salary.” 

Presidential candidate Ofure Eigbe stated that, as the International Students’ Representative for the Augustana Students’ Association (ASA), being on a small campus taught her “the benefits of collaboration [and] conducting town hall meetings to represent students’ needs.” 

Eigbe said that voting for her is “a vote for accountability, letting students’ voices be heard, [and] ensuring that no student body is left behind because they are all seen.” 

Following Eigbe, presidential candidate Pedro Almeida said that he is running because he thinks that “this SU can do more and it can do better.” 

Almeida said that in order to do better, the SU “need[s] leadership that has shown that they can get things done.” 

“I have seen what successful advocacy in the SU can achieve. I hope to earn your trust to deliver it once again,” he said. 

Presidential candidate Sophie Martel began her statement by saying that she is from Onion Lake Cree Nation in Treaty 6 Territory and she is the current president of the Indigenous Students’ Union (ISU). She said that her focus will be “accessibility, representation, and the need for real, student-driven advocacy.” 

Martel stated that her “vision for the SU is centered on campus solidarity, collective advocacy, and working towards building a stronger, united, and sustainable campus.” 

“Students deserve … an SU that fights for them, not one that waits for permission. I’m here to fight for a stronger, more equitable, and more sustainable SU. One that works for every student on every campus,” she said. 

Godinho asked the presidential candidates how they will ensure that the SU addresses the financial challenges faced by students at North Campus, Augustana, and Campus Saint-Jean (CSJ), particularly in light of rising SU fees, while maintaining equitable representation for all undergraduate students across the U of A. 

Sesek began by saying that he plans to “freeze SU fees next year … go through the budget, find inefficiencies, and create revenue to lower SU fees for the following year, [and] go to the Board of Governors (BoG) [to find] inefficiencies [and] create revenue.” 

He also mentioned profiting off of “free research” that the U of A does for various companies, reinstating tuition tax credits that ended in 2021, and pushing the “federal government to support universities like European Union (EU) governments do.” 

Eigbe said that, if elected, she will be working towards several goals, including consultations with different faculties and conducting town hall meetings. 

Eigbe stated that she will have “consultations with different faculties, like the ASA, CSJ, ISA, and ISU, [to ensure] the proper representation of each faculty’s students’ issues without overriding their representatives’ leadership.” 

She plans to advocate “to the provincial government to consider international students as an important demographic for the investment in the Affordable Housing Fund, as they are heavily impacted by housing insecurity.” 

Almeida said that it’s important to divide the question into two parts — affordability and representation. “The SU will always advocate to the provincial government for increased funding so that [students] don’t have to keep experiencing these tuition increases year after year,” he said. 

He stated that “when it comes to representation, [he] think[s] it’s ultimately about communication.” 

Following Almeida, Martel said that “the affordability crisis is the most urgent issue facing students across Alberta. With tuition increasing and the cost of groceries and housing skyrocketing and little meaningful support from the government, students are being forced to make impossible financial decisions.” 

“The SU must take a bold, decisive action to address these financial challenges, while ensuring that students on North Campus, Augustana, and CSJ are equitably represented and supported,” she said. 

Martel stated that she “will advocate for fewer SU fees, ensuring transparency and accountability while identifying ways to reduce non-essential costs without sacrificing student services.” 

Godinho asked a question from an audience member, asking the presidential candidates how they plan to make themselves available to students. 

Sesek said he will hold “regular published office hours with an open door policy.” He stated that these office hours will be held across North Campus, Augustana, and CSJ. 

He added that he will “actively encourage students to come in and talk” because he wants to hear their issues and address them. 

Following Sesek, Eigbe stated that she plans to ensure that students see her as present on campus, and send forms and surveys that ask students about their “honest opinions of what they think should be changed in the university.” 

She said that “this also means having consultations with different faculties and [the] presidents of their associations.” 

Almeida said that “the communication between students and the SU is something that’s been lacking.” He said that it “often feels as though the SU only reaches out to students when things go right.” 

“That is something that I’m hoping to address, using our public channels to talk about what we’re doing every day,” he said. 

Martel said that this is a complaint that she’s heard from students, student groups, and current SU executives. She stated that the SU “need[s] to ensure transparency and communication through [its] social media platforms, so that people know exactly what [executives] are doing and how to reach out to [them].” 

