UASU Calls for Clear Exemption of Post-Secondary Institutions From Proposed Legislation

News Staff - Fri Apr 12, 2024

Students are voicing grave concerns over the Provincial Priorities Act, recently unveiled by the Government of Alberta.

While details are still unclear, the proposed legislation threatens to create a complicated web of red tape that would harm Albertan institutions' access to a wide range of federal funding.

“Albertans pay federal taxes and the federal government has a responsibility to invest back into Alberta's prosperity,” says Chris Beasley, UASU Vice President (External). “Let's not get in the way of Albertans' money coming home for urgently needed infrastructure, cutting-edge research, and opportunities for students to find success in the workforce.”

The UASU calls on policymakers to reconsider the Provincial Priorities Act's scope and implications. Nurturing innovation and ensuring unfettered access to federal research dollars are critical to keeping Alberta competitive and thriving.

Impacts on Communities and Growth

While the UASU strongly supports post-secondary education as a provincial jurisdiction, adding red tape to accessing hundreds of millions of dollars every year would have pervasive economic impacts on the cities and towns that our post-secondary institutions call home. Last year, federal funding to the University of Alberta alone totalled $223 million.

The threat of excessive red tape and prolonged processing times would stifle innovation and hinder it from reaching the market. “From medical advancements to made-in-Alberta solutions for drought and wildfire control,” says UASU President Christian Fotang, “new obstacles to research funding jeopardize Alberta's economic growth and standard of living.”

Meanwhile, post-secondary education is deeply intertwined with the health of local economies and communities. For example, the long-term success of the Rural Medical Education Program Training Centre in Grande Prairie will depend on both provincial and federal funding. "Let's not overlook the significance of federal tax money flowing back into our communities through post-secondary funding," says Beasley. "Bill 18 seems poised to disrupt this crucial cycle. Exempting post-secondary institutions from this bill is essential."

Impacts on Students and Graduates

Many federal grants of all sizes are woven into operations throughout universities and colleges. Students face wide-ranging potential impacts to research jobs, lab infrastructure, mental health resources, official language education, job skill training, some forms of student financial aid, and career opportunities after graduation.

"Students rely on these resources for their education and future prospects," says Fotang. “There's a growing consensus among students and experts that the bill, as currently drafted, comes with all-new red tape and risks to research opportunities, academic freedom, and our chances to be part of Alberta's future prosperity.”

Impacts on Campus Saint-Jean

Beyond research, Alberta post-secondary institutions receive federal funding for infrastructure, trades programs, and education in our official languages. This includes Campus Saint-Jean, whose federal and provincial funding agreement took over three years to finalize, tying up $10.3 million in bureaucratic red tape. Important scholarship funding could also be at risk.

The UASU urgently asks the Minister of Advanced Education to commit that CSJ's funding streams will remain uninterrupted.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

The UASU is the official representative of 35,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta. It advocates for students’ needs and priorities to the University of Alberta and at all levels of government.

For more information, to arrange an interview, or for accessibility requests please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Upcoming Ribbon Cutting and Reopening of The Myer Horowitz Theatre

News Staff - Tue Apr 02, 2024

The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) is thrilled to announce the reopening of the Myer Horowitz Theatre, a beloved cultural institution in the heart of Edmonton. After undergoing extensive renovations, the Theatre is poised to resume its role as a leading venue for arts and entertainment in Western Canada.

Originally inaugurated in 1967 as the SUB Theatre, the Myer Horowitz Theatre has served as a vibrant space for concerts, speakers, ceremonies, comedians, plays, and various cultural events for over five decades. With its distinctive charm and intimate setting, the Theatre has welcomed audiences from all walks of life, contributing to the rich tapestry of Edmonton's cultural landscape.

The reopening ceremony will take place on April 8, 2024. The festivities will begin with the opening of lobby doors at 11:30 AM, followed by a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony at 12:00 PM (noon). Distinguished guests, including former and current UASU presidents, and University of Alberta president will deliver speeches from the stage.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the newly renovated theatre through guided public tours, which will be available until 2:00 PM. With enhanced accessibility features and state-of-the-art technical upgrades, the Myer Horowitz Theatre promises an unparalleled experience for performers and patrons alike. The project notably makes a major step towards the UASU’s goal of a carbon neutral SUB by 2050, by reducing net Theatre energy use by 43%.

"We are thrilled to unveil the revitalized Myer Horowitz Theatre, a testament to generations of students’ commitment to enriching campus life and fostering community," says Christian Fotang, President of the UASU. "This reopening represents a celebration of our shared heritage and the enduring legacy of the arts in our community. Special thanks to Danni Okemaw, who graced the stage with her jingle dress dance before the last of the construction had taken place. We’re proud to see this be a place of gathering thanks to the many hands that made this project a reality."

The Myer Horowitz Theatre renovation project is part of the University of Alberta Students' Union's broader vision to create inclusive and accessible spaces that promote creativity, innovation, and collaboration. Through strategic partnerships and investments in sustainability, the UASU is dedicated to enhancing the student experience and strengthening ties with the wider community.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information, to arrange an interview, or for accessibility requests please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Student Associations Across Alberta Unite in Call for Extended Increase of Off-Campus Work Hours for International Students

News Staff - Mon Jan 22, 2024

As the April 2024 deadline looms, students' associations representing over 200,000 Albertan students join forces to call on the federal government and Minister Marc Miller to permanently lift the work hour cap on international students.

“International students deserve the same freedoms to work that are afforded to domestic students” says University of Lethbridge Students’ Union President Maleeka Thomas. “Limiting students’ ability to work off-campus has big downsides. Not all jobs can be worked with limited hours, hindering students' chances to gain valuable experience in their relevant fields. Additionally, students already employed full-time may be forced out of their current jobs."

In 2018, international students contributed $22.3 billion to the Canadian economy, supporting 218,577 jobs. We also know that international students fill critical labor shortages, with 1 in 3 working in either construction or healthcare/education sectors. Any cap that prevents students from working 40 hours a week will make it harder for students to seamlessly transition into co-op programs or work terms, especially given the intense amounts of bureaucratic red tape students face when trying to do their co-ops. Allowing more work hours to accommodate individual needs empowers students to effectively manage expenses, alleviate family burdens, acquire pertinent experience, and make meaningful contributions to our communities.

Students’ associations also caution that reinstating the cap might force already-desperate students into precarious situations or cause students to lose full-time employment in roles they already have. This can lead to an increased vulnerability to exploitation, with students potentially falling victim to wage theft or even greater instances of harassment due to overreliance on part-time work.

Additionally, there may be a heightened reliance on campus resources such as campus food banks, as students grapple with the financial challenges associated with the increased cost of living, high tuition, and, now, reduced work hours. In 2023, 70% of the U of A’s Campus Food Bank clients were international students. Removing the ability for those students to work as many hours as they need to sustain themselves will simply push them further into poverty.

“Many students will still need to work forty hours a week but they will do it for cash under the table – without adequate job protections” says the Chair of the Alberta Students’ Executive Council, Celia Sutton. “Given that the affordability and cost of living pressures that cause international students to work more hours haven’t gone away, international students need the same opportunities afforded to all other students.”

An increase in student working hours has also been shown not to affect academic performance and the value of students having the agency to choose what's right for them cannot be understated. Nearly half of all international students (45%) are employed part-time, and 1 in 5 students are employed full-time (20%). International students also report strong academic averages, with 2 in 3 students earning an A grade or higher (+80%), levels that corresponded evenly with domestic students.

Students’ associations across Alberta urge Minister Miller to permanently lift the international work hour cap in order to maintain a reasonable level of financial wellbeing for students, to support students’ agency, and to support their ability to access equal opportunities while undertaking their studies in Canada.

Signed:

Alberta Students’ Executive Council

Athabasca University Students’ Union

Students’ Association of MacEwan University

Students’ Association of Mount Royal University

University of Alberta International Students’ Association

University of Alberta Students’ Union

University of Lethbridge Students’ Union

----------------------------------------------------- 30 -----------------------------------------------------

For media availability please contact:

Alberta Students’ Executive Council: ed@albertastudents.ca

University of Alberta Students’ Union: eaa@su.ualberta.ca

Students' Association of Mount Royal University: president@samru.ca

Students' Association of Olds College: saocpres@oldscollege.ca

UASU Commends Lecture on the Harms of Residential School Denialism

News Staff - Fri Jan 19, 2024

The UASU commends the Indigenous Graduate Students’ Association and Indigenous Students’ Union for their impactful counter program event. The UASU is grateful to see how our community came together to attend the Lecture on the Harms of Residential School Denialism, and is deeply thankful for transformative student leadership in determining the most appropriate course of action.

Recognizing the reported racialized harassment and threats faced by some students, we stand in solidarity with those students who exercised their freedom of speech. Our stance remains resolute – there is no room for discrimination or harassment in our communities. We firmly reject any attempt to downplay the profound impact of the Indian Residential School System (IRSS), acknowledged as genocide by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, UASU policy, and the Government of Canada.

We value Dr. Sean Carleton's insights about speakers who thrive on division, who seek to garner attention and generate controversy, only to move on, leaving our community to navigate the aftermath. We believe that the University has a responsibility to actively uplift and support students and the truth, even in challenging circumstances. We commend the students who led counter program efforts. The UASU also wants to thank the Faculty of Arts and the Department of Anthropology for the way they supported the lecture.

We strongly encourage the University to do more and take a proactive role in supporting initiatives that foster unity and understanding within our campus community. We need administration to defend student safety first and foremost. The UASU remains a resource for students seeking assistance or voicing concerns, and we encourage affected individuals to explore the available campus resources dedicated to ensuring their safety.

The UASU Cares directory can point you toward professional services and culturally informed support.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

The UASU Reaffirms Dedication to the Well-Being and Rights Of All Students

News Staff - Mon Nov 20, 2023

The ongoing violence in Israel and Palestine has deeply affected many students in our community. Students are expressing feeling increasingly unsafe coming together due to discrimination and harassment. This is exacerbating the complex emotions and concerns already present among our students, staff, and faculty, many of whom have personal connections to the region.

The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) reaffirms its dedication to the well-being and rights of all students and condemns all forms of discrimination and harassment, including but not limited to antisemitism, anti-Palestinian, anti-Israeli, anti-Arab racism, and Islamophobia. The UASU deeply values and aims to empower every student's right to mourn and gather peacefully.

It is crucial for the University of Alberta to actively create an environment where students feel comfortable engaging in their communities, accessing campus services, expressing their views through peaceful assembly, and ensuring their freedom of expression is safeguarded.

It is the University’s responsibility to take proactive measures to ensure that students have access to all possible options to grieve and gather, extending latitude and compassion wherever possible, and meaningfully contributing to the protection of their rights.

We also take this opportunity to remind our members of the resources available on campus. If you have experienced discrimination or harassment in the University of Alberta community you will also find options and resources here:

The Office of Safe Disclosure and Human Rights (osdhr@ualberta.ca), while it cannot accept formal complaints of harassment or discrimination, is a safe and neutral place for learning about what resources and potential resolution processes are available.The OSDHR can also advise you about the differences between a disclosure and a formal complaint.
The Discrimination and Harassment Prevention Procedure is an invaluable resource.
To learn more about addressing discrimination or harassment by students, refer to the Student Conduct and Accountability office.
Per Article 7 of the AASUA Collective Agreement, complaints about discrimination or other misconduct by instructors can be directed to the Provost's office.

If you require support, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Below, you will find a list of resources available to our students for assistance:

The Peer Support Centre (SUB 2-707) is open to support you. Walk-in sessions and appointments for a phone session can be made at uasu.ca/psc.
The University Wellness Services Mental Health Centre offers professional counseling services and can be reached at 780-492-5205. All counseling options are also listed on the University’s Support Services page.
The UASU Cares database can connect you with a variety of support services related to mental health, abuse, and personal safety.
For 24-hour crisis and mental health support, the Edmonton Distress Line is available by phone at 780-482-HELP (4357)
The BIPOC Healing Centre is offering free counseling sessions for Palestinian and Jewish community members.

Your UASU Executive

UASU Calls on University to Address Waffen-SS Memorial Endowments

News Staff - Tue Oct 03, 2023

The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) calls on the University to uphold the principles of its recent statement about closing a memorial endowment for Yaroslav Hunka, who was a soldier in the 14th Division 'Galician' (also known as the 1st Ukrainian Division) of the Nazi regime's Waffen-SS. Based on UASU reviews of University of Alberta archives, the University may be in possession of at least $927,000 in additional public memorial endowments tied to the 14th Waffen-SS.

The UASU echoes the many community members who have called for the University to close the $437,700 Volodymyr and Daria Kubijovyc Memorial Endowment Fund, which commemorates a co-founder of the 14th Waffen-SS.

Meanwhile, biographies found in archived newsletters from the University's Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies (CIUS) suggest that at least $490,000 in endowments memorialize at least six 14th Waffen-SS soldiers by name, including at least one officer. These men were often labeled as belonging to the 'Galician Division' or '1st Ukrainian Division' during the Second World War, with oblique or absent references to that division's wartime allegiance.

"Endowments named for Waffen-SS soldiers are public memorials," said Christian Fotang, UASU President. "We call on the University to verify and remove the rest of the memorial endowments for Waffen-SS soldiers, publicly recognize and account for its long and complex history with these soldiers, meaningfully apologize for how its fundraising and memorial practices have contributed to obscuring history, and transparently review all its endowments. If the University is willing to close one memorial for a 14th Waffen-SS soldier as a matter of principle, it should be willing to close them all."

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Students Call for Promised Funding from Advanced Education After Province-Wide Survey on Sexual and Gender Based Violence

News Staff - Thu Aug 31, 2023

In response to the long-awaited province-wide data on sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) by the Ministry of Advanced Education, the University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) is calling on the government to keep their promise to student leaders and fund the prevention of sexual violence on campuses accross Alberta. The University of Alberta Students Union stands with the Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS) in calling for:

Funding for prevention campaigns aimed at reshaping the culture surrounding sexual and gender-based violence on all campuses. Funding directed to support the initiatives of Sexual Assault Centres or their equivalents across all campuses. In cases where such centers are absent, CAUS and the UASU urge the ministry to collaborate with these institutions to establish them. The formation of a dedicated Government of Alberta Working Group responsible for analyzing the report's findings and providing comprehensive recommendations to the Government to guide long-term strategies to combat campus sexual violence.

This call to action comes in response to the Ministry's commitment to student leaders that funding will be allocated once the data from the report becomes available. Given that half of post-secondary students in Alberta have encountered instances of sexual or gender-based violence since enrolling in their institutions, the next logical step is to provide immediate funding with a focus on prevention.

The new data reveals that students (especially disabled students and LGBTQ2S+ students) have experienced high rates of SGBV since becoming students, and few know how to file a report. Some survivors even report being ignored or silenced. CAUS's recommendations underscore the urgency of a unified approach to safeguarding students across institutions. This aligns with UASU's ongoing plea for immediate investment in prevention and better attention to identified gaps in support services for survivors. Despite much-needed policy reforms, students remain at risk in their day-to-day lives, and unclear about where to seek help and support.

"The data shows that this issue is one that institutions cannot handle alone,” says UASU VP Student Life Michael Griffiths. “Students need better resources and education about sexual and gender-based violence prevention. We are looking towards the Government of Alberta to set the tone, act on the data findings, and take this seriously. We need the provincial government and post-secondary institutions to prioritize prevention, and bridge the gaps in available support services for survivors. As students return to campus, we cannot afford to wait any longer for prevention and services to be funded.”

In response to these findings, the UASU re-emphasizes the importance of not only filling operational gaps in support for survivors at the institutional level, but also following through with significant investment in broader prevention methods province-wide.

"This is where the provincial government needs to step in,” says VP External Chris Beasley. “Generating this essential data was only the first step. Now it needs to be believed and acted on. The government has a duty to provide consistent funding to address this issue as promised. We need adequate support services, prevention campaigns, funded training and online-based training modules for campus staff and faculty, province-wide. We need to make sure effective and informed responses to disclosures are the norm if we ever hope to create a safer campus environment.”

While the UASU and the University have worked together to overhaul the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Policy and the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Disclosures Procedure, many other student needs related to SGBV have faced delays or gone unanswered.

“The clearest thing to come out of this,” says VP Student Life Michael Griffifths, “is that we desperately need a straightforward, plain-language guide so students know how to report and access support services. Students and survivors, regardless of whether they are at Augustana, Campus St-Jean or North campus, should be able to navigate the system. They need plain-language tools known and accessible to them at the very beginning of their time in post-secondary. I’m also working with the University to make sure they release our institution-specific data in a way that sets us up to address our community’s unique needs.”

Students are unyielding in their demand for a secure, safe learning environment. The data underscores the urgent need for action. The Government of Alberta must substantively support institutions in the creation of safer and more inclusive spaces for all students.

For reference

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

UASU Welcomes Provincial Mandate Letter Commitments

News Staff - Thu Jul 27, 2023

The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) welcomes the recently issued mandate letters to the Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women and the Minister of Advanced Education, which resonate with our long-standing asks and stated priorities. The letters outline a series of crucial commitments and initiatives aimed at advancing key areas that align with our vision of supporting Alberta's students and maximizing opportunities for all.

“We're eager to engage with the government in more detail about the announcement”, said UASU VP External Chris Beasley, “especially about the annual $4 million in additional funding toward mental health. We know that together, we can achieve remarkable outcomes to strengthen Alberta’s college and university system, and we hope to be a strong partner in making sure all students have the resources and services they need to be successful.”

The stated commitments to critical areas — such as sexual and gender based violence prevention, increasing mental health funding, more opportunities for women in STEM, and strengthening research grants — demonstrate a shared vision that will benefit post-secondary students in significant ways. Several of the mandates reflect students' advocacy priorities and aspirations, after many tough years and difficult financial situations.

“As students' representatives,” said UASU President Christian Fotang, “we have consistently highlighted the significance of gender equity, improved mental health resources, and research funding. We look forward to working with Ministers Fir and Sawhney to increase access to educational opportunities.”

As the UASU, we extend our willingness to collaborate and partner with the ministries to ensure that these programs and initiatives yield the maximum benefit for Albertans and students at the University of Alberta, especially regarding gender-based violence prevention and dedicated mental health funding for students while in post-secondary education.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Government Increases Support for 2023-24 Alberta Student Grant

News Staff - Thu Jul 06, 2023

The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) joins with the University of Alberta in welcoming increased investment in the Alberta Student Grant for Full-Time Students (ASG-FT).

At the University of Alberta alone, this increase will benefit 3,570 undergraduates and represents an investment of roughly $9.6 million. This allocation will help many students to overcome significant financial barriers and focus on their studies.

"This change prioritizes students' needs and our success in higher education," said UASU President Christian Fotang. “We look forward to working with the government to ensure financial aid is accessible, efficient, and fair. With Alberta's university-age population rising by up to 40% over the next decade, this is a crucial time to ensure affordability and predictability for students in need. We're excited to see more commitments like this in years to come."

For the 2023-24 academic year, eligible students will receive up to $5,100 in non-repayable funding, with monthly support payments increased from $250 to $425 per month. Alberta Student Grant eligibility will be automatically assessed for students applying for student loans, eliminating the need for a separate application.

"We know that many students have been struggling with the increased cost of living and inflationary pressures,” said University of Alberta President and Vice-Chancellor Bill Flanagan, “so we applaud the government's additional investment in the Alberta Student Grant. This increase will help reduce some of the financial barriers students face so that they can focus on their education and on their future – and that’s a smart investment for the long-term success of our province."

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Chris Beasley

Vice President External

University of Alberta Students’ Union

chris.beasley@su.ualberta.ca

Students Ready to Engage with New Minister of Advanced Education on Key Priorities

News Staff - Tue Jun 13, 2023

The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) welcomes the appointment of Rajan Sawhney as the new Minister of Advanced Education in Alberta. Representing over 35,000 students at the University of Alberta, the UASU eagerly anticipates the opportunity to work with Minister Sawhney on the most pressing challenges facing post-secondary education (PSE).

Alberta's university-age population is expected to grow by up to 40% over the next decade. Recognizing the critical juncture at which PSE finds itself, the UASU projects a lasting need for substantial funding to ensure the quality and accessibility of education for all Alberta students.

“I look forward to working with Minister Sawhney,” says President Christian Fotang, “and exploring how we can secure resources for today’s students and those that have not yet started their academic journeys. We can strengthen the foundations of Alberta's post-secondary institutions and create an environment conducive to academic excellence, provincial competitiveness and stability for students.”

The UASU will also advocate for support for students working in unpaid placements. These placements offer valuable experiential learning opportunities, but often impose financial hardship. More broadly, we look forward to helping Minister Sawhney improve options for financial assistance, ensuring that Alberta's students have a fair opportunity to pursue their career goals.

“We know that there are many links between mental health, financial hardship, and needs-based financial aid,” says Vice President External Chris Beasley. “I look forward to working with the Minister to make sure we’re investing in the right solutions.”

The UASU is eager to engage with Minister Sawhney on shaping the future of post-secondary education in Alberta.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

University of Alberta Students Protest Proposed Tuition Hikes — Thousands of students demand that Board of Governors vote NO on proposed tuition increases

News Staff - Fri Mar 24, 2023

(EDMONTON — March 24, 2022) — Today, students at the University of Alberta gather to protest a proposed fourth round of tuition increases. The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) and the Graduate Students' Association (GSA) are gathering to protest a culmination of years of severe tuition hikes that have impacted domestic and international students from all faculties.

The rise in tuition fees has made it increasingly difficult for students to afford basic necessities like rent, food, textbooks, and mental health care, forcing many to work multiple jobs while studying. Despite repeated requests to keep tuition increases to a minimum, the University has consistently chosen to raise fees by the maximum possible amount, creating a significant and unprecedented financial burden for students.

“If the Board of Governors chooses the maximum possible increase again today, base domestic tuition will have increased by 29% over four years, and much more for several faculties," says UASU President Abner Monteiro. “This is unacceptable, and we need an end to unsustainable and destructive hikes. Students deserve the opportunity to bounce back with dignity. We are, by every measure, not doing well.”

Tuition hikes inflict real harm on students' lives and education. The increasing demand for mental health services and campus food banks is a direct consequence of the tuition increases, and the trend will only continue if the University continues on this path. The rising cost of education has a deep and meaningful impact on a student's quality of life. The reality is that many students face traumatic food insecurity, with one in six students being severely food insecure by Health Canada standards, and the use of Campus Food Bank has tripled in the last year and a half.

“Many students are struggling to get by, and the University's actions are not helping them,” says GSA VP Academic Bishoi Aziz. “We need the Board of Governors to hear us and vote no. An open letter and a grassroots petition each collected two thousand signatures against these increases. Students not only deserve but desperately need better.”

Most recently, the University of Alberta Board of Governors has been granted permission to free up $39 million in investments next year, which is more than double what the University will make from the proposed tuition hikes. Therefore, many students, staff and faculty believe there is no need to raise tuition, as the institution has the immediate resources to meet its current financial responsibilities without placing the burden on students.

Today's protest is a clear message to the University that students are tired of their needs being ignored. We demand affordable tuition, quality education, and consultation that puts student feedback into practice. The Board of Governors has a choice to make, and many students hope that Board members will exercise courage and good judgment today, instead of maximizing students' financial burdens.

"We urge the University to consider the well-being of its students and prioritize a healthy community over financial comfort," says UASU VP Student Life Joannie Fogue. "Our message is clear: we are paying close attention, students deserve better, and we hope the U of A makes the right choice this time.”

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Statement on SU Elections Candidate Harassment

News Staff - Mon Mar 06, 2023

Recent harassment toward candidates has underscored the need for equitable elections that respect the basic dignity of everyone who runs for public office.

In one incident, candidate Haruun Ali's residence door was urinated on, a serious escalation of harassment. We can confirm that the situation is being addressed by the appropriate authorities. Meanwhile, candidate Rowan Morris is facing gender-based harassment and contempt from unnamed students. Both candidates represent equity-seeking groups that are historically underrepresented in student leadership, and both candidates have faced discrimination and harassment while running for office in previous years. We are engaging with both candidates to address these situations, and to make this statement, in keeping with their wishes.

These kinds of dehumanizing behavior violate University policy and are unacceptable in our community. No student should face harassment, bullying, and discrimination while trying to participate in public life.

The Discrimination, Harassment and Duty to Accommodate Policy forbids comments or actions "that the person knows or ought to reasonably know will or would cause offence or humiliation," including behavior because of personal characteristics like "race, religious beliefs, colour, physical disability, mental disability, age, ancestry, place of origin, marital status, source of income, family status, gender, gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation." This policy also forbids bullying, sexual harassment, and gender-based discrimination.

All candidates are expected to ensure that they and their campaign teams are ready to play a proactive role in an equitable and respectful election process. The UASU will review candidate materials and election advertising to reinforce this point for future elections.

Candidates are running to represent and serve the student community. It is crucial that we maintain a respectful and professional atmosphere throughout the election process. This means refraining from personally attacking or belittling candidates, in person or online. We want to emphasize that we do not tolerate any behaviour that endangers any student on our campuses.

We recognize that the impact of this behavior is falling primarily on candidates from equity-seeking groups, and we urge our community to take equity and fundamental dignity more seriously. We are engaging with University administration to develop opportunities to educate and strengthen the campus community. We hope to work together to promote a fair, respectful, and inclusive election process, ensuring that anyone who wants to run for office can do so safely without fear of harassment, bullying, or discrimination.

Abner Monteiro — President, UASU

Matin Koohkan — Chief Returning Officer

Resources

The UASU Chief Returning Officer will address complaints about discrimination, bullying, and harassment in the context of student elections. See the new Regulation 320.16: Complaint Procedure and the Elections Complaint Form for more information. Making a report to the CRO does not stop you from making a disclosure or formal complaint to the University as you see fit.

If you have experienced discrimination or harassment in the University of Alberta community, options and resources are available.

The Office of Safe Disclosure and Human Rights, while it cannot accept formal complaints of harassment or discrimination, is a safe and neutral place for learning about what resources and potential resolution processes are available.The OSDHR can also advise you about the differences between a disclosure and a formal complaint.
The Discrimination and Harassment Prevention Procedure is an invaluable resource.
The UASU Cares database can connect you with a variety of support services related to mental health, abuse, and personal safety.
To learn more about addressing discrimination or harassment by students, refer to the Student Conduct and Accountability office.
Per Article 7 of the AASUA Collective Agreement, complaints about discrimination or other misconduct by instructors can be directed to the Provost's office.

SU Student Group Complaint Confidentiality

News Staff - Thu Feb 16, 2023

Part of the role of the Student Groups Committee (SGC) is to adjudicate rare confidential complaints, help student groups improve practices and processes in collaboration with the Office of the Dean of Students, and give summarized reports to Students' Council once issues are resolved.

Recently, one of the first of these SGC reports came to Students' Council for a private discussion, and some of the presentation materials were added to the Council public document package. This package was posted to the Council online archive and automatically distributed to the Gateway. The report to Council was a high-level summary of a complaint, how it was resolved, and the changes made as a result. While the report did not name the complainant, it did include sensitive details related to incidents that took place in past years and their impact on the complainant's health and well-being.

It was initially thought that some presentation materials were high-level enough that they could be included in the normal Students' Council document package. However, taking a trauma-informed approach toward the situation, it was agreed that keeping all presentation materials private would be best for all involved, and they were removed from the Students' Council archive. Council document submission methods and committee reporting standards are being reexamined to prevent issues like this from happening again.

We apologize to the complainant, who believed that this situation was fully resolved. We deeply regret that the mistaken release of these materials may cause further harm, and we are striving to move forward in a trauma-informed way that protects the complainant and all future complainants as much as possible. We also apologize to the current leadership of Alpha Psi, who have acted in good faith throughout this process. Due to the privacy of the complaint, we spoke openly with the Gateway about our processes, but have asked them to not run an article about the details of the complaint.

This was one of the first official complaints to go to SGC and subsequently be presented to Council. The UASU has learned from this process and will be making improvements going forward. We are committed to working toward a safe and welcoming campus for all students, and ensuring that anyone who files a complaint can expect the highest level of confidentiality.

Government of Alberta Announces 2% Tuition Increases Starting in 2024/25 After Years of Severe Tuition Hikes

News Staff - Thu Feb 16, 2023

The Government of Alberta has announced a series of measures designed to engage students and recent graduates. Today’s announcement includes promising to fix domestic tuition increases at 2%, improvements to the Alberta Student Grant for Full-Time Students, expanded eligibility for the Repayment Assistance Plan, and an extended grace period for Alberta student loans.

Students at the University of Alberta have seen the value of their tuition dollars on a downward trajectory for years. A fixed 2% increase starting in 2024/25, while not a perfect outcome, is a significant change after three years of annual 7% increases and a brutal round of exceptional increases for specific programs. Students at the University of Alberta are still fighting another 5.5% increase in domestic tuition for 2023/24; meanwhile, successive years of international students continue to pay far more than their share.

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In total, domestic students are seeing a cumulative increase ranging from 29% to 74% in just four years. Tuition has been rising around three times faster than inflation's impact on the University's actual costs — the direct result of over $222 million dollars in provincial government cuts directly shouldered by the University of Alberta.

The newly announced fixed increase will take effect too late to shield domestic students from the 5.5% increase. The University’s Board of Governors will take the vote on March 24th, 2023. In partnership with campus stakeholders, the UASU intends to protest at this meeting in hopes of preventing tuition from rising farther.

“If the Government of Alberta follows through," said Vice President Christian Fotang, "fixing tuition increases as low as possible can be a step toward protecting students from runaway tuition hikes and government cutbacks. But there’s still work to do to make post-secondary education affordable. We'll continue our work at the negotiating table to get closer to what students need."

Despite steep tuition increases and the cost of living, essential student aid and needs-based grants haven’t kept up. By the most recent available estimates, the Government of Alberta provides students with only 16 cents of needs-based grants for every dollar of debt it gives out.

“Alberta has a persistent imbalance between loans and needs-based grants,” said UASU President Abner Monteiro. “As students struggle to afford food and basic necessities, we're apprehensive about taking on even more debt. Backfilling University operating budgets is also key to protecting the quality of education. We encourage the Minister of Advanced Education to prioritize critical needs while expanding enrolment and preventing tuition spikes. That is where we urgently need to see the Government of Alberta step up.”

Today’s announcements are in no small part due to student advocacy across Alberta. The UASU acknowledges the Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS), the University of Calgary Students' Union (UCSU), and other stakeholders who have worked to ensure that post-secondary education remains affordable.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Peaceful Assembly at University of Lethbridge

News Staff - Fri Feb 03, 2023

The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) reaffirms its commitment to truth and reconciliation, and to the dignity, safety, and voices of Indigenous students. There is no place for discrimination or harassment in our communities.

We reject any attempt to minimize the damage done by the Indian Residential School System (IRSS), recognized as genocide by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, UASU policy, and the Government of Canada.

We commend the University of Lethbridge Students’ Union (ULSU), the University of Lethbridge Department of Indigenous Studies, and hundreds of community members who exercised their freedom of peaceful assembly. We are learning that some participants and supporters are facing racialized harassment and threats for taking a principled stand.

At a time when students are struggling to afford their education and the necessities of life, we know that many students face more than their share of burdens and barriers. We urge Minister Nicolaides and other decision-makers to refocus their priorities, listen to Indigenous stakeholders, and remember that dignity and safety are at issue.

Our University has firm policies against discrimination and harassment. We encourage impacted students to connect with the best available resources. The UASU Cares directory can point you toward professional services and culturally informed support.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Federal Fall Economic Updates

News Staff - Fri Nov 04, 2022

Major new federal investments will impact students during and after their time at the University of Alberta. These investments spring from long-term advocacy work by the Council of Alberta University Students (CASA), which counts the University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) among its members.

For University of Alberta students, some of the most exciting improvements are $400 million for the Canada Summer Jobs program over two years, and $50 million to address immigration backlogs and processing times.

"Escalating immigration backlogs and processing times have been harming too many international students," said Christian Fotang, UASU VP External and Chair of CASA. "We're very pleased to see the government working to fix the situation. This slate of investments will benefit students in the near future in tangible ways."

The federal government has also eliminated interest on Canada Student Loans going forward, which will ease debt burdens on many recent and new graduates. The CASA press release gives more detail on the new federal investments.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Concerns Regarding Break the Record

News Staff - Tue Nov 01, 2022

Dear Students,

We have heard your concerns and criticism regarding Break the Record (BTR) and are taking this seriously. That is why we presented a full budget before the Audit Committee and are transparent about the cost and other expenses of BTR. We would first like to clarify some of the questions surrounding the event.

BTR was an event organized by your University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) in partnership with the University of Alberta and the Graduate Students Association. Almost three years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we heard concerns about the impacts of isolation and loneliness on the student body. Part of our mission is to create community: we organize BTR and many other events to help bring the UAlberta community together.

Two-thirds of BTR was paid for by the University, a GSA contribution, and sponsorships: the total cost of the event was $145,000, and the UASU's contribution was $49,320. The UASU covered the cost of BTR to keep it a free and accessible event for students to attend, and a detailed cost breakdown is available here.

We have also heard concerns about the environmental impact of this event. The dodgeballs used were borrowed and returned, or purchased and resold at a lower price to other student groups on campus. The remaining newly purchased dodgeballs will be used during the next five Campus Cup dodgeball tournaments. Each participant present at the event was given one shirt and afterwards, the remaining shirts were free to be taken by students.

Serving students and improving campus life is at the core of our mission, and as executives, we are primarily responsible for ensuring we keep to that mission. We are committed to improving, and sharing your concerns and criticism as you have done is an integral part of how we are held accountable but also how we improve. We are working on creating better processes to gauge student interest and keep in line with what students want. We recognize that students have different interests and want to ensure that we're organizing various events you want to see on campus.

Your UASU Executive

Students Remember Myer Horowitz (1932-2022)

News Staff - Thu Oct 27, 2022

Dr. Myer Horowitz, who served as President of the University of Alberta from 1979 to 1989, passed away this week at the age of 89. We offer our condolences to Dr. Horowitz's family and all who knew and loved him.

After two decades in university leadership and a tireless defense of universal early-childhood education, Dr. Horowitz became an honorary member of the Alberta Teachers' Association and an Officer of the Order of Canada. The University of Alberta community remembers him as a champion of public education and a great friend to students.

"He always took the time to connect with each new student executive team, right up to this year," said UASU President Abner Monteiro. "For decades, we've benefited from his advice on leadership and his joy in working with students. His kindness was legendary and his memory is a blessing."

Update on Student Health Coverage Issues Resolved

News Staff - Thu Sep 29, 2022

As part of the University of Alberta Students’ Union's ongoing work to keep students' costs minimal, the Health and Dental Plan is transitioning to a new provider, Green Shield Canada (GSC). Moving to GSC is an important step that saves students roughly $2 million while keeping coverage the same. We have been working with GSC and our broker, Studentcare, to understand and eliminate students' most recent problems, including difficulty registering for coverage. We apologize that students have had limited and even conflicting information. This has been a frustrating situation for many students, including several of the UASU Executive team who are on the Health and Dental Plan. We are now able to offer a detailed, verified update and confirm that most of the issues have been resolved.

As part of the transition, all returning students experienced a blackout period, which lasted until September 22nd. A blackout period is a time when students are still covered by the Health and Dental Plan, but need to wait to file their claims until the period is over. All returning students can now file claims, use direct billing, and create accounts with GSC. There will be no blackout period for returning students in future years.

A blackout period applies to all new students (i.e. first-year students, some transfer students, students who enrolled late, and anyone who may have been opting out but now has opted in) until the end of October. At that point, they can file claims, use direct billing, and create accounts with GSC. This delay is because the University only sends student lists to Studentcare and GSC after students make their final choices at the Add/Drop deadline, ensuring students are billed correctly. At that point, Studentcare and GSC need a few weeks in October to process and activate coverage for each new student. Again, new students are still covered during this blackout period each year: they should save their receipts and file for reimbursement after the blackout period ends.

During the transition, part of the comprehensive psychology benefit was mis-programmed, meaning students were covered at $20 per visit instead of 80% per visit. This has been resolved, and GSC is reprocessing all incorrectly-paid claims to ensure they are paid correctly.

There have also been challenges around previously approved drug exceptions. As a top priority, Studentcare is working with GSC to ensure that previously approved drug exceptions are carried over from the previous provider. There should be no change in drug coverage.

We apologize for all the unnecessary problems that this transition has caused, including students not being promptly or correctly informed. We are working with our broker to ensure all problems are fully resolved, and we are committed to keeping students in the loop as much as possible. Students who experience further issues should contact Julia Villoso, UASU Vice President Operations and Finance, at vp.finance@su.ualberta.ca

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Indigenous Students’ Union (ISU) and University of Alberta Students’ (UASU) Devote Week to Residential School Memorial on Campus

News Staff - Mon Sep 26, 2022

Speakers, Elders, collaborators and attendees will begin this year’s Residential School Memorial ceremonies this afternoon from noon to 3PM. The memorial will hold space at the main quad until October 3rd. The University of Alberta is located on unlawfully stolen land and unceded Papaschase Cree territory, as well as Treaty 6 Territory and is the homeland of the Métis Nation.

“The Residential School Memorial is an important reminder,” says ISU President Malijha Moyan, “to those on campus that Indigenous Peoples are still mourning and still fighting to get justice for those who died in Residential Schools. The Memorial will be emotional and healing for Indigenous Peoples. For Non-Indigenous Peoples, it’s a time to reflect on the legacy and ongoing forced assimilation of Indigenous Peoples, past and present, and how we can revise our futures .”

There will be a total of 10,028 flags placed in the grounds near the Sweetgrass Bear. With each flag, the ISU and the UASU intend to commemorate a child lost to Residential Schools and commit to safeguarding each other’s healing. Each orange flag represents the additional number of graves found since last year’s memorial, 139 flags bear the name of the Residential Schools that operated on lands currently known as Canada, while yellow, white, blue and red flags represent the colors of the medicine wheel and the facets of healing ourselves and our relations.

“We ask that passersby and attendees honor the children who were forcibly removed from their communities,” says UASU Vice President Julia Villoso. “We encourage participants to reflect on the flag colors throughout the week and start the work in their hearts. We hope that in doing so, we may all recommit to acting in ways that own our colonial history and support our collective healing. Donations to support survivors can be made to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) and further topics to unsettle our ways of being can be found through this free resource guide.”

“The memorial is student-led,” says ISU Vice-President Consultation and Engagement Shannon Cornelsen. “We are proud to make the time for one another to gather, remember, share and heal. With many more people in attendance this year, I hope that we will see firm movement toward the promised Maskwa House of Learning and increased support for The First Peoples’ House, which provides transition services to Indigenous students on campus. So many students, staff, alumni and future generations will benefit from firm action on building plans for Maskwa House(1).”

It is thanks to the work of advocates and students that the Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Committee (ARRC) created a comprehensive list of recommendations for the Students' Union in 2018-2019. The ISU and the UASU continue to work together to complete commitments and to ensure the University of Alberta implements the TRC Calls to Action - specifically #24 and #28, which addresses the role of post-secondary institutions in reconciliation. The University of Alberta Indigenous Strategic Plan was a step forward and the ISU and UASU look forward to continued investment and accountability in these areas.

"Last year, the ISU and UASU councilors got together”, says UASU VP Julia Villoso, “for a humble event in the November cold. This year the event has grown substantially and we hope that in recognition of our shared histories, through grief and reflection, we will create futures worthy of us."

(1): Maskwa House of Learning, announced in 2015, is intended to be a specialized space for Indigenous students on campus, used for programming and ceremonies. Maskwa House was also captured in the 2022 University of Alberta Indigenous Strategic plan on p.35 as a U of A Response to UNDRIP and the TRC Calls to Action. To date no plans or funding structures have been publicized.

About the Indigenous Students’ Union

The Indigenous Students’ Union is the official representative of more than 2000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta. The ISU operates as both a Student Representative Association (SRA) and under the umbrella of the Dean of Students (DoS) to create a safe and inclusive space for self-identified Indigenous students.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Shannon Cornelsen

Vice-President Consultation and Engagement, Indigenous Students’ Union

cornelse@ualbeta.ca

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist, University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

UASU Flags 4 Key Areas to Improve the University of Alberta's Sexual Violence Management Audit

News Staff - Tue Aug 23, 2022

As requested by the University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU), the University of Alberta has released an audit of policies and practices around preventing and responding to sexual violence. The audit report validates years of student concerns.

"Last November's joint letter demanded ten overdue reforms," said President Abner Monteiro. "The audit report confirms the importance of those demands, but only commits to fix half of them. I hope the new Provost and Sexual Violence Response Coordinator use this report to set the University on a better path."

The Board of Governors privately commissioned this audit in response to advocacy and direct action by the UASU, student members of the General Faculties Council, and other student representatives. In response to a freedom of information request from the UASU, the University confirmed that the audit report existed and committed to release it.

In the report, the administration aims to significantly improve consent and sexual violence prevention/response training, much of it mandatory, across the University community. The University is also overhauling and modernizing all policies and procedures surrounding sexual violence prevention and response. These major reforms stem from student advocacy to the University and to the provincial government over the last several years.

Alarmingly, the current report does not commit to:

Addressing persistent problems with the Association of Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA) collective agreement,
Making policy change regarding instructor/student relationships,
Making all relevant resources available in French for students at Campus Saint-Jean (CSJ), or,
Providing vital in-person support for Augustana students.

Neither CSJ nor Augustana is mentioned in the report.

Since the report's text is not searchable, the UASU has created a searchable version for ease of reference.

“We expect,” clarifies Joannie Fogue, VP Student Life, “that with continued advocacy and collaboration with the Sexual Violence Response Coordinator Deb Eerkes, the University will take equal care of our sister campuses. CSJ and Augustana can’t be left behind, and neither can staff represented by AASUA. All three must be properly onboarded, resourced and supported by the University in the fight against gender based sexual violence. The next steps are clearly laid out.”

Table: Student Asks vs. Audit Commitments

JOINT LETTER DEMAND	AUDIT	REPORT COMMITMENTS
1) Reform reporting/investigation in AASUA collective agreement	Confirmed problem (p.7)	None
2) Reform disciplinary record erasure in AASUA collective agreement	Confirmed problem (p.7)	None
3) Hiring Sexual Violence Response Coordinator	Confirmed as needed throughout	Hired - report offers road map for future work
4) Create or improve training for all students and staff in residence	Confirmed as needed (p.10)	Reviewing and improving training, possible funding (p.11)
5) Stronger ethical standards for relationships and sexual interactions between faculty and students, especially their own students	Confirmed problem (pp.12-13)	Limited commitment to reviewing documents (p.13)
6) Mandatory consent/SV training for instructors, staff, students	Confirmed as needed (p.10)	Commitment to mandatory training (p.11)
7) Harmonize policies around sexual violence	Confirmed as needed throughout	In progress as required by government due to student advocacy (p.3)
8) Institution-wide restorative justice options with staff training, including at CSJ and Augustana	Confirmed as needed (p. 14), no mention of CSJ or Augustana	Commitment to explore; no mention of CSJ or Augustana, but Disclosure Support Network should include staff from all campuses (p.9)
9) Ensure all SV prevention and response resources are available in French and designed for CSJ students	Not addressed in audit	None
10) In-person SV prevention and response resources at Augustana	Not addressed in audit	None

If you need to talk to someone and are safe to do so, you can call, text, or chat the Alberta One Line for Sexual Violence at 1-866-403-8000. Please also consider the many resources available through the Sexual Assault Centre's Virtual Resource Hub.

Students unite province-wide to challenge cuts to low-income grants

News Staff - Thu Aug 04, 2022

An unannounced cut to a provincial grant for low-income students has provoked serious questions. The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) calls on the government to live up to its Alberta 2030 commitment to expand availability of needs-based grants rather than reducing them.

Advanced Education has cut the Alberta Student Grant for Full Time Students (ASG-FT) by 33%, meaning a loss of up to $1000 in grant funding for some undergraduates in one-year and transfer programs, as well as some apprenticeship and graduate students.

"This grant has complex eligibility requirements, so we have no way to know how many students were impacted," said UASU President Abner Monteiro. "But Alberta's student grant funding is notoriously stingy. In last year's Alberta 2030 plan, this government pledged to address that shortfall, not make it worse."

"There are well-established channels for the government to keep student representatives informed," said VP (External) Christian Fotang. "We need to know why those channels weren't used: why we had to learn about this cut from individual students' financial aid letters. The government needs to be honest with us as a matter of basic respect."

The UASU stands alongside the Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS), the Graduate Students' Association of the University of Alberta (ab-GPAC), and the University of Calgary Students’ Union, to demand more transparency and increased access to non-repayable grants for all students from the Government of Alberta in this joint letter.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

University Commits to Publishing Private Report on Sexual Violence Audit

News Staff - Tue Jul 19, 2022

In response to a formal University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) request, the University of Alberta has committed to publishing a private audit of its sexual violence prevention and response efforts. The UASU and the rest of the University community should receive the audit report by mid-August at the latest.

"I look forward to reading the report," said UASU President Abner Monteiro. "Any fair review will reveal the same inaction we've fought for years."

Last November, the UASU, the Graduate Students' Association, 20 other student associations at the University of Alberta, and the Non-Academic Staff Association signed a joint letter demanding concrete reforms. The letter highlighted key deficiencies in training, reporting and support mechanisms, intersectional Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) issues, and instructors' collective agreement. Dozens of student representatives walked out of the General Faculties Council — stalling major governance processes for weeks — to protest the University's inaction.

Within days of the walkout, as mentioned in a set of public minutes, the Board of Governors privately commissioned an audit of all policies, procedures, systems, and resources related to sexual violence prevention and response.

The UASU filed a freedom of information request for the private audit's results. In a letter refusing the request, the University has committed to publish the audit report on or before August 16, 2022.

"I hope this report spurs the University to choose courage and develop institutional will," said Monteiro. "I'm optimistic about the Sexual Violence Response Coordinator and the renewal of the Sexual Violence Policy Suite, but some of the systemic problems are larger than a new staff member and a policy update can solve."

A letter from the Minister of Advanced Education, driven by advocacy from the Council of Alberta University Students, has added urgency to the situation. "Students have made it clear to the government that our schools need to take sexual violence far more seriously," said Vice President (External) Christian Fotang. "We've fought for a safer campus in the legislature, in boards and committees, and with a historic walkout. Now it's the University's turn to put in the work."

"Our university needs to do a better job with preventative measures," added Vice President (Student Life) Joannie Fogue. "The administration only seems to act when a student has already faced harm and trauma, but often ignores the work that needs to get done to actually end sexual violence on our campuses."

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Department of Research and Advocacy

University of Alberta Students’ Union

dra@uasu.ca

International Tuition Increases Risk Aggravating Food Insecurity, Mental Health Crises and Other Risk Factors

News Staff - Fri Jun 17, 2022

Students are deeply disappointed that the Board of Governors has approved a 6% increase to international tuition. This drastic step will increase the total cost of a Bachelor of Science degree by around $9,500 for the 2023-24 cohort.

Students and allies opposed the 6% increase throughout its hasty approval process on numerous grounds. The University's unrestricted surpluses and other available funds far outweighed the revenue generated by this increase. The cohort model pegged tuition far above the cost of program delivery only three years ago, which gave the administration plenty of insulation against inflation.

As with the recent exceptional tuition increases, consultation only began at the very end of Winter semester, a pattern that smacks of an afterthought. This is a familiar pattern: a group of international students wrote an open letter to the Board in 2013 about similar issues, noting “no consultation whatsoever on the university’s behalf with international students in drafting this proposal.” Students expect the University to take consultation more seriously in the future.

As international students explained to the University every step of the way, they face food insecurity, unstable and unsafe work, profound isolation, racial harassment, mental health crises, language barriers, harmful stereotypes, and other severe risks. Even reducing the 6% proposal to 5% would have resulted in a significant positive impact for international students. This modest adjustment — which many stakeholders in University governance found feasible — would have saved students $300 a year, comparable to at least a month of groceries or a year of student health and dental coverage.

Members of the Board, with the support of the Chair, committed to engage with student mental health and food insecurity in substantive ways. While students appreciate this commitment, the University must not neglect harm reduction and prevention. This is a missed chance to limit the burdens that already weigh on students' mental health and finances — a trend stretching back at least a decade.

"The administration wouldn't budge," said President Abner Monteiro. "I'm concerned about how students and the community see the University when we run an ample surplus but continue to increase tuition more than our current actual costs. This $9500 increase to the cost of a degree is going to have a tangible human impact."

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Statement on the Provost's Resignation

News Staff - Fri Jun 17, 2022

Longtime Provost and Vice-President (Academic) Dr. Steven Dew has announced his resignation as of July 1, 2022, for health reasons. "We wish Dr. Dew all the best," said UASU President Abner Monteiro. "We applaud Dr. Dew for his many years of work at the University of Alberta, and his willingness to hear out and work alongside the UASU. We look forward to once again being friendly challengers and partners on key student issues in the years to come.”

“We’d also like to welcome Dr. Verna Yiu as the Interim Provost and Vice-President (Academic). We’re eager to learn from and work closely with Dr. Yiu to continue supporting the University of Alberta’s many communities. Together we can contribute to safe, enlivening and accessible futures for students from all walks of life.”

The Alberta Disadvantage: 31% drop in funding to Alberta’s Post-Secondary Education

News Staff - Thu May 12, 2022

In real terms, Alberta has seen a shocking 9% drop in post-secondary education (PSE) funding in the past year, and a 31% total drop in the past five years. Recent analysis by Higher Education Strategy Associates spotlights the real change in funding to institutions and the wide discrepancies between Alberta and other provinces.

It is clear that Budget 2022 and the legacy of the last four years have shifted the cost of funding post-secondary to Alberta’s families and students. Meanwhile, provinces like BC and Quebec have continued to invest in post-secondary education and increased contributions by 10%-16%.

“It’s alarming. We’ve had years of cuts to post-secondary education (PSE),” says UASU President Abner Monteiro, “and during one of the hardest periods for students, faculty and staff, the University of Alberta has seen the most staggering cuts in Canada. The Government of Alberta needs to step up and support greater investment in post-secondary education to help Alberta's young people thrive again.”

The University of Alberta has absorbed a disproportionate amount of the provincial cuts to post-secondary education. This has led many to question the widening grants to loans imbalance and repeat calls from the UASU for more needs-based grants. As of Jan 2022, the Government of Alberta provides students with only 13 cents of needs-based support for every dollar of debt it gives out — the lowest rate in Canada. Young Albertans are forced to incur Canada's highest levels of student debt for a fair chance at education. Alberta's stingy granting system locks many more young people out of pursuing professional programs and post-secondary education entirely. The Minister of Advanced Education also recently approved exceptional tuition increases ranging from 17% to 45% for specific undergraduate programs, offloading even greater costs onto students and their families.

“It’s deeply irresponsible to underfund our future in this way,” says VP External Christian Fotang. “We know that investing in high quality education and student jobs will prepare students for the future, diversify our economy, create a competitive workforce, employ thousands of people, and lead to innovative research. There's no excuse for damaging our province's future by neglecting these priorities. Students are just trying to get by.”

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Statement in Support of Transgender Students' Rights

News Staff - Thu Apr 14, 2022

The UASU unequivocally supports transgender students and their right to a safe, equitable learning environment. Transgender students should never have to fear discrimination by their peers, instructors, institutions, or community.

In the UASU's latest annual survey (November-December 2021, n=4032), 2.9% of respondents (1 in 34) were transgender. (Likewise, a recent Gallup poll showed that 2.1% of Generation Z Americans were transgender.) Around 1000 University of Alberta undergraduates are transgender, meaning they experience unique and dangerous challenges. According to Statistics Canada, transgender people face an especially high risk of violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and discrimination — in public, in private, and in the workplace. The in-person and social media harassment that Rowan Morris, a transgender student, suffered as a candidate in this year's Students' Council election is just one recent example. We are committed to working with the Office of the Dean of Students to address and prevent transphobic harassment, and support students who experience it.

Meanwhile, transgender students constantly face systemic barriers. For example, the UASU's 2021 annual survey found that transgender students are at much higher risk of homelessness-related circumstances, unsafe living situations, food insecurity, unemployment, and underemployment.

Data showing that transgender UAlberta students are especially likely to experience food insecurity, homelessness, unemployment, etc.

Transgender students also face special costs and risks around identification, government records, and University administration. Students need to be able to record and change their preferred and legal names easily, in ways that filter through University systems and documents without hassle. Thanks to student advocacy, the Registrar has committed to reducing specific barriers. We are also working to ensure that students have mechanisms to change their names in UASU systems that draw students' names from University databases.

In students' day-to-day life, safe and equitable access to washroom facilities is another pervasive issue. While SUB has several gender-neutral washrooms and the ongoing renovations will provide even more, gender-neutral washrooms are not common or evenly distributed at the University of Alberta. We support transgender students' requests for access to gender-neutral washroom facilities in all University of Alberta buildings and on all campuses. Students also deserve safe and equitable changing spaces in University gym facilities.

Finally, pronouns are another crucial element of a safe, equitable educational environment. In our last annual survey, one-third of transgender students felt somewhat or very uncomfortable going by their correct pronouns on campus. This year the UASU ran a large-scale pronoun awareness campaign to educate instructors, administrators, and students, but we see a clear need for ongoing education efforts. Using other people's pronouns correctly is a matter of basic respect.

Like all institutions, the UASU has often struggled to understand the scope and importance of the challenges that transgender students face on a daily basis. We are committed to doing better and expecting more of our university and community.

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Students rally for provincial Day of Action to demand post-secondary funding and student aid reform

News Staff - Mon Mar 28, 2022

EDMONTON — March 28, 2022 — The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU), alongside representatives from the Students' Association of MacEwan University and other community stakeholders, are rallying at the Alberta Legislature today at 12:00 noon. Students aim to protest the latest round of cuts to post-secondary education, and to demand changes to student financial aid.

The province’s 2022 budget slashed Alberta Advanced Education's funding by $62 million, despite projecting a $2.1 billion surplus over the next three years. Meanwhile, Advanced Education continues to provide minimal needs-based student grants compared to the rest of Canada, damaging equitable access to education.

"Compared to the rest of Canada, Alberta's students graduate with higher average debt and are more likely to graduate with debt to the government, often far more than the actual cost of their degree," said UASU President Rowan Ley. "Alberta's student financial aid system needs to catch up with the rest of Canada."

More than 260,000 students are pursuing post-secondary education in Alberta, and prospective students are projected to increase sharply in coming years. Alberta universities need more funding to deliver high-quality education. Budget 2022 aims to support enrolment growth, but only for a few government-selected courses of study, and only after waves of deep cuts to core funding.

"At the University of Alberta alone, provincial funding has dropped by $222 million in three and a half years," said Ley, "but tuition is skyrocketing. We've lost thousands of jobs, and the remaining staff and instructors face constant pressure to do more with much less. For example, when students need accessibility accommodations, they're seeing unacceptable wait times and reduced services. Even if all the new tuition revenue somehow goes toward increasing the quality of education, that's a drop in the bucket compared to what reasonable provincial funding could do."

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Newly Approved 17-45% Tuition Hikes Will Damage Equitable Access to Education

News Staff - Wed Mar 09, 2022

The UASU is deeply disappointed to learn that the provincial government has approved all the University of Alberta's exceptional tuition increase proposals, ranging from 17% to 45% for specific undergraduate programs.

"We've engaged with rushed and inconsistent consultations in good faith since last spring," said UASU President Rowan Ley. "We've fought hard to get the University to take student needs more seriously. While we've succeeded in taking the edge off several of these colossal tuition hikes, this decision will damage equitable access to education and contribute to a dangerous brain drain. Between skyrocketing tuition, Budget 2022's new round of post-secondary cuts, and Alberta's notoriously stingy student grants, prospective students will find whole fields of study increasingly out of reach. This decision was the wrong one, and we're evaluating options to respond."

All current domestic students will face another 7% increase in tuition as part of a 22.5% three-year increase. Thanks to this new decision, instead of the 7% hike, incoming domestic students in the following undergraduate programs will face 17–45% higher tuition. Within two to five years, depending on program length, the new tuition rates will apply to all domestic students in these programs.

Tuition for the BSc Eng (Engineering) program will increase by 24.5% ($1,790) for incoming domestic students. Due to aggressive student advocacy, the faculty eventually committed to allocate 15% of new revenue to financial aid. Once the new tuition rate applies to all domestic students, the UASU estimates the new advocacy-driven set-aside will save students $822,000 per year, partially blunting the impact of this huge tuition increase.
Tuition for the JD (Law) program will increase by 29% ($3,393) for incoming domestic students. Committed student advocacy, including strong work from the Indigenous Law Students' Association, forced the faculty to reduce its original proposal (45%). Once the new tuition rate applies to all domestic students, the UASU estimates the advocacy-driven reduction from 45% to 29% will save students $826,000 per year, partially blunting the impact of this increase.
Tuition for the BCom (Business) program will increase by 22% ($1,761) for incoming domestic students. Despite persistent advocacy, the faculty has neither reduced the increase nor set aside additional funds for student aid.
Tuition for the BSc Radiation Therapy program will increase by 20% ($1,218) for incoming domestic students. Due to student advocacy, the department committed 20% of new revenue to financial aid. Once the new tuition rate applies to all domestic students in this small program, the UASU estimates the new advocacy-driven set-aside will save students $10,800 per year.
Tuition for the BSc Medical Laboratory Science program will increase by 17% ($1,034) for incoming domestic students. This small program asked for the lowest exceptional increase and set aside a respectable amount for financial aid early in the process.
Tuition for the DDS and APDDS (Dentistry) programs will increase by $9,243 (40% and $16.19%, respectively) for incoming domestic students. Thanks to student advocacy, the faculty agreed to reduce the APDDS increase from 40% to 16.19%, and to increase financial aid set-asides by roughly 1/3. Once the new tuition rates apply to all domestic students, the UASU estimates advocacy-driven student savings at $821,000 per year, somewhat reducing the impact of the tuition hikes.
Tuition for the PharmD (Pharmacy) program will increase by 44% ($5,029) for incoming domestic students. Thanks to student advocacy, the faculty doubled the financial aid set-aside, which will eventually save students $261,000 per year and reduce the impact of this huge tuition increase.

In total, this past year's student advocacy (including work from the UASU, Faculty Associations, Department Associations, and other student organizations) will save students at least $2.74 million per year once these egregious tuition hikes apply to all domestic students.

"There's no world in which a twenty to forty-five percent tuition increase is acceptable," said Ley. "And the government should have rejected at least some of the proposals for failure to meet basic regulatory and consultation standards along the way. Unfortunately, the government and the University decided to balance the budget on the backs of students. We'll do our best to hold the University accountable for all the ambitious promises they used to justify this decision."

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

The UASU is the official representative of more than 35,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta. It advocates for students’ needs and priorities to the University of Alberta and at all levels of government.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

UAlberta Students March and Rally at the Alberta Legislature: Students demand No More Cuts to Post-Secondary in Provincial Budget

News Staff - Thu Feb 17, 2022

The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) along with the Graduate Students’ Association (GSA), the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA) and the Association of Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA), are marching to rally at the Alberta Legislature.

UAlberta students, staff and faculty are demanding an end to provincial budget cuts to post-secondary education, seeing as the Alberta Government is projecting a multi-billion dollar surplus in their upcoming budget.

“We’ve had years of cuts to post-secondary education (PSE),” says UASU President Rowan Ley. “Students, faculty and staff need funding, support and investment to continue their work and help Alberta thrive. High quality education helps prepare students for the future, creates a competitive workforce, employs thousands and leads to innovative research, all of which helps diversify Alberta’s economy. The Alberta Advantage needs to make a comeback.”

Provincial budget cuts have affected over 260,000 post-secondary students across Alberta, who are seeing reduced quality of education and critical services. Alberta’s students are paying more than ever for their tuition and these rising costs show no signs of slowing. Any additional cuts and the threat of exceptional tuition increases (as high as 105% in certain UAlberta programs) are a low blow for Alberta families and students’ who are trying to save up for their education.

“For Albertan institutions to maintain their international ranking, they have to attract and retain Canadian and international talents in the province,“ says GSA President Anas Fassih, “We have already started noticing signs of brain drain, i.e., graduate students leaving to other provinces in quest for affordable education that our institutions fail to provide due to these substantial budget cuts. It has to stop!”

The University of Alberta has historically been the hardest hit university in Alberta and has seen $170 million in cuts in three years.

“The United Conservative Party (UCP) government’s unprecedented cuts to the University of Alberta over the last three provincial budgets has led directly to the loss of over 1,000 jobs at the University,” says NASA President Jillian Pratt. “The vast majority of these job losses were support staff. Students know that fewer staff means a reduction in the critical services and supports that students count on every day. Enough damage has been done by this government to Alberta’s flagship university. It’s time to stop the cuts —and reverse them.”

“Pandemic financial aid is entirely depleted and ran out last fall," says UASU VP Academic Abner Monteiro. “Accessibility services are in shreds and program quality has seen a significant decline. We can’t stand by while more cuts destroy decades of investment and jeopardize all our futures. We need to keep post-secondary education properly funded to keep Alberta strong."

The UASU stands united with those who share concerns about the anticipated provincial budget cuts. Even if the provincial budget includes funding to match enrolment growth, the per-student reduction remains the same, which harms current and future post-secondary students.

"The Academic Staff at the U of A fully support the Students’ Union’s rally,” says AASUA President Tim Mills. “We will be with them on Thursday protesting. Investment in this generation of students should be a cornerstone of our economic recovery. Now is not the time to cut quality education: students deserve more. Together, we encourage the government to provide funding for affordable tuition and quality education."

About the University of Alberta Students’ Union

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Government Follows Student Recommendations to Prevent Sexual Violence

News Staff - Wed Feb 16, 2022

After years of effort from students across Alberta, the University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) welcomes new provincial initiatives to prevent sexual violence in post-secondary institutions.

On February 15, Advanced Education and Culture and Status of Women announced two important developments: a sector-wide survey, and a $2.5M grant to support training and awareness programs on Alberta's campuses. These initiatives stem from impassioned, long-term advocacy by the Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS), the UASU, and other student organizations.

"Students at Alberta's universities have urged the government to take concrete action to prevent sexual violence," said UASU VP External Christian Fotang. "We're thankful the government acted on some of the CAUS's recommendations, and that student advocacy on this issue can continue to illuminate and fill the gaps."

Statistics Canada data shows that sexual violence is far too common in post-secondary education. "But only a few dozen students come forward every year," said VP Student Life Talia Dixon. "We've been asking the government and the University to take this issue more seriously. The new announcement is a step in the right direction. Going forward, we need to see lasting commitment."

The UASU represents 35,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta. For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Students Furious at University's Failure to Meet Basic Standards for Online Courses

News Staff - Wed Feb 02, 2022

For a wide variety of serious health, financial, and academic reasons, students are split between staying online and returning in late February as planned. However, three weeks into the semester, students agree that their educational experience is much worse than expected. The University has failed to meet basic standards for online learning.

"We supported a temporary shift online with the understanding that the University had fixed the concerns we've continually raised over the past two years," said VP Academic, Abner Monteiro. "This semester students have reported increasing and unacceptable issues with online learning, proctoring, practicums and exams. Students across all faculties feel lied to. It’s very telling of the University’s lack of capacity to maintain quality after rounds of increasingly aggressive tuition hikes."

The UASU consults and surveys students regularly and we are seeing unprecedented pain, anger, and dissatisfaction. After years of pandemic adaptation and budget cuts, students understand that emergency remote delivery has its challenges but rightfully expects the University to deliver the promised quality of education. In solidarity with students, the UASU refuses to accept this semester's emerging and preventable failures. The University must make immediate changes as the current situation is harming students' mental health, financial wellbeing and academic success.

Data from a survey of 1238 students with a 65% response rate, focusing on student experiences since the semester began on January 5th:

25% are being required to take in-person midterms before campus reopens.
34% report instructors unilaterally deciding to stay remote for the rest of the semester in the context of unclear central plans.
21% face housing instability like paying for multiple residences or lack of short-term housing options, compounded by the inability to plan for the rest of the semester.
42% report refusals to record lectures.
43% report old recordings used as most or all of their course content.
37% report negative experiences with online proctoring.
38% face internet instabilities — not just at home but in residence and on campus.
Out of 243 respondents with practicum or experiential learning placements, 40% report that their supervisors aren't telling them whether those placements will continue this semester.

Data from a sample of 756 students with a 77% response rate, focusing on student experiences since the semester began on January 5th:

"This semester, my faculty's administrators/staff are making an effort to limit students' stress levels." On a 5-point Likert scale, 26% somewhat disagree and 19% strongly disagree.

“This is a cascading failure,” said UASU President Rowan Ley. “Expecting resilience from us without proper stability and tools to be successful is careless. The University committed to uphold its core responsibility and deliver the education we're paying for. Students are reporting historic levels of disenchantment with the quality of education they receive in Alberta. The online pivot has been completely mishandled despite a year of experience, and it's become clear that the University has failed to keep standards up. This failure leaves too many of us without critical support.”

Immediate Action Required:

Shut down SEM and ExamLock online proctoring software for the rest of the semester except where they are explicit accreditation requirements. The University has not delivered on promises to enforce standards for online proctoring. Students are tired of the distrust, inequity, irresponsibility, malfunction, excessive technical requirements, and invasion of privacy.
Confirm that no remote student is required to take in-person midterms before campus reopens.
Make a commitment to a predictable in-person return, release a detailed step by step safe return plan and make rapid tests and masks available for students, faculty, and staff on campus as part of a safe return strategy, similar to what has happened at the University of British Columbia (UBC).
Students are split between wanting to return ASAP (often citing serious mental health situations) and staying online. However, they are united in demanding clearer plans — and communication of those plans — from all levels of University administration.
In recent weeks, students have already shouldered many unexpected costs. The University has the power to prevent further vulnerability and financial insecurity by giving students clear predictability for the rest of the semester.
Immediately increase mental health support. Last semester, 50% of respondents to a large student survey (n=2506, 23% response rate) reported serious mental health impacts from the pandemic (36% ‘a lot’ + 14% ‘more than anything I’ve ever been through’). Students have shared horror stories of anxiety, burnout, and isolation.
Bolster funding for Accessibility Resources. Students who need academic accommodations report University support staff are overworked, which severely reduces the quality of available services. Many students report duplicate accommodations, or measures that don't meet their actual needs. Students under duress should not need to create their own patchwork accommodations to make up for the current lack of capacity at Accessibility Resources.
Record all lectures. Over 40% of students report courses that are not delivering this basic accommodation despite the needs of many disabled students and international students in other time zones. This should not be such a widespread obstacle in the University’s seventh semester of instruction during the pandemic.
Make it clear to faculties that posting old recordings as most or all of their course delivery, as reported by over 40% of students, is unacceptable. Students are upset about paying hundreds of dollars per course just to watch years-old YouTube clips without class engagement.
Immediately boost internet service in residence and across campus while setting clear standards for how internet failures during exams will be handled. Students explicitly report on-campus internet instability interfering with online courses and exams.
Direct all practicum and experiential learning supervisors to immediately inform all participating students whether their placements this semester are still happening.
Scrap Exceptional Tuition Increase proposals, particularly for faculties that are delivering an especially poor quality of education. Students are already paying too much for eroding program quality and poor delivery. If the University cannot deliver on existing commitments and services to a reasonable standard, we do not have confidence in its ability to use millions of new tuition dollars responsibly.
Develop and broadly implement blended/hybrid learning models wherever appropriate. The University needs to respect and leverage the established expertise of the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL). Much of this should have been carried out even before the pandemic.

“I’m beyond frustrated for students. We’re suffering through a deteriorating, demoralizing, and confusing educational environment,” said Talia Dixon, UASU VP Student Life. “We’ve had to do it all at our own mental, emotional and financial cost. We need immediate action on these items to avoid any more long-lasting impacts to students' lives and futures. We are resilient but we will not accept low standards.”

Advanced Education and University administration cannot in good conscience pursue exceptional tuition increases at a time when students are receiving such low value for money. Instead of hiking tuition again, the University needs to regroup and correct its pervasive top-down failures.

“This is a compounding issue that has gone from bad to worse to inexcusable,” said Ley. “Unprecedented budget cuts weakened the University at exactly the wrong time and set students up for additional pain. But the quality of learning this semester has fallen so much lower than it had to. We're afraid we'll see another round of compounding cuts in the upcoming provincial budget. I’m tired of students paying such a heavy and avoidable price.”

"Students are justifiably angry," said Dixon. "As students, the UASU Executive Committee shares students' feelings of anger, sadness, disappointment, and even betrayal. The University must do more to ensure we are not only safe but receive the high-quality education we expect."

To get advocacy updates, follow us on Instagram (@uasu.alberta) or check out our Facebook page (University of Alberta Students' Union - UASU). If you wish to connect with UASU leadership about our advocacy on these issues or additional supports, please email UASU President Rowan Ley, at president@uasu.ca

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Students brace for delayed return to campus

News Staff - Fri Jan 14, 2022

The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) supports the University’s decision to postpone a return to in-person learning until February 28 (after Reading Week) due to rising case counts, test positivity rates, and hospitalizations, based on AHS recommendations. The University of Calgary, the University of Lethbridge, and other post-secondary institutions across Canada are taking similar measures or are facing comparable demands from their students.

“Though this delay is significant, we hope that this will ensure both the safety and wellbeing of students and our communities as a top priority” says Rowan Ley, UASU President, “we respect that it’s necessary and public health comes first. We’re fortunate there was greater lead time surrounding this decision, allowing folks to get their boosters and adjust their Winter plans.”

Although this delay is a frustrating step back for all of us, the University's decision to postpone is in line with most students' concerns. In early January, when the Omicron wave was significantly less severe, the UASU asked 940 students when they would be comfortable returning to in-person classes:

15% said they would feel comfortable returning right away.
26% said they would feel comfortable returning around January 23 (the University's plan at the time).
17% preferred January/early February.
18% preferred mid to late February.
24% said they likely would not feel comfortable returning for the rest of the Winter 2022 semester.

In short, even in early January, half of UAlberta students already preferred a mid-February return or later, and most preferred a return date that was later than the official plan at the time. Since then, the Omicron wave has intensified significantly.

Your UASU will continue to advocate for improved communication with students around the University’s response to Omicron. At students' request, the extended drop/delete deadline for classes has been moved from January 17 to January 21, allowing students extra time to make decisions about their classes. We will continue pushing for improvements to EClass to maintain a higher level of online learning quality and accessibility. Consistent with student and community advocacy, the University has also begun performing critical ventilation audits to protect against airborne transmission of COVID-19.

“The UAlberta student community has shown tremendous resilience during the few short weeks since the new year,” says Talia Dixon, UASU VP Student Life. “We’re advocating for increased access to on-campus COVID-19 testing so that all students know that, if they need to, they can get tested.”

If you or a loved one need access to vaccines and COVID-19 testing, please see the Government of Alberta's rapid testing and vaccine distribution programs. Boosters are available through Alberta’s Vaccine booking system, at your local pharmacy or by calling 811. For more information on mental and physical health support, see UASU Cares, an interactive wellness resource designed to connect you with the services you need. If you wish to connect with UASU leadership about our advocacy on these issues or additional supports, please email president@uasu.ca

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

UASU responds to Omicron wave and temporary remote learning

News Staff - Wed Dec 22, 2021

The University of Alberta Students' Union (UASU) recognizes that the aggressive Omicron variant is driving a rapid fourth major wave of COVID-19 infections. While Omicron is not yet well understood, new cases and test positivity are rising at a faster rate than in previous waves.

Due to sharply rising COVID-19 numbers, the University and the provincial government have decided to shift most classes online, and take other safety measures, until at least January 23. Other post-secondary institutions across Alberta and the rest of Canada are taking similar measures against Omicron.

"Students need as much clarity, safety, and predictability as the University can provide, as early as possible," said UASU President Rowan Ley. "As the Omicron situation develops, students are making hard choices over the next few days about personal safety, housing, and the return to school."

The UASU continues to call on the University to strengthen masking recommendations, distribute high-quality masks to student-facing staff, and keep students promptly and clearly informed of all developments. The University will also need to take serious measures to preserve the quality and accessibility of education.

"The add/drop deadline needs to be extended to the end of January," said Abner Monteiro, UASU VP Academic. "That will give students a chance at an in-person educational experience before they need to commit to keeping or dropping classes. The University also needs to stop persistent EClass crashes and ensure the established equity issues of remote proctoring don't make a comeback."

For the vast majority of students, remote learning was a frustrating and unsatisfying experience. Remote proctoring and other accessibility challenges have had deep impacts on equity, especially for students of colour, disabled students, or students without stable internet access or safe living situations. The University will need to prevent these inequities from recurring over the coming weeks.

"Like the rest of the student body, we find this situation intensely frustrating," said Monteiro. "We're ready to do our part to limit transmission, get booster shots, and get the new wave under control. We hope it'll be safe to return to in-person classes very soon."

If you or a loved one need access to vaccines and COVID-19 testing, please see the Government of Alberta's rapid testing and vaccine distribution programs. For more information on mental and physical health support, see UASU Cares, an interactive wellness resource designed to connect you with the services you need. If you wish to connect with UASU leadership about our advocacy on these issues or additional supports, please email president@uasu.ca

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Students lead mass walkout from GFC, demand action on sexual violence prevention

News Staff - Tue Nov 30, 2021

At the November 29 General Faculties Council meeting, around 40 GFC members — primarily student members — walked out in support of survivors of sexual violence, causing the meeting to be adjourned until December.

The General Faculties Council (GFC) is responsible for the academic and student affairs of the University, including administrators, professors, students, librarians, and academic and non-academic staff. A walkout is unparalleled in recent memory.

This unprecedented show of solidarity reinforced the urgency of the Joint Letter on Sexual Violence Prevention and Response. The joint letter was signed by the Student’s Union (UASU), the Graduate Students' Association (GSA), the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA), and 20 student representative organizations. The letter urges the Association of Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA) and the U of A to support survivors and address sexual violence in ten specific ways.

President Ley explained that the goal of the walkout was “to reinforce the seriousness of our demands and to show GFC that this space needs to be safe for survivors.” This action follows multiple UASU calls for greater prevention measures, raising serious concerns about reporting mechanisms, accountability for those in positions of power, support for survivors, opaque investigation procedures, and safe participation in University governance.

In the hours since the walkout, over 500 students, staff, GFC members, instructors, administrators, Deans, and alumni have signed a petition in support of the joint letter's ten demands. The first 500 signatures are available here. The petition includes options to keep signatories' full or last names private if they are not in a position to sign openly (e.g. for employment reasons). Students are grateful that so many members of the University community understand the necessity of creating a safe and equitable learning environment.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

UASU Supports Mandatory Vaccination

News Staff - Mon Sep 13, 2021

The UASU strongly supports the University administration’s decision to mandate vaccines on campus. In light of rising COVID cases (especially among young people) and renewed province-wide measures, mandatory vaccines offer the greatest available protection for students, staff, faculty, and their loved ones.

These measures come into effect on November 1st. An individual is considered fully vaccinated 14 days after receiving their second dose. This means students need to plan to have their first dose on or before September 26th for the Pfizer vaccine, on or before September 19th for the Moderna vaccine, in order to receive their second dose by October 17th at the latest. Vaccination records may be found on myHealth Records Alberta for free.

The UASU has consistently advocated for mandatory vaccination (or proof of a health-related exemption), particularly for students living in residence, a practice already in place at many major Canadian universities. “Requiring vaccination will go a long way toward addressing the fear that so many students feel, especially in residence,” said Talia Dixon, UASU Vice President (Student Life). “Getting fully vaccinated is the best way you can help protect other students, your professors, university staff, and yourself.”

Widespread vaccination can also safeguard those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons, and helps create safe opportunities to participate in campus life. A safe, responsible campus community can have an outsized impact on AHS’s ability to manage the pandemic in Edmonton and the region. By getting both doses, we can keep businesses open, keep student events happening, and keep jobs on campus.

“With 8944 entries into the Get Your Shot contest, we know that students strongly support vaccination and are eager to do their part,” said Rowan Ley, UASU President. “We need to do everything we can to prevent another last-second pivot to online instruction and keep each other safe.”

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

UASU announces Get Your Shot vaccine incentive contest to celebrate return to campus

News Staff - Tue Aug 24, 2021

The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) is excited to announce the Get Your Shot contest in partnership with the University of Alberta, the Graduate Students’ Association (GSA), and the Alumni Association. The contest, aimed at encouraging students to be fully vaccinated prior to the start of classes, celebrates our return to the vibrancy of campus life after a year more challenging than ever before for University of Alberta students.

Students can enter to win from August 27th to September 10th. The Get Your Shot contest will provide the opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to win prizes including 10 free arts tuition prizes for the fall semester, 2 full-year graduate thesis-based tuition prizes, and many more prize packs to be announced. The contest is open to all University of Alberta students 18 and older who have at least 1 dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine.

Clinics will be available to help anyone who may have had limited access to COVID-19 vaccines prior to the start of term. With most students getting vaccinated before our return to campus, we are protecting our communities by reducing the potential spread of COVID-19.

“Widespread vaccination is the best tool each student has to keep our community and its most vulnerable members safe” said UASU President Rowan Ley. “We want to reward students who have done the right thing and taken their shot, and encourage more community members to join them”.

In keeping with the University of Alberta’s mandatory vaccine or rapid testing mandate, vaccinations will be available to students on campus.

"The University is delighted to work with the Students’ Union in supporting and encouraging all students to get vaccinated—it’s the single most effective thing that each of us can do to protect our community” said Bill Flanagan, President and Vice-Chancellor of University of Alberta. “This important initiative is also a great complement to the other public health measures we’ll have in place at the U of A this fall”.