“We need to start building community by being out in the community, and not just in our offices,” she said. 

Godinho asked a question from a current Students’ Council science councillor, asking the presidential candidates if cutting their own salary will undermine the ability to serve and limit accessibility for the role. They also asked if the potential cuts are relevant to students and if students would be receiving a significant return. 

Sesek said that, if elected, “he is going to do a fantastic job no matter what the salary is.” He stated that a salary cut “will not be a significant chunk taken out of student fees,” but “it’s an attempt to curve what’s been happening in the last three years.” 

Eigbe said that taking a salary cut will not allow SU executives to “be focused on the right things because the students are not going to get a huge return.” 

She said that the SU “need[s] to advocate for more funding for our bursaries, for our Campus Food Bank (CFB) … [and] for our provincial government to increase the amount of money they want to give for creating affordable housing around the city of Edmonton for international students.” 

Almeida said that the “salary that SU executives get and the benefits are not there to make this a cushion job.” 

“I am hoping to be an SU president that focuses on big savings for students, whether it’s on open education resources [or] … by advocating more efficiently to the government,” he said. 

”I don’t want to save each student 25 cents. I want to save students hundreds of dollars where it matters most,” Almeida added. 

Martel said that the SU president’s salary “takes away a barrier for Indigenous [and] international students to run in these positions.” 

“Having this salary here is actually making it more inclusive for Indigenous students and international students to run in these positions,” she said. 

In his closing statement, Sesek said that it seems like the SU “is no longer for the students.” 

“I have consistently been the only presidential candidate that presented a substantial platform with real points to help students,” he said. 

Following Sesek, Eigbe stated that her aim, if elected, is “collaboration with faculties [and] advocating for more funds and donations to the CFB.” 

She said that she will be “a president that is open-minded and understands the importance of equitable representation, collaboration, [and] effective communication.” 

Almeida said that the SU needs “leadership that is able to implement a lot of these ideas.” 

“I’m hoping to achieve all [of] the several ideas that [executive candidates] have raised so that we can truly benefit the student experience and move forward together,” he said. 

Martel stated that she will “prioritize fairness, transparency, and action, ensuring that no student is left behind.” 

“I believe in a stronger, more united, and sustainable SU that listens to students, support[s] student groups, and ensures that the university cannot ignore our concerns,” she said. 

“If we want change, we have to demand it, and I’m ready to fight for it,” Martel added. 

— Peris Jones

VPX candidates discuss external advocacy goals 

In his opening statement, vice-president (external) (VPX) candidate Abdul Abbasi discussed his focus on affordability in his role as current VPX. He said that, if re-elected, he would focus on increasing the university’s operating grant, expanding work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities, and securing “more federal funding that is linked to demographic growth.” Abbasi emphasized his platform’s focus on “putting energy into things that are realistic.”

VPX candidate Nate Goetz discussed wanting to expand the SU’s media presence. Goetz said he wants to ensure strong external advocacy with the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA) and “other Alberta student associations.” He added that, if elected, he will advocate for supports for those facing sexual and gender based violence (SGBV), secure more funding for student mental health accommodations, and fundraise for the CFB.  

VPX candidate Juan Munoz emphasized his intention to fight for increased university funding and more student job opportunities. He said he will work with the provincial government “to find a sustainable solution to stagnant government support, advocating for index funding.” He added that he will advocate against tuition increases and for greater investment in mental health and the CFB. 

Godinho asked the candidates how they will engage with government stakeholders to secure funding and policy support for the U of A.

Abbasi began by mentioning his experience and connections from his current position as VPX. He added that he will advocate for expanding WIL opportunities and securing a grant from the Ministry of Social Services for the CFB. He emphasized that his goals are “realistic.”

Goetz discussed how the upcoming federal and municipal elections mean that existing government connections “won’t matter as much.” He emphasized the need to “start building these connections early.” He added that the SU needs to “ensure that we can get student voices out in the media” so “student issues are heard.” 

Munoz said he will speak “directly with political parties in the upcoming federal election” to urge them “to support students as an internal part of their campaigns.” He said he will work closely with CASA, the Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS), and the Alberta Students’ Executive Council (ASEC) to advocate for student interests.

Godinho asked the candidates what their plan is to improve public relations (PR) and media relations for the U of A, and how this would benefit the student population.

Abbasi began by mentioning his goals to expand WIL opportunities and internships for international students to ensure they “can integrate into the community.” He also discussed his previous work with media relations to amplify students’ experiences.

Goetz emphasized that because the SU and the U of A are “separate entities,” his media engagement would represent that “the U of A is not a perfect institution.” 

“I’m not here to protect [the] U of A. I’m here to make sure that the student voice is heard,” Goetz said. 

Munoz said that his main goal in this regard “is to establish [a] clear communication path between [Edmonton] economic entities, the government, and other organizations.” 

The Gateway’s opinion team asked the candidates if they plan to keep the SU in CAUS and why.

Abbasi said that he “would rather leave it.” 

“CAUS isn’t working, and we need to find those collaboration opportunities with students’ associations and student unions across the province,” Abbasi said. 

Goetz said that the SU “needs to rethink its collaboration with this organization.” He added that he would want to look into potentially working with ASEC so the SU “can still have strong provincial advocacy bodies.”

Munoz said that if CAUS “is not living up to expectations,” the SU should focus on advocating with other student organizations like CASA and “other Edmonton entities.”

In his closing statement, Abbasi restated his experience and connections from his current VPX position. 

“Vote for me for realistic ideas so that promises are not broken,” Abbasi said. 

Goetz said that the SU needs to advocate “to all levels of government for our operating funds, for our well-being, for safety, for affordability, and for better student housing.”

Munoz reiterated his intention to advocate to the government for more student job opportunities and more university funding. He added that he will advocate to the university “for policies that truly put students’ well-being first, and not enrolment goals.” 

— Kathryn Johnson

VPOF candidates discuss methods of non-student revenue through SU businesses

In his opening statement, vice-president (operations and finance) (VPOF) candidate and SU arts councillor, Nathan Thiessen, said “students have faced two years of stagnation.”

He said the solution is “not defunding the SU and destroying vital services,” but rather “envisioning a present and future that has students’ welfare in mind.”

“A better union means better engagement, transparency, accountability, and awareness in our businesses and services,” Thiessen added. “I wish to leave behind a better union.”

VPOF candidate Ryley Bazinet said “students deserve better from their SU.” If elected, he will “cut unnecessary costs, reduce student fees without taking away from student services and grants, and actually invest in the things that improve your campus experience.”

He emphasized bringing SU services and resources to students across all three campuses, and “rebuilding trust in the SU.”

VPOF candidate, Levi Flaman, who is running for re-election, referenced critiques about his campaign having a “steadfast focus on internal processes and [balancing] budget lines while neglecting to represent student interests.” Flaman said both subjects are intertwined. 

“Without a sustainable budget, there is a risk that student-facing services, campus events, and student advocacy in its various forms, would not be available in the long-run,” Flaman said. “It’s not about prioritizing numbers over people, but rather creating a foundation that allows us to serve our entire membership sustainably and effectively.”

Godinho asked the candidates how they’ll manage the SU’s budget to prioritize affordability for North Campus while supporting operational needs at Augustana and CSJ.

Thiessen emphasized ensuring the affordability of SU-owned businesses remain a priority, along with Studentcare coverage and UPass, and supporting the Period Equity Program. 

“We need to engage with [and] listen to students, and support student-centred initiatives to develop new ways for which we can uplift all people, as well as the good folks at CSJ, Augustana, [and] North Campus.”

He also said that he wanted to ensure representative associations receive transfer payments and “[ensuring] constant engagement with students to remain responsive to [their] needs.”

Bazinet said how he wants to “cut unnecessary spending, improve SU business performance, and prioritize affordability, so we can reduce fees without cutting essential services.” 

He referenced bringing back full-time hours for RATT, and making the Myer Horowitz Theatre and Dinwoodie Lounge “actually profitable.” Additionally, he said how he would work with ASA and l’Association des Universitaires de la Faculté Saint-Jean (AUFSJ) “to ensure SU resources are reaching them.” Lastly, he said he will take a “$10,000 salary cut to push for lower SU fees.”

Flaman stated how he will continue “the work we’ve put into increasing profitability in our social enterprises.” He also said how RATT is rented out by student groups such as the Lister Hall Students’ Association (LHSA). 

Flaman reiterated the announcement of Daily Grind opening a second location in University Commons. He explained that “the locations complement each other rather than penalize each other.” He also highlighted the Group Purchasing Organizations (GPO) and their group purchasing agreements with the SU. 