Mass clinics will be held on August 31, September 1, 2, 7, & 8. The clinics will be free and available to anyone for drop-in service.
For more information visit COVID-19 Vaccines and U of A: What You Need to Know
Room and location information for mass clinics will be announced by the University of Alberta
University Health Centre is booking vaccination appointments for the Moderna vaccine and you can book online.
Anyone without an Alberta Health Care number can still drop-in to one of the mass vaccination clinics and get protected against COVID-19; For out-of-province or out-of-country health insurance vaccine appointments can be requested by calling 811.

You can find more information here and you can enter on perks by logging in here.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Students Call on Government and University to Allow a Safe Return to Campus

News Staff - Sat Aug 07, 2021

MEDIA ADVISORY

After a week of outcry from the campus community about the lack of a meaningful plan to ensure the safety of the campus community from COVID-19 in Fall 2021, including an open letter with over 1,000 signatures, the University of Alberta has released a statement in response. The Students’ Union believes that the statement is an inadequate response to the legitimate fears of many community members for their own safety or that of vulnerable family members.

In response, the UASU will be releasing a public letter to the Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, calling on her to recognize the University of Alberta as a high-risk environment given the low vaccination rates among young people, densely packed and poorly ventilated environments, and frequent mixing of groups. Dr. Hinshaw has previously commented that she is open to “continuing COVID-19 protective measures in areas of high risk”. The UASU is calling on Dr. Hinshaw to consider recommending reasonable, limited public health measures on campus in the fall. They include:

Mandatory masking in lecture theatres and labs
Mandatory vaccination or proof of a health-related exemption for students living in residences, a practice already in place at many major Canadian universities
Support for international students who have not had a chance to receive a full course of a Health Canada-approved vaccine
Either rapid testing or wastewater testing to ensure data about the prevalence of the virus on campus is available

UASU President Rowan Ley, along with affected community members and student representatives, will host a media availability to provide additional remarks and answer questions.

Location: Students’ Union Building Atrium (8900 114 St NW)

Time: Monday, August 9th at 10:30 AM.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

Student advocacy forces University to revise flawed tuition increase proposals

News Staff - Mon Jul 26, 2021

We are pleased to learn that the Ministry of Advanced Education has ordered the University of Alberta to retract its exceptional tuition increase proposals and consult students fairly in Fall 2021.

These proposals aim to raise undergraduate tuition for new students by 17-45% across several programs. Devastating cost increases can mean deeply unfavourable long term outlooks and force some students out of their studies and chosen faculties. Steep cost increases will contribute to ‘brain drain’ as students and recent graduates choose to leave Alberta. These are consequences that should concern everyone.

As the UASU has made clear, the University should not have forced these proposals through unreasonably short, often flawed consultation processes during Winter 2021 final exams. We stand in solidarity with the University of Calgary Students’ Union, where students face a comparable situation. We thank the Minister for recognizing the deficiencies of these extreme proposals.

“I hope the Minister holds the University’s work to very high standards going forward,” said UASU President Rowan Ley. “The quality of the consultations and the actual proposals varied widely. Some faculties clearly didn’t understand the assignment.”

The provincial government also needs to reconsider its strategy of severe budget cuts that disproportionately target the University of Alberta.

“We understand that the government has put serious financial pressure on the University,” said Christian Fotang, UASU Vice President External. “And we understand that faculties are feeling that pressure. But balancing the budget on the backs of students is proving to be a losing strategy for the University and for Alberta.”

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Ari Campbell

External Relations Specialist

University of Alberta Students’ Union

ari.campbell@su.ualberta.ca

The UASU is the official representative of more than 34,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta. It advocates for students’ needs and priorities to the University of Alberta and at all levels of government.

Your UASU partners with Elev to help connect students with off-campus housing options

News Staff - Fri Jun 18, 2021

June 18, 2021 - The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) is proud to announce our partnership with Elev, a student-created app that will help connect students with off-campus, student-friendly housing options.

“When I moved to Edmonton from Grande Prairie in 2018, I struggled to find a safe place to live that was close to campus and within my budget,” said Kevin Mpunga, who is now the CEO of Elev. “Elev will help make it easier than ever for students to find a place to live that is tailored to their lifestyle and personal preferences.”

The Elev app, officially launching today, is designed to connect students with suitable off-campus accommodations based on location and commute times, budget, pet allowability and more. The service is completely free for students who sign up using their post-secondary email address. In addition to being matched with listings tailored to their preferences, students can also book showings, submit rental applications, sign leases, and pay rent directly through the Elev app.

“Elev will help make what is normally a frustrating process for students very simple,” said Emily Kimani, VP of Operations and Finance for the UASU. “The UASU is proud to support this fantastic resource invented by University of Alberta students—they have created such an intuitive way to solve a problem many of us have faced during our studies.”

Visit www.elevhomes.ca to learn how you can find your next home. For more information, please do not hesitate to contact hello@elevhomes.ca

Extreme Proposed Tuition Increases would damage Access to Education, Recruitment, and Student Trust

News Staff - Mon Apr 12, 2021

Edmonton, AB - The University of Alberta recently informed the University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) and the University of Alberta Graduate Students’ Association (UAGSA) about a slate of proposed exceptional per-year tuition increases:.

UNDERGRADUATE

JD (Law): from $11,701 to $16,967 (+$5,265, 45%)
PharmD (Pharmacy): from $11,431 to $16,461 (+$5,029, 44%)
DDS (Dentistry): from $23,109 to $32,352 (+$9,243, 40%)
APDDS (Dentistry): from $57,093 to $79,930 (+$22,837, 40%)
BSc in Engineering: from $7,309 to $9,100 (+$1,790, 24.5%)
BComm (Business): from $8,012 to $9,775 (+$1,762, 22%)
BSc in Radiation Therapy: from $6,091 to $7,309 (+$1,218, 20%)
BSc in Medical Laboratory Science: from $7,512 to $8,789 (+$1,277, 17%)

GRADUATE

Master’s in Counselling Psychology with Thesis: from $4,192 to $8,574 (+$4,381, 104%)
Master’s in Counselling Psychology: from $4,287 to $8,574 (+$4,287, 100%)
MBA (Business): from $14,380 to $24,015 (+$9,635, 67%)
MEng (Engineering): from $7,345 to $9,034 (+$1,689, 23%)

These per-year increases would come into force for new domestic students in September 2022. The UASU and the UAGSA warn that these extreme proposed tuition increases would damage access to education, recruitment, and student trust.

“We estimate this plan would ultimately impact at least six thousand undergraduate students,” said Joel Agarwal, UASU President. “We strongly support the Indigenous Law Students Association’s case that these increases will harm access to education for Indigenous and marginalized students. We also support the petition from the University of Alberta’s law students.”

"Graduate students are core participants in research, innovation, and entrepreneurial efforts,” said Marc Waddingham, UAGSA President. “They are essential personnel for our provincial economic recovery. These disproportionate budgetary cuts and resulting tuition hikes are sending a clear signal to future students: reconsider coming to the University of Alberta. This trend of exceptional tuition increases is not sustainable, and I fear it will become a common practice and eventually impact all of our programs."

The University intends to bring this newly unveiled proposal to the Ministry of Advanced Education for approval in the next few weeks. However, the UASU and the GSA believe that this proposal is not consistent with the requirements and principles found in the Tuition and Fees Regulation. We urge the University not to submit these proposed increases to the Ministry. Failing that, we urge the Ministry to reject them for the following reasons:

The proposed increases are egregious, especially in light of the short consultation windows available for students in the affected units to respond.
The proposed increases come with no plans to improve student financial aid or graduate student funding arrangements.
Section 5(2) of the Regulation only permits exceptional tuition increases if their purpose is to increase program quality. The minimal documentation we have received from the University has no reference to quality. Instead, the documentation justifies the increases with comparisons to tuition rates at some of the most expensive universities in the country. We strongly believe that revenue generation, not program quality, is the primary goal of these exceptional increases.
Section 5(4) of the Tuition and Fees Regulation requires the University to consult with the UASU about exceptional tuition increases. However, the University’s approach has failed to honour the basic standards of its consultation handbook’s Student Participation Principles and Processes.

“Tuition for these programs is already rising, and it’s consistent with other major universities,” said Rowan Ley, UASU Vice President (External). “After these hikes, our Business and Law programs would rank among the most expensive in Canada for new students. No reasonable consultation would conclude that students agree with these massive tuition hikes on top of the drastic increases they already face.”

Student representatives will host a COVID-safe media availability to announce next steps and provide additional context. The media availability will take place in front of the University of Alberta’s Students’ Union Building (SUB) on Wednesday at 11AM.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Jonathan Olfert
Director of Research and Advocacy
University of Alberta Students’ Union
jonathan.olfert@su.ualberta.ca

The UAGSA's mission is to advocate for all 8200 graduate students to the University of Alberta and the Government of Alberta for a safe, supportive, respectful, accessible, and inclusive community that fosters the multi-faceted roles played by graduate students.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Marc Waddingham
President
University of Alberta Graduate Students' Association
gsa.president@ualberta.ca

Failure to support students in 2021 provincial budget threatens Alberta’s economic recovery

News Staff - Thu Feb 25, 2021

Edmonton, AB (February 25, 2021) - The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) is warning that the Government of Alberta’s continued refusal to properly invest in the post-secondary education system and its 260,000+ students will have significant negative impacts on Alberta’s ability to attract and retain talent, and to create a more diverse and innovative economy. For the third budget in a row, the government has imposed crippling cuts on post-secondary institutions. This choice is forcing a significant cost burden onto Alberta’s students and families, freezing more Albertans out of being able to access post-secondary education in their home province, and putting Alberta’s 60-year legacy of a strong post-secondary education system at high risk.

“The decisions behind today’s budget are incredibly frustrating and disheartening,” said Joel Agarwal, UASU President. “Though we understand the government's fiscal situation, they’re not seriously considering the long-term economic value of post-secondary education. That’s not only a problem for students, it’s a problem for all Albertans. We know that our province is at a fiscal and economic crossroads, and students, like all Albertans, have made heavy sacrifices. But maintaining a highly-skilled workforce requires affordable, high-quality education. If we keep cutting away at the future of our workforce, we stand no chance of digging ourselves out of this economic hole.”

The 2021 provincial budget continues to inflict deep, comprehensive cuts on post-secondary institutions. Annual operating grants are now over $400 million lower than they were at the beginning of the current government’s term. The minimal support for maintenance and renewal of critical teaching and research infrastructure continues to fall well below what is needed. While educational quality takes another hit, students are being burdened with even higher costs as a result of cuts to institutions. When new students begin their degrees in September, their tuition alone will already be 14.5% higher than it was two years earlier, adding at least $900 to annual undergraduate tuition costs.

Despite these cost increases and projected growth in the student population, the government has refused to allocate any additional funding towards up-front financial aid for lower income students. Students also continue to deal with lasting impacts of the 2019 provincial budget, including increased student loan interest rates and the elimination of tax credits for tuition and educational materials, which eliminated $200 million annually in financial support for students and families.

“Alberta’s post-secondary education system is nearing a crisis point, and we’re concerned about accelerated brain drain from our province,” said Rowan Ley, UASU Vice-President External. “Every Albertan should be able to study in Alberta, but our system doesn’t have enough room. We’d need the capacity for 47,000 more students just to get up to the national average, and that’s only going to rise as a wave of prospective students begins to exit high school. And the government’s decisions over the past two years have made the existing spaces much more expensive. Right now, that means students are paying more for a lower-quality educational experience. Without meaningful action to boost the affordability, quality, and capacity of our post-secondary education system, too many young, talented Albertans will be forced to move elsewhere to pursue attractive educational and employment opportunities, and we worry they won’t come back.”

The Students’ Union is the official representative of more than 34,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta. It acts as a strong advocate for students both on campus and at all levels of government.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
403-481-5637
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

University fails to ease withdrawal deadline; UASU calls for extended holiday break and online proctoring ban

News Staff - Thu Nov 26, 2020

The University of Alberta Students’ Union strongly objects to the recent announcement that the University will not extend the Fall 2020 withdrawal deadline.

The UASU made it clear that extending the ‘W’ deadline would be in the best interests of the students most impacted by Alberta’s ongoing health crisis. This student proposal found strong support among the highest levels of University administration. We are disappointed that a small minority of administrators held up the proposal on technicalities. The University is rejecting a concrete opportunity to show compassion for students.

Refusal to extend the ‘W’ deadline showcases a lack of will to prioritize students’ needs. The UASU calls on the University to show that students are a priority by extending the holiday break. Delaying the start and end dates for Winter 2021 would give students and staff the opportunity to rest, prepare, and ensure their safety from COVID-19 after the holiday season. Other Canadian universities and Alberta’s K-12 system have already decided to extend the holiday break, and 81% of respondents in a recent UASU survey supported this measure. Extending the break would signal that students’ safety and mental health matter to University administration.

Likewise, we call on the University to standardize course workload as recommended by the Centre for Teaching and Learning. The workload expected of students is higher than ever before, and the University needs to do better in the face of an unprecedented mental health crisis.

Finally, we call on the University to follow the University of Calgary’s example and ban remote proctoring software next semester. This invasive and stress-inducing software routinely disadvantages students of colour, students with accessibility needs, students who parent, and low-income students. In our annual survey, students called remote proctoring one of their greatest challenges.

President Flanagan must act now to show students their welfare is a priority, and to deliver an acceptable educational experience in Winter 2021.

Next Steps:

Extend the holiday break so students and staff can rest, prepare, and be safer
Stop course workloads from expanding
Ban remote proctoring software beginning with the Winter 2021 semester

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The Students’ Union is the official representative of more than 32,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta. It acts as a strong advocate for students both on campus and at all levels of government.

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact your UASU Executive:

David Draper
UASU Vice-President Academic
780 492-4241
vp.academic@uasu.ca

SU executives release 2020/2021 Goals document

News Staff - Wed Oct 07, 2020

Each year, the Students' Union executives spend the summer months crafting a series of goals which they intend to complete over the course of the year.

This year, the Students' Union executive has identified the following goals:

Empower Students to Lead: During substantial changes at the University of Alberta, it is crucial that administrators and the government hear students’ voices. Governance must be accessible to ensure it is representative of the student population. To best represent the student heartbeat, we must strengthen the student movement.

Secure a Strong Future for Students: Our operations and advocacy need to prioritize long-term student issues. The supports and rights which students today enjoy were passed on from previous generations, and we have a responsibility to leave them better then we found them for the students of tomorrow.

Break Down Barriers: Universities are for everyone, and all students deserve to access post-secondary education without barriers to accessibility or affordability. Too many obstacles still prevent students from engaging equitably in campus life and academics. Students deserve supports that help overcome those obstacles.

Ensure A High-Quality University Experience: Students come to the University of Alberta expecting a world-class institution with cutting-edge education. The quality of the experience encompasses academic, vocational, and student life experiences. In the face of unprecedented institutional threats, students still deserve a high-quality experience built for the 21st century.

Build a Better Campus Community: Students need a thriving intellectual campus community that is also safe and diverse. COVID-19 has disrupted the lives of many students and we must be resilient in adapting to the challenges we face, while rebuilding and strengthening the Students’ Union.

For more details about these goals, and how the executive plans to accomplish them, please see the full 2020/21 Executive Goals document.

Students' Union calls for greater accountability from University in addressing discrimination and harrassment

News Staff - Mon Jul 13, 2020

The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) condemns the conduct alleged in recent reporting from CBC and the Edmonton Journal, which it views as racist. “Thank you to the students who brought this to our attention and asked us to take a stand,” said Joel Agarwal, UASU President. “We need to be able to trust our instructors to respect students regardless of race, ethnicity, or culture while building a thriving intellectual environment.”

Former President Turpin wrote last month, after the murder of George Floyd: “We condemn anti-Black racism…We do not have the luxury of viewing these events as something that only happens elsewhere.” Senior administration has committed to standing against systemic and overt racism in the University community. The UASU calls on the University to live up to the values of Turpin’s letter. We have engaged with the University, the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, and the Black Medical Students’ Association to work for meaningful change.

We call on the University to review and modernize its reporting and investigation pathways across the board. Students have raised consistent concerns about their ability to report discrimination and harassment in ways that hold perpetrators accountable. This systemic issue affects the whole University of Alberta community, including students in practicum and work placements with Alberta Health Services and other employers. The University should also provide clear, accessible resources for students and staff when they need to file complaints with partners like AHS.

“Many students believe that complaint mechanisms are designed to fail,” said David Draper, UASU Vice President Academic. “We need to have meaningful recourse when they encounter harassment and discrimination. Students shouldn’t feel powerless when racism goes unchecked.”

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact your UASU Executive:

Joel Agarwal
UASU President
780 492-4241
president@uasu.ca

Student Groups Commend Federal Government's COVID-19 Student Aid Package

News Staff - Wed Apr 22, 2020

Edmonton, AB - The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) and the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA) are pleased with the comprehensive student aid package announced today by the Government of Canada. The package will bring significant relief to all students affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and will provide valuable support to at-risk students and recent graduates who need it most.

“This announcement is great news for current students, new students, and recent graduates who are facing financial difficulties, particularly those who were left ineligible for support programs announced previously by the federal government ,” said Adam Brown, Chair of CASA and Vice-President (External) of the UASU. “It is clear that the government cares about students, and has been listening to our needs and concerns during this unprecedented time.”

Today’s announcement expands the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 response by providing a generous $9 billion aid package to postsecondary students and recent graduates. Under the new package, students and recent graduates who do not qualify for the existing Canada Emergency Response Benefit will be eligible for another Emergency Student Benefit worth up to $1,750 per month in relief. In addition, the government has also committed to doubling the Canada Student Grant for the 2020-21 academic year, along with an increase in Canada Student Loans that will bring weekly allowances from $210 to $350. The government has also pledged to invest an additional $75 million in the Post-Secondary Student Support Program, Metis Education Strategy, and Inuit Education Strategy. Further, $291 million in funding has been committed to the Canada Granting Agency to allow for student researcher extensions. Today’s announcement also commits to creating the new Canada Student Service Grant which will provide up to $5,000 to students who volunteer for a set number of hours during the pandemic.

“This kind of comprehensive aid package is key to ensuring that all Canadian students and recent graduates are protected during this pandemic, ready to return to classes and the workplace once physical distancing measures are reduced,” Brown continued. “Today’s announcement includes much-needed immediate financial relief for students and recent graduates who do not qualify for the CERB, while also making sure that students are able to access and afford their education moving forward.”

The UASU and CASA have been committed to ensuring that the federal government safeguards the future by protecting students during the COVID-19 pandemic. We had previously called upon the federal government to provide serious relief for students by: Establishing an Emergency Response Benefit stream for students and new graduates, increasing the Canada Student Grant for low- and middle-income students, waiving the requirement for the fixed student contribution, permitting international students to travel to Canada in September 2020, and extending the research funding for student research funding issued by Canada’s Granting Agencies. The UASU and CASA applaud the Government of Canada for taking action on our specific recommendations.

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For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

About CASA:

The Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA) is a national voice for Canada’s post-secondary students. Established in 1995, CASA is a non-partisan, not-for-profit student organization composed of student associations from across Canada. We represent 24 student associations, representing 380,000 students to the federal government of Canada. CASA advocates for a post-secondary education system in Canada that is accessible, affordable, innovative and of the highest quality.

Contact:
Jared Maltais
Communications and Public Relations Officer
E-mail: communications@casa.ca
Phone: 613-236-3457

Joint Release: Government inflexibility on budget will jeopardize U of A's COVID-19 response and long-term prospects

News Staff - Thu Mar 26, 2020

Staff and student associations tabled a joint letter at the University of Alberta’s Board of Governors’ meeting today, warning that the provincial government’s inflexibility on the implementation of deep budget cuts to the province’s largest post-secondary institution will jeopardize the university’s ability to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic in the short-term and damage the University’s ability to deliver its mandate in the long-term.

University of Alberta President David Turpin revealed on Monday that the current pandemic “has not changed or slowed the government timelines related to budget … To balance our budget as required, we must make difficult decisions and continue to implement plans, even as we are responding to the COVID-19 crisis — a crisis that has no predictable end point.”

At its meeting today, the Board of Governors passed a budget that will cut an estimated 635 jobs over the next fiscal year as the university grapples with a $110 million reduction in provincial funding. These layoffs are in addition to 400 layoffs that have already happened in the university’s current fiscal year. Layoffs to IT staff—responsible for moving the university to online learning to reduce the spread of COVID-19—have already occurred, and the university’s cost-cutting plans include reducing cleaning to “minimum required standards.”

At a time when governments in Canada are spending tens of billions of dollars to support newly unemployed workers, the provincial government even rejected a proposal from the University of Alberta that could have reduced staff cuts in the coming year by almost 300.

“Everyone working, learning, and doing research at the University of Alberta takes pride is being part of a world-class institution. Severe budget cuts will put that standing in jeopardy. In addition, the government demanding job cuts during an international health emergency is truly heartless.”
-Elizabeth Johannson, President of the Non-Academic Staff Association

“Academics we will lose currently fill vital roles in delivery of teaching and research. Their workloads will be transferred to remaining academics, slowing important progress, including by those performing essential research on COVID-19. We may receive a most unwanted outcome, greater loss of life and an even more severe negative economic impact in Alberta. These cuts must be suspended or reversed in the interest of the province, and therefore this government.”
-Kevin Kane, President of the Association of Academic Staff University of Alberta

“These cuts are coming at a time when students are bearing unimaginable burdens as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, including personal or family illness, loss of income, and challenges associated with the sudden shift to virtual learning, amongst many other things. COVID-19 represents the worst public health crisis in at least a generation, and we will be feeling its impacts for a long time to come. In the face of these difficulties, the last thing that students deserve are deep cuts which will threaten the support services that they rely on and the quality of the education that they expect to receive.”
-Akanksha Bhatnagar, President of the University of Alberta Students’ Union

“As the representative of graduate students at the U of A, I am most concerned that the quality of the educational and research experience at our institution will suffer as a result of the provincial government’s budget cuts. I am also concerned that the significant increases to tuition that our institution is forced to implement will adversely affect the graduate students that I represent, many of whom are already struggling with severe financial pressures. I urge the government to meaningfully address the concerns of those most affected by the diminishing affordability, accessibility, and quality of our post-secondary education – the students.”
-Fahed Elian, President of the Graduate Students Association

“Like everyone in the University of Alberta community, postdocs are facing an uncertain and unsettling time, with questions about whether they’ll be able to continue their research, how long they can count on a paycheque, and whether they’ll be able to return home. At the same time, we’re extremely concerned about the hundreds of layoffs impacting our staff colleagues who provide postdocs with critical support every day. The PDFA feels the role of this university and the provincial government should be to provide as much stability as possible, not make the current emergency worse out of a commitment to balancing the books.”
-Charlotte Heyer, President of the Postdoctoral Fellows Association

Given the unprecedented changes that have occurred in the province and globally since Budget 2020 was introduced, the associations are calling on the provincial government to provide the university with necessary flexibility to deal with the current crisis—including by putting an immediate stop to additional layoffs until the health emergency has passed—and to revisit its most recent budget to more accurately reflect today’s realities.

COVID-19 Update: March 17, 2020

News Staff - Tue Mar 17, 2020

The UASU is taking the following steps to limit in-person interactions in all of our operations in order to limit the risk within our community. Although this necessarily involves the closure of some spaces and businesses, we’re doing our best to keep our most essential services running in ways that are both safe and accessible.

The Peer Support Centre will remain open to support you. Walk-in sessions will not be available, but appointments for a phone session can be made at uasu.ca/psc
Safewalk will be closed until further notice.
The Landing Society's drop-in hours and in-person programming will be suspended until further notice. Reach out to thelanding@su.ualberta.ca if you need some support during the closure.
InfoLink’s CAB, main-floor SUB, and Student Connect desks will be closed. The International Services Centre (Telus), will close at 4:30 today and remain closed indefinitely. Student Life Central (SLC), and the Onecard Service Centre (HUB) will remain open.
Student Group Services' Winter 2020 Group Leader Orientation (GLO) Skills sessions are canceled. Groups who are only missing GLO Skills will be granted temporary recognition.
Sustain SU's bike library will be closed, the Reusable Dish Program will be unavailable, and the SUB Farmers Market will be halted until further notice.
All UASU Events are canceled until further notice.
SUB will remain open 24 hours/day, although the food-court vendors may have reduced hours.
SUB meeting spaces will remain open for use and catering is still taking place. However, as per the Office of the Dean of Students, University of Alberta, all student group events have been canceled. Contact bookings@horowitzevents.ca if you have questions.
Services such as LEAD and Discover Governance will no longer be conducting in-person programming.
The UASU Elections for Council and GFC positions remain scheduled March 18 & 19, and will go ahead online as planned. All public forums are canceled.
Our bars, Dewey's and Room at the Top, will be closing as of Wednesday (March 18th).
SUBmart will remain open with reduced hours to ensure that students in residence and university staff have access to their basic needs.
SUBprint will remain open for online submissions and in-person project pickups. Order-at-the-counter services have been suspended.
We will be partnering with the Dean of Students to provide academic resources within SUB such as computer access.
The University of Alberta Campus Food Bank’s new hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

We apologize in advance for the disruptions we know these changes will cause, but in order to tackle this public health crisis, these steps have become absolutely necessary. We will continue to work hard to keep everyone updated about our operations as the current situation evolves, but no matter what is going on, University of Alberta students will remain our absolute priority.

COVID-19 Update: March 16, 2020

News Staff - Mon Mar 16, 2020

Dear students,

At the rate COVID-19 is quickly spreading through our communities, potentially impacting our loved ones, and interfering with our normal day to day lives, it’s okay to feel scared or uncertain right now. But, I want to reassure you that we are all in this together.

At this point in time, taking actions to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19 are no longer optional—they are necessary. Right now, if all of us take this pandemic seriously, and follow the guidelines Alberta Health Services has provided, we can minimize the damage that will be done in our communities. We need to do everything we can now.

Effective immediately, many UASU services and businesses are changing. This means cancelling all UASU events, transitioning our business operations, and moving essential services like the Peer Support Centre to be accessible to all of you remotely. Tomorrow we will provide you with a more detailed breakdown of what these changes look like comprehensively.

In the meantime, we are continuing to work for you. Our needs have changed a lot in the past two weeks—and we will continue to advocate for you, to help get answers from the University, and ensure our campus is getting the support it needs from the different levels of government at this time.

Your health and safety is our top priority. One of our UASU values is to act with unbridled compassion, which is important to remember and embody for each other.

With love,

Akanksha Bhatnagar
UASU President

COVID-19 Update: March 13, 2020

News Staff - Fri Mar 13, 2020

The Students' Union Executives and Senior Management are working with University administration to determine the best way forward for students given the recent COVID-19 updates from public health officials. Additionally, the UASU is evaluating how our businesses and services may need to change operations to address the needs of students and the campus community. We ask students to follow all University and government health directives.

We also ask that any students with symptoms of COVID-19 call Health Link at 811 and follow their directions.

We will continue to stay on top of this situation, and release more information as it becomes available. We will release a full update on Monday, March 16.

Students Outraged at Escalating Government Cutbacks

News Staff - Mon Mar 02, 2020

Edmonton, AB (March 2, 2020) - The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) is deeply concerned that the Government of Alberta has cut the University of Alberta base grant funding by 11%, on top of the 6.9% in-year cut last fall. Students will experience drastic and unavoidable consequences as a result of these shortsighted funding reductions.

“We’re talking about hundreds of jobs lost,” said UASU President Akanksha Bhatnagar. “Our instructors, the support staff who help us graduate, even our friends and family members. Job losses rip the carpet out from under whole communities, and our community is on the chopping block. These disproportionate cuts are out of touch with real needs. Minister Nicolaides needs to start listening to students instead of hearing what he wants to hear.”

A one-fifth reduction in base grant funding means that the University of Alberta is losing roughly $110 million within a few months (not counting another $35 million in infrastructure funding, which was promised but never received). The UASU warns that these cuts will significantly and negatively impact quality of education, vital student services, and many of the outcomes linked to the government’s new performance-based funding model.

“We’ve filed freedom of information requests with the Ministry of Advanced Education,” said Adam Brown, UASU Vice-President (External). “We want to know who the government is consulting with, because it sure isn’t the people that these cuts will hurt.”

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

Budget 2020 Fails to Address the Needs of University of Alberta Students

News Staff - Thu Feb 27, 2020

Edmonton, AB (February 27, 2020) - The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) is very disappointed in the Government of Alberta’s continued lack of support for accessible, affordable, and high-quality post-secondary education. By failing to effectively prioritize student financial aid, deferred maintenance, and sustainable institutional funding, this government has proven that it has no interest in listening to students and comprehensively acting on their concerns.

“Students in Alberta already experience significant challenges and Budget 2020 will only make things more difficult,” said Akanksha Bhatnagar, UASU President. “We are already facing some of the highest student debt levels and the lowest post-secondary student enrolment in the country. But despite hundreds of hand-delivered letters, and meetings where student leaders were assured their voices were being heard, this government has not listened. By moving ahead with plans to hike our tuition 22.5% over three years, continue cuts to non-repayable financial aid, and only do the bare minimum to address failing campus infrastructure, this government has shown that students are far from their first priority.”

Costs for students will rise across the board in 2020, but the quality and availability of academic programs and support services are only set to decline. The University of Alberta is facing a cumulative cut of at least $74.5 million (11.9%) to its base operating grant, with further decreases planned for the coming years. While certain basic investments have been made, including a one-year renewal of the campus mental health grant and a scaled-back reintroduction of the infrastructure maintenance program, the overall impacts of the 2019 and 2020 budgets are decidedly negative. The overall cuts facing institutions are also likely to be compounded by the rushed introduction of performance metrics, which will reduce funding predictability even more through ‘all-stick, no-carrot’ hidden cuts.

“This government’s irresponsible approach to post-secondary education is incredibly concerning,” said Adam Brown, UASU Vice-President (External). “Although they have only been in office for 10 months, the decisions that they have made will have ramifications for students for years to come. Our students deserve so much better than this from their government, but once again, they have been let down.”

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

Students' Union Announces New Measures to Better Support Students: Financial Aid and Health & Dental Benefits

News Staff - Thu Feb 13, 2020

Edmonton, AB (February 13, 2020) - The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) has announced new initiatives, resulting from student feedback, which will debut in September 2020 to allow better financial aid accessibility for students who need it most, in addition to more choice in health and dental coverage.

The UASU has successfully advocated the University to increase accessibility to Access Fund financial aid. Over the next five years, approximately $750,000 will be redirected to a series of student bursaries to ensure sufficient financial support is readily available for students on our campus who need it most.

This funding will:

Be directed to cover the costs of Students’ Union Membership Fees and Dedicated Fees through bursaries for students who are in difficult financial circumstances.
The remainder will be allocated to bursaries for students from groups facing particular financial pressures, such as students who parent, students with disabilities, and students on unpaid internships.

Since 1995, the Access Fund has enabled students in difficult financial situations, such as those who are ineligible for student loans, to continue on with their studies. Supported by a voluntary dedicated fee, the Access Fund provides sufficient funding assistance to students with the greatest need. Students who apply for these new bursaries will remain eligible even if they have reached their maximum allocation of emergency bursaries from the Access Fund.

“Given the growing financial pressures that students will face as the government and University drastically hike costs over the coming years, it was incredibly important that the UASU push for immediate action to help those students with the greatest need,” said President Akanksha Bhatnagar. “These bursaries may be the piece that allow some students to continue with their studies instead of having to take time off or dropping out entirely. There is more work to be done to improve the affordability and accessibility of education here, but in the meantime, this is a tangible, positive step that addresses gaps in the financial support system as identified by our members.”

At the same time that the new financial aid measures become available, the UASU will also be unveiling new coverage options under its health and dental plan. The new options will be:

A basic health and dental plan, as an alternative to the existing comprehensive plan. This option will be ideally-suited to students who do not frequently use their health and dental plan, or use their student plan in conjunction with another plan that they are covered under. Compared to the existing UASU plan, this option will result in savings of at least $50 per year.
Access to Critical Illness and Life Insurance, as a supplement to either the basic or comprehensive health and dental plans. This option recognizes that there is currently a coverage gap where many students and dependents of students are unable to affordably access these forms of insurance. The cost of this option will vary depending on personal factors and the amount of coverage sought, but it is estimated to cost less than $15 per month in most cases.

“While our health and dental plan remains popular with students, we recognized that we were not able to meet everyone’s needs with a single option,” Bhatnagar explained. “By introducing these new options, we are giving our members greater choice in picking the coverage that is right for them while keeping costs substantially lower than external insurance offerings.”

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

Students' Union warns that new provincial funding model for post-secondary institutions may disguise additional cuts

News Staff - Mon Jan 20, 2020

Edmonton, AB (January 20, 2020) - The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) is warning that the Provincial Government’s new performance-based funding initiative for post-secondary institutions may disguise additional cuts.

Today, the Ministry announced that up to 40% of the Campus Alberta Grant will be tied to performance measures, to be phased in over the next three years. The UASU is pleased to see that work-integrated learning, underrepresented learner enrolment, and graduate skills are among the listed priorities.

“Performance-based funding can be great in theory,” said Akanksha Bhatnagar, UASU President. “But if every metric gets its own capped pot of money, funding can’t go anywhere but down, no matter how much success these schools achieve. There’s no incentive for excellence, just penalties for not measuring up. From what has been announced so far, this model is all stick, no carrot.”

The UASU strongly believes that a fair performance-based funding model will need to account for external factors beyond the control of post-secondary institutions. “The MacKinnon Report already chose to target some schools for their graduation rates in years when Alberta’s economy was struggling,” said Adam Brown, UASU VP Academic. “Poor graduate outcomes aren’t just about the quality of education, especially now, when Edmonton has the worst unemployment of all major cities in Canada.”

Given the amount of money at risk, the UASU is also concerned about the Ministry’s short timeline to implementation. “Alberta’s university students are out of the loop so far,” said Brown, “and we’re not the only ones. With the next provincial budget cuts coming up, we’re worried that the Ministry and the University may not have the time or capacity to transition into the new model in a safe and predictable way.”

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

University of Alberta community members killed in Iran plane crash

News Staff - Wed Jan 08, 2020

Edmonton, AB (January 8, 2020) - The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) offers its sympathies to the loved ones of the 176 people who died aboard Ukrainian International Airlines Flight 752. Of the 63 Canadian casualties, an unknown but growing number belonged to the University of Alberta community, including professors and students.

“Dozens of people from Edmonton were killed in this crash,” said Akanksha Bhatnagar, UASU President. “We’re still learning just how many of them were students or their friends and family. This tragedy impacts many students in deeply personal ways.”

The UASU encourages any impacted students to reach out to any support services they might need. UASU Cares, an interactive wellness resource, is available at http://uasucares.su.ualberta.ca/. UASU Cares can connect students with mental health and counseling support, including UASU’s Peer Support Centre (PSC) and University Counseling and Clinical Services (CCS).

For more information, please contact the UASU at 780-492-4241.

Government of Alberta repeals tuition and fee safeguards with no student consultation

News Staff - Mon Dec 09, 2019

Edmonton, AB (December 9, 2019) - The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) condemns action taken by the Government of Alberta to weaken the accountability measures and protections for students contained in the Tuition and Fees Regulation.

Late last week, an Order in Council quietly repealed parts of the Regulation to ease the process for post-secondary institutions to increase tuition for specific programs beyond the normal cap on tuition hikes. The amended Regulation allows institutions to make those decisions without consent from the associations that represent students in the affected programs. The Order in Council also removed the cap on annual increases to mandatory non-instructional fees (MNIFs). Both of these critical changes were made without consulting, or even notifying, the official student associations at Alberta’s six public universities.

“These changes speak volumes about this government’s level of commitment to the needs of post-secondary students,” said Akanksha Bhatnagar, UASU President. “The government continues to claim that students are the most important stakeholders in the post-secondary education system, but actions speak louder than words. Repealing key measures that made institutions accountable and protected students against excessive costs, without consulting or notifying those students, proves that our needs are far from being this government’s first priority.”

While the Order in Council will undoubtedly raise costs for students above and beyond the drastic measures already announced in Budget 2019, the UASU is also concerned by the lack of demonstrated need for these amendments. The exceptional tuition increase process, including student approval of proposals, and the cap on MNIF increases were brought into effect one year ago alongside Bill 19, which passed with support from all parties in the Legislature. Since then, neither institutions nor the government have raised any public concerns with the now-eliminated safeguards.

“This Order in Council is a solution in search of a problem,” said Adam Brown, UASU Vice-President (External). "Until recently, elected officials who are now part of this government publicly supported these controls and accountability measures for MNIFs and tuition. But now, with no explanation, they seem content to turn around and saddle students with unrestricted extra costs, while allowing institutions to get away with less transparency and accountability to their stakeholders.”

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

Statement on genocide denial by a University of Alberta lecturer

News Staff - Thu Nov 28, 2019

Edmonton, AB (28 November 2019) - We condemn Dr. Dougal MacDonald's denial of the Holodomor, the Soviet genocide that killed millions in Ukraine. Dr. MacDonald persists in calling the Ukrainian genocide an “anti-communist, pro-Nazi myth” that was created by “Hitlerite Nazis to discredit the Soviet Union.” We call for Dr. MacDonald to take back his statements or resign. In solidarity with the Ukrainian Students’ Society (USS), we also call upon the University of Alberta to condemn Dr. MacDonald’s remarks.

The University administration has stated that it is not aware of Dr. MacDonald sharing these opinions in his professional interactions with students. The University of Alberta Students’ Union is committed to protecting the right of every student to have a safe learning environment. The University's policies and principles on free expression protect this right. We encourage any students who may have had related experiences with Dr. MacDonald to contact the appropriate authorities so they can receive any necessary support.

If you have been negatively affected by this or similar situations, or have been discriminated against on campus, we encourage you to reach out to the Office of Safe Disclosure & Human Rights (OSDHR) at osdhr@ualberta.ca. Students can also reach out to resources such as the Peer Support Centre (SUB 2-707).

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact your UASU Executive:

Akanksha Bhatnagar
UASU President
780 492-4241
president@uasu.ca

University of Alberta Student, Faculty and Staff Unite to Oppose Post-Secondary Education Cuts in Provincial Budget

News Staff - Fri Nov 15, 2019

Joint Statement from University of Alberta Students’ Union, University of Alberta Graduate Students’ Association, Association of Academic Staff University of Alberta, and the University of Alberta Non-Academic Staff Association

Students, faculty, and staff at the University of Alberta are deeply concerned about the impact that the Government of Alberta’s 2019-2020 budget will have on the quality, accessibility, and affordability of education at the University of Alberta. The University has been handed a mid-year cut of $44 million to its operating grant and $35 million in planned infrastructure maintenance funding has been revoked, while projections for future years foreshadow future cuts to come. At the same time, current and prospective students will be facing thousands of dollars of additional costs for their education between dramatic increases to tuition, student loan interest rate hikes, and eliminated tuition and education tax credits. We fear that the government intends to balance their budget on the backs of students, piling on extra costs while making cuts that will negatively impact the quality of instruction and support services that they will receive during their studies.