Current SU business councillor Owen Pasay asked the candidates how they propose cutting the fees that fund SU services while also claiming they want to expand these services. He also mentioned how the SU employs a number of staff. 

In his response, Thiessen emphasized how SU fees “go toward doing public good that serves students every day.” He highlighted that there are “real impacts for students” who use SU services and are employed by them if the fees are reduced. 

Additionally he said how there is a “critical gap in how the SU has been engaging with students,” and that students should know what their fees go towards and how they can “utilize services.”

Bazinet reiterated lowering his own salary. “I’d rather take money out of my pocket and put it back into yours,” he said. Additionally he detailed making SU businesses “more profitable” to “generate more non-student revenue.” Lastly he said how he wants to “continue working on better transit agreements and keeping essential services supportive.”

A question was asked by Michael Chang — the vice president (social events) of the Engineering Students’ Society (ESS), current SU engineering councillor, and campaign volunteer. Chang asked VPOF candidates how increasing revenue from spaces such as the Myer Horowitz Theatre will impact student groups. 

Thiessen explained how “[increased] visibility” of renting spaces in SUB will “increase the usage” of them as rentable spaces. 

“When it comes to ensuring that we’re increasing revenue, I don’t want to do it off the backs of students. I believe that’s unfair.”

Bazinet said how using spaces in SUB “should positively impact [student] groups because we’re utilizing the spaces that would otherwise just sit empty.”

“Having more people coming and supporting these places helps everyone,” Bazinet said.

In his response, Flaman explained how “[pursuing] external bookings,” could positively impact student groups. He used the SUB poster sale and polling stations as an example of these external bookings. He explained that the money from the external bookings could “cut the markup slightly or even entirely for student groups.”

In his closing statement, Thiessen emphasized prioritizing students. 

“The operations and finances team must place students over budget lines.”

Bazinet said how if elected he will “cut unnecessary spending, lower SU fees, and actually make businesses work for students.”  

Flaman stated how he wants to continue the projects he’s already started. 

“There are a number of projects still in the works that I am committed to see through to completion on top of some new initiatives if entrusted with more time.”

— Brooklyn Hollinger

VPA candidates look to extend North Campus resources to satellite campuses and centralize resources

In her opening statement, vice-president (academic)(VPA) candidate and current SU agricultural, life, and environmental sciences (ALES) councillor, Katie Tamsett, said she is advocating for “fair resource distribution across all campuses”  and “expanded research opportunities.” She then stated her commitment to enhance menstrual health accommodations.

VPA candidate Manyu Rathour said he plans to give proper representation to Indigenous students; add more courses to the Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) program; advocate against the use of Top Hat and Kritik; create awareness for the First-Day Access Program, and advocate for it to be opt-in rather than out-out; advocate for more merit-based scholarships; make health accommodations accessible to all; make psychiatric diagnoses affordable; find a better venue for exams; increase accessibility for mobility issues; build a pharmacy at CSJ and Augustana; extend the ISU to CSJ and Augustana; translate eClass,  BearTracks, and the Dean of Students (DoS) Emergency Service into French; and put free menstrual products in men’s washrooms. 

In his opening statement, VPA candidate Aamir Mohamed said he is looking to “develop accessible resources and an accessible resource board for students.” Alongside this, he said he wants students to be “able to get student development opportunities with the help of the student representative associations (SRA).” 

Godinho asked VPA candidates how they will “advocate for academic equity and resource allocation for students at all campuses, with addressing barriers faced by international and Indigenous students without increasing fees for off-campus locations.”

In response, Tamsett said she will advocate for “fair university budget allocations to ensure all campuses — including Augsustana and CSJ — receive equitable academic advising and hybrid learning options.” 

She added that she will “push for increased scholarships, culturally safe learning spaces, and Indigenous-led initiatives such as language courses and bilingual resources at CSJ. 

Additionally, “[she] will work with the VPX to secure funding for student research, ensuring Augustana and CSJ have equal access to research opportunities to address the rising cost of textbooks.” She added that she will also advocate for the “expansion of open educational resources and the [ZTC] program.” 