Alberta’s post-secondary institutions, including the University of Alberta, already faced real challenges before this budget was tabled. The province’s post-secondary participation rate has consistently been the lowest in Canada, student debt loads are amongst the highest in Canada, and a shrinking proportion of graduates agree that their degrees were worth the associated costs. As costs and debts have risen, increased incidences of student mental health concerns, food insecurity, and homelessness have been reported. All of these concerns have been felt even more prominently by groups who are already more vulnerable, including international students, first-generation students, LGBTQ2+ students, indigenous students, students with disabilities, and students who parent. Yet, in the face of these challenges and concerns, the government seems to have chosen to blindly cut funding for institutions and raise cost pressures for individuals instead of taking steps to build a more equitable and accessible post-secondary education system.

University of Alberta students, faculty, and staff will not sit silently while this budget takes effect, particularly on those most vulnerable members of our community. At every opportunity, we will stand up for our colleagues and peers in our advocacy both inside the University and to the government. We strongly encourage all of our fellow students, faculty, and staff to stay informed and involved over the coming months as we work to make our voices heard and continue the fight for equitable, accessible, and affordable post-secondary education. As a first step, students, staff and faculty are welcome to join our rally on November 18th, at 11AM in front of the Administration Building, after which we will be marching to the Legislature at 11:30AM to hand-deliver hundreds of stories from students to the Government.

Akanksha Bhatnagar
University of Alberta Students’ Union
President
president@uasu.ca

Fahed Elian
Graduate Students’ Association
President
gsa.president@ualberta.ca

Dr. Kevin Kane
Association of Academic Staff University of Alberta
President
kevin.kane@aasua.ca

Elizabeth Johannson
Non-Academic Staff Association
President
nasapres@ualberta.ca

Students' Union to hold Town Hall on the Provincial Budget

News Staff - Fri Nov 01, 2019

The recent provincial budget will have wide-ranging impacts on students, from increases in tuition and student loan interest rates, to eliminated tax credits and summer work opportunities. Government funding for programs and infrastructure at the University of Alberta has already been cut, and cuts to student financial assistance may be on the horizon as well. Given all of this, many students are understandably confused, worried, and possibly even scared about what the coming years will look like for post-secondary education in Alberta. The Students' Union will continue to advocate against these misguided decisions, and wants as many students as possible to join in and make their voices heard.

On November 7th at 12:00pm, Students' Union President, Akanksha Bhatnagar, and Vice-President (External), Adam Brown, will be holding a town hall at SUBstage to hear directly from students about the impacts that the budget will have on them. All students are encouraged to attend and share any questions, concerns, or other thoughts that they have. The town hall will be streamed on Facebook for any students who are interested but unable to attend, and questions and comments will be taken electronically as well as in-person.

In addition to the town hall next week, students can also take action and make their voices heard in a number of other ways:

• Write to the Minister of Advanced Education and your local MLA

• Attend the next Students' Council meeting on November 5th

• Send the Students' Union an email with your thoughts or concerns

• Connect with the Students’ Union on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram

University of Alberta Students’ Union deeply disappointed by the 2019 provincial budget

News Staff - Fri Oct 25, 2019

Edmonton, AB (October 25, 2019) - Yesterday afternoon, the provincial government unveiled its budget and plans for the post-secondary education system in Alberta. To the deep disappointment of the Students’ Union, this budget contained numerous provisions which will negatively impact the affordability and accessibility of education at the University of Alberta. Tuition across the university is expected to rise by 21% over the next three years, with possible increases of up to 30% in some programs, while student loan interest rates will be hiked and post-secondary tax credits will be eliminated.

“The combined effect of these decisions cannot be overstated,” said Adam Brown, Vice-President (External) of the Students’ Union. “Based on the changes to tuition, student loans, and tax credits alone, an undergraduate student entering the University of Alberta next fall will face an increased net cost of at least $9,000 for their degree. Students are already stretched thin trying to pay for a quality education here in Alberta, and this budget will undoubtedly make it even more difficult for them and their families.”

Students’ access to high-quality and meaningful work experience during their programs also saw a setback, with the cancellation of the Summer Temporary Employment Program (STEP). The program, which was active for all-but-three years since 1972, annually funded thousands of summer work experience positions for post-secondary students.

“The cutting of STEP is another big loss, for students as well as Alberta employers,” Brown continued. “Just since its re-introduction in 2016, STEP created over 12,000 summer positions for students between thousands of employers, many of whom agreed that they could not have hired students without the program. For a government that says it is focused on expanding employment opportunities, especially for youth and students, the choice to cut STEP simply makes no sense.”

Further compounding difficulties that students will face as a result of the budget are decreases to government grants for post-secondary institutions. The University of Alberta is facing $79 million in cuts for this year alone: $44 million in operating funding and $35 million from the Infrastructure Maintenance Program. The budget projects further decreases to both operating and capital funding in the coming years.

“I am incredibly concerned about the impact that these cuts are going to have on the quality of instruction, services, and student spaces here at the U of A,” said Akanksha Bhatnagar, President of the Students’ Union. “Previous funding shortfalls have seen student priorities brushed aside, and we cannot let that continue to happen. I will do all that I can inside the institution and at the Board of Governors to ensure that student interests are protected.”

The Students’ Union is the official representative of more than 32,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

University of Alberta Students' Union Adopts Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Committee Recommendations

News Staff - Mon Sep 23, 2019

Edmonton, AB - On September 23, 2019, the University of Alberta Students’ Union officially adopted the recommendations of the Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Committee (ARRC). Made up of a diverse group of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students, ARRC is given the delegated authority to advance and promote reconciliation within the Students’ Union.

Consisting of over 60 recommendations, the ARRC Recommendation Report were adopted in a ceremony which took place from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM in the Cascade Room of the Students’ Union Building. This time of celebration included speeches from the Aboriginal Student Council and members of the Students’ Union, traditional dancing, and refreshments.

“These recommendations, which will last for years to come, represent the efforts of myself and many others to change the University and the Students’ Union for the better. They are the hopes and dreams of all the people who have touched the recommendations wishing for a better University,” said Nathan Sunday, founder and chair of ARRC. “Even if the changes seem minimal, small drops of rain can make ripples across the water. It is my hope that, through the realization of these recommendations, we will be able to alleviate some of the challenges and barriers faced by Aboriginal students.”

The Recommendation Report, the first of its kind among student representative associations in Canada, is the result of numerous engagements with Indigenous students and student groups over the last two years. The recommendations direct the Students’ Union in four separate areas: advocacy, governance, education, and operations. The Students’ Union has begun the process of adopting all of the recommendations, acknowledging that this only the first step in reconciliation and building relationships with Indigenous students.

“The committee, its mandate, and the recommendations are the first steps in creating a welcoming campus, rooted in beneficial relationships that cultivate the sharing of diverse knowledge amongst and beyond the campus community,” said Katherine Belcourt, Aboriginal Student Council President. “This would not have been possible without the truth, respect, honesty, wisdom, bravery, and love that everyone has put into the creation of this powerful collection of documents.”

The Students’ Union is the official representative of more than 32,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

University of Alberta Students’ Union Statement on the Cancellation of RezFest 2019

News Staff - Fri Sep 13, 2019

The Students’ Union, along with its partners in the Council of Residence Associations, has made the difficult decision to cancel RezFest 2019 due to unforeseen circumstances. Alberta Health Services and the Office of the Dean of Students have informed the Students’ Union, and our partners, that it is inadvisable to proceed with Rezfest 2019 due to a gastrointestinal virus that has quickly spread among Lister Hall residents. Proceeding with Rezfest 2019 this Saturday, as planned, poses too great a risk of spreading the illness further.

Student health and safety is of utmost importance to the Students’ Union, and our Rezfest 2019 partners, who have invested a great deal of time, energy, and passion in bringing this event together. At this time, a make up event has not been scheduled.

All ticket purchasers will be issued a refund within 5-10 business days from today.

University of Alberta Students’ Union Launches Nationwide Get Out the Vote Campaign to Encourage Students to Vote in Federal Election

News Staff - Wed Sep 04, 2019

Edmonton, AB - Today, the University of Alberta Students’ Union is launching a Get Out the Vote campaign, in collaboration with the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA) and 35 other student associations across the country, to encourage students to vote in the federal election. During this non-partisan campaign, the Students’ Union and volunteers will be throwing events, hosting all-party debates, and utilizing street teams to engage students on campus and make sure they know that voting is their chance to help shape the future.

For many years, younger generations have been noticeably absent in elections. Many young people were either intimidated by the voting process, felt that their vote didn’t make a difference, or faced barriers such as not having the right proof of address or identity at the polls. To combat this problem, CASA ran its first iteration of the Get Out the Vote campaign in 2015, and managed to get 42,000 students to pledge to vote. That same election, voter turnout among 18-24 year olds increased by 18%! It became clear that mobilization efforts, such as CASA’s, as well as political parties’ efforts to connect with young people, made a big impact.

Due to the success of CASA’s 2015 campaign, the Students’ Union has decided to participate again in 2019 and help the student body get to the polls this fall.

“Throughout the Get Out the Vote campaign, we will be asking students to pledge to vote online at getoutthevote.ca,” explains Adam Brown, Students’ Union Vice-President (External) and Chair of CASA. “Studies have shown that having a person promise to vote, especially to a peer, is an effective way of ensuring that they show up on voting day.”

Brown adds, “At the University of Alberta, we will also be reminding students when and where they can vote, as well as driving up engagement through student groups and on social media to make information about the election as accessible as possible.”

This year, voting should be easier for University of Alberta students. Because students have generally not yet settled in one place, they have traditionally faced difficulty proving their address and voting in elections. Fortunately, at the University of Alberta, students will have the opportunity to vote right on campus a few weeks before election day! Also, students will be able to use a wide variety of documents to prove their address, including leases, residence letters, and more, making the process much simpler.

Brown continues, “With over 2 million post-secondary students across Canada, we have an opportunity to be a pivotal voice in this year’s election. We saw the impact that efforts to engage with students had in 2015, and we’re looking forward to continuing that momentum this year.”

Students who want to participate in the campaign can visit getoutthevote.ca to pledge to vote or contact the Students’ Union to participate in on-campus campaign events.

-30-

The Students’ Union is the official representative of more than 32,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

About CASA:

Established in 1995, the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA) is a non-partisan, not-for-profit, national student organization composed of 23 student associations representing 280,000 post-secondary students from coast to coast. With its partnership with the Quebec Student Union (QSU), CASA represents a total of 360,000 students across Canada and presents a national student voice to the federal government. CASA advocates for a Canadian post-secondary education system that is accessible, affordable, innovative, and of the highest quality.

Contact:
Lindsay Boyd
Director of Operations and Communications
E-mail: communications@casa.ca
Phone: 613-236-3457

University of Alberta Students’ Union opposes unfair tuition hikes for international students

News Staff - Fri Jun 14, 2019

Edmonton, AB - Earlier today, the University of Alberta Board of Governors voted, over objections from Students’ Union representatives, to implement new program-based tuition rates for incoming international students beginning in the 2020-2021 academic year. Depending on the program, the university’s own numbers show that the new rates will see international students pay anywhere from 6% to 11% more compared to the old model. In most cases, these changes will result in additional tuition costs of $10,000 or more for each degree completed by an international student.

“This proposal simply amounts to the continued exploitation of international students who choose to study here at the University of Alberta,” said Students’ Union President Akanksha Bhatnagar, who advocated and voted against the new tuition rates at the Board of Governors meeting. “We know that many international students already have to put themselves into precarious financial circumstances in order to receive a high-quality education here, and the proposal that the Board approved today will make that problem even worse.”

University administration created the proposal in response to Bill 19, which required that post-secondary institutions give international students an up-front guarantee of the total cost of their program at their time of admission. Tuition rates for incoming cohorts of international students will be set annually, without limits on how much tuition can be further increased by in a given year.

“It really is a shame that the university decided to use elements of Bill 19 as a pretext to hike tuition rates for international students. It’s such a steep price for predictability,” Bhatnagar continued. “These students already pay heavily increased costs for their education, and lack access to many forms of financial aid. International students add immense value to our community and deserve tuition that is both as predictable and affordable as possible. That is not what they are getting from their university today.”

The Students’ Union is the official representative of more than 32,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

University of Alberta Students’ Union adopts equity, diversity, and inclusivity political policy

News Staff - Fri Apr 12, 2019

Edmonton, AB - The University of Alberta Students’ Union has officially adopted a policy which strengthens the organization’s commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusivity.

Students’ Council unanimously passed second principles of the equity, diversity, and inclusivity political policy on April 9, formalizing the approach that the Students’ Union will take towards advocating on and addressing these issues. Collectively, the 26 resolutions in the policy mandate the Students’ Union to take a leading role in ensuring that the University of Alberta will be a place of learning that is accessible, safe, and inclusive for students of all identities and lived experiences.

“The university has recently been making strides in this area, including the launch of their equity, diversity, and inclusivity strategic plan, but we need to continue to hold them accountable for their commitments,” says Andre Bourgeois, Vice President Student Life of the Students’ Union. “With the passage of this policy, we now have a range of specific outcomes which we will prioritize in our advocacy to the university. These outcomes will meaningfully reduce barriers faced by students from marginalized communities.”

The policy also directs the Students’ Union to take steps internally as part of its own pursuit of a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive campus environment. These steps include securing sustained funding for programs that promote the involvement of underrepresented groups in university governance, prioritizing research into the lived experiences and oppressions of marginalized groups, providing food options at major events which meet diverse cultural and dietary needs, and intentionally recruiting staff from diverse backgrounds.

“I am very pleased that Students’ Council has strongly affirmed its commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusivity within the Students’ Union itself, as well as the broader university community,” says Reed Larsen, President of the Students’ Union. “We serve students from a wide range of diverse and often intersecting backgrounds and identities. No matter who they are, they deserve to have a university and a Students’ Union that are accessible and actively work to reduce any barriers that they face.”

The Students’ Union is the official representative of more than 32,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Robert Nelson
External Advocacy Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
eaa@su.ualberta.ca

The University of Alberta Students’ Union warns that raising tuition and fees will impact students’ quality of life and access to education.

News Staff - Mon Mar 18, 2019

Edmonton, AB (March 18, 2019) - On March 15th, the University of Alberta Board of Governors voted to increase residence rent, mandatory fees, and international tuition rates. These changes will place a significant burden on the 4,000 students who live on residence and the 4,800 undergraduates who pay international tuition. Reed Larsen, President of the Students’ Union, was the only Board member to speak and vote against all the motions. “You can’t weatherproof a budget on the backs of students without affecting them,” said Larsen. “Paying an extra four hundred dollars can make all the difference to a student’s health, financial security, and chances of graduating.”

Due to a 5% rent adjustment and a 2.27% increase in meal plan rates, any student who lives in residence will need to pay, on average, an extra $400 per year. Andre Bourgeois, Vice President Student Life, was disappointed that the university couldn’t find efficiencies elsewhere. “I hope we see proportionate increases in the quality of student life and the student experience,” he said.

Meanwhile, a 2.77% increase to international tuition means that a typical international student in the Faculty of Science will pay an extra $600 per year. International students often face personal and financial challenges like language barriers, heavy fees, minimal social support structures, and lack of work opportunities. They are also twice as likely to skip meals three or more times per week due to the cost of food.

“Thousands of students are up against intersectional challenges,” said Akanksha Bhatnagar, Vice President Academic. “For a student who lives in residence, comes from another country, and has to deal with stress from so many directions already, this change is a multifaceted problem.”

The Students’ Union is the official representative of more than 32,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
president@su.ualberta.ca

Government of Alberta unveils new legislation to improve post-secondary affordability for students

SU Staff - Mon Oct 29, 2018

Edmonton, AB (October 29, 2018) – The University of Alberta Students’ Union is pleased to see the Government of Alberta move towards a more sustainable, affordable model for tuition at post-secondary institutions across the province.

This afternoon, Minister of Advanced Education Marlin Schmidt introduced Bill 19, “An Act to Improve the Affordability and Accessibility of Post Secondary Education,” in the Alberta Legislature.

When passed, Bill 19 will have numerous benefits for students at the University of Alberta and other post-secondary institutions in Alberta. The proposed legislation will grant the Minister of Advanced Education the ability to regulate tuition and mandatory non-instructional fees for both domestic and international students. The Government of Alberta proposes to cap each institution’s average tuition fee increases to the Consumer Price Index, provide more predictability for international students, and ensure students have a voice in determining mandatory non-instructional fees.

“These new protections for both international and domestic students will help build an affordable, predictable and accessible tuition model,” said Reed Larsen, president of the University of Alberta Students’ Union. “We’re pleased to see that the Government of Alberta has been so receptive to our concerns, and has tabled a bill that will have a positive impact on students at the University of Alberta and across the province.”

The new tuition framework is slated to take effect in 2020. In the meantime, the Government of Alberta has announced that they will be renewing the tuition freeze for one final year.

“We’ve been advocating to the government on this issue for years, and we’re very happy with the legislation they’ve put forward,” said Adam Brown, the University of Alberta’s Vice-President External. “This will go a long way to addressing student concerns about tuition increases.”

The SU is the official body that represents the nearly 30,000 undergraduate students at the University of Alberta. It acts as a strong advocate for students both on campus and at all levels of government.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
780-492-4241
ecma@su.ualberta.ca

SU executives release official goals document

SU Staff - Mon Oct 29, 2018

Each year, the Students' Union executives spend the summer months crafting a series of goals which they intend to complete over the course of the year. This year, the Students' Union executive has identified the following goals:

Empower students to thrive in an intellectual community. Creating space for students in engagement in meaningful academic experiences is integral to student success.

Strengthen the Students' Union's organizational capacity. Access to quality and diverse businesses and services is integral to student interactions on campus and with the Students' Union.

Enhance and inspire a welcoming campus. Students need to feel accepted and included throughout their university lifetime.

Broaden student opportunity through effective advocacy. The Students' Union will be proactive in advocacy efforts that contribute to the well being of students and the larger society.

Reconciliation Reconciliation within postsecondary education is fundamental to creating an inclusive, diverse, and prosperous campus and community.

For more detail about these goals and how the executive plans to accomplish them, please see the full 2018/19 Executive Goals document.

University of Alberta Students' Union passes nonpartisian political policy

News Staff - Wed Aug 22, 2018

The University of Alberta Students’ Union has officially adopted a policy affirming the organization’s nonpartisan nature.

On August 21, Students’ Council passed the second reading of the nonpartisan political policy, which official establishes the Students’ Union as a nonpartisan organization that does not support or oppose political candidates or parties. Instead, the Students’ Union commits to advocating to parties and candidates about issues of importance to students, engaging in efforts to educate students about political policies and platforms, and providing students with information about voting opportunities as well as access to polling.

“In practice, the Students’ Union has historically been nonpartisan, but before now that hasn’t been an official policy,” says Reed Larsen, the University of Alberta Students’ Union President. “Passing this policy won’t have a huge impact on our day-to-day operations, but it does formalize our neutrality and give us something to point to when we’re advocating on behalf of students.”

The University of Alberta Students’ Union works with a variety of political parties on issues important to students, including tuition increases, residence costs, provincial and federal legislation impacting students, student loans and granting, and more. Students’ Union representatives frequently meet with members of all provincial and federal political parties to discuss student concerns.

“It’s really important for us to maintain that neutrality, because we want to work with all parties and all levels of government. We can’t do that effectively if there’s an idea that we as an organization are supporting one party over another,” says Larsen.

The new policy means that as an organization, the Students’ Union is officially nonpartisan, and all representatives speaking or working on behalf of the organization are required to maintain that neutrality in their professional roles. However, student councillors, executives and other Students’ Union staff can still align with political parties as individuals, so long as they are not doing so in their professional capacity as representatives of the Students’ Union.

“We expect that individuals have their own political beliefs, and will continue to support their preferred political parties outside of the Students’ Union. Student councillors and executives can still be members of political parties, but they do have to keep that separate from their work on behalf of students,” says Larsen.

Be Book Smart: An open letter to professors on textbook costs

Akanksha Bhatnagar - Thu Aug 09, 2018

Dear Professor,

My name is Akanksha Bhatnagar and I am the 2018/19 Vice President Academic of the Students’ Union. In this role, I advocate on behalf of the 31,000 undergraduate students at UAlberta, addressing academic issues and related student concerns. I would like to take this opportunity to draw your attention to the affordability of academic materials for undergraduates and discuss some steps you can take to make academic materials more cost-effective for students.

Currently, the University of Alberta recommends that students budget approximately $1750 per year for academic materials. The rising cost of academic materials is a primary concern for students who are already struggling to afford a quality post-secondary education and cover their living expenses. Stakeholders, such as publishers and university bookstores play a very important role in setting the price of academic material; however, you, as an instructor have the academic freedom to select which materials are used. In this way, you can be a primary partner in challenging the rise of textbook prices.

Here are a number of simple strategies that can provide students with alternative options for more affordable and accessible academic material without compromising on the quality of instruction and learning. We recommend that you ...

Allow the use of older editions of the textbook for your class;

Consider developing a custom a course pack, to perfectly suit your curriculum. SUBprint is able to create and print custom course packs for your class at no cost to your department;

Assign journal articles that can be accessed for no additional cost through the University libraries;

Avoid giving tests and assignments that require the purchase of additional software;

Order textbooks six to eight weeks before classes start as late orders have rush shipping and handling fees that are passed directly to your students; and/or

Integrate an Open Educational Resource (OER) or consider developing one for your course. These are teaching resources which are free and openly licensed to allow you to customize for your class.

The Centre for Teaching and Learning and University of Alberta Libraries can offer consultation services to support instructors in identifying and integrating OERs. Additionally, the Copyright Office can assist with questions related to copyright and OERs.

If you already make an effort to save students money on textbooks, please email me back with a description of your innovative solution and I would be honored to nominate you for a University of Alberta OER Award. For more resources and tips on what you can do to save your students money, visit bebooksmart.ca.

I hope you enjoy the rest of your summer and have a great term.

Kind Regards,

Akanksha Bhatnagar
UASU VP Academic 2018-19
Chair, Open Educational Resource Advocacy Group 2018-19

Filistix completes full slate of new SUB Food Court vendors for September 2018

News Staff - Tue Jul 24, 2018

Edmonton, AB (July 24, 2018) — The University of Alberta Students’ Union is pleased to announce the addition of Filistix to the list of new food vendors coming to the Students’ Union Building for the fall semester.

Popular campus food vendor Filistix will be opening on the Lower Level of SUB in what is currently the Undergrind. Filistix serves healthy menu items inspired by Filipino, Korean and Thai cuisine. It has been a popular healthy staple for students at both the University of Alberta and MacEwan University.

“We are delighted to welcome Filistix to SUB,” says Emma Ripka, Vice President Operations & Finance. “We already have a wonderfully bright and attractive space with the Atrium, and the presence of Filistix will add to the appeal and vibrancy of the space. They offer a wide balance of healthy food options as well as more decadent options, and we hope students will be as excited as we are to welcome them into SUB.”

The other new food court vendors include Hula Poke, serving poke and tostadas. Poke is a Hawaiian dish generally consisting of pieces of raw, marinated fish served over rice and topped with healthy vegetables and sauces. Hula Poke will introduce a new high quality, healthy meal option to the University campus.

In the former Taco Time location, Konz Pizza will be serving pizza cones, mac and cheese, and ice cream. Konz’s pizza cones have been a popular to-go option from their food trucks and restaurants in Kelowna, Calgary, St. Albert and Edmonton.

The Students’ Union is pleased to welcome all three new vendors to the Students’ Union Building in time for the beginning of the new school year in September.

For more information, or to schedule an interview, contact:
Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780.492.4241

Donors Redirecting Gifts to University of Alberta Students

News Staff - Thu Apr 26, 2018

Statement from University of Alberta Students’ Union and Moodys Gartner Tax LLP in regards to revoked donations to the University of Alberta.

In light of controversial decisions made by the University of Alberta, several community members have chosen to suspend financial support to the University of Alberta. Students’ understand that many in both the community and among University of Alberta alumni are frustrated by these decisions.

Many donors have expressed concern about how suspending their financial support will impact students. Regardless of whether an individual or business agrees with the decisions made by the University of Alberta, (including the conferral of an Honorary Degree to David Suzuki) it has been our experience that the donor community does not wish to punish students for decisions over which they have no control. Students go to University to better themselves through education, and financial assistance goes a long way to both reward students for excellence and to support them throughout their education.

Moodys Gartner Tax Law LLP is an example of an organization which chose suspend its financial support from the University of Alberta following these controversies. Moodys Gartner has shown leadership and has offered to redirect the remainder of their gift to the University of Alberta Students’ Union. They are an example of an organization who has unwavering support for students, while, at the same time, disagreeing with decisions made by the institution those students attend. The Students’ Union is proud to announce that they are collaborating with Moodys Gartner to ensure their philanthropic gift supports students directly, as originally intended. Together, we hope other donors will follow Moodys Gartner’s leadership and choose to reinvest their gifts directly to students.

If you or your organization no longer wishes to support the University of Alberta but does not want to withdraw needed support from students - we encourage you to donate directly to students instead. The University of Alberta Students’ Union operates a charitable foundation, the Student Involvement Endowment Foundation (SIEF), to support student-run student services and provide scholarships. If you want to support students directly through a contribution to SIEF and the Students’ Union, please donate. You can contact the Students’ Union on www.donatedirect.ca to set up a donation which is guaranteed to go directly to supporting students.

Marina Banister
University of Alberta Students’ Union
President
780-492-4241
president@su.ualberta.ca

Moodys Gartner Tax Law LLP
780-784-2500 / 403-693-5100
www.moodysgartner.com

Read what your Students’ Union and local media are saying about recent news from the University of Alberta

News Staff - Wed Apr 25, 2018

Several local media, including the Edmonton Journal, CBC News, Global News and METRO Edmonton, are covering the issues of honourary degrees, privacy, tuition, rent, meal plan costs, and other topics. Below are links to the latest articles.

20/04/18 CBC News Alberta university criticized for plan to bestow honorary degree on David Suzuki here

19/04/18 The Star Edmonton University of Alberta warns of privacy breach at camp for LGBTQ youth here

17/04/18 Edmonton Journal Economist says David Suzuki honorary degree sends bad message about education here

12/04/18 CBC News Elder's dismissal by University of Alberta a setback for reconciliation, says Treaty 6 Grand Chief here

10/04/18 CBC News U of A hires top American researcher, on condition daughter and her husband get jobs too here

06/04/18 Edmonton Journal Peter Lougheed Leadership College shortfall forces University of Alberta to find $9 million here

06/04/18 CBC News 'U of A! Not OK!': Students, faculty and staff protest University of Alberta fee increases here

28/03/18 The Gateway UAPS investigating report of men weighing cocaine in FAB here

21/03/18 CBC Radio: Interview with David Turpin, President at the U of A, on cuts, fee hikes, and his own salary (here)

19/03/18 Edmonton Journal: Minister slams University of Alberta budget cut, president pay (here)

19/03/18 CBC News: U of A president should cut pay before charging students more, minister says (here)

17/03/18 CBC News: University of Alberta students frustrated by fee hikes (here)

16/03/18 Metro Edmonton: 'We're just here as cash cows': International students hardest hit by U of A student cost hikes (here)

16/03/18 Global News: University of Alberta hikes international student tuition, rental and meal costs (here)

15/03/18 THE FLAME - the Students’ Union’s News Portal: Students protest potential increases to tuition, rent and meal plan costs (here)

Students’ Union Releases New Research to Support Students’ Rights

News Staff - Thu Mar 29, 2018

The University of Alberta Students’ Union is proud to unveil its newest research, a study on undergraduate students’ perceptions of their rights and responsibilities at the University of Alberta.

The SU is also pleased to announce a new resource to help inform students of their rights and responsibilities: to start bridging the gap students have in their understanding of their rights and responsibilities, the SU has launched a new section on their website regarding Students’ Rights. There, students can read up on their academic and procedural rights, read the full study on undergraduates’ understanding of their rights, and also read an examination of students’ rights at different Canadian Universities..

Proposed increases to residence, meal plan, international tuition fees put students at risk

News Staff - Mon Mar 12, 2018

On February 27,2018, the Board Finance and Property Committee recommended that the University of Alberta Board of Governors approve increases to international tuition, rent, and the mandatory meal plan at the next meeting of the Board of Governors. These increases will result in a 3.14% increase on international tuition, a 4% increase on rent, and an increase of up to 15% on the cost of the meal plan.

According to University administrators, these increases are necessary due to increases in staff wages and other costs. The University of Alberta Students’ Union, the Lister Hall Students’ Association and the International Students’ Association all strongly oppose these changes, which combined make post-secondary education uniquely unaffordable for international students.

The Board of Governors will be meeting on Friday, March 16, 2018, to discuss and vote on these increases. Meetings are open to the public, however they do not allow any recording or live streaming. We encourage all interested students and journalists to attend.

Housing Costs

The proposed average rate for a bachelor-style apartment on campus will be $988 per month following the proposed increase, and $1211 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Currently, the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s estimated market rents for similar units are $839 monthly and $989 monthly respectively. By making campus housing up to 20 per cent more expensive than similar off-campus units, the University of Alberta risks bringing in less funds as students choose to move off-campus rather than pay significantly higher rates to live on campus.

“Clearly the university is pricing themselves out of the market and creating another problem for themselves later on,” said Students’ Union President Marina Banister. “At that price I would rather rent a better place a few blocks away at a cheaper rate and I expect other students will do the same.”

Meal Plan Changes

The University of Alberta has again proposed changing the current Lister meal plan from a declining-balance model to a all-you-can-eat style meal plan. Under the current model, Lister residents pay $4317 or $4782 per year to load funds onto the OneCard, which functions like a debit card as students select which items to purchase at the Lister cafeteria and other outlets around campus. Unused funds are refunded to students upon leaving the University of Alberta. Under the proposed all-you-can-eat style dining plan, similar to the one currently in use at Lougheed Hall, students pay more for “anytime” access to the dining hall during its opening hours and can eat as much as they like; however, no funds are returned at the end of the year, and the option to eat elsewhere on campus is greatly reduced.

Like the current meal plan, the all-you-can-eat style plan offers two tiers, one for $4400 and the other for $4999. However, these tiers are not comparable to the existing plan – the cheaper plan allows residents to access the dining hall only five days per week, while the more expensive plan allows additional weekend access. The current plan allows students to eat meals seven days per week but distribute their meals as needed – for instance, a student could choose to have breakfast on Saturday morning but then have lunch off campus. Under the all-you-can-eat model, it’s more likely for students to opt for the seven-day plan in order to have access to the dining hall when they need it, but continue to eat at least some of their meals outside the dining plan. This means that students will be spending even more on food.

Surveys of Lister residents over the past two years have found that more than 90 per cent of residents oppose the proposed meal plan and prefer the declining balance model.

“Residents have overwhelmingly said they prefer the current meal plan, but the University continues to bring forward the same proposal despite almost universal opposition from students,” said Matthew Luzentales-Simpson, President of the Lister Hall Students’ Association. “An almost identical proposal was actually voted down by the Board of Governors last year due to student lobbying, but here we are again.”

The Impact on International Students

While rent increases and meal plan changes are bad news for all students living in residences, combined with the proposed increase to international student tuition, the proposed increases are especially troublesome for international students. An international student living in Lister could pay up to $1500 more in 2018/19 than they did this academic year.

“Costs for international students are entirely unpredictable,” said Akram Hammami, President of the International Students’ Association. “Students come to the University of Alberta believing they know what their tuition costs will be, but then it can go up by $600 or more each year. It’s completely unjust.”

Because the University of Alberta approves tuition, rent and meal plan increases on an annual basis without any long-term strategy or guarantees, students may find that they and their families have not budgeted enough to complete their degrees.

Comparison Chart

	2017/18 Cost	Proposed 2018/19 Cost	Comparison
International Student Tuition (Arts & Science)	$21,009.60 for September-April academic year	$21,668.40 September-April academic year	-
Average Single Room Dormitory-Style Residence Rate	$959/month + meal plan required in some residences	$997/month + meal plan required in some residences	-
Average Bachelor-Style Apartment Rate		$988/month	Edmonton market rent according to CMHC: $839/month
Average 1-Bedroom Apartment Rate		$1211/month	Edmonton market rent according to CMHC: $989/month
Meal Plan Costs (Lister)	Tier 1: $597/month Tier 2: $539/month Flex $ included annually: $900	7 days: $625/month 5 days: $550/month Flex $ included annually: $300	Estimated average food expenditures per person*: $375/month
Meal Plan Costs (Lougheed Hall)	$581/month Flex $ included annually: $400	$625/month Flex $ included annually: $300	Estimated average food expenditures per person*: $375/month

*According to StatsCan, the average household in Alberta spent roughly $814/monthly on food, $559/monthly on groceries and $255/monthly at restaurants. Given an average household that works out to $325 per person per month on food; however, given that it is frequently more expensive to shop for an individual rather than in bulk for a family, we’ve estimated a somewhat higher food cost for an individual.

Event Details

Board of Governors Meeting
2-31 South Academic Building, University of Alberta North Campus
Friday, March 16 from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Students welcome renewed tuition freeze with backfill funding

News Staff - Thu Nov 30, 2017

EDMONTON, AB (November 30, 2017) – Students at the University of Alberta are pleased that the Government of Alberta has announced the renewal of the tuition freeze for the 2018-19 year, and are particularly pleased that the government has guaranteed to provide backfill funding.

“This is an important step in ensuring that post-secondary education remains affordable for all students,” said Reed Larsen, VP External of the University of Alberta Students’ Union. “We’re very pleased with the extension of the tuition freeze for another year, and the additional funding means that students’ quality of education will be protected.”

While the continued tuition freeze will ensure education costs remains predictable and affordable for domestic students during the ongoing review of post-secondary funding models, the freeze does not apply to international students. Since tuition was first frozen at the 2014-15 levels, international student tuition has increased by seven per cent, significantly outpacing inflation. Alberta’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by only three per cent in the same time period.

“International students still feel that they have been forgotten,” said Marina Banister, president of the University of Alberta Students’ Union. “International student have been left out of the equation. Since the freeze, their tuition has increased to help balance the University’s books. Students are advocating that the tuition regulation be moved into legislation, and is expanded to include international student tuition.”

The Students’ Union will continue to advocate for a sustainable tuition model that keeps tuition affordable and accessible while maintaining the high level of quality students expect.

UASU emphasizes necessity of student feedback in teaching evaluation

News Staff - Mon Oct 30, 2017

The University of Alberta Students’ Union strongly believes that student input into the quality of teaching is essential in evaluating and improving teaching at the University of Alberta. This student input is largely provided through the Universal Student Ratings of Instruction (USRI). Students need to be involved in any future evaluation of the USRI, and student input must continue to be an important part of a multifaceted teaching evaluation.

The USRI is a formative evaluation mechanism which students complete on a class by class basis. Most students complete these evaluations online through the eUSRI portal that is electronically sent out to all students. The feedback from these evaluations is then used by faculties, departments and instructors to improve and enhance teaching on campus. USRIs have also been used by Faculty Evaluation Committees which make decisions on an instructor's tenure and promotion.

The University outlines in policy¹ how USRIs are only one part of a multifaceted teaching evaluation which includes both summative and formative types of feedback. In the same vein, the University emphasizes that all decisions concerning tenure, promotion or unsatisfactory teaching performance must be based on more than one indicator of the adequacy of teaching, one of which is USRIs. The use of USRIs and other forms of evaluation of teaching are all tools of measurement in the University’s commitment to teaching.

As an institution of learning it is so important that those on the receiving end of that - students - are able to provide feedback on learning. The Students’ Union unequivocally believes that student input in teaching evaluation is imperative in ensuring teaching is excellent across campus. There is no other stakeholder on campus more capable of providing feedback on teaching than students, and students’ role in this process should not be understated nor discredited.

The Student’s Union believes that there is merit in evaluating the design and delivery of USRIs in their current form and there is room for improvement, however, this review should not diminish the significance of student feedback. Undergraduate feedback is necessary and essential to inform University policies of their impact on students on campus, especially when it comes to teaching evaluations².

¹ GFC Policy Manual 111.3
² Political Policy Students in Governance

Study finds gender, race and sexuality influences participation and experience in undergraduate Student Government at University of Alberta

News Staff - Fri Sep 22, 2017

While women make up 56 per cent of undergraduate students at the University of Alberta, they account for only 30 per cent of student councilors. Between 2005 and 2016, women constituted only a quarter of candidates seeking SU Executive positions. Between 2010 and 2014, there were no female students in any year amongst a five-member SU Executive team. Only 5 women in the past twelve years were candidates for the President’s Office, of which three were elected into office in 2009, 2015, and 2017. While a study undertaken by the American University’s Women and Politics Centre suggests that “holding student leadership positions is often the foundation for holding higher political offices,” female students are passing up these opportunities at the University of Alberta.

“The study shows that women are equally interested in seeking elected office in postsecondary student government, but feel less confident to do so. We should care about that because women's participation in student government has been linked to their participation in leadership roles in politics and society, more broadly,” says Surma Das, University Governance & Advocacy Advisor at the Students’ Union.

A study published by the University of Alberta Students’ Union found that identity has an enormous impact on students’ decisions to get involved in student government at the University of Alberta. The Students’ Union’s Research and Political Affairs Department conducted a study, which included a general survey of 1957 undergraduate students, targeted surveys of student councillors and faculty association executives, and one-on-one interviews with past Students’ Union executives.

Shane Scott, the Vice President Academic at the Students’ Union, was one of the research analysts who worked on the project from its inception in 2016. “I was very passionate about this research project because it gives the Students' Union and the University the ability to shine a spotlight on a real issue in our governance system and across campus,” says Shane. “It's important that we actively work to bring historically marginalized and underrepresented voices to the table and to give them a say in the systems which govern all of us, creating a strong, thriving decision-making body.”

The results were striking, demonstrating gender, race and sexual orientation can influence a student’s desire and confidence to seek elected office in student government as well as their serving experience.

Select highlights of the study include:

Gender plays a more significant role than race in confidence to seek elected office at the highest levels of student government, whereas race is a more significant determinant of overall desire to seek leadership positions
Women are more likely to indicate that their identity shapes their campaigning experience than men
Gender and race, especially when combined, have a negative influence on serving in student representative capacity at the FA and Students’ Council levels

Surma Das will be presenting the results during a special event at GovWeek on September 22 at 2 p.m. in the Students’ Union Building, Room 0-31. The full report is available here.

Announcing the 2017/18 Students' Union Executive

News Staff - Tue Mar 14, 2017

This year's Students' Union Executive Election was an impressive and hard-fought campaign for all the candidates. Thanks to their hard work, and their many volunteers, this Students' Union election had the highest turnout since the beginning of online voting, at 29.5%. Our sincerest thanks to everyone who participated in the election by coming out to the forums and voting.

The 2017/18 executives are:

Marina Banister, President
Reed Larsen, Vice-President External
Robyn Paches, Vice-President Operations & Finance
Shane Scott, Vice-President Academic
Ilya Ushakov, Vice-President Student Life

Mike Sandare was elected as the Board of Governors Representative.

The new Students' Union executives and the Board of Governors representative will begin their terms on May 1, 2017.

Referendum/Plebiscite Results

The U-Pass referendum passed (79% yes).
The APIRG Plebiscite passed (53% yes).
The Campus Food Bank Referendum passed (83% yes).
The WUSC Plebiscite passed (76% yes).

New prayer space opens in HUB mall

News Staff - Fri Jan 27, 2017

After six years of collaboration between the University of Alberta Students’ Union, the Graduate Students’ Association, the Dean of Students and the Vice-President Facilities and Operations, the new multi-faith prayer and meditation space in HUB Mall opened yesterday.

There has been a prayer space located on the third-floor of the Students’ Union Building since 2013, but that space was not large enough to accommodate large groups during busy times such as the lunch hour. The new space in HUB will help alleviate some of the pressures students face in finding adequate prayer space on campus.

"Students balance many activities while on campus, including religious duties and prayers for some of our campus members. With a full course-load, it is tough to find time and space to pray while on campus,” said Fahim Rahman, president of the Students’ Union, who was present at the official opening reception of the prayer space yesterday.

The new prayer space is substantially larger than existing spaces on campus. It contains multiple rooms, the largest of which can accommodate up to 130 people. Smaller rooms are available for interfaith meetings, meditation rituals or religious study, and all the rooms can be booked by students and student groups.

“"Students don't want to be a burden on their classmates or instructors with their religious duties, so having a dedicated space on campus to practice their religion freely will be appreciated. I'm confident this space will make campus seem more like a home for students to learn about their studies and religion, as well as those around them who use the space for various purposes,” said Rahman.

The space is accessible from the main level of HUB, in room 172. It will be open during regular university operating hours. Room bookings are available through the Office of the Dean of Students, here.

Controversial Lister meal plan fails at Board of Governors

News Staff - Fri Dec 16, 2016

The motion to introduce a controversial new meal plan for Lister Centre failed to pass at a meeting of the University of Alberta’s Board of Governors. The proposed plan would have provided residents with unlimited access to the Lister cafeteria during opening hours for five or seven days a week. However, the plan would also have reduced students’ access to other dining options on campus, requiring them to return to Lister for their meals or pack a boxed lunch.

A previous version of the plan, which offered only one tier, failed to pass the board’s finance and property committee on November 21. A survey commissioned by the University of Alberta Students’ Union found more than 90 percent of Lister residence opposed that proposal, and many students felt the amended version put forward by the University of Alberta administration earlier this week did not adequately address concerns about flexibility.

The amended plan failed following a historic tie vote of the Board of Governors. Motions require a majority of board members to vote in favour to pass. Board members expressed concerns about the availability of dining options for students studying outside Lister Centre, the current quality of food provided by food services operator Aramark, and a proposed hot meal outlet in the Central Academic Building that wouldn’t offer full meal service until 2018.

Fahim Rahman, president of the University of Alberta Students’ Union, was pleased the Board of Governors respected students’ concerns about the proposed meal plan. “The flexibility to eat anywhere on campus is important to Lister residents, and we’re glad the Board understood that,” he said. “I've never seen a discussion this contentious before, but at the end of the day, the board realized that meant more work needs to be done.”

University of Alberta president David Turpin has indicated a special board meeting may be held to revise the current proposal.

“We’re excited to sit down with the University administration and work together to create a meal plan everyone can support, and I know students are thrilled to have an opportunity to work collaboratively with the administration to get a better deal,” said Rahman.

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780-492-4241

Remembering the École Polytechnique massacre

News Staff - Tue Dec 06, 2016

Today, the University of Alberta Students’ Union commemorates the 27th anniversary of the École Polytechnique massacre and recognizes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

On December 6, 1989, Marc Lépine murdered 14 women at l’École Polytechnique in Montreal, and injured many more. The Students’ Union remembers those killed: Geneviève Bergeron, Hélène Colgan, Nathalie Croteau, Barbara Daigneault, Anne-Marie Edward, Maud Haviernick, Maryse Laganière, Maryse Leclair, Anne-Marie Lemay, Sonia Pelletier, Michèle Richard, Annie St-Arneault, Annie Turcotte and Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz. These women were victims of violent misogyny, murdered because they were women.

The events of December 6, 1989 are deeply saddening, but even more disappointing is that after 27 years, violence against women continues to occur in Canada and around the world. Every day, domestic abuse, sexual assault and other forms of gender-based violence injure and kill thousands of women across the country. The University of Alberta Students’ Union strives for an end to this violence and misogyny, and seeks to create safe environments for women to study, grow and thrive both on- and off-campus.

The Students’ Union joins the Non-Academic Staff Association, the Association of Academic Staff, the Graduate Students’ Association, the Post-Doctoral Fellows Association, and the Administration of the University of Alberta in hosting a ceremony to commemorate the women killed at the École Polytechnique. We invite all University of Alberta students, faculty and staff to join us in commemorating the tragic deaths of 14 women and combating sexism and violence against women in all their forms.

Event: 12 p.m. at SUBstage

Fort Saskatchewan, Leduc and Spruce Grove join U-Pass program

News Staff - Thu Nov 24, 2016

The University of Alberta Students’ Union is pleased to welcome the cities of Fort Saskatchewan, Leduc and Spruce Grove to the U-Pass program. When the U-Pass was introduced in 2007, it provided discounted, unlimited public transit access in Edmonton, Strathcona County and St. Albert to University of Alberta, MacEwan University and NAIT students. Since then, the U-Pass program has expanded to include NorQuest College students along with the three municipalities announced today.

Robyn Paches, the Students’ Union Vice-President of Operations Finance, spoke on behalf of students at the signing ceremony held today at NAIT. “Before today, those coming into the city on transit from Fort Saskatchewan, Leduc, and Spruce Grove needed to pay additional fees or purchase an entirely separate pass in order to travel across municipal boundaries,” he said. “Those fees can add up when you take the bus, both ways, almost every day. As you can imagine, we were thrilled to learn the municipal partners were talking and looking at how they could expand the program.”

The expansion to the U-Pass program will help establish a pattern of using environmentally-responsible travel that will encourage students to continue using transit even following graduation. It will also allow easier access to the university for students living in Fort Saskatchewan, Leduc and Spruce Grove, and expand student access to practicum, recreation and volunteer opportunities in the greater Edmonton area. “This simple change is making a significant contribution to our future,” said Paches.

Students' Union congratulates SU Excellence Award winner

News Staff - Mon Oct 17, 2016

The University of Alberta Students’ Union and Vice President (Academic) Marina Banister are pleased to congratulate Juanita Gnanapragasam, recipient of the 2016 Students’ Union Excellence Award.

Each year, the Students’ Union awards one undergraduate student with its highest honour for excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities. To qualify for this prestigious award, students must be in their graduating year, have attained a GPA of at least 3.5 in their 60 most recent credits, be involved in extracurricular activities at the university or in their community, and demonstrate an ability to work with other students, staff and the general public.

Juanita Gnanapragasam embodies the values of the Students’ Union and this award. Throughout her academic career at the University of Alberta, she has been involved in promoting a healthy and vibrant student culture at our institution while maintaining excellent grades.

She held an executive role with University of Alberta Compliments, a campus group devoted to spreading positivity and acceptance on campus through anonymous compliments and other initiatives. During her time with Compliments, she collaborated with University of Alberta International, St. Joseph’s College and the University of Alberta’s Community Social Work team to launch the “What Makes You Happy” campaign, which worked to improve student morale during midterms and final exams.

Gnanapragasam was also the lead investigator on a research project that examined how international students define healthy eating and what food-related barriers they face while living on campus. Her passion for health and sustainability has since led her to pursue a master’s degree in Public Health, and as a first-year graduate student, she is now working towards programming to help address the obstacles identified by her earlier research.

In recognition of her achievements, Gnanapragasam will receive a personalized trophy and a $2500 monetary prize. She will be recognized at the Students’ Union Awards Night on October 21, 2016, starting at 6:30 in the Dinwoodie Lounge.

The Students’ Union Awards recognize undergraduate students and student groups in a variety of areas, including involvement, achievement, and leadership. Every year, the Students’ Union Awards disburse more than $90,000 in prizes. The Students’ Union congratulates all the winners at this year’s awards ceremony.

Students' Union launches fundraising campaign to support Myer Horowitz Theatre renovations

News Staff - Fri Aug 19, 2016

Since opening in 1967, the Myer Horowitz Theatre in the Students’ Union Building on the University of Alberta campus has played a vital role in the community. The 720-seat theatre is the only theatre of its size in the region and provides services to a variety of community organizations, non-profits and student groups. Now approaching its 50th anniversary, the theatre has hosted thousands of events, including concerts, speakers, ceremonies, comedians, plays, dance competitions and more.

The University of Alberta Students’ Union is pleased to announce it will be undertaking major renovations of the Horowitz Theatre in order to ensure the facility continues to operate for the next 50 years. The UASU has awarded the contract for the renovations to DIALOG, with Stephen Boyd serving as the Principal-in-Charge and Design Architecture Lead. DIALOG has worked with many local theatres, including the Francis Winspear Centre for Music, the ATB Financial Arts Barns and the Citadel Theatre. The company was also the firm behind the recent renovation of the Students’ Union Building, completed in 2015. “Stephen and the DIALOG team’s work on our atrium and plaza transformed our student space,” said Marc Dumouchel, the General Manager of the Students’ Union. “We think they’ll do a great job re-invigorating the Horowitz Theatre, which has been an iconic Edmonton venue for almost 50 years.”

The ability to continue building on the recent renovations in the Students’ Union Building with the same architect, as well as current economic conditions and the need to be proactive about improving one of the University community’s main cultural assets make now the perfect time to launch the revitalization of the Horowitz Theatre. The project is anticipated to cost approximately $11 million, and will be completed in 2018. The Students’ Union is launching the Friends of Myer Horowitz to support the theatre’s revitalization, with a goal of fundraising $7 million over the life of the project. “Campus needs a modern theatre, and just patching it up isn't enough,” said Dumouchel. “The arts are a key element to developing well-rounded graduates, and the theatre is a key link between campus and the broader community.”

The Students’ Union would also like to thank the Government of Alberta for their generous support of this project. The government’s award of a $40,000 Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP) Grant will be instrumental in the design development phase of the revitalization.

The Students' Union will also be hosting a fundraising kick off on August 19 at 2:00 pm at the Horowitz Theatre. Minister Lori Sigurdson, University of Alberta Board Chair Michael Phair, Students' Union President Fahim Rahman and Vice President (Operations and Finance) Robyn Paches will be speaking.

Quick facts about Horowitz Theatre:

Capacity of 720
An average of approximately 100,000 people attend events at Horowitz Theatre annually
The theatre had 202 event days in 2015
In the 2015, the theatre hosted

108 non-profit events
54 Edmonton community events
57 student group events

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780-492-4241

Students’ Union welcomes new Senate chancellor Douglas R. Stollery

News Staff - Fri May 06, 2016

Earlier today, the University of Alberta announced that Douglas R. Stollery has been elected chancellor of the university’s Senate. Stollery will begin his four-year-term on June 15, and the Students’ Union is pleased to welcome him to his new role.

“He’s very focused on working with students and the Students’ Union,” said Marina Banister, the Students’ Union Vice-President (Academic). “We’re very excited to have him.”

Stollery is a lawyer and philanthropist who has been involved in post-secondary education for much of his life. He is currently the chancellor of St. Stephen’s college. For more information about Stollery’s background and credentials, see the news release from the University of Alberta.

The Students’ Union looks forward to Stollery’s installation as chancellor at the convocation ceremony on June 15.

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780-492-4241

Standing with Fort McMurray

Fahim Rahman - Wed May 04, 2016

Over the past two days, all of Alberta has watched with horror as wildfires have spread into Fort McMurray, displacing tens of thousands of people who may now have little to return home to. Along with the rest of my executive, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to all those affected, including our peers at Keyano College.

Earlier today, President David Turpin wrote that the University of Alberta is offering whatever assistance it can during this emergency, including making space available at university residences for those displaced by the wildfires.

We are extremely pleased and proud to see the University taking an active role in providing support to the many Albertans, including students, alumni and staff, who have been impacted.

You can view President Turpin’s statement here.

Fahim Rahman
Students' Union President

Students' Union to collaborate with University of Alberta administration on Residence Life Task Force

News Staff - Fri Apr 22, 2016

Earlier this month, many students took to social media platforms to express their disappointment and frustrations with University of Alberta residences. Student leaders and residents voiced many long-held concerns about the living conditions and management of University-operated residences. In response, the University administration has agreed to create a Residence Life Task Force in cooperation with the Students’ Union.

Over the course of the next eight months, the task force will work alongside the Provost and newly appointed Dean of Students to create a list of actionable recommendations to improve how University residences are operated and maintained. The Students’ Union welcomes this opportunity to make students have the best possible experience in residence.

The Students’ Union has also succeeded in securing eight rooms in Lister for SU-appointed representatives for the next academic year. While the Lister Hall Students’ Association will not be replaced for the 2016-17 school year, these appointed representatives will help lay the groundwork for the LHSA to return for 2017-18 and ensure that student voices are heard in the absence of a representative organization in that residence.

The Students’ Union would like to sincerely thank everyone who spoke up with concerns about campus residences. Your voices made these next steps possible.

Read SU President Navneet Khinda’s comment regarding the Residence Life Task force here. For more information, you can also read the Provost’s statement.

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780-492-4241

Students' Union withdraws proposal for new Lister Hall residence association in response to opposition from University

News Staff - Mon Apr 11, 2016

For the majority of this academic year, the Students’ Union has been working collaboratively with Residence Services and the Dean of Students’ office to address the lack of student representation in Lister Centre. The SU Executive has worked with students in Lister and consulted extensively with administration to create a proposal for a new association in Lister Centre. Last week, Residence Services and the Dean of Students office rejected major important parts of the proposal, leaving the SU in a difficult position. After a meeting on April 5th, Navneet Khinda, President of the Students’ Union, has withdrawn the SU’s proposal for a new residence association due to the lack of support from Residence Services.

In the summer of 2015, the University of Alberta Appeal Board handed down a decision to suspend the organization known as the “Lister Hall Students Association” (LHSA) for a period of two years. The Students’ Union, recognizing the need for student advocates and representatives in Lister, has worked to create a completely new association with the support of the university. “Unfortunately, the university does not truly understand what we are trying to achieve, which is a representative democratic organization for students, by students. I’ve worked hard to meet their expectations and demands, but every turn I make, all I hear is ‘no,’” says Khinda. "It's impossible to achieve their standards, especially when the goalposts keep moving."

“We are told we must consult all students, which we gladly do regardless, but we are not given access to the email list of students living in Lister. We are told to ensure future student members of this association receive education or training around a wide variety of issues, such as mental wellness and conflict management, which we’d love to do, but then we’re notified that we cannot hold our elections in the spring. That means there’s no time to provide that training over the summer, so we can’t prepare the student leaders for success. Sometimes I feel we are being set up for failure,” says Khinda.

The SU appointed Leila Raye-Crofton, who was elected as LHSA President in March 2015, as the Lister Advocate to coordinate the grassroots work occurring in Lister Centre. Despite the hurdles, dozens of students came together to participate in a visioning process to create the structure of a new student residence association. There were months of input from administration at Residence Services, and despite the compromises students made, Residence Services and the University administration are unwilling to guarantee 50 rooms, in a residence of over 1600, to incoming student leadership.

The LHSA is scheduled to return after the suspension is over, for the year of 2017-2018. The SU will work throughout the upcoming academic year to ensure that this happens, in a manner beneficial to students and the university. The SU will pursue student elections for the LHSA in the spring of 2017 and remains hopeful the university will cooperate.

“Students’ Council has the right to create representative student groups, as outlined in the Post-Secondary Learning Act and we expect the university’s support, especially when we outline reasonable solutions and aspire to work together. I think it’s very disingenuous for the university to create obstacles for students who want to create a community, while simultaneously agreeing to work through this with the SU,” says Khinda.

The SU is committed to ensure a thriving, respectful, and safe environment for all Residences at the University of Alberta. This includes establishing and supporting strong student residence associations that are elected to build that strong culture and environment.

The SU will be providing more information about the situation in the coming days and weeks. To receive updates, sign up below.

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780-492-4241

Students' Union welcomes Dr. André Costopoulos, new Dean of Students at the University of Alberta

News Staff - Wed Mar 23, 2016

The University of Alberta Students’ Union is pleased to welcome Dr. André Costopoulos to his new role as Vice-Provost and Dean of Students at the University of Alberta beginning July 1. An associate professor of anthropology, and the Dean of Students at McGill University since 2014, Dr. Costopoulos has spent much of his career working closely with students in a variety of academic and administrative roles.

His projects at McGill include the university’s “Ask an Advisor” program, which simplified the process for students looking for student affairs support. He also worked on implementing the school’s early alert system, which uses the course management system to help instructors identify students who need additional supports.

Navneet Khinda, the current Students’ Union President, is excited to have Dr. Costopoulos join the University’s administrative team. “His philosophy and approach to this portfolio will be a great fit here,” she says. “I like that he acknowledges the importance of working with students to find a solution, since that creates further learning opportunities. There are a lot of great opportunities on campus to make some positive changes for the community.”

Vivian Kwan, Vice President (Student Life) at the Students’ Union, was a member of the Dean of Students hiring committee. “Dr. Costopoulos knows how to make students feel that they are being heard,” she says. “His student-first approach really stood out for us, and we are looking forward to strengthening our relationship with his office.”

The Students’ Union would also like to express its sincere thanks to Dr. Robin Everall, who has served as the interim Vice-Provost and Dean of Students for the past two years.

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780-492-4241

Students' Council and General Faculties Council Election results

News Staff - Wed Mar 23, 2016

The University of Alberta Students’ Union (SU) is pleased to announced the results of the Students’ Council and General Faculties Council elections held earlier this month. Byelections for unfilled positions will be held in Fall 2016.

Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences

Students’ Council
Eilish McKinlay

General Faculties Council
No candidates

Arts

Students’ Council
1. Ben Angus
2. Victoria deJong
3. Frederique Ndatirwa
4. Reed Larsen
5. Bismillah Kiani
6. Kyle Monda
7. Monica Lillo (councillor-in-waiting)
8. Hansan Birer (councillor-in-waiting)
9. LJ Valencia (councillor-in-waiting)

General Faculties Council
1. Reed Larsen
2. Bismillah Kiani
3. Monica Lillo
4. Hansan Birer
5. LJ Valencia

Business

Students’ Council
1. Nicole Hammond
2. Saba Al Hammouri

General Faculties Council
Nicole Hammond

Education

Students’ Council
Neesha Persad

General Faculties Council
No candidates

Engineering

Students’ Council
1. Brandon Prouchnau
2. Jason R. Wang
3. Dorsa Nahid
4. Nick Dejong
5. Meor M. Hakeem (councillor-in-waiting)
6. Xiaoqi Dang (councillor-in-waiting)

General Faculties Council
1. Jason R. Wang
2. Henry Su
3. Dorsa Nahid
4. Meor M. Hakeem
5. Xiaoqi Deng

Law

Students’ Council
Alexander (Sandy) Brophy

General Faculties Council
Elizabeth Chen

Medicine and Dentistry

Students’ Council
Brandon Christensen

General Faculties Council
No candidates

Nursing

Students’ Council
Ryan Scott

General Faculties Council
No candidates

Faculté Saint-Jean

Students’ Council
Delane Howie

General Faculties Council
1. Andy Cajina
2. Rhea Sherman

Open Studies

Students’ Council
Levi Flaman

Science

Students’ Council
1. Alex Kwan
2. Kevin Wang
3. Umer Farooq
4. Anthony Nguyen
5. Andrew Newman
6. Habba Mahal
7. Abhishek Warrier
8. Xingyu Liu (councillor-in-waiting)

General Faculties Council
1. Alex Kwan
2. Kevin Wang
3. Umer Farooq
4. Habba Mahal
5. Calvin Howard
6. Andrew Newman
7. Abhishek Warrier
8. Xingyu Liu

University of Alberta increases accountability and transparency of Mandatory Non-Instructional Fees with fee restructuring and creation of oversight committee

News Staff - Tue Mar 22, 2016

Last week, the University of Alberta Board of Governors approved a motion to restructure the existing Mandatory Non-Instructional Fees (MNIFs). As part of that restructuring, the university has agreed to create an oversight committee that will allow students to provide input on fees and the services they fund while ensuring greater transparency and accountability in how fees are set.

In 2010, the University of Alberta introduced a new MNIF initially titled the Common Student Space, Sustainability and Security Fee, proposed at a cost of $570/year per student. This fee would have covered $20 million of a $59 million budget gap and was intended to fund a range of non-instructional services for students. “The Students’ Union protested the fee, because we feel students should not be paying extra for security. There needs to be accountability in the fees we’re charged above and beyond tuition,” says Navneet Khinda, current SU President.

After initial conversations, the fee was reduced and renamed the Common Student Space, Sustainability and Services (CoSSS) Fee. Currently the fee sits at $306.16/year per full time student. The University of Alberta also charges other MNIFs, totalling $791 a year in addition to tuition costs. The Students’ Union has advocated for the elimination of the CoSSS fee and for increased transparency and accountability in the creation of new MNIFs. “We’ve had grievances with the process used to implement MNIFs and the actual fees since day one. We have no idea where millions of dollars in student money were going and every year, the reporting on it was insufficient,” says Khinda.

Under the new agreement, the CoSSS fee, the Health Services Fee, the Registration and Transcript Fee, and the Student Services Fee will be eliminated and restructured into two fees: the Student Health and Wellness Fee, and the Student Academic Support Fee. The Athletics and Recreation fee will not be affected. The restructuring is revenue neutral, with annual fees of $791.00 in 2016-17 per full time student, roughly $30 million total. While the amount of fees is not being reduced, the new structure means that the services being supported by MNIFs are clearly defined and students can understand where their dollars are going. “This is a positive change, because now we can discuss whether or not we think our money is being spent well or how we can allocate it differently, which is more productive than just continually asking where our money is going,” says Khinda.

This new Oversight Committee will replace the current MNIF Budget Advisory Committee (M-BAC). Chaired by the Deputy Provost, the joint student/University Oversight Committee will have six representatives from both the SU and the GSA, six representatives from administration, and one representative from the University Senate. Any increases above inflation, as well as the creation of any new MNIFs, will require a majority vote of the oversight committee before proceeding to the Board of Governors. Over the next year the Oversight Committee will determine the reporting structure for the various units funded by these fees.

“This structure will allow for real consultation to happen, since students will get a vote on this committee and there is an enshrined role for referenda regarding the creation of new fees,” Khinda says. “While we will continue asking the provincial government for more robust definitions and regulations on all the fees our schools charge, this is a good step forward.”

View the documents relating to the fee changes here.

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780-492-4241

Candidates announced for Students' Council and General Faculties Council Elections

News Staff - Tue Mar 15, 2016

The list of candidates for the Students' Council and General Faculties Council election has been finalized. Voting will take place online on March 17 and 18. For more information about the candidates and to vote online, visit su.ualberta.ca/vote.

Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences

Students’ Council
Eilish McKinlay

General Faculties Council
No candidates

Arts

Students’ Council
LJ Valencia
Reed Larsen
Ben Angus
Kyle Monda
Frederique Ndatirwa
Monica Lillo
Hasan Birer
Bismillah Kiani
Victoria deJong

General Faculties Council
LJ Valencia
Reed Larsen
Monica Lillo
Hasan Birer
Bismillah Kiani

Business

Students’ Council
Nicole Hammond
Saba Al Hammouri

General Faculties Council
Nicole Hammond

Education

Students’ Council
Neesha Persad

General Faculties Council
No candidates

Engineering

Students’ Council
Dorsa Nahid
Brandon Prochnau
Nick Dejong
Meor M. Hakeem
Martin Wong
Jason R. Wang
Xiaoqi Deng

General Faculties Council
Dorsa Nahid
Meor M. Hakeem
Henry Su
Jason R. Wang
Xiaoqi Deng

Law

Students’ Council
Alexander “Sandy” Brophy

General Faculties Council
Elizabeth Chen

Medicine and Dentistry

Students’ Council
Brandon Christensen

General Faculties Council No candidates

Native Studies

Students’ Council
No candidates

General Faculties Council
No candidates

Nursing

Students’ Council
Ryan Scott

General Faculties Council
No candidates

Open Studies

Students’ Council
Levi Flaman

Physical Education & Recreation

Students’ Council
No candidates

General Faculties Council
No candidates

Pharmacy

Students’ Council
No candidates

General Faculties Council
No candidates

Faculté Saint-Jean

Students’ Council
Delane Howie

General Faculties Council
Rhea Sherman
Andy Cajina

Science

Students’ Council
Habba Mahal
Andrew Newman
Anthony Nguyen
Umer Farooq
Xingyu Liu
Kevin Wang
Alex Kwan
Abhishek Warrier

General Faculties Council
Habba Mahal
Andrew Newman
Umer Farooq
Xingyu Liu
Kevin Wang
Calvin Howard
Alex Kwan
Abhishek Warrier

SU Election Results

News Staff - Tue Mar 08, 2016

The University of Alberta Students’ Union (SU) is pleased to announced the results of the Students’ Union General Election held earlier this month. We congratulate all the winners, and thank everyone who ran, volunteered and voted.

President: Fahim Rahman
Fahim Rahman is a fifth year chemistry student. In 2015/16, he served as the Vice President (Academic) at the University of Alberta Students’ Union. Fahim’s campaign priorities were affordable education, increasing employment opportunities for new graduates and improving students’ mental health.

Vice President (Academic): Marina Banister
Marina Banister is a fourth year political science student who has been heavily involved in student governance since coming to the University of Alberta. She has served on multiple committees and boards, including Students’ Council and the General Faculties Council. Some of Marina’s priorities during her campaign were advocating for students to have more flexibility in pursuing their degrees, increasing resources for international students, and encouraging more diversity in student governance.

Vice-President (External): Mike Sandare
Mike Sandare is a third year political science student. He is currently the Vice President of Incoming Exchange Account Delivery for AIESEC’s Edmonton chapter, a youth-run non-profit organization. Mike’s priorities are improving access to affordable education and mental health services for students.

Vice-President (Operations & Finance): Robyn Paches
Robyn Paches is a student at the Alberta School of Business. He has been highly involved in his campus community and with student governance, serving as the Co-Chair of the Alberta Energy Challenge and president of the University of Alberta Ski and Snowboard Club, as well as sitting on Students’ Council and chairing the Students’ Union’s audit committee. Robyn hopes to increase access to healthy food on campus, create sustainable infrastructure for the SU, and improve student safety on campus.

Vice President (Student Life): Francesca El Ghossein
Francesca El Ghossein is a fourth year science student studying biological sciences at Campus Saint-Jean. She has served as a board member of APIRG as well as Vice President (Internal) of the Campus Saint-Jean Students’ Association. As VP (Student Life), Francesca plans to advocate on behalf of Residence Associations and student groups, and improve access to mental health services on campus.

Board of Governors Representative: Colin Champagne
Colin Champagne is studying political science and economics at Campus Saint-Jean. He has served on the Students’ Council and was the 2015/16 president of the Campus Saint-Jean Students’ Association. Colin wants to improve the visibility of the BOG Rep and ensure that students know what’s happening at Board of Governors meetings.

DFU Plebiscite Question
The Gateway’s plebiscite to continue its Dedicated Fee Unit was successful. Full- and part-time students will continue to pay $3.39 in each of the Fall and Winter terms and $0.43 in each of the Spring and Summer terms towards the student-run and directed media organization.

Voter Turnout Statistics
2016 - 21.7 per cent
2015 - 22.8 per cent
2014 - 19.9 per cent

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780-492-4241

University of Alberta's sexual assault report a good first step to ensure a safe campus for all students

News Staff - Mon Feb 08, 2016

Edmonton, AB – The University of Alberta Students’ Union (SU) wholeheartedly supports the recommendations put forward by the the Sexual Misconduct Review group in its report on the University of Alberta’s response to sexual assault.

“It's incredibly important that students feel safe on campus, including when disclosing any cases of sexual assault to people in positions of authority and their peers,” said SU President Navneet Khinda. Currently, while there are many resources available for students who have been sexually assaulted, they are not centralized and navigating the many options for reporting an assault can be confusing.

If implemented, the Sexual Misconduct Review group’s recommendations would help create a unified and consistent support system for survivors of sexual assault, making resources easier to access while maintaining a fair and just investigative process.

“All universities need to do a better job of being compassionate in their response to a disclosure of sexual assault and I think this is a great step forward for the University of Alberta,” said Khinda. “The report has a focus on creating a culture of consent as well as ensuring that survivors or complainants have a variety of options available to them. Most importantly, the University recognizes the need to create a centralized support system on campus that brings together all the various units and people already in action.”

While the report is a positive first step, the University must continue to make sexual assault a priority and dedicate resources to creating the supports outlined in the recommendations. “I know that the Students' Union will work as a partner in establishing these changes on campus,” said Khinda.

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780-492-4241

Students’ Council Approves Incremental Membership Fee Increase

News Staff - Wed Feb 03, 2016

On February 2, 2016, Students’ Council voted 20-8 in favour of a proposal to raise the Students’ Union Membership Fee in incremental amounts over the next three years. In addition to CPI adjustments, full-time students will see a per-term increase of $3.00 in 2016-17, $3.25 in 2017-18, and $3.50 in 2018-19. This proposal came to Council as a direct result of the anticipated increase of the minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2018 put forth by the Alberta Government.

The fee increase, brought forward by Vice President (Operations & Finance) Cody Bondarchuk, will cover roughly 60 per cent of the revenue needed to fund the minimum wage increase, with the other 40 per cent coming from department efficiencies and moderate increases to prices across the SU’s businesses. “We will be seeing an increase in excess of $1 million by 2018 to our operating budget, so our options were to boost revenue through a combination of the fee increase and raising prices, or by making significant cuts to existing programs essential to undergraduate students,” Bondarchuk said, expanding on a letter to Council released ahead of the vote.

The Students’ Union currently employs approximately 300 staff, 65 per cent of whom currently make less than $15 per hour. All changes to student fees imposed by the Students’ Union are passed through a vote by elected representatives. After consulting Finance Committee and the General Manager, Bondarchuk and President Navneet Khinda brought the motion to Council for debate.

“Any time we make a financial decision, especially one that requires students to pay more, it is always taken very seriously,” Khinda said. “It's important the SU stays ahead of the curve and responds to the signals government sends us, and this means increasing wages for a majority of our 300 staff. I sincerely believe students find value in our services, so it's important we do what we can to maintain them at current levels.”

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp
External Communications & Media Advisor
alix.kemp@su.ualberta.ca
780-492-4241

Students’ Council to debate SU membership fee increase

News Staff - Mon Feb 01, 2016

Dear students,

The Students’ Union’s Executive Committee intends to increase your membership fees by 7.7 per cent annually for each of the next three years. This fee increase is required to fund wage increases that are a direct result of the Government of Alberta’s proposal to increase the minimum wage. Students’ Council will discuss and vote on this motion to increase membership fees on February 2nd, 2016 at 6pm in Council Chambers.

In order to comply with the new legislation, the Students’ Union must either increase revenue or make cuts to existing programs essential to undergraduate students. While any increase in fees is of concern to students who already pay a significant amount in tuition and University fees, we believe students value existing programming and services. Additionally, a higher minimum wage will benefit the many students currently working for the Students’ Union.

The Students’ Union currently employs approximately 300 people, 60% of whom are students. 65% of our employees currently make less than $15 an hour. In order to finance wage increases for these and other SU staff, we estimate that the SU will require an additional $1,000,000 for its annual operating budget by the end of 2018. 50 to 60 per cent of this increase will be covered by the additional membership fees, with the rest coming from optimizing departmental efficiencies as well as moderate increases to prices in our businesses, in line with those of our competitors.

Mirroring the gradual increase to the provincial minimum wage, the proposed increases will be staggered over the next three years, as follows:

May 1, 2016: Fall/Winter Term fee increases by $3.00 per term for full-time students and $1.50 for part-time students; Spring and Summer term fee increases by $1.50
May 1, 2017: Fall/Winter Term fee increases by $3.25 per term for full-time students and $1.63 for part-time students; Spring and Summer term fee increases by $1.63
May 1, 2018: Fall/Winter Term fee increases by $3.50 per term for full-time students and $1.75 for part-time students; Spring and Summer term fee increases by $1.75

The motion to increase Students’ Union fees will be debated by Students’ Council on Tuesday, February 2, 2016. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Navneet Khinda
President
navneet.khinda@su.ualberta.ca

Cody Bondarchuk
VP (Operations & Finance)
cody.bondarchuk@su.ualberta.ca

Students Collaborate on New Plan for University of Alberta's Future

News Staff - Tue Jan 05, 2016

Edmonton, Alberta – The University of Alberta Students’ Union (SU) has completed its submission to the University of Alberta’s Institutional Strategic Plan

Following the installation of David Turpin as president and vice-chancellor in November 2015, the University of Alberta launched a collaborative process to identify the goals and strategies that will guide the institution’s growth in the coming years. The Students’ Union submission highlights undergraduate priorities that must be addressed in the final version of the Institutional Strategic Plan.

“The students are the largest body on campus, and we want to make sure that the student experience is the best it possibly can be. That doesn’t just mean great classes, but all the other factors that contribute to student life,” said Fahim Rahman, the SU Vice President (Academic). “We are talking about the quality of teaching in the classroom, and also about the costs of post-secondary education as well as students’ ability to become active citizens both on campus and as members of society.”

The submission addresses four major areas of importance to undergraduate students: affordability, high-quality teaching, opportunities for transformative learning, and building a sense of community on campus. Recognizing the challenges facing post-secondary institutions across the country, from uncertain government funding to rising enrolment, the Students’ Union suggests a variety of innovative measures to address each of these areas.

Some highlighted suggestions include:

Increasing the number of courses taught using Open Educational Resources, which are teaching, learning, and research materials in the public domain that may be used freely by students and revised by instructors
Celebrating excellence in teaching by rewarding the achievements of quality instructors while also investing in faculty recruitment to improve the student-to-faculty ratio
Creating a centralized office that will prioritize experiential learning as an integral part of the undergraduate experience

The SU is pleased to see the University of Alberta emphasizing the need for a collective strategic plan with input from all members of the U of A community. In the same spirit of cooperation, the SU worked closely with undergraduate Faculty Associations and the University of the Alberta Students’ Council to identify priorities and draft this submission.

“It’s tough for any one person to represent the 30,000 students on campus, so to quote the Beatles, we do it with a little help from our friends,” said Rahman.

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Alix Kemp

External Communications & Media Advisor

780-492-4241 ?

Domestic Tuition Hikes Axed While International Increases Remain

News Staff - Wed Jul 29, 2015

Edmonton, Alberta – Today, students applauded the University of Alberta Board of Governors’ vote to rescind the tuition fee increases from March 2015. However, students were concerned at the uneven application of the relief, as the four motions rescinded tuition and market modifier increases only for domestic students, while leaving international students to pay the increased costs by themselves.

"I'm very pleased that the Board is following the Government's directions for Bill 3, and rescinding the previously approved tuition increases. This is really positive news for students come the fall term," said Navneet Khinda, Students’ Union President.

"However, it is disappointing that the spirit of Bill 3 was not fully carried out. International students will continue to pay for the 2% tuition increase as well as the market modifier tuition hikes in their programs, while we had been expecting all undergraduate students would benefit from the NDP Government’s tuition hike reversal."

Under the Provincial Government’s Tuition and Fees Regulation, International Students lack the same protections that their domestic peers have in terms of tuition and fee regulations, meaning that they may begin their program expecting to pay one amount only to see the university hike their tuition to unaffordable levels. This move by the university demonstrated yet again that—lacking governmental oversight—the university will continue to treat international students as ‘cash cows’ and treat these undergraduates as simply a source of revenue. All students, and especially those who are guests in Alberta, deserve to be treated fairly with predictable and affordable tuition rates.

“I hope the University of Alberta will consider the negative impact of this decision and ensure that the impacted international students will also receive increases in grants and bursaries so that they can continue their studies. I also call on the provincial government to go further than their predecessors and finally regulate international tuition so that students who leave their lives behind to study in Alberta will be treated fairly,” said Khinda.

For more information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications and Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students' Union

1-780-492-4241

Students Applaud Freeze to Tuition and Fees

News Staff - Thu Jun 18, 2015

Edmonton, Alberta – Students are very excited to hear that the Alberta government is making large strides to protect and enhance the affordability of post-secondary education for Alberta’s families.

In recent years, students have been forced to pay more for less, with cutbacks to programs coming at the same time as tuition hikes. Today, the new government has reversed these regressive policies, with additional funding for post-secondary institutions coming alongside a tuition freeze. While tuition is just one of the major costs of attending post-secondary, students applaud Premier Notley’s move to follow through on her election promise to freeze tuition and fees.

The Government has announced:

A two year freeze for tuition and mandatory non-instructional fees for which the shortfall to institutions will be funded by the government
A rollback of the Market Modifier tuition hikes which will also be funded by the government
An increase in post-secondary funding

It is important to note that this will be a funded freeze, meaning institutions will not lose out on crucial funding, and that quality of education will continue to be supported.

“This is just incredible. In all my years of student advocacy, I have never seen such large changes come all at once,” said Navneet Khinda, Students’ Union President.

“We have been lobbying for predictability, accessibility, and affordability in the tuition and funding models for years and I’m delighted to see the results.”

Alberta currently has the lowest post-secondary attainment rate in Canada, and students are hopeful that the provincial government will continue with these positive steps to increase post-secondary accessibility.

“I’m looking forward to a comprehensive review of tuition and funding models in this province,” added Vice President External Dylan Hanwell.

“There are some big changes that still need to be made and we’re happy to be heading in a positive direction for our students.”

For more information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications and Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students' Union

1-780-492-4241

Albertans Elect a New Government

News Staff - Thu May 07, 2015

On May 5th, Albertans voted in a new government, electing Premier Notley and 53 NDP MLAs to the Legislative Assembly.

With voter participation on the rise this election, it is clear that Alberta’s university students played a role in electing this new government. With the Council of University Students launching a successful Get Out The Vote campaign to drive voter turnout, student leaders at the U of A played a role in encouraging their peers to examine the party platforms and think about how government policies will affect their lives and education when voting.