Rathour detailed the recent provincial budget, and noted that North Campus received $100 million for the Biological Sciences building. He then said that he feels the ISU should be accessible to students on all campuses, and that there is a need for The Landing in Augustana and CSJ so that people “don’t have to travel three hours to get HRT.” He said this would be a place “for international students that come from stigmatized societies against queer people and for Two-Spirited people to be able to access those things, no matter which campus they’re on.”

Mohamed said he wants to “create an accessible resource board addressing academic concerns, to incorporate Land-based and Indigenous facilitated learning into existing curriculums and certificates guided by consultations with the faculty of [Native] studies and the ISU.” He would advocate  for “community-based expansion learning” and “improving the culture of academics in our university.” He would also advocate for “incorporating academic focus[ed] orientations and strengthening language-based support services.”

Godinho asked the VPA candidates an audience question: “how will you address policy changes in the accommodation, harassment, [and] discrimination suits,” along with the university’s office name change from Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) to Access, Community, and Belonging (ACB).

Tamsett replied that she will “make sure that students are aware of what these changes are and how it impacts them, because quite often things change, but yet we don’t know about it.” 

She added that improving communications surrounding policies could be achieved through “a stronger academic orientation” that outlines policies and their impacts on students.

Rathour said that “working with the Office of Provost and the VPA” would be a priority. He added that he would look to maintain the current VPA’s work for mobility accessibility. He wants to raise awareness for accessibility issues in general. Lastly, he said he will work with the DoS and mental health center. 

Mohamed said that he would collaborate with advocacy groups and student groups to identify the advocacy needed so that students can also be “productive student leaders.” He said he would also look into creating a centralized student resource hub so that “students are able to access all the resources that they want in one place.” He said people who use this resource hub would be “able to report any issues that they have when they come across these resources.”

Godinho asked a question from Relay for Life, student group, neuro research: “What is your plan for aiding in academic success for individuals in marginalized groups or with learning disabilities?” 

Tamsett responded saying that this “falls down to access” and holding people accountable, which is “one of [her] main platform points.” Following this, she said that “the current advocacy system that we have is exceptionally limited.”  

“It’s all through SPOT surveys, and I’ve heard from instructors that it isn’t an effective way of making real change and identifying the gaps in our classes. We need to ensure there is accountability for these concerns.”

Rathour said he has three ideas in response to this question. He first cited the PSC, so that people have a “safe place to express themselves and share those struggles.” He then said the Academic Success Center is where he would “ensure that those people are given adequate training to be able to deal with people from marginalized backgrounds and people who struggle with learning disabilities.” Lastly, he said he would “provide the [exam] accommodations that [students] need.” 

Mohamed said that something very important is “how [accessible] the accommodation system itself is,” and he noted that it is important to make “sure these issues are being heard.” 

In her closing statement, Tamsett said that she has worked to understand the advocacy systems and that when she believes there is a problem, there is something that can be done. She finished, saying “as your VPA, I won’t promise quick fixes, but I will promise to fight for real, lasting changes.”

Rathour said, “it is your right to dream, and that right is always yours to keep. I have dreams and I have aches, and if my dream speaks to you, vote [Rathour] for VPA.” 

In Mohamed’s closing statement, he said that he is aware people question what the SU does, and wants to be “working for students in ways they want us to be working.”

— Liam Hodder

VPSL candidates discuss SGBV and safety supports

In her opening statement, vice-president (student life) (VPSL) candidate Logan West emphasized that her priority is in SGBV. She cited statistics from a 2023 study conducted by Leger and funded by the Government of Alberta, which found 64 per cent of students at the U of A have experienced SGBV.  

She stated that “the population of our campus continues to change, but rape culture persists,” and that she believes “it is time to change the culture.”

Following West, VPSL candidate Nikka Pakhomova said she feels as though Week of Welcome (WoW) should not be the “sole social highlight of one’s university experience.” She said that she wants to work towards integrating international students and Canadian students. 

“I intend to find a space at Augustana, CSJ, and North Campus to organize events, community building events, and together, we can be a great university,” Pakhomova said. 

VPSL candidate Ramish Raza spoke about his experiences in student governance and stated that through these experiences, he has “met with students from all walks of life and listened to [their] concerns.” He said that his platform is centered on campus safety, affordability, wellness, and mental health resources. 

“Mental health resources and the [U of A] Sexual Assault Center should be easy to access,” Raza said.  