Students, concerned with massive tuition and fee increases in recent years along with the upcoming expiration of the tuition cap, are excited by the newly elected Alberta government’s promise to freeze tuition and fees for post-secondary education. Alberta has the lowest post-secondary attainment rate in Canada, and rising fees are a primary barrier currently keeping out students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“After years of cuts to post-secondary education alongside unaffordable fee increases, students are tired of paying more for less,” explained Vice President External Dylan Hanwell. “I’m looking forward to meeting with Premier Notley and the new Advanced Education Minister to discuss how we can have a quality and accessible post-secondary system in Alberta.”

For more information please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications and Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students' Union

1-780-492-4241

UASU Anticipates a Large Student Voter Turnout on May 5

News Staff - Thu Apr 09, 2015

Alberta’s university students are going to make a difference during the Alberta provincial election being held on May 5. Students from across the province are signing up in the “Get Out The Vote” campaigns being run at Alberta universities, and already over 5,000 students have signed up, with hundreds more each day pledging to vote.

Pledge to vote here.

“Despite a snap election call, we’ve found students are engaged and interested in the election,” said Navneet Khinda, VP External at the University of Alberta Students’ Union and chair of the Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS). “We are going to sign up thousands of students and make sure they turn out on Election Day.”

CAUS ran “Get Out The Vote” in 2012, signing up over 12,000 students in ridings across the province and reminding them on Election Day to turn out at the polls. This election the organization’s non-partisan campaign is expecting to do even better.

Over 100,000 students attend MacEwan University, Mount Royal University, the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and the University of Lethbridge—and together they will make a big difference in competitive races across Alberta. New changes to Alberta’s election laws will make it even easier for students to vote. Thanks to advocacy work by CAUS after the 2012 election, students will now be able to decide to vote in the riding where they study rather than being forced to vote where they lived prior to going to university.

“I would encourage any party or candidate to listen up to students if they want to win this election,” said Khinda. “We’re working hard to ensure students know about the election and we are going to make sure they get out to vote on May 5."

The Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS) represents the interests of students at MacEwan University, Mount Royal University, the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and the University of Lethbridge.

For more information please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications and Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students' Union

1-780-492-4241

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Students Elect a New Executive Team

News Staff - Mon Mar 23, 2015

University of Alberta undergraduates have selected a new executive team. Incoming SU President Navneet Khinda will be joined on the executive committee by newly elected Vice President (Student Life) Vivian Kwan, incoming Vice President (External) Dylan Hanwell, Vice President (Operations and Finance) Cody Bondarchuk and Vice President (Academic) Fahim Rahman.

The Landing Referendum Question passed with 59% of students voting Yes.

The Cold Beverage Agreement Plebiscite Question passed with 66% of students voting Yes.

Azhar Khan was elected as the undergraduate Board of Governors Representative.

Final voter turnout this election (and the highest voter turnout in 7 years) for the Students' Union Executive Election was 22.8%.

Find more information about SU Elections here.

University of Alberta Students Fight Voter Apathy

News Staff - Thu Mar 19, 2015

During the recent Students’ Union Executive election, students turned out in their highest numbers in seven years to reach a 22.8% turnout. With Provincial and Federal elections on the horizon, it is important to pay attention to these ballot-box questions: is this the start of a new trend in youth voting? How do we ensure youth in Canada get to the polls?

This coming Monday, March 23, Ilona Dougherty from Apathy is Boring will be joining The Right Honourable Kim Campbell and Students’ Union President William Lau to discuss why young adults don’t vote and what you can do about it.

Event details

Monday, March 23

4:30 – 5:30

1-190 Edmonton Clinic Health Academy

Event Registration

For more information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications and Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students' Union

1-780-492-4241

Innovative Instructor Lauded

News Staff - Wed Mar 18, 2015

The U of A Students’ Union is excited to announce that Dr. Allen Shostak has been awarded the first ever Be Booksmart CTL and SU Award for Innovation in Academic Materials!

Dr. Shostak was nominated by a student in his ZOOL 352 class, who commended him on the website he created. Dr. Shostak’s website catalogs different parasites and saves students from having to get a textbook for his class. The award adjudication committee thought that his innovative approach to compiling information for students and the time and effort he clearly put into the website made him stand out among the many outstanding instructors who were nominated to the SU/CTL Award for Innovation in Academic Materials Honour Roll.

The Be Booksmart CTL and SU Award for Innovation in Academic Materials is an award that has grown out of the SU’s Be Booksmart initiative, which encourages students and instructors to work together and find innovative solutions to reduce the barrier that expensive textbooks presents to access to higher education.

Dr. Shostak will be presented with the award at the Students’ Union awards night, and he has graciously decided to donate the $1000 award to The Landing, the SU’s student space offering support for gender and sexual diversity.

Dr. Shostak received his BSc(Hon) and MSc from the University of Alberta, a PhD from University of Manitoba, an NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship at Wake Forest University in North Carolina and a Canadian Government Laboratories Visiting Fellowship at the Fisheries and Oceans’ Maurice Lamontagne Institute in Quebec. He has been at the University of Alberta since 1989, where he is currently a Faculty Service Officer III in the Department of Biological Sciences, and a Curator of the University of Alberta Parasite Collection. He routinely teaches in Principles of Parasitism (a live videoconference course offered collaboratively with the University of Calgary), Wildlife Disease, and Experimental Parasitology. Dr. Shostak supervises several undergraduate independent research projects each year. His general interest in zoology goes back to his childhood, but his specific interest in parasitology was kindled in his undergraduate years when taking courses from an exceptional group of enthusiastic parasitologists: Bill Samuel, John Holmes and Jerry Mahrt. Off campus Dr. Shostak enjoys curling, the occasional round of golf, and woodworking.

All members of the SU's Honour Roll are instructors that have gone out of their way to save students money on academic materials and improve the quality of education for undergraduates. Congratulations again to those listed below!

Dr. Ahmed Bouferguene, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Ajay Sandhi, Department of Sociology

Dr. Alison McInnes, Department of Educational Psychology

Dr. Allen Shostak, Department of Biological Sciences

Dr. Andrew Simmonds, Department of Cell Biology

Dr. Ann de Leon, Department of Modern Language and Cultural Studies

Anna Wittmann, Department of English and Film Studies

Dr. Arthur Mar, Department of Chemistry

Dr. Christine Brzezowski, Department of Chemistry

Dalbir Sehmby, Faculty Saint Jean

Dr. Daniel Fried, Department of East Asian Studies

Douglas Peterson, Department of Business Law

Dr. Martin Davies, Department of Pharmacology

Dr. Marek Reformat, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Dr. Edan Foley, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology

Dr. Erin Garvin, Department of History and Classics

Evan Miller-Tait, Department of Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology

Dr. Felice Lifshitz, Department of Women’s and Gender Studies

Dr. George Owttrim, Department of Biological Sciences

Glen Fairen, Department of Religious Studies

Dr. Glen Hvenegaard, Department of Forest Science and Management

Dr. Glynnis Hood, Department of Environmental Science and Studies

Gordon Lee, Department of Economics

Dr. Hans Machel, Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences

Dr. Heather Proctor, Department of Biological Sciences

Dr. Herb Yang, Department of Computing Science

Hoyne Santa-Balaz, Department of Art and Design

Jason Breiter, Department of English

Dr. Jennifer Passey, Department of Psychology

Dr. Jeremy Caradonna, Department of History and Classics

Dr. Jim Parsons, Department of Secondary Education

Jocelyn King, Department of Alberta School of Business

Dr. Jonathan Clapperton, Department of Native Studies

Dr. Torah Kachur, Department of Biological Sciences

Dr. Karen Loerke, Department of Elementary Education

Dr. Kelly MacFarlane, Department of History and Classics

Dr. Kenneth Caine, Department of Sociology

Kristine Nutting, Department of Drama

Learry Gagné, Department of Science Politique, CSJ

Dr. Lynne Wiltse, Department of Elementary Education

Marianne Kerolus, Department of Computing Science

Dr. Marina Blekher, Department of Linguistics

Dr. Mélanie Methot, Department of History

Dr. Michael RW Dawson, Department of Psychology

Michele Moscicki, Department of Psychology

Dr. Michael Harrington, Department of Biological Sciences

Dr. Natalie Loveless, Department of Art and Design

Neil Hepburn, Social Sciences Department, Augustana Campus

Odile Cisneros, Department of Modern Languages and Cultural Studies

Patrick Tomczyk, Department of Secondary Education

Phil Davidson, Department of Alberta School of Business

Dr. Richard Westerman, Department of Sociology

Dr. Robert Driver, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Dr. Robert Summers, Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences

Dr. Roger Epp, Department of Political Studies

Ron Wigglesworth, Department of Extension

Dr. Sandra Bucerius, Department of Sociology

Dr. Timothy Mills, Department of Linguistics

Dr. Tong Zhang, Department of Mathematics and Statistics

Dr. Wayne DeFehr, Department of English and Film Studies

Dr. Wendy Wismer, Department of Agricultural, Food, and Nutritional Sciences

For more information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications & Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students’ Union

P: 780.492.4236

E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Students' Council and GFC Candidates

News Staff - Mon Mar 16, 2015

Here are your candidates for Students' Council and General Faculties Council:

Business:

Students' Council

Yonas Gerima

Robyn Paches

Ashima Chandan

Nick Olsen

General Faculties Council

Yonas Gerima

David Friedland

Nick Olsen

Campus Saint-Jean:

Students' Council

Colin MacKinnon

Chris Dykstra

General Faculties Council

Andrew Cajina

Law:

Students' Council

David Foster

General Faculties Council

David Foster

Native Studies:

Students' Council

No nominations received

General Faculties Council

No nominations received

Nursing:

Students' Council

Todd Li

Alan Nguyen

Helen Doan

General Faculties Council

Todd Li

Alan Nguyen

Hanhmi Huynh

Helen Doan

ALES:

Students' Council

Justis Allard

General Faculties Council

Evan Tran

Eilish McKinlay

Open Studies:

Students' Council

Levi Flaman

Physical Education & Recreation:

Students' Council

Alyssa Roussel

Spencer Sharpe

General Faculties Council

David Goertzen

Pharmacy:

Students' Council

Bryan Hodgson

General Faculties Council

Vincent Spurrell

Medicine & Dentistry:

Students' Council

Brandon Christensen

General Faculties Council

Brandon Christensen

Engineering:

Students' Council

Thomas Patrick

Yu Mengji (Jane)

Param Singh

Jason Wang

General Faculties Council

Thomas Patrick

Yu Mengji (Jane)

Sush Karunakaran

Education:

Students' Council

Sam Cheng

Omar Yusuf

General Faculties Council

Neesha Persad

Sam Cheng

Arts:

Students' Council

Jared Burton

Ben Throndson

Ben Angus

Jakub Romanek

Victoria DeJong

Mohamed Rahall

Bo Zhang

Hasan Birer

Hannah Schlamp

(Dante) Lei Zhu

General Faculties Council

John Hampson

Ben Throndson

Ben Angus

Jakub Romanek

Mohamed Rahall

Bo Zhang

Hasan Birer

Hannah Schlamp

(Dante) Lei Zhu

Science:

Students' Council

Umer Farooq

Donald Ademaj

Charles Lewis

Kevin Wang

Ahona Mostafiz

(Annie) Sudi Duan

Gurniwaz Bal

Alex Kwan

(Sandy) Xin Xu

General Faculties Council

Umer Farooq

Donald Ademaj

(Annie) Sudi Duan

Alex Kwan

Students call on Albertans to speak out about the importance of affordable PSE

News Staff - Thu Feb 26, 2015

Edmonton, Alberta – Through a Metro story published late Wednesday evening, students learned that Premier Jim Prentice and the PC government are floating yet another trial balloon in advance of the budget, this time to gauge reaction on the elimination of the tuition cap. The cap, which limits tuition increases to the rate of inflation, is widely supported as a fair and predictable means of increasing the cost that students contribute towards their education.

“The idea of eliminating the tuition cap is an incredibly short sighted move that would affect not just students but all Albertans for years to come,” said Navneet Khinda, UASU Vice President External and Chair of the Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS). “It is for this reason that we are calling on students and citizens alike to speak up about the impact an accessible, affordable postsecondary education system has on the future we hope to see for our province."

The potential for elimination of the tuition cap comes on the heels of a decision made by the government in December to approve 25 differential tuition increases across the province, resulting in students paying an additional $21 million. Alberta students already pay nearly $1.1 billion in tuition and fees annually. A complete elimination of the tuition cap along with the potential for further market modifiers and mandatory non-instructional fees, could see uncontrolled increases in the price of tuition.

“Alberta’s post-secondary institutions and their students, staff, and graduates are unequivocally the best hope that our province has for breaking the current boom and bust cycle our dependence on oil revenues continues to see us ensnared by,” explained Khinda.

"It is time for the Government of Alberta to recognize that university students are the future of this province, not a source to backstop budget shortfalls. We're calling on all Albertans to speak up about the importance of maintaining an affordable post-secondary system."

During summer 2014, the government brought together post-secondary stakeholders in a working group to discuss changes to the Tuition & Fees Regulation. Representatives from CAUS have been working as active stakeholders in this process, but we have yet to see results from these working groups – results that were expected before January 2015. Despite our repeated requests, Don Scott, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Education, has not met with elected student leaders since October 2014.

For more information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications & Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students’ Union

P: 780.492.4236

E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Candidates for the 2015-2016 SU Executive Election

News Staff - Mon Feb 23, 2015

Campaigning has begun for the 2015-2016 SU Executive Election!

Decide whom you’ll cast your vote for during the campaign period leading up to the election by following the campaigns and attending the forums.

Voting takes place on Wednesday, March 4 and Thursday, March 5. To vote online please visit www.su.ualberta.ca/vote on one of the voting days and follow the instructions listed below.

Live streaming of election forums and everything else you need to know about voting can be found here.

See you on the campaign trail!

Your 2015-2016 nominees are…

President

Navneet Khinda

Frank Daniels (Joke candidate)

Omnibot (Joke candidate)

Vice President Academic

Shakiba Azimi

Fahim Rahman

Vice President External

Blue Knox

Dylan Hanwell

Vice President Operations & Finance

Samer Sleiman

Cody Bondarchuk

Vice President Student Life

Vivian Kwan

Param Singh

Board of Governors Representative

Azhar Khan

The Landing Referendum Question

Do you support a $1.50 fee per student per semester to fund The Landing, a student space for gender and sexual diversity located in the lower level of the Students' Union Building, open to all undergraduate students? If the referendum passes, The Landing’s governance structure will become independent of the Students’ Union. The Landing provides programming such as drop-in hours, peer mentorship groups, resources and referrals, events, education sessions, and volunteer opportunities.

The fee will be collected from full-time and part-time undergraduate students in the Fall and Winter semester; Augustana and Off-Campus students will be exempt. Students will have the option to opt out online from the fee.

Funding areas: Operating costs (staff wages and supplies) Programming, events, outreach and awareness Grants for projects supporting gender and sexual diversity Volunteer program

Funding areas are determined and prioritized by The Landing's staff and Board. The Board will consists of 12 members from the following categories: Three students at large One Students’ Union Council member (selected by Students’ Council) One Students' Union staff member One University staff member Three representatives from LGBTQ* serving organizations Two community members Program Manager of The Landing (non-voting member)

Composition of the board may be changed by a joint resolution of the Board and Students’ Council.

Cold Beverage Agreement Plebiscite Question

A single-source cold beverage agreement is a contract with a beverage supplier where that supplier has the exclusive right to have their non-alcoholic cold beverages (such as pop, juice, and energy drinks) sold, provided or distributed on campus. This condition applies to all members of the campus community and all campus groups, except in instance of personal consumption. The contract will include contributions to scholarships and bursaries, student programming to the Students’ Union, and commitments to sustainability and waste reduction on campus.

Should the Students’ Union enter into a single source cold beverage agreement it will include the following conditions:

· The term of the agreement is 10 years; · Over the term, a minimum of $3 million is provided for bursaries and scholarships; · Over the term, the Students’ Union will receive a minimum of $500,000 to fund student priorities; · Pricing is kept competitive with off-campus markets; · The supplier commits to provide an ongoing on-campus program of waste reduction, energy efficiency, and water conservation, and/or to support existing University programs in these areas; and · The supplier is selected by a joint committee of the University and the Students’ Union.

Do you support the Students’ Union entering into a University-wide single source cold beverage agreement?

Election Forums

Tuesday, February 24. 12:30 PM SUBstage

Wednesday, February 25. 12:00 PM SUBstage

Thursday, February 26. 6:00 PM Lister Hall, Second Floor Cafeteria

Friday, February 27. 12:00 PM Student Lounge & Cafeteria, Pavillon McMahon, CSJ Campus

Monday, March 2. 12:00 PM Myer Horowitz Forum

Stakeholder’s Report

News Staff - Fri Jan 16, 2015

Welcome back to school everyone! Here at the SU we thought it would be interesting to provide some information about the financial health of the Students’ Union, in form of a stakeholders report focusing on the businesses we run. This report will give a brief overview of the major happenings in each of our business units so far this year, as well as discuss the position of the SU as a whole.

Not only do our businesses provide a service by meeting your needs on campus at affordable prices, they generate profit for the SU and help to support other things we do for students! Of course, there is always room for improvement and we’re constantly looking for areas of growth. If you find this report interesting and would like any further information, please contact VP Operations and Finance Cory Hodgson at vp.operations@su.ualberta.ca

Focusing on Growth

Over 2015, we’ll be looking to grow business revenues from the bars, as well as look at different directions SUBmart could go. Currently, a group of students is working in a project called SMRT (Student Market Research Team), to conduct research on the bars and SUBmart to identify issues and propose solutions. Results from this team should be going into effect for the next Fall semester, and the team will continue and look at some of our other business units.

Updates on SU Businesses:

SUBprint

SUBprint is our most consistent performer in terms of revenue generation. Currently they are exceeded their profit targets by approximately 25K and are well on track to meet their target net profit.

SUBmart/SUBtitles

SUBtitles has seen significant decline in the used book market this year, which has been echoed by the University bookstore. As students transition to other means for acquiring textbooks, SUBmart/SUBtitles will transition to offering different products that students are looking for.

Postal Outlet

Due to the nature of running a franchise business, we have less freedom in running the postal outlet then we do in our other businesses. With student loan forms no longer needing to be processed through the post office, and general decline in the use of physical post, we’ve seen a drop in our revenue, but the Postal Outlet still remains profitable.

Dewey’s

Over the summer Dewey’s had a small facelift with a new floor in the main room as well as new couches for the upstairs mezzanine. Dewey’s has also seen a significant change in the way we conduct service changing from bar service to table service. We’ve seen significant growth in our gross revenue, implying our market share is growing. Expenses are still formidable, with Dewey’s paying 76K a year in rent to the University. Dewey’s is our only business that has to pay full rent.

RATT

RATT is currently meeting its budget targets. A new menu has just launched in similar style to the menu at Dewey’s, drop by and check out some of the new options.

L’Express

L’Express catering continues to be solid, and over-the-counter sales are holding up. We are facing challenges from rising food prices and staff costs, but these are being addressed with an eye to keeping prices low.

Daily Grind

The Daily Grind has so far exceeded all expectations. Currently it has generated triple the net profit budgeted for, and is a popular choice among coffee consumers on campus.

Under Grind

The Under Grind opened this Fall in the newly redeveloped lower level of SUB. While its performance is minimal currently, we expect it to grow as the lower level atrium is completed and traffic in the lower level increases.

Happy holidays Students: The Government of Alberta approves wide-reaching tuition hikes while students on term break

News Staff - Wed Jan 07, 2015

(Edmonton, AB) – Students have returned to campus this week to learn that on Monday, December 22nd, the Government of Alberta announced the approval of tuition increases for 25 programs across the province at rates vastly exceeding inflation. By the Government’s estimation, 8% of Campus Alberta students will be affected by the hikes.

“The government certainly has tough choices to make, but taking $21 million out of students’ pockets is not the way to do it. The current crisis around the price of oil clearly shows that Alberta needs to diversify its economy, and it can start by investing in education, not by pricing students out,” said Navneet Khinda, SU Vice President External.

Though each post-secondary institution was asked to submit a maximum of three “market modifier” proposals, the University of Alberta submitted five proposals and all five were approved. Pending the approval of the Board of Governors, students enrolled in Economics courses, the Faculty of Law, Pharmacy, the Masters of Business Administration program, and Rehab Medicine will be facing a tuition increase.

These tuition hikes are occurring despite previous promises from the government to the contrary. The last time the provincial government approved “market modifier” tuition hikes, they referred to them as “one-time” increases. The province had previously created a tuition cap, which tied tuition increases to inflation.

Earlier in December, the University of Alberta Board of Governors had approved a 2.2% increase across the board for all students in 2015-2016. This increase falls in line with the tuition cap, since it rises by the Consumer Price Index, a rate of inflation. Nevertheless, when combined with the recently announced higher tuition hikes in certain programs and the continued imposition of “temporary” mandatory fees such as the CoSSS fee, along with the very likely possibility of further budget cuts, students will be facing drastic cost pressures while institutions could be getting less government support.

“Repeatedly, the Government of Alberta has broken their promises regarding post-secondary education,” said Khinda. “The rising costs of post-secondary education will place additional pressure on students and families. These market modifiers will impact over 20,000 current students in Alberta, and could discourage future students from considering these programs.”

Alberta has the lowest post-secondary participation rate in the country, with just under 17% of the population aged 17-35 accessing some form of post-secondary education. Additionally, Alberta has one of the highest costs of education in Canada, when factoring in the costs of tuition and mandatory student fees.

Details of impacted U of A programs

Bachelor of Arts, Economics – Current tuition of $5,320.80/year will increase by 8% to $5770.80/year once it is fully implemented by 2018-2019.
Bachelor of Science, Pharmacy – Current tuition of $9,987/year will increase by 14% to $11,387/year once fully implemented by 2017-2018.
Juris Doctor (law) – Current tuition of $10,221/year will increase by 56% to $15,995/year once fully implemented by 2017-2018.
Master of Business Administration – Current tuition of $24,439.20/year will increase by 42% to $34,712.21 once fully implemented by 2018-2019
Master of Science, Physical Therapy – Current tuition of $18,489.60 will increase by 8% to $19,971.84 once fully implemented by 2016-2017.

News articles

Metro: “Five University of Alberta programs approved by government for tuition increases”.
Calgary Herald: “If you see a student, give them a hug. The province just approved tuition hikes in 25 programs.”
Edmonton Journal: “Province approves U of A tuition hikes”.
CBC: “Alberta students face tuition spike for some post-secondary degrees”.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Get involved!

Are you a concerned student, interested in fighting the tuition hikes? Email Vice President External Navneet Khinda to get involved!

The Landing Touches Down

News Staff - Wed Oct 01, 2014

The Landing Grand Opening Wednesday, October 1 at 7:30 PM.

Location: Lower Level Students' Union Building, U of A North Campus.

The Landing is a new gender and sexual diversity student space at the University of Alberta Students' Union. The service offers support, education and advocacy for students of all genders and sexualities. The Landing promotes LGBTTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Two-Spirit, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual and more) awareness and events, as well as providing volunteer opportunities and a welcoming drop-in space.

"We'd been hearing from students that they wanted and needed a space where they felt supported and welcomed in their diverse identities," explained The Landing Program Manager Parker Leflar.

"We're so excited to be providing those support services in the form of drop-in hours, meetup groups, resources and referrals. The response we've seen from students and communities has been overwhelmingly positive."

A survey of 2,046 U of A students conducted by iSMSS in 2013 found that 5.2% of respondents fell within the gender minority category, and 16.7% of respondents were not heterosexual. Recognizing the need to support these student populations, and drawing on their experience as former executive members of OUTreach (the U of A's queer student social group), U of A students Linh Lu and Nicholas Diaz conducted independent research surveying 23 Canadian postsecondary institutions. This survey revealed a consensus that the needs of LGBTQ* persons warrant services specially addressing their needs. Through dialogue with Lu and Diaz, the U of A Students' Union recognized that they could play a key role in the creation of a dedicated student space for gender and sexual diversity. The SU has provided an office in the Students' Union Building and start-up funding for The Landing to launch a drop-in space and programming for the 2014/2015 academic year.

To truly be an inclusive university, it is crucial for our main campus to have a visible and accessible space for any student to receive support around gender and sexual identity. Having The Landing as a dedicated space lets new and existing students know unequivocally that this school is a safe and caring environment that accepts them as they are. The Landing works collaboratively with OUTreach and with the Institute for Sexual Minority Studies and Services (iSMSS), an academic and research institute within the Faculty of Education, to provide holistic gender and sexual diversity services to the U of A community.

GRAND OPENING DETAILS

Come help us set the year off! After a busy September, we want to celebrate with a party and get the word out about this exciting new service. Everyone welcome! Media, students, staff, faculty, alumni & community members of all genders & sexual orientations.

We'll have music, dancing, and food. The Landing itself will be open as a quiet chill space during the party with snacks, games, and chats. Come meet our volunteers, see the Landing, and help us celebrate our opening.

For further information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications and Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students' Union

1-780-492-4241

The Students’ Union celebrates Green & Gold Day

News Staff - Thu Sep 18, 2014

September 19 is the forth annual Green and Gold Day, a chance for the entire university community to show its collective pride by wearing the school colours of green and gold. This year the university is hoping to get as many people as possible into Quad at noon for a huge group photo! Pick up a discounted hoodie in the University Bookstore before coming out to for the BBQ, candy and prizes in quad!

The Students’ Union will be joining the celebration: throughout the day, we will be offering specials at our businesses in SUB to anyone wearing green and gold.

So show your school pride and do yourself proud with these specials at The Daily Grind, The Undergrind, L’Express Deli, Room at the Top and Dewey’s. Just remember to wear green and gold!

The Daily Grind:
Free 12 oz coffee for the first 500 green and gold customers

The Undergrind:
Free 12 oz coffee green and gold customers

L’Express Deli:
50% off Lunch between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Room at the Top:
Free Chips with Guacamole

Dewey’s:
Free Hummus & Pita

So... after you get your photo taken with everyone else in Quad, come on over to SUB.

Safewalk Expands

News Staff - Fri Aug 29, 2014

As of September 2014, Safewalk will now walk students and clients who have been drinking alcohol the evening of their requested walk. This is a change in our previous zero-tolerance policy to allow a safe way home for those out in the community enjoying a drink. This policy change was created in response to a number of students being turned away from our service because they had been drinking. Safewalk believes that no student should be denied personal safety simply because they have been drinking.

Safewalk will still operate from 7:00pm to 12:45am Monday through Friday, and will now be able to pick clients up from bars and restaurants, as well as anywhere else they may be. Upper limits have been set around intoxication for the safety of the client and the Safewalk volunteers; we will be unable to walk clients who are overly inebriated or cannot stand and speak without assistance. Please book a walk by calling 780 4 WALK ME (492 5563) and speaking with our dispatcher.

For more information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications and Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students' Union

1-780-492-4241

U-Pass Service Expands to Fort Saskatchewan

News Staff - Fri May 16, 2014

Your U-Pass will now take you further. The Students’ Union is happy to announce that Fort Saskatchewan's transit service is now piloting new routes and fares until the end of next year that will have a positive impact on U of A students.

Effective from now until December 31, 2015, students will be able to use their U-Pass to ride route 198 one-way to and from Fort Saskatchewan for $1.00, as well as ride in Fort Saskatchewan for free. Commuter Route 198 will take students from Fort Saskatchewan to the LRT, creating a great link from Fort Saskatchewan to the U of A Campus.

The Fort Saskatchewan Record has further information about the pilot project.

For more information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications & Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students’ Union

P: 780.492.4236

E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

UASU Reaches Out to Calgary Students

News Staff - Tue Apr 15, 2014

I’m unbelievably saddened by the horrific news coming out of Calgary. Our thoughts today are with our fellow students at the U of C. My most sincere sympathy goes out to the friends and family of the five deceased students, struck down in their prime.

I know that many students raised in Calgary are studying in Edmonton, and I want to reach out and encourage anyone who may be affected by these sad events to contact the U of A’s counseling services through University Wellness Service’s Mental Health Centre. The Mental Health Centre can be reached at 780-492-5205.

Petros Kusmu

University of Alberta Students’ Union President

SUB Renovation Update: Outdoor construction continuing on south side of Students’ Union Building

News Staff - Tue Apr 08, 2014

Outdoor construction work on the south side of the Students’ Union Building has begun in earnest, and as a result, there are significant changes to how people access the building. The details are as follows:

there is a new entranceway on the south east corner of SUB next to the Myer Horowitz Theatre parking;
there is no direct access from the south (specifically from the Van Vliet Centre): the stairs, the ramp and the concrete canopy above the entranceway have all been removed;
the concrete steps from the 89 Avenue service road to SUB (next to the pedway to the Stadium Parking lot) are now closed off. Please use the pedway to get into SUB if you are coming from Lister or the Windsor park area.

We do not expect any other changes that will affect how people access SUB. The entrances on the west side, on the north side (by the loading bay), via the ALES pedway, and on the east side of the building, will all remain unchanged.

With the concurrent construction around SUB and the new PAW Centre, we urge all users of the service road between SUB and the Van Vliet Centre to watch for and obey special signs and flag people. If you can avoid using the road, please do so. In addition, we encourage all unnecessary traffic to use alternate routes.

For more information, please contact Nigel Brachi, at subreno@su.ualberta.ca or 780.492.4241.

General information about the SUB Renovation project is available on the web at subreno.ca. The project will be funded by a referendum-approved, CPI-indexed fee of $9 per term and an annual cash contribution from the Students’ Union operating funds. Additional funding is being sought from outside donors and vendors, with some key contributions already secured from business partners of the Students’ Union.

U of A Launches Fall Reading Week

News Staff - Mon Mar 31, 2014

(Edmonton, AB) – The University of Alberta Students' Union is excited to announce the official approval of a fall reading week for the 2015 school year, which will be termed the "Green and Gold" week, at the University of Alberta.

Students have been working on creating the week at the U of A for years, with students supporting a plebiscite question in 2011 regarding the fall break. The current proposal has gone through a number of iterations, taking into consideration extensive feedback from consultations with students, faculty, and staff at the university.

“While a Fall Reading Week itself isn't a silver-bullet solution to issues like student retention, student mental health, or student engagement, I feel it will demonstrate that the University of Alberta is a national leader in supporting student success and well being,” said Students’ Union President Petros Kusmu.

“The week will allow students to take the time they need to catch up on their studies, take part in programming, work to afford school and visit family members that might live outside of Alberta, much in the way that students already use the spring reading week.”

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SUB Renovation Update: Outdoor construction to recommence at the Students’ Union Building

News Staff - Fri Mar 28, 2014

Construction work on the lower level inside the Students’ Union Building has been ongoing throughout the winter, and now it is time to start construction outside once again.

As you may know, the South entrance into SUB from the Van Vliet Centre has been closed permanently, and a new East entrance, where the quiet room used to be, is now open. This is perhaps the first real sign of one of the new features of the SUB Renovation Project!

All other entrances into SUB remain unchanged.

With the south entrance closed, we will be able to proceed with a number of other construction activities:

starting at the very end of March, the existing accesses from the south - the stairs and the ramp - will be removed;
at the same time, the concrete canopy above the entranceway will also be removed;
in early April, the stairs from the 89 Avenue service road to SUB (next to the pedway to the Stadium Car Park) will be closed, and will not reopen until 2015.

In line with City of Edmonton noise bylaws, construction work will only take place between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., Monday to Saturday, and 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Sundays and Holidays.

With the concurrent construction around the new PAW Centre, we urge all users of the service road between SUB and the Van Vliet Centre to watch for and obey special signs and flag people, and we encourage all unnecessary traffic to use alternate routes.

For more information, please contact Nigel Brachi, at subreno@su.ualberta.ca or 780.492.4241.

Let’s Build on Our Election Successes

Petros Kusmu, SU President - Thu Mar 13, 2014

There have been a lot of concerns the last few days about the SU’s recent executive election, specifically about a ruling by the CRO that led to an appeal to the SU’s Discipline, Enforcement and Interpretation Board that was held on Wednesday. Besides comments flying around Facebook, lots of Edmonton media has shown a rare interest in what exactly is going on in the SU’s electoral process.

I want to take a moment to reflect on the amazing work that this year's candidates and their volunteers have already put in, because elections are one of the most stressful things to endure as a student. I can speak from having 6 years of experience running in them, and I know that the last few days have not been made easier on any of the candidates with allegations flying back and forth.

Elections are central to the Students’ Union’s continued success. This year we saw a record amount of candidates run in both the executive and councillor elections from a diversity of backgrounds. If anything, The Gateway made the case that there were too many candidates running this year! We saw such an incredibly diverse array of candidates step forward, including students from different U of A campuses, different faculties, international students, and female students — a trademark of the success of this year's executive’s goal to make the SU a more inclusive organization. In my 6 years of student government, the large turnout of candidates for this year’s contested executive and councillor elections was impressive and showed me how much passion people have for the organization.

That said I think the outpouring of student concerns the last few days makes it clear that we still have a lot of work to do. I think it is important to emphasize that by the SU’s own rules election results are not official until council approves them, meaning that there is time for any election decision to be contested before results are official — of course, it is important to note that the complaint to the CRO regarding this manner came in right before the unofficial results were announced. I would also like to add, for those less familiar with SU elections, that it is normal for candidates to both receive and appeal fines in any election. It is part of what keeps the process fair.

Since we want to encourage a diverse array of university students to run for SU positions, we clearly need to ensure that election rules and decisions are clear, transparent and easily grasped by the average student. I want to make it a personal priority during the last few weeks of my term to ensure that this issue is discussed at Students’ Council. If building on this year’s successes means that we need to review our rules, I hope the newly elected executive team and Students’ Council do so.

Petros Kusmu
Students’ Union President 2013-2014

Click here for the original CRO ruling, click here for today's ruling, and click here for a list of council election candidates.

New Executive Team Takes the Reins

News Staff - Fri Mar 07, 2014

University of Alberta undergraduates have selected a new executive team, voting on March 5 and 6 for the Students’ Union President along with 4 Vice Presidents and the undergraduate Board of Governors Representative.

Incoming SU President William Lau will be joined on the executive committee by newly elected Vice President (Academic) Kathryn Orydzuk, incoming Vice President (External) Navneet Khinda, Vice President (Operations and Finance) Cory Hodgson, and Vice President (Student Life) Nicholas Diaz.

The Athletics and Recreation Fee Plebiscite failed with 56% of students voting against.

Sangram Hansra was elected as the undergraduate Board of Governors Representative.

Click here for round-by-round election results.

Candidates for the 2014-2015 SU Executive Election

News Staff - Wed Feb 26, 2014

Campaigning has begun for the 2014-2015 SU Executive Election!

Decide whom you’ll cast your vote for during the campaign period leading up to the election by following the campaigns and attending the forums.

The Myer Horowitz Theatre Election Forum will be at 12:00 noon on March 3.

Voting takes place on March 5 & 6, 2014. To vote online please visit www.su.ualberta.ca/vote on one of the voting days and follow the instructions listed below.

Everything else you need to know about voting can be found here.

See you on the campaign trail!

Your 2014-2015 nominees are…

For PRESIDENT:

Adam Woods

William Lau

Bashir Mohamed

Claudius

Doge Team

For VICE PRESIDENT ACADEMIC:

Rebeka Plots

Nisha Patel

Kathyrn Orydzuk

Fahim Rahman

Stephanie Gruhlke

For VICE PRESIDENT EXTERNAL:

Navneet Khinda

Dylan Hanwell

Thomas Dang

For VICE PRESIDENT OPERATIONS & FINANCE:

Cory Hodgson

For VICE PRESIDENT STUDENT LIFE:

Patrick X. Cajina

Parjanya Joshi

Insung Peak

Nicholas Diaz

Fabian Gonzalez

For UNDERGRADUATE BOARD OF GOVERNORS REPRESENTATIVE:

Sangram Hansra

Umer Farooq

The CoSSS Fee and FGSR

News Staff - Tue Feb 25, 2014

After some discussions with our graduate student colleagues, the Students’ Union would like to clarify our stance around the CoSSS fee funding the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, something that we discussed in this video here. To be clear, the Students’ Union is not questioning the value of FGSR. The position of the Students’ Union is that a mandatory non-instructional fee (MNIF) should not fund FGSR. Instead, FGSR should be funded through instructional fees and the Campus Alberta Grant.

The primary reasons for our position include that FGSR does not provide services accessible to undergraduate students, and FGSR is central to the instructional mandate of the University of Alberta. A mandatory fee to all students should provide a service that is accessible to all students. This does not mean that every student needs to access all of the services, but rather that the unit is accessible for students to utilize. This is not the case for FGSR, which correctly only serves the needs of Graduate Students.

Beyond FGSR only serving graduate students, FGSR should not be funded through the CoSSS fee, because it is core component of the institution. Mandatory Non-Instructional Fees, as additional fees on students, should only fund services of the institution that are not core to its mandate. This is not true of FGSR. One component of being a Comprehensive Academic and Research Institution in Alberta is that the University of Alberta educates graduate students. In order to educate graduate students the University requires a Faculty of Graduate Studies. This is the role that FGSR plays at the University of Alberta and is therefore core to the institutions mandate.

On behalf of the Students’ Union, I hope this clarifies our position. It is not that we are opposed to FGSR in anyway. Instead, it is the position of the Students’ Union that FGSR should not be funded by a MNIF because it does not provide services accessible to all types of students and is central to the University of Alberta’s mandate as a Comprehensive Academic and Research Institution.

Petros Kusmu

Students' Union President

Students Concerned Elections Changes will Inhibit Youth Vote

News Staff - Tue Feb 25, 2014

Students are concerned that the proposed changes to the Federal Elections act may make it more difficult for students to vote.

“Voter turnout from students and youth is already relatively low in federal elections, a concerning sign regarding our democracy’s future,” explained U of A Students’ Union President Petros Kusmu. “We need to work towards making it easier for students and youth to vote, and find new ways to encourage them to do so. I’m concerned that these proposed changes will have the opposite effect.”

Last year, the Council of Alberta University Students worked with the Provincial Government to successfully change Alberta's Elections Act to make it easier for students to vote in Alberta. Furthermore, at the Students’ Union, we have worked this year to make it easier for students to vote in municipal elections by having multi-constituency advance polls located on campus.

With this local progress, students are hopeful that any changes to the Federal Elections Act ensure that barriers to voting for student and youth voters are removed. The currently proposed changes will remove a student’s ability to “vouch” for another student who might not have appropriate up-to-date local identification. Since many students attend university away from their hometowns, often in other provinces, this could prevent students who may have lived in a riding for the majority of their degree from exercising their democratic right.

“I’m hopeful that the federal government revisits these proposed changes, and engages in a cross-Canada consultation in regards to these changes to the Elections Act to ensure that students are encouraged to vote, instead of hindered,” Kusmu added. “Promoting youth voting is the surest way to ensure the future of our democracy.”

The Students’ Union encourages students to write to their respective Member of Parliament and Minister Poilievre. You can easily find contact info for your Member of Parliament here.