Following Raza, VPSL candidate Saim Khokhar started with a public statement to the individual who was recently assaulted in the ISU lounge. He then stated his priorities in governance would be in residence advocacy, greater security, and helping support the CFB. He said he intends to collaborate with the VPA to “implement a de-stigmatization effort” on how to navigate “racism and discrimination, micro-aggressions, and exploration of resources to help with mental health.”

Godinho asked the VPSL candidates what measures they would implement to enhance campus safety and mental health support for students at North Campus, Augustana, and CSJ, while recognizing the difference in access to services.

West said that she’d like to advocate for better outdoor lighting, emergency call boxes on campus, and the expansion of the Safewalk program. 

“I think Safewalk volunteers should have crisis intervention training and carry Naloxone kits along with first aid kits,” West said.

She also stated she’d like Safewalk to expand to be more accessible for those with mobility issues and would like to have vehicular transportation for students in the winter. 

Pakhomova stated she’d like to have workshops in partnership with the U of A Protective Services (UAPS) on “how to react in emergencies, safe places to go, or places to avoid, especially in Edmonton at night.” She said she’d also like to expand ONEcard access and set up anonymous support groups. 

Following Pakhomova, Raza said he’d like to consult with the ASA and CSJ. He’d also like to work towards on-campus counselling, as well as virtual counselling “that is diverse, that is bilingual, and that supports cultural diversity.” Raza said he’d also like to expand the PSC and Safewalk. 

Khokhar said that he finds that the “organizational structure of some of these campuses increased the level of hardship.” He stated that “the length of time to receive certain mental health supports can be addressed through providing better training to our student leaders.” 

Godinho asked the VPSL candidates an audience question about what university and SU committees the candidates plan to sit on to advocate for students, should they be elected as VPSL.

West responded by saying that she plans to sit on a committee for SGBV and sexual health. She said she’d also like to run an awareness campaign on sexual health and have vending machines “with discounted sexual health products.”

Pakhomova said that she plans on advocating for mental health support and increasing “awareness of the supports that already exist.” She also said she’d like to have more events and connect the U of A’s three campuses “together to increase [their] connection.” 

Following Pakhomova, Raza stated that he plans to sit on many committees. Raza provided examples, including the Sexual Assault Advisory Committee and the Campus Safety and Security Committee. Additionally, he plans to sit on the Bylaw Committee, the Finance Committee, the Council of Residence Associations (CORA), and more. 

Khokhar said that he’s focused on joining committees that “relate to [his] portfolio as VPSL.” Which would include “residence advocacy, SGBV, CFB, [and] mental health and well-being.” He stated that he feels that “we do need to improve the efficacy of these services rather than be more focused on the expansion of them.”

Godinho asked the VPSL candidates another audience question. He asked the candidates how they would bring in more diverse student voices and ensure their initiatives serve students who may not traditionally engage with the SU. 

West said that she believes the “beauty of going to this school is that there are so many social events.” She stated that “the best way to reach out to students that we’re not connecting with, is to be real, tangible people.”

Pakhomova said that she believes having office hours is “really important,” and that she wants to establish having office hours at CSJ and Augustana. She stated that she wants to “implement regular surveys” to hear from students to better understand their concerns and issues. 

Raza said that he plans to collaborate with the ISA for events and that he plans to do “coffee chats” and speak to the DoS and students directly. 

Khokhar said that SU executive offices being located on the second floor of SUB may pose an issue as students “may not know where the SU executive offices are.” He said that his goal is to “increase the efficacy of the resources that we already have in place so we can better interconnect our student body.”

In closing statements, West said she “promise[s] to be fearless” in her advocacy and will “seek to unite our student body behind the issues that affect all of us.” 

Pakhomova encouraged students to vote in her closing statements. She stated that “the amount of people who vote directly impacts the importance the Government of Alberta would give the future SU executives.”

Raza said that his “campaign platform is comprehensive,” and listed what he is “fighting for” should he be elected. His platform is centered on “campus safety, affordability, wellness access” as well as residence living. 

Khokhar expressed his thanks to the audience for their attendance and stated that it “speaks volumes for all of us who are running.” He stated that “without your constant interest, we will not be able to deliver adequately towards your needs.”

— Gabriella Menezes

BoG candidates discuss affordability and advocacy

During her opening statement, candidate for BoG representative and current SU arts councillor, Angelina Raina, stated her commitment to accountability, innovation, and engagement.