For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications & Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students’ Union

P: 780.492.4236

E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

University of Alberta Students and Administration Make Positive Strides to Advance Peter Lougheed Leadership College

News Staff - Mon Feb 24, 2014

As students were leaving campus for Reading Week, Students’ Union Executives were meeting with top University administrators to work through growing student concerns with the proposed Peter Lougheed Leadership College.

“We were really happy that President Samarasekera asked us to meet with the Provost, her Special Advisor, and herself to work through the remaining issues with the college,” said Students’ Union President Petros Kusmu. “This meeting was an indication of the President’s willingness to work with students to shape the Leadership College into something positive for the entire university community.”

The meeting with senior administration came on the heels of the third straight Students’ Council where the college was discussed. These discussions gave the Students’ Union Executives a clear understanding of what students needed from the proposed Leadership College.

“What we heard from Students’ Council was that students were concerned about the potentially limiting link between the proposed residence and the leadership college, and that students need to be involved in shaping the design of the college as it moved forward,” added Students’ Union Vice President Academic Dustin Chelen. “Furthermore, students want to ensure that the college remains accessible, and has a much broader impact on students beyond the originally stated 144-figure. Students’ Council advocated for increased funding for existing leadership programming like student groups, emerging leaders program, study abroad, experiential learning and undergraduate research opportunities.”

Out of the meeting, the administration and the Students’ Union Executive came to some points of understanding about both the college and the residence:

The Residence Hall will be a location to remember and honour Peter Lougheed’s legacy on campus;
The Residence Hall will be like any other residence at the University of Alberta, all of which have a variety of co-curricular programming and cohort style living opportunities. The Residence Hall will not offer exclusive leadership programming only available to 144 students;
Living in the residence will not impact a student’s ability to participate in the opportunities associated with the Peter Lougheed Leadership College;
The Peter Lougheed Leadership College will develop as expressed in the most recent documents presented to the General Faculties Council’s February 3, 2014 meeting and not previous reports;
The University of Alberta will at least endeavor to develop the programming and governance for the Peter Lougheed Leadership College with student input throughout the entire process, acknowledging that some conversations with donors cannot engage the University community; and
The goal is to eventually have at least one third of the undergraduate population directly impacted by the Peter Lougheed Leadership College. All students will have access to the Peter Lougheed Leadership College depending on their interests. The University intends to raise funds to cover the cost of programs that are part of the Peter Lougheed Leadership College, with a target of 10,000 students as intensive participants.

Students Prepare to Launch an International Students' Association

News Staff - Tue Feb 18, 2014

The Students' Union has been working closely with international students to facilitate the creation of an International Students' Association (ISA).

The following summary report has been compiled following a number of community consultations, and outlines the mandate and role that an ISA would play in our campus community:

International Students' Association Summary Report

Come and build your official International Students' Association. We are now accepting proposals for a structure that will best allow the ISA to deliver its mandate.

Proposals should address the following pieces in the context of the ISA's mandate:

Organizational Structure
Decision-making Structure and Processes
Organizational Values
Programming, Activities and Function

Please browse over this short guide to creating a proposal for a new association as a starting point, and contact Rebecca from our Discover Governance Office (rebecca.taylor@su.ualberta.ca) if you have any questions about proposal writing or the process in general.

Proposals will be due on March 14th at 11:59pm.

A town hall will be hosted by the Students' Union at 5:00 PM on March 28th, 2014 in Telus 134 for individuals/groups to present their proposals. International students are encouraged to come out and voice their opinions on how they want to be represented. The group whose proposal wins the most support among international student attendees that evening will form the ISA for the 2014-15 academic year.

Further information on the ISA can be found here.

SU Releases Discussion Paper on the Peter Lougheed Leadership College

News Staff - Mon Feb 10, 2014

The Students’ Union, asked by U of A President Indira Samarasekera to share student thoughts on the proposed the Peter Lougheed Leadership College, has taken a thorough and thoughtful approach to considering the proposal and releasing this discussion paper today. The late Alberta Premier started off his journey in politics as President of the University of Alberta Students’ Union.

This document has been informed by conversations with staff, administration, and students on our collective vision for student leadership development. This report provides a number of recommendations to foster student leaders in a way that does justice to the legacy Peter Lougheed left at the university and the province.

“Our vision is that a Peter Lougheed Leadership College should be grounded in student and university values, support existing programs, and develop new programs or facilities based on research and best practice,” said Students’ Union Vice President Academic, Dustin Chelen.

“Anything bearing the Lougheed name should be established in such a way that reflects his values, and should be championed by students, staff and the community.”

The Students’ Union hopes that a successful leadership college has buy-in and support from all groups on campus, so that all members of the University of Alberta campus community can proudly celebrate the creation of a Peter Lougheed Leadership College.

Key Report Recommendations:

Separate the Lougheed residence from the Lougheed Leadership College, focusing instead on leadership development in all University of Alberta residences.
Use a more consultative and informed approach to developing a Leadership College that reflects the values of the University and of Lougheed.
Provide sustainable funding to Community Service Learning, Undergraduate Research, Study Abroad, and the Emerging Leaders Program.
Develop leadership courses and ensure the teaching and learning environment supports the development of attributes essential to leadership.
Provide greater institutional support for extra-curricular leadership opportunities like student groups, student government, and entrepreneurship programming.
Foster diverse leaders through targeted outreach and access for non-traditional leaders and low-income students.

Read the Discussion Document here:

Leadership Discussion Document

SUB Renovation Update: Accessing the Lower Level of SUB during renovations

News Staff - Tue Jan 21, 2014

The latest phase of the renovations to the Lower Level of the Students’ Union Building has just begun, and will affect access to that part of the building, whether you are visiting CJSR, the University Bookstore, SUBprint or 0-22. Special provisions have been made for people with accessibility issues.

Key details are as follows:

To access CJSR, please use either the West staircase or the elevators.
To access the lower level of the Bookstore, please use the stairs inside the store.
To access SUBprint and 0-22, please use the East staircase.
The freight elevator in the loading dock area should be used for deliveries.

Accessibility

If you have accessibility issues (for example, if you use a wheelchair, have a stroller, or are on crutches) and you need to visit SUBprint, 0-22 or the lower level of the Bookstore, please go to the Bookstore’s Service Desk on the main floor. They will arrange to give you access.

Appropriate signage will be in place to provide assistance on site.

If you have any questions, please contact the main Students’ Union office at 2-900 SUB, or at 780-492-4236.

Open Letter to University of Alberta Board of Governors Chair Doug Goss

The Undersigned Undergraduate Students - Fri Dec 13, 2013

Open Letter to University of Alberta Board of Governors Chair Doug Goss

We are a collection of international students studying at the University of Alberta. Throughout our degrees we have had the opportunity to engage in campus life culminating in positions of leadership within campus organizations. Our involvement on campus has given us the chance to better engage in the campus community, to help build a stronger University of Alberta community and gain an understanding of the make up of the University’s international student population. It is from this perspective that we ask you to consider the impact of the proposed tuition increases of between $1000-$1700 for international students.

First of all, having international students in Edmonton is good for the U of A. While we already pay much higher tuition rates than domestic students, we contribute much more than just financial stability to the University — we contribute diverse global perspectives that make this a truly international institution. Attracting worldwide talent to Alberta enriches Albertans just as much as it enriches us.

Having international students attend the U of A is good for Alberta. Many of us will end up staying in Alberta after graduating. This means that this diverse pool of talent that has been drawn to the U of A will not only study in Edmonton, but many of us will end up making Edmonton our home: the place that we work, live, and pay taxes.

However, and despite the clear advantages of internationalization, this massive tuition hike threatens to ruin a good relationship between international students and the U of A. The decision to study abroad is not an easy one, but at a young age we decided to leave the comfort of our families and community to travel across the world. This meant spending a lot of time considering which university would be the best fit for us, by reviewing factors including the quality and the cost of the education provided. While many of us could budget for minor cost variations, an unexpected increase to students already halfway through their education of $1700 is simply unfair, and for many, an unaffordable increase.

The current proposal doesn’t provide us with any more scholarships, and many of us are already working extensive hours to afford our education. There was no consultation whatsoever on the university’s behalf with international students in drafting this proposal. If there had been, we would have asked the University why we are paying more for less — this proposed increase is much higher than the rate of inflation, and we already know that the U of A will have fewer professors and courses next year as a result of the budget cuts. We haven’t even been told what this money will pay for, so we don’t know if it will pay to reverse the cuts the U of A has already made to our education, or if it will simply go towards paying the salary of an inefficient Administration.

This proposal doesn’t include any real justification besides cornering the one vulnerable group at the U of A that the Administration isn’t prohibited from charging more. This increase will increase stress on students who are already overworked to pay for their current tuition, and will drive international students away by causing students to drop out midway through their degrees despite already spending tens of thousands of dollars to come to study in Canada.

Sincerely,

Ana Fernandez, President, Latin American Students’ Association

Tianrui Pan, President, Chinese Students and Scholars’ Association

Tymothy Jaddock, President, Ukrainian Students’ Society

Jar-R DeLara, President, Philippine Students’ Association

Heena Sengar, President, Indian Students’ Association

Yves Lai, President, Chinese Compassion and Relief Youth Group

Mohamad Youssef, President, Canadian and Arabic Students’ Association

Abdul Hadi Hood, President, Malaysian Students’ Association

Mike McGinn, Co-Chair, Student Umbrella for Social Justice

Elaine Jar, Co-President, Chinese Students’ Club

Zartaj Habib, Vice-President (Social), Pakistani Students’ Association

Thomas Trombetta, International Students’ Representative, Augustana Students’ Association

Students Disappointed in Massive International Student Tuition Hike

News Staff - Fri Dec 13, 2013

(Edmonton, AB) – Students were left disappointed today when the University of Alberta’s Board of Governors approved a massive tuition hike for international students, despite vocal opposition from many undergraduate students.

The University of Alberta will be increasing international student tuition by 5%. The combined base tuition and international differential fee increases for international students will be between $934.80 and $1,645.20 depending on a student’s program of study.

“This is unfair to the international students who travelled across the world to attend our institution under the assumption that they would be paying one price during their time here, only to be told halfway through their degree that their costs will face a steep increase,” said Adam Woods, Vice President External.

“This year we’ve seen programs cut and professors leave in a large-scale voluntary severance package. Students are being charged more and receiving less.”

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Expanded Compassion Policy Protects Students

News Staff - Fri Nov 15, 2013

(Edmonton, AB) – The University of Alberta has updated and expanded its concessions policy for students facing hardship, making it explicit that mental illnesses, as well as reasons related to any human rights protected grounds — such as religious belief, race, or disability — are grounds for the deferral of term work.

Students who are penalized for any of the above-mentioned reasons, such as attending religious holidays, will now be able to appeal based on those grounds.

The policy change, which deals with section 23.3 of the university calendar, goes on to clarify that students can appeal any decisions involving accommodation of term work the same way that they are able to appeal concerns with marking or grading. With a growing focus on student mental health the last few years, the Students’ Union pushed to ensure that compassion for mental illnesses was explicitly stated. Students are pleased with the inclusive nature of the final policy.

"The updated policy clearly demonstrates that the U of A is continuing to grow more compassionate towards the circumstances of our diverse study body," said Dustin Chelen, Students' Union Vice President Academic.

"It allows students equal opportunity to demonstrate their learning, while not being disadvantaged by factors outside of their control."

The policy was amended by a subcommittee of the Academic Standards Committee, with leadership from Dr. Nat Kav, Associate Dean from ALES, Ada Ness from the Registrar's Office, and Dustin Chelen from the Students' Union.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Students hope new funding will equal new commitment to Post-Secondary Education

News Staff - Wed Nov 06, 2013

(Edmonton, AB) – Today, students learned that the Ministry of Enterprise and Advanced Education would be providing the University of Alberta with an additional $14.4 million to the 2013/2014 base operating grant to deal with enrolment pressures.

The University of Alberta Students’ Union is thrilled to hear that the government of Alberta is beginning to reinvest in our postsecondary education system, and is optimistic that this is the first step towards stable, predictable funding.

“While the cuts to post-secondary education in the last budget have certainly hit at the educational quality of our institutions, this funding is an excellent first step towards mitigating the damage,” said Adam Woods, Vice President External.

“I hope that this is a sign from the government that they intend to fully restore post secondary education funding to previous levels in order to uphold their promise that last budget’s cuts were not meant to fall on the backs of students.”

The budget cuts have already been painful for the U of A, and have resulted in over a hundred staff so far leaving the U of A through a voluntary severance program, as well as decreased enrollment in the Faculty of Science. Students are also concerned that international students are being increasingly seen as “cash cows” by the institution. With less staff to teach and fewer Albertan students being admitted, the Students’ Union remains concerned about the future of post-secondary education in the province.

“With this announcement, the U of A needs to ensure that students are fully engaged when determining where this new funding will be directed,” added Woods, noting that the U of A President had already committed to talking with deans and the Acting Provost.

“Most importantly, we would encourage the U of A to use this funding to repair the damage that the cuts have caused to current programing and enrollment on our campus first, rather than using it to fund new initiatives.”

For more information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications & Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students’ Union

P: 780.492.4236

E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Leadership College Proposal a Missed Opportunity

News Staff - Mon Nov 04, 2013

(Edmonton, AB) – In the midst of massive and unprecedented budget cuts that have already caused the University of Alberta to announce professor severances and fewer students, students are concerned that a leadership college proposal is moving forward that appears elitist and fails to take into account the requirements of the broader student population at the U of A.

In response, the SU has released a discussion paper (attached) on the Lougheed Leadership Initiative that will spark discussion on how to ensure all 32,000 U of A graduates — and not just 144 — emerge from the institution as leaders.

“I’m hearing that many students are deeply concerned over this proposal, and how it conflicts with the U of A’s promise of Uplifting the whole people,” said Vice President Academic Dustin Chelen.

“The 144-person leadership college needs to engage a significantly larger portion of the student body, and should be focused from the outset on benefiting the wider campus community,” said Chelen, referencing currently existing and still underfunded leadership development programs at the U of A like Community Service Learning, the Undergraduate Research Initiative, and the Emerging Leaders Program.

Chelen has heard negative feedback from the University of Alberta’s Students’ Council about the proposed initiative, as well as from many students who have made their concerns known over social media. Chelen noted that concerns revolve around how the current leadership college proposal is moving forward, and not with the general idea of a Lougheed Leadership initiative, which has been met with broad support.

Students are grateful for the support of the Lougheed family in promoting leadership at the U of A. As a former President of the University of Alberta Students’ Union, Lougheed will be remembered for fighting for post secondary education as key to a successful province.

The SU is currently consulting with students and administration as this project moves forward and hopes that the proposal will develop into an initiative that will allow all students at the U of A to have an opportunity to improve their leadership capabilities.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Open letter from GBVPP on Working with Greek Community

News Staff - Fri Oct 18, 2013

In light of the recent article in the Gateway, we at the Gender-Based Violence Prevention Project (GBVPP) wish to re-state our interest in working with fraternities on the Accountability Action Project. In the Gateway article, we were asked to speak broadly to the idea of male accountability for gender-based violence and in doing so, unintentionally implied that fraternities live up to a reputation for perpetuating gender-based violence. Our intention was simply to briefly mention this perception of fraternities and explain the AAP as a way of combatting those perceptions, not to reinforce stereotypes. We would like to apologize to the Greek community for this misunderstanding and to state clearly that we believe these stereotypes of fraternities to be widely false. We do not believe fraternity members are significantly more likely than any other group of men to perpetuate sexual violence. On the contrary, we have found through our own personal experience that fraternities tend to be incredibly receptive to conversations about sexual violence and highly committed to ending violence.

What we do believe is that all men have a responsibility to learn about gender-based violence, and actively engage in changing the systems and societal factors that allow it to continue. The GBVPP uses the phrase “gender-based violence” as an umbrella term encompassing sexism and gender discrimination, homophobia/heterosexism and transphobia, sexual violence (sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexual abuse), and intimate partner violence. Through the AAP, we want to provide additional knowledge for fraternity members to recognize gender-based violence when they see it in any form, and empower them to have conversations that spread their positive community standards into all parts of campus and other areas of their lives.

The reality is that we live in a culture that places rigid gendered expectations on men, which are reinforced from childhood on. Even in 2013, men are still typically expected to be strong, aggressive, financially successful, and stoic. Such expectations put a lot of pressure on boys and men, and it manifests in many different ways for different people. Some of the consequences of this pressure range from men feeling shamed for expressing emotions, to casual homophobia or sexism, to aggression in conflict situations, to extremes such as perpetration of sexual assault or other physical violence. These are social realities that require an active commitment on the part of men to change.

The AAP wanted to work specifically with fraternities because we have had the opportunity to see them engaging with these issues in the past through their participation in sexual assault awareness presentations. We know that being part of a fraternity is most often a positive experience in which men feel supported by their peers and choose to actively create a culture of inclusion and respect. We believe that this positive, supportive environment lends itself perfectly to having conversations about the implications of the version of masculinity widely accepted and promoted by our society. We see the huge potential for fraternities to create meaningful change around ending gender-based violence, and we hope to collaborate with you in doing so.

I will be attending the next IFC meeting on October 23rd and am happy to answer any questions. If any fraternity members wish to continue this conversation before then, we can absolutely schedule a meeting to do so.

Melanie Alexander - Gender Based Violence Prevention Project Coordinator
Parker Leflar

Municipal Elections: Advance Polls on Campus October 17

News Staff - Wed Oct 16, 2013

Students can now cast their vote for Edmonton’s municipal election while on campus!

On October 17 the SU will be hosting an advance polling station in the Alumni Room in SUB from 10am to 5pm. Students from any ward in Edmonton will be able to vote here.

Who can vote?

Anyone who is a Canadian citizen, has lived in Alberta for six months, and calls Edmonton their primary residence can vote in this election. Please check out the Elections FAQ page here for further details.

What ID do you need to vote?

You must show up at the polling station with a piece of authorized ID that has your name and your current residential address, such as a driver’s license or a utility bill. For a complete list of valid identification documents, please check here.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Students Request Fairer Transit Fines

News Staff - Tue Oct 15, 2013

The Students’ Union is concerned about the fine structure for students who are caught on the LRT without their U-Pass.

After a law student successfully had his fine dismissed, the SU proposed policy changes to Edmonton Transit Service, hopeful that tweaking ETS’s policy could save potentially hundreds of students unnecessary time and money spent fighting punitive transit tickets. Unfortunately, the city hasn’t budged in its position.

“I’m highly dissatisfied with the City of Edmonton’s response to this,” said Vice President Student Life William Lau. “While I’ve been pleased to see that at least one student was able to avoid this fine, many others may be unaware that the option exists to challenge these tickets. I’m worried that cash strapped students are facing further fines that are, as it turns out, not in the public interest.”

The SU has proposed that students caught on the LRT without their U-Pass be given a window of time, such as three business days, to produce valid proof of payment to have their fine withdrawn. This would save court time that will otherwise be spent prosecuting students who have paid for their transit pass, but might have simply misplaced it one day.

The $250 transit fine is meant to discourage fare evaders. As students have already paid for their transit pass out of their school fees, students cannot evade the fare. This fine simply becomes a substantial punishment for misplacing a card that U of A students use for attending the gym, paying for meals on campus, or printing assignments - activities that could allow a student to occasionally misplace their ONEcard.

We encourage students to contact Student Legal Services for further information on disputing any fines. U of A law student Scott Meyer successfully fought his fine and is leading the charge for rule changes that will benefit all students who use the LRT.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

The Students’ Union celebrates Green & Gold Day

News Staff - Wed Sep 25, 2013

September 27 is the third annual Green and Gold Day, a chance for the entire university community to show its collective pride by wearing the school colours of green and gold. This year the university is hoping to get as many people as possible into Quad at noon for a huge group photo!

The Students’ Union will be joining the celebration: throughout the day, we will be offering specials at our businesses in SUB to anyone wearing green and gold.

So show your school pride and do yourself proud with these specials at The Daily Grind, L’Express Deli, Room at the Top and Dewey’s. Just remember to wear green and gold!

The Daily Grind:
Free 12 oz coffee for the first 500 green and gold customers

L'Express Deli:
50% off Lunch between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Room at the Top:
Green Beer at $4.00 Pint from 11:00 a.m to close and free Chips with Guacamole

Dewey's:
Green Beer at $4.00 Pint from 11:00 a.m to close and free Hummus & Pita

So... after you get your photo taken with everyone else in Quad, come on over to SUB.

Continuing Undergraduate Scholarships On Schedule

News Staff - Tue Sep 24, 2013

The Registrar's Office at the University of Alberta clarified today that the timing and disbursement of two major awards will occur in this academic year, after confusion earlier this month. Many students —able to apply for these awards in August or September in past years — were frustrated this year as they returned to campus and the scholarship applications were unavailable and listed as "under review" with no information provided as to when they would reopen.

Initial plans indicated that students would not receive funding during this academic year, but fortunately the University has now clarified that this is not the case.

"I'm glad that our best and brightest students will have the opportunity to apply for and receive these important scholarships this year," said Dustin Chelen, Students' Union Vice-President Academic.

"The Registrar's Office has made tremendous efforts to focus on helping students find their way at the University of Alberta, especially with their launch of the service centre called 'Student Connect.' Despite a difficult fiscal environment, the Registrar's Office has made changes that will give future students more notice about the opportunities available while ensuring that current students will still have the access to scholarships that they previously expected."

More information on the timing of awards can be found on the Registrar's site.

SUB Renovation Update: Phase 2 of storm sewer relocation work to commence September 28

News Staff - Mon Sep 23, 2013

Work on the Students’ Union Building Renovation will continue with the next phase of relocating the storm sewer that runs under the 89 Avenue service road between SUB and the Van Vliet Centre. This work will start on September 28 and is expected to take two weeks to complete.

Construction

The work will be done in two stages, working west to east across 89 Avenue, from Clare Drake arena toward the Students’ Union Building. Each stage will take about one week. A diagram is attached showing the approximate extent of each stage of the work.

During stage one, excavation will extend from the north-west corner of the arena to half way across the roadway. During stage two, excavation will continue across the remainder of the roadway and extend to the side of the Students’ Union Building.

Suitable measures will be taken to minimize the impact on anyone using the roadway. These may include the installation of appropriate signage, concrete barriers, site fencing and temporary lighting, among other measures.

In line with City of Edmonton noise bylaws, construction work will only take place between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., Monday to Saturday, and 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Sundays.

Traffic Impacts

The 89 Avenue service road will be reduced to one shared lane for east and west-bound traffic. Traffic will be controlled by flagmen during both stages.

During stage one, vehicles will not be able to access the west side of Clare Drake arena from 89 Avenue; the entrance will remain open for wheelchair and pedestrian traffic. The entrance off 87 Avenue will remain open.

DATS service will continue during the construction work. Access to SUB and to the Myer Horowitz Theatre loading bay will not be affected.

We urge all users of the roadway to watch for and obey special signs and flag people (and we encourage all unnecessary traffic to use alternate routes).

Construction Map

For more information, please contact Nigel Brachi, at subreno@su.ualberta.ca or 780.492.4241.

SUB Renovation Update: Site preparation for Phase 2 of storm sewer relocation work

News Staff - Thu Sep 19, 2013

Recent activity on the Students’ Union Building Renovation project (see also our Update issued August 30) has included excavation work to remove obsolete steam pipes between the 89 Avenue service road and the Students’ Union Building.

The large concrete planter on the south side of the Students' Union Building was removed to facilitate access to the existing storm sewers.

This was the final work needed in order to prepare the area for Phase 2 of the storm sewer relocation, which is expected to start on September 28. A separate Update will be issued early next week with full details of the Phase 2 work.

For more information, please contact Nigel Brachi, at subreno@su.ualberta.ca or 780.492.4241.

Get Involved!

William Lau - Wed Sep 18, 2013

Well, Orientation and Week of Welcome sure passed by quickly — I hope you had a chance to see what your Students' Union could do for you and our campus community! By the way, what was your favourite Week of Welcome event?

Anyways, it's not only the Students' Union that builds a campus community — it's every one of you. What I love about the University of Alberta the most is that every one of us are encouraged to change and better the community. If you want to take part in building a strong, healthy campus, register for the Heroes for Health initiative ASAP and let's start brainstorming! If you're more of an observer, I would encourage you to join us on the benches to support our Golden Bears and Pandas!

Now if you are like me and seek pure bliss through volunteering, I would love to offer you an amazing opportunity with the International Centre. Join their Peer Program to meet students from across the world, and broaden your perspectives. Be a host to an international guest, and a mentor to a new student.

We also have many opportunities within our own SU services. For example, Safewalk is a safe and reliable alternative to walking home alone at night. We give everyone that peace of mind at night by being an effective response to crime on campus. By default, every member of the University of Alberta is already a client of ours! You need no prior security/self-defense training, just a smile and legs that are ready to walk! Applications are due soon though (September 24th) for the Fall term and can be dropped off in 0-22 SUB at the Safewalk desk.

Anyways, I don't want to overburden you with too much good news - welcome (back) to the University of Alberta and I hope to see you around!

William Lau

@uasuvpsl

vp.studentlife@su.ualberta.ca

WOW photo credit: Jason Yuen

The Daily Grind sets up shop, RATT reopens!

Josh Le - Wed Sep 18, 2013

Room At The Top, affectionately known as RATT, is not only your campus bar but also conveniently hosts the best view of any bar in Edmonton and is located on the 7th floor of your Students’ Union Building. We just finished a complete renovation to the kitchen in August in preparation for the new school year. We’ve heard your feedback over the years and we’re responding with an entirely new experience at RATT. Expect delicious food and drinks (16 local and imported draught beers on tap), great service, and an unmatchable atmosphere at your newly renovated RATT.

The Daily Grind is the Students’ Union’s new coffee and smoothie shop. This summer, we combined the operations of Cram Dunk and Juicy into the former Java Jive space in SUB. We are proudly serving Fairtrade Certified coffee along with a variety of expresso-based drinks. For the non-coffee drinkers, there are gourmet tea options, sparkling Italian sodas, and healthy smoothies. Our snacks include a variety of delicious baked goods and many gluten free options.

As with all Students’ Union businesses, the profits generated fuel the operations of the Students Union to serve you better. Let me know how you like the changes, and what we can do to make your SU businesses even better!

Josh Le

vp.operations@su.ualberta.ca

@uasuvpfinance

Getting Involved in SU Advocacy!

Adam Woods - Wed Sep 18, 2013

Our institution is currently facing extreme financial shortfalls due to the recent provincial budget cuts. As VP External, I’ve spent this past summer emphasizing to the government the importance of quality within the classroom. I’ve also worked hard to ensure the government keeps Premier Redford’s promise; that these cuts will not fall on the backs of students. The Students’ Union has made it quite clear to the government how more regulations are needed to ensure the University cannot drastically increase the cost of our education during financially tough times.

Want to get involved and help me make a difference? Join me with the Students’ Union’s External Advocacy Team, which will be starting up in September. The EAT will assist in running any externally-focused campaign the Students’ Union engages in, and you will be providing lobby training so you can learn how to effectively advocate. You may even be presented the opportunity of attending an actual lobby meeting with an MLA.

As many of you are aware, Edmonton will hold City elections in the month of October. As a means of getting students engaged in this process, the Students’ Union will be working together with the Students’ Association of MacEwan University and the NAIT Students’ Association in order to mobilize the student vote.

On this particular project, the Students’ Union and City of Edmonton need your help. We are looking for seven students to help run the U of A’s on campus advanced voting station. Students will receive training on the 12th of October in SUB, and then be asked to spend all day on the October 17th running the voting station. You will be paid $135 total for both training and working the station. In order to participate, you must not be visibly involved in any municipal election campaign. If you’re interested, please shoot me an email.

That is all I have to update you on at this time. If any of you want to talk government or better understand the SU’s stance on something, feel free to call my office. My door is open and I am always happy to set up an appointment.

Adam Woods

@uasuvpexternal

vp.external@su.ualberta.ca

U of A Withholds up to $500,000 in Scholarships

News Staff - Thu Sep 12, 2013

(Edmonton, AB) – Without any student or donor consultation, the University of Alberta has unilaterally decided not to award $300,000 - $500,000 in scholarships this academic year.

“The administration has informed me that due to reconfiguring their awards system and weaknesses in their IT system, hundreds of existing student scholarships will not be given out this year,” said Vice President Academic Dustin Chelen.

“The very real, immediate consequence of this decision — made after the school year has already started — is that students currently in their last year of studies will probably not be able to receive any of this scholarship funding.”

Scholarships that were previously distributed between December and January will now be disbursed in June. Students were still anticipating that these scholarships were going to be distributed before winter semester. This delay ensures that students will not be able to receive any of these funds during this academic year, and students in their last year of studies will not have a chance to apply to any these scholarships.

This decision will effect up to 350 undergraduate academic and leadership scholarships.

“University access and affordability has been a challenge for many students in recent years, in a large part due to the increased costs of attending post-secondary,” said Chelen. “While a tough economic climate has meant that many students are having trouble paying for their education, there was always the consolation that studying hard and getting involved in campus life could lead to scholarship support.”

“I hope that donors know that students who desperately need their aid are not getting it this year. I really hope that the university will rethink how this is going to affect a large number of its most involved students.”

For more information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications & Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students’ Union

P: 780.492.4236

E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

SUB Renovation Update: Construction Activities for planned SUB Renovation to begin in September

News Staff - Fri Aug 30, 2013

Beginning in September, construction work on the new addition and renovations to the Students’ Union Building (SUB) will commence on 89 Avenue west of Celebration Plaza and east of Stadium Car Park. The project will include a new outdoor plaza on the south side of SUB, which will support a variety of student outdoor programs and activities, and a new patio at the north entrance to the Physical Activity & Wellness Centre.

This activity will complete the second phase of the underground services relocation and the provision of new storm water lines; phase one was completed on schedule earlier in August.

New landscaping will be introduced to provide welcoming entrances to SUB and the PAW Centre, creating a student-focused, open-air space that supports student operations and activities. This will include five new Brandon elms, and up to 300 new shrubs and 250 new perennials.

The Project Team has worked hard to minimize the impact on the existing landscaping and to keep as many trees in the immediate area as possible. 23 mature trees in the vicinity will be maintained, and protected in accordance with the university’s Horticultural Tree Protection guide. They include ten American elms, one Manchurian elm, five spruce, two ash, one linden and four trees north of the Phys-Ed West Building.

A total of 12 mature trees will be removed; several of them are not in good health, and some cannot be relocated because they are too close to existing building and/or utility lines. In addition, 10 to 15 multi-stemmed shrubs, and other plant material, will be removed.

The SUB Renovation project is being done in stages: the landscaping work is expected to be completed by the Spring of 2015.

For more information, please contact Nigel Brachi, at subreno@su.ualberta.ca or 780.492.4241.

Cuts to the University of Alberta freeze Albertans out of Higher Education

News Staff - Wed Aug 21, 2013

Cuts to the University of Alberta freeze Albertans out of Higher Education

With the Faculty of Arts cutting 20 programs and the Faculty of Science slashing enrollment for the second year in a row by 300 seats, students are bearing the full brunt of the U of A’s budget cuts.

The Government of Alberta promised that Alberta’s budget would not be balanced “on the backs” of students, yet it has become clear that the $43 million cut from the U of A’s operating budget is now shutting Albertans out of their own university programs.

“With 600 spots in Science cut in just two years, more and more Albertans are going to be prevented from pursuing post-secondary education,” explained Vice President Academic Dustin Chelen. “Likewise, the proposed suspension of Arts programs, coming suddenly in late August, has forced students to face the quickly approaching semester in a state of confusion, as they continue to learn about these institutional changes from the media, and not the university.”

“The lack of transparency over these budgetary decisions makes it unclear as to what extent, if at all, these measures will actually help solve the U of A’s deficit. The U of A is a public institution, and Albertans are right to be concerned that current and future students are paying the price for the U of A’s budgetary deficit.”

Government of Alberta to Review U of A’s Finances

Students have recently learned that the Government will be reviewing the U of A’s finances. It is unclear at this point how transparent the process will be, how involved students will be as U of A stakeholders, or what this means for overall financial transparency at the U of A.

The Students’ Union believes that students and the academy should be privy to detailed budgetary information and should be part of any financial reviews of the institution, especially in light of recent budget cuts.

For more information, please contact:

Simon Yackulic

External Communications & Media Advisor

University of Alberta Students’ Union

P: 780.492.4236

E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

The Collective Body of Arts Students, which represents students in the Faculty of Arts, said in a statement:

“Last Friday (August 16, 2013), the Dean of Arts announced that admissions to programs in the Faculty of Arts with historically low enrollment will be suspended effective immediately. In the memo sent out to Department Chairs, which is available to the public, Dean Cormack outlined the process used in determining which programs will be cut.

One of the guiding principles was that student demand should dictate which programs will continue to receive funding and support. Remaining relevant with students is a value that CBAS holds, however we do not agree with the definition currently used by the faculty. Demand needs to be based on the number of students applying to the program, not the number currently enrolled in the program.

CBAS does not support the suspension of arts programs that will limit opportunities available to future arts students. CBAS will endeavor to work with the faculty to minimize the effect these suspensions will have on current and future students. While we understand the current financial realities our institution faces, we cannot support actions that hinder any present or prospective students of the Faculty of Arts.”

Questions for CBAS may be directed to Kelsey Mills at coda@thecbas.ca

The decision to suspend the programs in Arts will be made after feedback has been received by the Dean of Arts on September 3rd. Students are encouraged to also send their feedback to the SU to help inform the formal decision-making process. Letters should be sent to vp.academic@su.ualberta.ca

The Interdepartmental Science Students’ Society, which represents students in the Faculty of Science, said in a statement:

“The ISSS believes that a decreased enrollment in the Faculty of Science and an entrance average of over 80% is detrimental to the Faculty and to the province of Alberta as a whole. There is a high demand for Science degrees, as students want to be in Science, but the cuts will ultimately prevent a large number of Albertans from having this opportunity.

Beyond preventing students from getting a Science education, the cuts will decrease the quality of education for students in the Faculty (with a decrease in academic/non-academic staff and course suspensions). Time spent interacting with professors is essential to a quality education; larger class sizes and less diversity in course options will negatively impact the quality of our education.

As previously released, the Faculty of Science is seriously looking at introducing fees specific to our lab sections, though we've yet to see any details surrounding what the fees will cover. We may end up paying more for less quality and diversity in our education.”

Shauna Regan 2013-2014 President

Fahim Rahman 2013-2014 VP Academic

Questions for ISSS may be directed to Shauna Regan at president@isss.ca

SUB Renovation Update: Site Prep work for planned SUB Renovation project to begin in August

News Staff - Thu Aug 01, 2013

Site preparation work for the planned Students’ Union Building (SUB) Renovation will begin in August, with the relocation of a storm sewer. The storm sewer runs under the 89 Avenue service road between SUB and the Van Vliet Physical Education & Recreation Centre.

Initial work will start on August 6; excavation is expected to begin on August 10 and will take approximately two weeks to complete.

Construction

The work will be done in approximately 20 metre segments, from east to west, as the storm line is moved. Suitable measures will be taken to minimize the impact on anyone using the roadway. These typically include the installation of appropriate signage, concrete barriers and site fencing, among other measures.

In line with City of Edmonton noise bylaws, construction work will only take place between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., Monday to Saturday, and 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Sundays and Holidays.

Traffic Impacts

The 89 Avenue service road will be reduced to one shared lane for east and west-bound traffic. A flag person will be in place to direct traffic.

DATS service will continue during the construction work. For ease of access, DATS vehicles will reverse the direction that they usually go through the turning loop.

Access to SUB and to the Myer Horowitz Theatre loading bay will not be affected.

We urge all users of the roadway to watch for and obey special signs and flag people (and we would encourage all unnecessary traffic to use alternate routes).

For more information, please contact Nigel Brachi, at subreno@su.ualberta.ca or 780.492.4241.

SUB Renovation Notice: Construction Underway on 3rd, 4th and 6th Floors

News Staff - Fri Jun 07, 2013

Work has begun on the renovation of portions of the 3rd, 4th and 6th floors of SUB. Once completed, these newly-renovated areas will feature prayer space, meeting space and a new student governance centre.

Access to The Gateway offices on the 3rd floor, as well as Dean of Students offices and the CAPS meeting room on the 4th floor, will remain intact throughout construction. Other meeting rooms on the 4th floor (rooms 420, 424, 426 and 430) are no longer accessible.

Student group offices on the 6th floor will remain accessible until they are vacated in late June.

We anticipate construction of all three floors to be completed by the end of August.

For more information, please contact Nigel Brachi, at subreno@su.ualberta.ca or 780.492.4241.

Students' Union and University Administration Resolve Lister Hall Dispute

News Staff - Mon May 06, 2013

Joint statement from Acting Provost and Vice-President (Academic) Martin Ferguson-Pell and Students’ Union President Petros Kusmu:

The University of Alberta administration and the Students’ Union executive have settled a dispute related to changes made to the student residence, Lister Hall, announced last July.

This is great news for the university, and we look forward to continuing to work together productively in the future.

The major points of the agreement include:

a facilitated process to arrive at consensus with respect to the meaning and requirements of consultation;
confirmation of the 2008 MOA between the Lister Hall Students’ Association and Residence Services, with a commitment to update the MOA;
students will be in the majority on the Residence Advisory Committee;
the university will provide the Students’ Union with current and historical data related to alcohol-related incidents in residences;
the Students’ Union will provide feedback on the existing alcohol policy;
a student representative will serve as a member of the hiring committee for the position of Assistant Dean of Students, Residence Life;
the university will seek staff, student and community input as part of the review of residence operations related to the changes announced in July 2012; and
the university makes final decisions on whether the current alcohol policy as articulated in all University Residence House Rules (including Lister Hall – Residence Specific Rules) should be modified in any way, effective for September 2013. The university will consult with the SU regarding any such proposed modifications.

Tuition freeze helps protect students from budget cuts

News Staff - Fri Apr 12, 2013

Edmonton, Alberta – Alberta's post-secondary institutions and student organizations were told Thursday that tuition for the 2013/14 academic year will be frozen at current levels, supplemented by $16 million in additional funding. Alberta's universities, colleges, and technical institutions are being challenged by the Government of Alberta to find financial efficiencies without resorting to student tuition or fees and today's announcement is a part of that plan.

"We are happy to see today's announcement and the government making it clear to Albertans that these cuts are not to be put onto the shoulders of students and their families," said Raphael Jacob, chair of the Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS) and VP External at the University of Calgary Students' Union. "Tuition and student debt is already well above the national average in Alberta and has more than tripled since the 1990s so any move to keep that cost down is welcome."

Currently Alberta undergraduates pay on average $5,883 per year in tuition which is $300 more than the national average along with the highest non-instructional fees in Canada. Alberta also has the lowest post-secondary participation rate in Canada, with only 17.5% of Albertans between 18-34 years old in post-secondary education compared to 23.8% nationally.