She said she’ll advocate for tuition offsets in the form of scholarships and bursaries, more instalments to the submission of international students’ fees, and continue to work on the sustainable funding program for the CFB. 

For campus safety, Raina said she’ll advocate for infrastructure upgrades and investing in community building. She will aim to make the BoG representative role “more active in advocating for funding for the SU and engaging with students with a more boots-on-the-ground approach.”

“I aim to carry on that momentum by holding regular events and meetings with administrators and clubs,” Raina said. “It’s also important to inform students, for which I’d like to initiate informative teach-in sessions.”

BoG representative candidate Karina Banerji said her approach is based on advocacy, affordability, and accessibility. Banerji cited her involvement in student governance, student life events, academic policy, and student services.

“What sets me apart in this race is the breadth of my experience across different aspects of student life,” Banerji said. She said that her experience has provided her with an understanding of student challenges. 

“I’ve worked directly with students to address real concerns in ways that go beyond policy discussions and into tangible action,” Banerji said. “Affordability, student support, and campus equity remain key challenges — whether it’s pushing for better financial aid, ensuring CSJ and Augustana have equal and equitable access to resources, and asking for increase[s] to safety.”

Godinho asked the candidates how they will represent the interests of North Campus, Augustana, and CSJ students on BoG, while focusing on affordability and resource allocation.

Raina cited the anonymous survey platform created by current BoG representative Adrien Lam. Raina said she will continue the expansion of data collection and engage with AUFSJ, the SU, and the ASA to “bring data-driven concerns to the board and connect with related admin … to push for tangible change.”

“I’ll also push for transparent decision-making and consider the unique financial realities of each campus,” Raina added. She plans to “explore sustainable options that benefit all campuses fairly” to address “disparities” like UPass eligibility.

Banerji emphasized accessible and affordable education for all students, as well as working directly with students and student groups to get their voices heard. She mentioned improving financial transparency for North Campus, and increasing mental health and academic supports to be relevant to students. 

“Augustana and CSJ have different obstacles, so we have to advocate for stronger financial aid … and language inclusive resources.” Banerji said she’s been working on this by making her campaign and platform available in English and French. She added that she’ll work on expanding affordable transit options for students at the different campuses.

In her closing statement, Raina said that as BoG representative, “it’s important to not only hold the university accountable, but also be more innovative in building relationships.”

Banerji said she’ll “fight for financial transparency, equitable resource distribution and meaningful student consultation. This isn’t just about having a seat at the table. It’s about using it to create real change.”

— Lily Polenchuk

FAUnA looks to increase student events and initiatives

Melody Wu presented the proposal to create a Faculty Association Membership Fee (FAMF) for the faculty of ALES by the Faculty Association for Undergraduate Students in ALES (FAUnA). 

This referendum proposes a fee of $2 in the fall and winter semesters for all undergraduate full-time and part-time students in ALES. Only ALES students would vote on the referendum.

“During my time at ALES, I’ve noticed that there have not really been any spaces for students to gather together,” Wu said. She said this year there have been more events, where students from different programs in ALES have gathered. The fee would go towards supporting more events and student wellness initiatives.

Godinho asked how FAUnA will improve academic and community resources for students in ALES.

Wu said the fee will be allocated to supporting student wellness, events, professional development, and student groups in ALES.

— Lily Polenchuk

IHCC provides activities for IHouse

Lee Hughes presented the International House Community Council Referendum (IHCC). Students living in IHCC will be able to vote on the renewal of the IHCC’s Student Representative Association Membership Fee (SRAMF).

The proposed SRAMF is $50-a-year for students moving into IHouse in the fall semester and $25 for students moving in during the winter semester. Only IHouse residents will vote on the SRAMF.

“The fee would be used to support the IHCC activities, like putting on events, because IHouse is very focused on purposeful community building,” Hughes said.

Godinho asked how the IHCC fee would enhance community support and cultural engagement for international students on North Campus.

Hughes replied that the fee would go towards events, “which are a large part in building a community.” Hughes added that IHouse residents, especially international students, expressed that a community like IHouse “is really beneficial.”

— Lily Polenchuk

Period Equity Initiative aims to expand access to menstrual products

President Tracy Cui and vice-president Aidan Ly of Club Periodically presented the Period Equity Initiative referendum.

This referendum proposes a fee of $1 per fall and winter semester and 50 cents per spring and summer semesters, for all full-time and part-time students enrolled at the U of A. The fee would allow students to opt-out.

Cui and Ly said the fee will go towards expanding menstrual products across all three campuses and reaching the goal of making products available in every washroom across the U of A.

“The Period Equity Initiative will ensure that no one is left unprepared, providing access to essential products whenever they need it,” Cui said.

Godinho asked how the initiative will ensure affordable and accessible menstrual products for North Campus, Augustana, and CSJ students.

Ly replied that the “small individual contributions” from fee payments will “enable the large-scale purchase of essential menstrual products,” which will ensure cost efficiency and consistent availability. Ly added that product distribution will be based on “popularity with high-traffic washrooms, across the three campuses being at the top of our priority list.”

“We’ll provide clear instructions and host workshops guiding students through the opt-out process so that no one feels pressured. Our initiative is about accessibility and equity, not obligation,” Ly added. He said that those who opt-out will still be able to access products.

Godinho asked a question from current VPSL Renson Alva: “how will you ensure that student feedback is incorporated into” the initiative?

Ly said baskets across campus have QR codes that open a feedback form that students can fill out when baskets are empty. The form also has a comment section, which the initiative will take feedback from. Ly added this code will be available on new dispensers and baskets, and Cui said the form will be available online.

— Lily Polenchuk

SSCBA restricts choice and sponsorships, Dakhel says

Bassam Dakhel presented the Single Source Cold Beverage Agreement (SSCBA) no-side.

“This deal grants a single corporation exclusive rights to sell and advertise cold beverages on campus, stripping students of choice and forcing the support of a monopoly,” Dakhel said. 

He added that possible vendors for the agreement are Coca-Cola and Pepsi. The current vendor is Coca-Cola. 

“Coca-Cola and Pepsi have been linked to human rights violations, including the complicity in the genocide in Gaza, using resources stolen from occupied land in Palestine and Syria, and the depletion of local water resources in places like Mexico and India.”

Godinho asked what the key financial and operational concerns about the SSCBA are and how opposing it will benefit North Campus, Augustana, and CSJ students.

Dakhel replied that the financial benefits of the SSCBA “amount to less than 0.7 per cent of the scholarships provided by the university, and contribute[s] less than 4.4 per cent to the SU’s operational budget.” He added that student groups are restricted from accessing alternative sponsorships.

“It forces everyone to buy from and support a single brand, which undermines the freedom of choice and support for local businesses.”

Godinho asked an audience question: “if the SSCBA isn’t renewed, how do you balance the impact of possible increased costs and loss of direct funding to student groups and student awards?”

Dakhel said students need to look at the bigger picture, and the SU’s operating policy says “it must have ethical business partners.” Additionally, he said “there’s a lot of costs to the SSCBA” — including set prices from Coca-Cola — and it limits student group sponsorships. 

A second audience question asked what other options would be made available if the SSCBA no-side passes.

“It would open a lot of opportunities and a lot of options for student groups on campus,” Dakhel said. He cited how Red Bull already sponsors student groups on campus, and allowing such a sponsorship would create more opportunities. Additionally, he said students would be able to support local businesses.

— Lily Polenchuk

UPASS yes-side referendum is a “rare and important opportunity”

Daniel Witte presented the UPass yes-side referendum. He said the UPass deal, negotiated every few years, is between the U of A and public transit systems in and around Edmonton. UPass allows unlimited access to public transportation for a per-term fee.

The referendum proposes a fee of $182 in the fall semester for all full-time and part-time students. There will be a gradual increase to $185 by 2026.

“That is compared to what could be up to $408 per term. If this deal is voted down, students have to pay regular fares. This vote is a rare and important opportunity to support affordability, sustainability, and safety at the U of A,” Witte said.

Godinho asked how supporting UPass will directly benefit North Campus and CSJ students regarding transportation, affordability, and accessibility. 

Witte replied that transportation “can be the second biggest budget item” for people’s monthly budget, so supporting UPass provides direct affordability impacts. Additionally, Witte said the fee provides flexibility since it’s paid once per term.

“This allows them to access their community, access errands, and just get to where they need to go.”

— Lily Polenchuk