The controversial letters of expectation, now called memorandums of understanding between institutions and government, will be delayed until September following a period of consultation with stakeholders. CAUS provided its initial thoughts to Alberta Enterprise and Advanced Education and is available for download at http://caus.net/letterofexpectation/

The tuition announcement comes following a 7% cut to institutional operating funds from the Government of Alberta, the largest such cut in 20 years in the March 7 provincial budget. Student debt is also slated to go up in Alberta, with provincial student loans budgeted to go up from $268 million in 2011/12 to $425 million to students next year.

CAUS has been advocating that the costs of post-secondary education should be predictable for students in the long run and a predictable model would include both provincial regulation on tuition and fees. In Alberta, fees other than tuition remain unregulated and are a major loophole for post-secondary institutions to circumvent the tuition freeze.

"Today's announcement is an important step to protecting Alberta students from the painful cuts in the provincial budget," said Jacob. "But we have to start working on what the next steps for a long term plan to invest in our system and what our tuition and fees policy will be, not just next year, but for years to come."

The Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS) represents the interests of students at the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary and the University of Lethbridge.

Lunchtime Town Hall Addresses Cuts

News Staff - Thu Mar 28, 2013

About 200 students joined the lunchtime crowds around SUBstage on Tuesday to attend a Town Hall on the recent cuts to post-secondary education in Alberta.

With The Gateway’s April Hudson and CJSR’s Matt Hirji moderating, SU President Colten Yamagishi and Vice President (External) Petros Kusmu gave an overview of the state of Alberta’s post-secondary education system in light of the cuts, with Kusmu touching on the provincial budget, post-secondary participation in Alberta and student debt. Yamagishi discussed student tuition and fees at the University of Alberta and the historical trends that have seen tuition rise by almost 300% after inflation since the early 90’s.

Yamagishi also outlined the Students’ Union’s immediate priorities in responding to the budget cuts, which include:

Maintaining a high quality of education for current and future University of Alberta students
Guaranteeing that students are highly involved in the discussion on budgetary decisions
Protecting valuable student services that are already funded by students through non-instructional fees
Ensuring undergraduate students do not face unjustified increases to fees
Informing the government of the negative effects of a cut of this magnitude on the student experience
Empowering students to advocate for those aspects of the University of Alberta experience that are most valuable to them.

A number of students who came out to the Town Hall shared their concerns with the crowd, which included concerns about administrative costs and mandatory retirement for professors. Other students emphasized the need to mobilize in order to respond forcefully to the cuts.

The SU shares the concerns about the ballooning growth of the university administration, and the SU also shares the same concerns as many staff — as Yamagishi voiced in the Town Hall — that mandatory retirement does not solve the institution’s structural deficit and would be a poor way to react to the budget cuts.

The SU is appreciative and supportive of efforts by students to mobilize and voice their frustration with the cuts, and continues to encourage students to get involved.

The SU is also appreciative of the many MLA’s of all parties who attended the forum to listen to student concerns and share their own views. As this is just one opportunity for student feedback, the SU aims to continue to collect student opinions on both the cuts and how to move forward.

To view the recorded Town Hall, please check out the Students on Budget website.

To contact your faculty association and get involved, check out the Council of Faculty Associations Website.

There has been some misinformation about SU President Colten Yamagishi’s answer to a question regarding mandatory retirement of university staff. His answer in full is has been transcribed below. The question may also be viewed at the beginning of the Town Hall video, which you can access here.

“That’s a great question. I think you’re really touching the root of where some of these issues come from and where the government, I believe, is trying to address with some of the initiatives that they are putting forward.

When we look at increases to staff salaries and we look at the increments that they get every single year, we see 2% plus 2%, plus an increment on top. So we’re looking at basically a minimum 4% increase to staff salary every single year. When the institution is looking for a 2% increase, we look at that 2% gap — where are we going to get that 2% in funding?

One thing that Minister Lukaszuk has brought up in the past few days was he was talking about the potential for staff salary freezes and how that will change the scope of how our operating budget is growing compared to these staff wages. One thing I think we need to be very careful about when we talk about staff freezes is that this is something that we looked at in 2009 — we looked at the mandatory retirement and giving people early buy-out packages.

The way I look at this is it is somewhat of a Band-Aid solution, making people retire at 65. You can’t force someone to quit their job whenever you feel like it. There are certain freedoms that need to be protected for our staff. However, I think looking at staff salaries is definitely an interesting way to look at the way we do human resources, to look at the way we do wages and compensation, and finding a model that works with the annual growth rates that the institution gets.

Not to say that, a 7% funding cut is always going to make it tougher to find a way to fill in these gaps, but I think we need to make sure, as students, that these gaps aren’t funded on the backs of students. We can’t continue to pay the extra 2% every singe year, and we need to find a long-term solution that’s going to solve this for us.

To give you an answer about early retirement: Do I think it’s a great idea? Not necessarily. I don’t think that we can restrict people to when they have to end their employment. But I do think that we can take a look at how wages and compensation are done at the university. There is what is called the Renaissance Committee being led right now between the academic staff association and the Administration, and hopefully these will be able to find some of the efficiencies that I believe the government is looking for.”

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

U of A Students Concerned About Potential Massive Tuition Hikes

News Staff - Fri Mar 22, 2013

At a University of Calgary Town Hall yesterday, the Administration indicated that they had future plans to seek “targeted increases in some programs” — otherwise known as Market Modifiers, substantial tuition increases in certain faculties. At the University of Alberta, the President has told students that all options are still on the table.

The last time that Market Modifiers were approved, some faculties at the U of A saw tuition rise by over 66%, in coordination with similar tuition hikes at multiple public provincial institutions.

The Provincial Government has promised students that tuition will not be raised. We expect that this means that the current tuition cap will remain in place and that tuition will only rise by inflation. This system allows Albertan families to have clear and predictable targets when saving for post-secondary education. Students at the U of A already pay some of the highest university tuition and fees in Canada, which helps to explain why Alberta also has the lowest post-secondary participation rate in the country.

The Government of Alberta has repeatedly told Albertans that the past massive tuition hikes in the form of Market Modifiers will not happen again, referring to the past Market Modifiers as a one-time proposal. As these Market Modifiers have already “modified” program tuition fees in certain faculties, students expect that already high tuition in these faculties will not see further increases.

With the faculty/student ratio getting worse at our institutions, higher Market Modifiers no longer make sense — especially considering that the Administration has failed to show that past fee increases have been related to any sort of educational quality improvement for students.

The Students’ Union believes that Alberta’s education system must allow any qualified Albertan to receive an education, and is worried that an inappropriate response to budget difficulties could seriously impair the province’s future.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

New Executive Team to Confront Challenging Times

News Staff - Tue Mar 12, 2013

University of Alberta undergraduates have selected a new executive team, voting on March 6 and 7 for the Students’ Union President along with 4 Vice Presidents and the undergraduate Board of Governor’s Representative.

Incoming President Petros Kusmu, currently the SU’s Vice President (External), noted that his team appeared to be coming up against a challenging year.

“I’m excited to have been chosen to fight for students in these challenging times,” Kusmu said, referencing the upcoming provincial budget’s 7.2% cut to the University of Alberta. “That said, I’m also looking forward to finding new opportunities to better the student experience throughout the next year as well.”

Kusmu will be joined on the executive committee by re-elected Vice President (Academic) Dustin Chelen, incoming Vice President (External) Adam Woods, Vice President (Operations and Finance) Josh Le, and Vice President (Student Life) William Lau.

The U-Pass Referendum once again passed by a large majority, with 84% of students voting in favour. The ISSS FAMF Referendum also passed, with 58% of undergraduate science students voting in favour of the fee.

Brent Kelly won an uncontested race, and was re-elected as an undergraduate Board of Governors Representative.

A full breakdown of election results can be found on the SU Elections website.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Students' Union Reacts to Budget Cuts

News Staff - Tue Mar 12, 2013

The University of Alberta Students' Union is seriously concerned about the future of post-secondary education at our institution and in our province. With the U of A facing a 7.2% cut in provincial funding, students are concerned for the quality of their education, and worried that they might be targeted with further fees in order to make up the budget shortfall.

“Alberta has the lowest post-secondary participation rate in Canada already. Further fees, and further debt, will just further discourage more Albertans from attaining an education,” said Vice President (External) Petros Kusmu.

“These further cuts to educational funding will just add to an ongoing erosion of Alberta’s post-secondary system. Tuition has already gone up by nearly 300% after inflation in the last two decades, as the student/faculty ratio has become worse. Students are already paying more for less.”

The Students’ Union Responds

Since the cuts were announced last Friday, the Students’ Union has been taking action. This week, President Colten Yamagishi and Vice President (External) Petros Kusmu have been speaking to various political parties, Members of the Legislative Assembly and Premier Alison Redford. Yamagishi and Kusmu, working in conjunction with the SU’s partners in the Council of Alberta University Students, have been clear to all parties that these cuts will hurt quality, and cannot be balanced by simply increasing tuition or tuition disguised as additional fees.

The Students’ Union wants to hear your concerns, and wants to ensure that students are fully informed about how serious these cuts could be. The SU will be spending this next week and a half meeting with concerned undergraduate students, graduate students, faculty, staff and other stakeholders while at the same time collecting and disseminating information about what the 7.2% reduction in funding means to undergraduate students.

The Students’ Union realizes that the impact of these cuts will be realized both in the short term and over the next few years, and that the cuts could have an extremely negative long term effect on post-secondary education in the province. Realizing the long-term effects of the cuts, the Students’ Union is preparing a long-term strategy to deal with the cuts and any resulting fallout.

“Looking forward, we are going to look more critically at both the provincial and university’s budgets with the interest of protecting student services and university quality,” added Kusmu. “This isn’t going to resolve itself overnight, but we need to fight the long fight — for current and future students — to ensure that Alberta has a strong and accessible post-secondary system for decades to come.”

Join Us

The Students’ Union is eager to hear student feedback, and encourages interested students to contact the SU for opportunities to involve yourself in this process.

Once we have had an opportunity to discuss budget impacts with faculty associations, the Graduate Students’ Association and other impacted groups, the SU will host a Town Hall to share its findings and elicit further feedback. Tentatively, this forum will take place at SUBStage on Tuesday, March 26 @12:30.

Students: For more information, please contact:
Petros Kusmu
Vice President (External)
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: vp.external@su.ualberta.ca

Media: For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

2013 Candidates for the Executive and Board of Governors Representative

News Staff - Fri Feb 15, 2013

News Staff - Fri Feb 15, 2013

The nomination deadline has passed and the candidate lineup for the 2013 Students’ Union executive election is set!

Your 2013-2014 nominees are…

President

Anthony Goertz

Horse with a Gun (Joke Candidate)

Petros Kusmu

Saadiq Sumar

Vice President (Operations and Finance)

Josh Le

Vice President (External)

Adam Woods

Vice President (Academic)

Dustin Chelen

James Hwang

Vice President (Student Life)

Kevin Smith

William Lau

Board of Governors Representative

Brent Kelly

2013 Referendum Question

Students' Council has approved the following question to be on the 2013 Executive and Board of Governors Representative General Election Ballot:

Do you support the continuation of a Universal Bus Pass (U-Pass) subject to the following conditions?

1) The U-Pass would provide unlimited usage of regular transit service through Edmonton Transit System, St. Albert Transit, and Strathcona County Transit during the Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer Terms only to undergraduate students enrolled in at least one course for credit within the participating municipalities' service area during the Fall, Winter, Spring, or Summer Terms.

2) The cost of the U-Pass to each student would be mandatory to any student enrolled in at least one course and would follow the price structure below:

2013-2014: $122.92

2014-2015: $129.17

2015-2016: $135.42

2016-2017: $141.67

3) The following students may opt-out of the U-Pass:

a) Student enrolled in work-experience, co-op, or a practicum outside of the participating municipalities service area for a majority of a term;

b) Students unable to make use of ordinary transit services by reason of disability; and

c) Students employed by Edmonton Transit System, St. Albert Transit, or Strathcona County Transit.

4) Students enrolled at Augustana are exempt from the U-Pass.

Decide whom you’ll cast your vote for during the campaign period leading up to the election by following the campaigns and attending the forums.

The first will occur Wednesday February 27 at 6 p.m. in Lister Centre’s 2nd Floor Cafeteria.

Voting days are March 6 & 7. On those days, you can vote online or at the polling stations in SUB and Campus Saint-Jean.

See you on the campaign trail!

Students’ Union Reflects on Administrative Appointments

News Staff - Tue Feb 12, 2013

We would like to send our sincere congratulations to Martin Ferguson-Pell, Carl Amrhein, and Lisa Collins as they begin and renew exciting roles serving the University of Alberta this year. Ferguson-Pell will be extending his term as Acting Provost in place of Amrhein, who will be taking a prestigious 14-month position with the Conference Board of Canada to explore our University system and help set the direction for the future of Post-Secondary Education in Canada. Collins will be stepping into her new role as University Registrar this summer and we are looking forward to working closely with her to better the student experience.

We would like to send our congratulations to these three individuals and would especially like to thank our current Registrar, Gerry Kendal, for all of the great work that he has done and is doing for our students.

Colten Yamagishi

Students’ Union President

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Student summoned for investigation over email

News Staff - Wed Jan 16, 2013

The Students’ Union is concerned that actions taken against a student in Lister Hall will have a chilling effect on dissenting opinions.

"It’s completely inappropriate for Residence Services to be using University of Alberta Protective Services when a student simply expresses disagreement with Administration decisions," said Vice President (Student Life) Saadiq Sumar.

“We have confirmed that at least one student was summoned to answer UAPS investigators for sending an email that simply expressed disagreement with a Residence Service's decision. This is an institution of higher learning — students should never fear being investigated or charged under the Code of Student Behavior for expressing concern with a decision made by Administration.”

Students have been speaking out against actions that the Administration has taken in Lister. Before the winter break, a student was evicted from Lister in a case that many students saw as being part of a larger administration crack down on the residence, as the student was the Vice President of Lister’s Schaffer Hall. One Lister resident, Luke Kissick, responded to the eviction by writing an email to a residence administrator expressing frustration and asking for the evicted student to at least be allowed a fair appeal. Within the email was a quote from Reg Lister — who Lister Hall is named for — on dealing with student residents. Kissick contrasted Reg Lister's advice with how Residences Services was treating students.

“You are doing the wrong thing. Do not evict Kody. This will negatively affect Schaffer residents,” read his email. “You have worn him out. You have bullied him to defeat. You look like a villain in the eyes of students.”

“Please reconsider your decision, and at least let Kody have a fair appeal process.”

Rather than give Kody a fair appeal, Residence Services responded by lodging a complaint with UAPS. UAPS summoned Kissick to a meeting, informing him that failure to meet and discuss the email would “result in a Code of Student Behavior investigation proceeding without [Kissick's] input.”

Kissick, then on a co-op term, felt pressured to miss work in order to meet with UAPS, who gave him a “warning” regarding the email. The Students' Union is worried that these actions will scare other students from speaking out against actions taken by University Administration in the future.

“We need the Administration to state unequivocally that students won’t be penalized or harassed for simply disagreeing with the actions of Residence Services,” said Sumar. “It speaks volumes if students are no longer allowed to honestly inform residence administrators how their actions are negatively affecting residence life.”

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Students' Union files for judicial review

News Staff - Mon Jan 14, 2013

The University of Alberta Students’ Union has filed for judicial review in response to the Administration’s continued unwillingness to revisit their improper and unilateral changes to Lister Hall. These changes, undertaken over the summer break when most students were off campus, ignored the responsibility that a public institution has to consult with its constituent groups when creating change.

Changes included terminating 46 students jointly employed by the Administration and by the Lister Hall Students’ Association, which had the effect of leaving many floors in Lister dangerously unprepared for the start of fall semester as residents came to campus. The Administration also announced major changes to the character of the student body in Lister and the disciplinary codes of the residence. The decisions were undertaken without proper consultation with the student population, in contradiction to motions approved by the General Faculties Council and Board of Governors and in violation of agreements between the University and the Lister Hall Students’ Association.

Since the Administration first forced the changes on Monday, July 23, the Students’ Union has proposed reasonable and balanced solutions to the situation that have been rejected by the Administration. Students have raised concerns with subsequent actions undertaken by the Administration towards Lister residents, and the Students’ Union is troubled by the way that the Administration has responded to student concerns.

The Students’ Union cannot allow the Administration to continue to ignore the interests of students and agreements that have been made with students. While still holding out hope that the Administration will agree to follow the proper protocol and procedure that it is bound by, the Students’ Union has filed for judicial review to have a court correct the Administration’s actions from this past summer.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

A Holiday Message from the Students’ Union

News Staff - Sun Dec 23, 2012

The holiday break has finally arrived. I’m sure for many of you, winter vacation couldn’t have come soon enough. I want to congratulate all of our undergraduates on the completion of the semester, and urge everyone to take the next few days to recuperate and reenergize in the company of family and friends.

This holiday is a good time for us to reflect on the University’s promise, Uplifting the Whole People. It is our challenge as your Students’ Union to ensure that post-secondary education is truly accessible for all students. We need to ensure that rural students, students from lower socio-economic backgrounds and FNMI (First Nations, Métis, Inuit) students are not prohibited from attending the U of A as many currently are— not only by the cost of tuition but also by the living expenses attributed to attaining a post-secondary education.

The Students’ Union will continue to advocate for students in the New Year on issues including the Fall Reading Week, mandatory non-instructional fee regulation, and the protection of the Lister Hall community. Be sure to check out the Students’ Union website for updates on the construction of the PAW Centre and the SUB renovation as both projects continue to progress.

On behalf of the Students’ Union, I want to wish everyone happy holidays and thank all members of our campus community for their support this past semester. We want to personally thank our undergraduate students for allowing us to serve you this year. I hope that you all have a relaxing break, and will join us refreshed and prepared for a new semester in January.

The SU has been doing its part to spread Holiday cheer throughout December. On Friday, December 7, the SU kicked off the holiday season by hosting its 18th annual SU Holiday Party for Kids.

This year over 400 kids from Kindergarten to Grade 6 from St. Benedict Elementary School met Santa and had their first taste of university life. "This event provides inner city elementary school children the chance to be on campus and have a very positive experience to encourage them to attend the university later in life as students,” said Vice President (Student Life) Saadiq Sumar.

“It also provides our students with an opportunity to give back to the community and provides them with a chance to relieve some stress during their study time," Sumar said, adding a big thank you to all the volunteers, along with the SU’s programming and venues staff, who managed to pull off a great day despite a busy finals season.

80 student volunteers came out to the event to help with craft making, cookie decorating, caroling with Santa and a movie screening of Charlie Brown’s Christmas.

Holiday Photos

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Breaking Ground on the PAW Centre

News Staff - Tue Nov 06, 2012

The construction of the U of A’s new Physical Activity and Wellness (PAW) Centre has taken a big step forward this week, with Monday’s official groundbreaking ceremony.

“The PAW Centre is a truly outstanding addition to our campus, as is the visionary process by which it has been created,” said Students’ Union President Colten Yamagishi.

“This new Centre, built out of a great partnership with the university community, will add real and significant value to the university experience of future undergraduate students, and I’m very proud of what we have all achieved here.”

The PAW Centre will be composed of a social street connecting multiple buildings and a new, eye catching climbing complex that will rise high next to the Butterdome and faces south towards the Edmonton Clinic Health Academy. Students are turning out in higher numbers than ever before to take advantage of the physical health facilities on campus, making the current fitness centre crowded — the new building properly quenches this thirst for athletic improvement, with a larger, more open fitness centre with modern equipment and ample use of natural light.

“The new PAW Centre will feature expanded student lounges, multi-purpose rooms and eagerly awaited community kitchen space, where programming may soon be offered to enable students to enhance their culinary knowledge,” Yamagishi added.

“We envision the social street that will run through the Centre will bring students together in their athletic endeavors as well as socially, and further enhance the sense of community that our predecessors have built on this campus. It is projects like this that truly add to the student experience, that give students space to meet, to collaborate and to grow.”

The PAW Centre has been a key project for the Students Union, with previous Presidents Rory Tighe, Nick Dehod and Zach Fentiman working hard alongside Vice Presidents Andy Cheema, Saadiq Sumar, Kristen Flath, Steven Dollansky and SU general manager Marc Dumouchel in order to bring the project to completion.

While undergraduate and graduate students will be contributing $30 million to the project, further support from the Government of Alberta to the tune of $4.5 million, $10 million from an anonymous donor and $17.5 million from the University of Alberta will combine in order to create something that will greatly benefit the entire U of A community.

Yamagishi added that the successful undergraduate referendum to build the PAW centre was also groundbreaking, proving that students aren’t necessarily fee averse when they recognize value.

“Students approved the PAW Centre referendum fee because they can see the great value it will add to the student experience,” Yamagishi explained.

“Furthermore, the student levy to support this, $29 per fall or winter term and $14.50 per spring and summer session, will only be charged to students once the building is completed. This is important, because in the interest of fairness only the undergraduates that will be actively using the facility will pay for it.”

Further information about the PAW Centre can be found here where the SU will be posting project news and updates as they occur.

Groundbreaking

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Students' Union Remembers Peter Lougheed

News Staff - Fri Sep 14, 2012

The University of Alberta Students’ Union salutes the memory of Peter Lougheed, former Alberta Premier, Students’ Union President (1951-1952), and distinguished University of Alberta alumnus, who recently passed away.

Lougheed will be remembered for founding the still governing Progressive Conservative political dynasty, which he led as Premier for 14 of the party’s 41 years in government. As Premier, Lougheed worked to preside responsibly over Alberta’s natural resource development, creating the Heritage Savings Trust Fund.

Lougheed had a large impact on campus, foreshadowing the impact he was to have on the provincial landscape after graduation. As a student, Lougheed started his political career as Freshman Class President, played football for the Edmonton Eskimos, covered sports for The Gateway, joined a fraternity, and served students as Public Relations Officer and finally Students’ Union President.

As a student politician, Lougheed will be remembered for fighting for post secondary education as key to a successful province. Speaking to Edmonton’s Rotary Club in 1951, Lougheed warned that high salaries in industry, among other factors, were resulting in declining student enrollent at the U of A, a serious problem that had to be rectified.

Coverage by the Edmonton Journal stated that “(Lougheed) charged every citizen with the responsibility of seeing that an adequate supply of professional men in all fields is promised for the future development of the province.”

“That Lougheed’s contributions to this campus and to Alberta as a whole still resonates with so many people speaks to his great legacy as one of the most visionary premiers in Canadian history,” said Vice President External Petros Kusmu. “It is humbling to think of the great role models who have studied here before us at the U of A, and the amazing things that they have gone on to accomplish.”

Lougheed
Text

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

SU Response to Gateway articles

News Staff - Wed Sep 05, 2012

The Gateway recently published two articles (see links below) regarding the Lister situation that the Students' Union felt necessitated a response.

Below is our response.

Dear Editor,

I read with interest this week’s editorial “Students’ Union far from transparent.” The article rather missed the point, and I would be happy to provide some clarification.

First, I want to address your concern that this “affects a minority of SU fee-paying students” and with that your concern about the $40,000 in professional fees. Lister Hall is the largest student residence at the U of A, and the Administration has refused to follow proper processes with our students there. There is a natural power imbalance between a university and its students, and agreements for consultation between the two are one of the ways to ensure that students have a say in their university experience. We are a $10 million organization representing over 30,000 students, and while the SU runs events, businesses and many other services, ensuring that the Administration cannot unilaterally force changes over students is one of the core reasons we have a Students’ Union protecting the student voice. Since we need to negotiate and deal with other groups within the U of A community, including the Administration, it is understandable that there needs to be an allowance for closed-door discussions among elected student representatives, much as the university Administration has scheduled closed and in-camera sessions to discuss strategy and matters that must be kept confidential.

The SU is digging in over Lister not just because it is our largest student residence, but also because if the Administration can decide that agreements and Board of Governors motions do not apply to them in this case, why should we expect them to hear student concerns in any other situation? The editorial discusses the Memorandum of Agreement that the SU is “hung up on” but declines to discuss the Board of Governors motion that directed decisions regarding Lister to be made by the Lister Hall Students Association and the Administration nor does it reflect the fact that all major changes to Residence Codes must first be passed through the GFC Campus Law Review Committee – a major step that was undoubtedly forgone. The U of A is a public institution, which means it is run by a public Board of Governors that keeps it accountable to the citizens of Alberta. If the Administration is no longer accountable to the Board of Governors regarding Lister, than the Administration can walk over students in all other facets of university life as well.

Now let me address the concerns that the Administration has raised. None of the Administration’s concerns were regarding incidents that happened during the summer. If these incidents were of concern over the school year, the proper thing for the Administration to do would be to discuss changes with the LHSA, not to announce the changes in July when most students are away from campus. Consultation involves working with stakeholders to create change, not announcing that you have already made a decision and informing the stakeholders an hour before the changes are implemented and released to the public.

The Administration raised concerns with events in Lister from years ago that the Students’ Union would never condone, but is confident that the LHSA has dealt with. The evidence the Administration provided to the SU included a mix of links to Youtube videos from years ago, exaggerated and inaccurate depictions of tower competitions that have changed multiple times in the last decade, and pages of screen captures from the University of Alberta memes Facebook page. It seems that a primary concern of the Administration was dealing with its institutional image on social media, which is concerning considering that the Administration then decided to publicly paint Lister as a residence “that fosters and celebrates alcohol abuse and vandalism.” This was offensive to thousands of U of A Alumni who have lived in Lister, as well as current students, who have seen and experienced an entirely different picture of residence life.

The U of A has proposed changes to address what they have called health and safety concerns. The administration’s actions make clear where their concerns actually lay. The have banned alcohol from public areas, where students formerly could monitor each other’s behavior and take care of students who have over consumed, and instead directed students to drink in their bedrooms, away from the common areas. Adults can drink in Alberta when they turn 18, so many U of A students are going to drink regardless of the rules. Instead of drinking in a safe setting with their peers, they may over consume behind closed doors in their rooms, or off campus where we have no ability to monitor drinking at all. While this might address concerns with our institutional image, it does little to put the health and safety of students first.

The $10,000 in student association training fees was to cover training for LHSA staff that is normally provided by the Administration through Residence Services. As Residence Services failed to actually employ enough RA’s for the start of the school year, leaving the health and safety of Lister residents in jeopardy, the Students’ Union felt that it was necessary to assist the LHSA in this extraordinary situation and ensure that their staff were properly trained for conflict resolution, crisis intervention, etc. which are no longer a part of their job description but that the FC’s are volunteering their time to do in the absence of hired/trained RA’s to ensure our students’ safety.

The SU has ensured that these funds have only been spent on training fees, including training materials and costs for trainers and speakers. Yes, the LHSA did attend a training retreat at Camp Hela but all of the related costs for these activities were covered solely by the LHSA.

Sincerely,
Students’ Union President Colten Yamagishi & Vice President (Student Life) Saadiq Sumar

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

University Administration Stalls Lister Negotiations

News Staff - Tue Aug 07, 2012

After agreeing to negotiate in good faith with the Students’ Union and Lister Hall Students’ Association, the University Administration has stonewalled reasonable proposals for a compromise on changes to Lister Centre.

On Friday, the Administration and student leaders discussed principles that could be followed to resolve the dispute. The Students’ Union and Lister Hall Students’ Association were prepared to move forward on the issue, and, by all indications, so was the Administration. It was understood at the time that all parties had the best interests of the University of Alberta community at heart.

Today, the Administration appears to have retracted any effort at compromise, instead presenting student leaders with a document akin to the administration’s original proposal. They have now asked students to sign an agreement similar to the Memorandum of Agreement signed in 2009 that the Administration has already breached with these changes.

The Students’ Union is unable to explain this about-face by the Administration, which is now disregarding obligations that have been spelled out in signed agreements with students and motions of the Board of Governors. The University Administration reports to the Board of Governors, and it should be troubling to all Albertans that the Board of Governors of a public institution was sidestepped in these matters.

The Students’ Union is trying to resolve this dispute quickly, to the benefit of former student employees at Lister who expected to have secure employment prior to these changes, to the benefit of thousands of past, current and future Lister residents who have voiced outrage at these changes, and to the benefit of the University of Alberta as a whole. The Students’ Union is proposing solutions that will protect all that is good about Lister’s heritage while proposing positive solutions to address any concerns. The Administration, on the other hand, is prepared to further tarnish the University of Alberta by prolonging this dispute and painting all residents of Lister with a negative stereotype. The University of Alberta deserves better.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Students and Administration Expect Progress on Residence Changes

News Staff - Fri Aug 03, 2012

The University of Alberta Students' Union and the Lister Hall Students' Association are entering into important discussions with the University of Alberta administration concerning Lister Centre. All parties have the best interests of the University of Alberta and the University of Alberta community at heart. Recognizing the swiftly approaching fall semester, the participants expect that these discussions will address the concerns of all parties in a way that will be productive, fair, and timely. We expect that we will arrive at a resolution early next week.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

University terminates 40 student-staff

News Staff - Thu Aug 02, 2012

With the passing of its response deadline today, Residence Services has terminated 40 of its student-staff members who refused to agree to the newly created staff positions.

These 40 students were democratically elected in March to dual roles as LHSA officers and Residence Services employees. In an attempt to sever students' ties with the LHSA, the University administration unilaterally changed the conditions of their employment last week, and provided the students with ten days to respond to a new offer. Of the 46 staff members who received the offers, 40 declined and 38 have chosen to remain officers of the LHSA.

This leaves the University administration with two weeks to hire 36 student-staff positions for the new Residence Assistant roles as well as all 4 Senior RA roles. The latter in particular are designed to be filled by residents with experience in the Floor Coordinator role. Recruitment for these roles will be very difficult due to the limited pool of applicants with Lister leadership experience.

All 40 of these positions will have to be filled in time for staff training, which begins in the middle of August. Residence staff training provides student leaders with skills such as suicide intervention, conflict resolution, and listening skills that are vital to effectively support a floor of mainly first-year students. It has, in the past, been considered a compulsory condition for Residence Services employment. It is unclear what will happen if any positions remain vacant through move-in, when new students are most vulnerable.

Today the Dean of Students, Frank Robinson, has written to student leaders that declined continued employment with Residence Services. Robinson has told each that each "is the one best suited for the job now." With this letter, the Dean of Students has presented additional offers — waiving the mandatory meal plan and encouraging involvement with the LHSA — to student leaders who choose to remain as Residence Services employees. The terms of this offer were unclear in the email.

While the University administration is having to continually adapt the proposal because of implementation oversight, the Students? Union has remained resolute throughout the process that working on a consultation framework that arrives at evidence-based solutions by December 2012 is the best way forward.

In yesterday's University press release, the acting Provost mentioned an all-or-nothing SU negotiating position that has compromised progress. This could not be farther from the truth. The Students' Union has proposed a consultation framework that would allow any solution to be considered — including the University administration's proposals — so long as they are backed by evidence.

In the attached letter of commitment, sent by the University administration on July 30, the University administration continues to refuse to revert the changes and enter into consultations regarding the merits of their proposal. The Students' Union and LHSA remain committed to ensuring the University administration engages in open discussions about the proposal's virtues, not its implementation.

Attachment 1: Proposed Letter of Understanding
University of Alberta (student concerns annotated inline by University of Alberta Students' Union / Lister Hall Students' Association)

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students' Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Lister Hall Updates from the Students' Union

News Staff - Wed Aug 01, 2012

The Students’ Union holds the health and safety of Lister residents in the highest regard. The SU is concerned that with students arriving in roughly one month and new problematic changes being made to the student staff structure and the residence alcohol policy, the residence will start the year in a volatile position. The SU has offered a framework for how the Lister Hall Students’ Association, Students’ Union, and University Administration can work together to create positive changes in Lister but the Administration has refused to work with the proposed terms.

Most importantly, the Administration does not clearly recognize the SU’s concern with their disregard for due process. The SU is not asking the Administration to reverse these changes simply because an overwhelming number of students and alumni oppose them. The SU is asking for the reversal because these changes were made without consulting the Lister Hall Students’ Association prior to implementation. This action violated agreements the Administration had with the LHSA as well as a motion approved by the Board of Governors, the highest governing body of the University of Alberta.

The Students’ Union has made it clear that an immediate rescission of these changes would not mean it will not consider aspects of the current proposal; it merely implies that this proposal is subject to the research and constructive discourse that should be expected of any proposal that is adopted by an academic institution like the University of Alberta. The consultative framework proposed by the SU would address issues in a timely and effective manner and would allow for implementation by the time new residents arrive in 2013.

If the Administration refuses to follow signed agreements that they have made with students, it is impossible for students to take the Administration’s frequently shifting position on the Lister changes at face value. If the Administration refuses to follow the Board of Governors, every Albertan should be concerned that the University of Alberta — a public institution — is no longer operating as mandated by the Government of Alberta.

The Students Union has a number of concerns that the specific changes the Administration has brought forward lack the full consideration that would have been given had the Administration entered into a consultation with students prior to the implementation of the changes. The Administration initially claimed that they had made the changes without student consultation due to urgent health and safety concerns, which they explained forced them to release the changes in the middle of summer even though most students were off campus. It now appears that their concerns are not urgent, but based on factors in Lister that would not be affected by changes to the Lister staff structure. In January, the LHSA was told that future consultation on these matters would happen in the upcoming fall, leaving the SU and LHSA blindsided by last week's announcement.

The Administration has asked students for evidence against its proposal. However, the burden of proof remains with the University Administration to demonstrate the positive impact that restricting consumption to student rooms will have on health and safety. The Administration’s proposal lacks a concrete evidence-supported connection to positive health and safety outcomes for students.

The Administration cannot simply ignore Board of Governors' motions, break agreements, propose unreasonable changes, and then simply modify their position and call it a “compromise.” The Students’ Union is ready for the Administration to honour their agreements with the LHSA and follow the Board of Governors motion by reverting the proposed changes and working together to find the best solution for the addressed problems.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Lister Hall Myths and Facts

News Staff - Tue Jul 31, 2012

While the Students' Union was meeting with the University administration on Friday, July 27, a post appeared on their blog that attempted to dispel commonly held myths surrounding the proposed Lister changes. It is clear from the administration's response to public reaction that they are not actively listening to the concerns, but are instead convinced that the outcry is due to mass confusion. The problem is not that the community doesn't understand the proposal; the problem is that they were never given the opportunity to respond. The SU is responding to the University's post with its own set of Facts that clarify the impacts of the administration's actions.

The myths below are taken directly from Colloquy, with Students' Union responses written below.

Myth #1: There will be no second-, third- and fourth-year students in Lister.
Fact: There will be upper year students now, though it is important to note that the original proposal received by the Students' Union and the Lister Hall Students' Association did not include Orientation Volunteers or LHSA staff. In discussions with the administration, it became clear that they had not considered the impact of this proposal on either of these groups.

In addition to this, the Students' Union is concerned that the administration has approached the Graduate Students' Association to begin recruitment from the non-undergraduate student population. Placing one or two graduate students as student-staff leaders on a floor of undergraduates is unlikely to create an engaged, balanced living environment.

Myth #2: There will be no more elected floor coordinators.
Fact: This proposal, if implemented in its current form, would severely undermine the LHSA's ability to fill FC positions for the upcoming year. Beyond this point, the role that the elected FC plays on the floor will be impeded, as the unelected RA will be used to fulfill tasks that are currently the responsibility of the FC. The lack of a democratic selection process for the RA will remove the automatic credibility enjoyed by elected residence life staff, and an unbalanced power dynamic between two Residence Services staff and one LHSA representative on a floor is very likely to develop.

Myth #3: The Lister Hall Residents' Association has been eliminated.
Fact: While the LHSA has not been eliminated as a student group—this is beyond Residence Services' power—these changes severely impact its ability to recruit and transition staff. Further, the actions of the University administration put into question their commitment to properly work with the LHSA and the Students' Union on matters that impact students, as mentioned in the 2009 Memorandum of Agreement signed between the LHSA and Residence Services.

Myth #4: Lister is going dry.
Fact: Alcohol consumption is being relegated to the small, private dormitories of Lister residents. Since Lister's inception in the 1960s, alcohol consumption has been permitted in the floor lounges, which are viewed as living rooms. The SU and LHSA have serious concerns that this change will negatively impact student health and safety in Lister.

Drinking will not be discontinued, but will instead be marginalized to regions where the staff has little chance to monitor healthy consumption habits—bars and dorm rooms. If the safety of our students is of paramount concern, this must be addressed.

The impact on acceptable drinking areas in other residences remains unclear at the moment, as the administration has not further defined how shared spaces in HUB, East Campus Village, and Résidence Saint-Jean will be affected.

Myth #5: Students have no say in Lister Hall changes; students and/or LHSA were not consulted.
Fact: It is important to note that the framework for conversations that began in 2008 was created in response to student protest that arose due to lack of consultation. Residence Services signed this framework agreement, even though they did not follow the agreement in creating this proposal.

A week after the administration announced these changes they are still unable to state the emergency nature of health and safety concerns for staff and students. While the LHSA has been a part of discussions about aspects of this proposal, most components have never been discussed with the LHSA and prior discussions did not provide evidence-based practices to the LHSA. It is vital to restate that discussions about implementation of final decisions do not constitute proper consultation regarding the merits of the plan. This proposal has serious repercussions for health, safety, and student engagement at Lister; something that would have been raised had proper consultation been undertaken.

Continually, the University administration has cited the urgency behind this proposal as a reaction to emergent health and safety concerns. However, as can be seen in this graph, calls to emergency telephone lines have experienced a significant decline since 2007.

Emergency Calls

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Broken Promises, Lost Tradition — University of Alberta Lister Residence Changes

News Staff - Mon Jul 30, 2012

The Administration has continued to stonewall students with its proposed changes to Lister Centre. In response to student requests for a collaborative look at improving Lister, the Administration has cited unspecified “health and safety” matters as the reason that the Memorandum of Agreement between the Administration and student residence associations was ignored, along with Board of Governors' motions that required the Administration to work with, not against, student residence associations. As of today, July 30, it has been a week since the Administration first unilaterally announced the changes. Despite our request last week to view the evidence by today, the Administration has continued to withhold specifics of what “health and safety” concerns exist in Lister. Statistics show a significant reduction in disciplinary incidences over the past three years in Lister, leading the Students’ Union to be skeptical of the Administration’s unsubstantiated claims.

The University Administration reports to the Board of Governors, and it is should be troubling to all Albertans that the Board of Governors of a public institution seems to have been completely sidestepped in these matters. It is equally troubling that an institution so outwardly committed to collaboration with students, staff, alumni and the broader university community has continued to burn bridges by ignoring its mandate to consult with these groups. This proposal features no fewer than eight changes to the operations of Lister, most of which have never been discussed with the Lister Hall Students’ Association or the SU. The University of Alberta can do better.

Thousands of alumni, thousands of current students and generations of future students have been affected by these unilateral changes to their home. The SU is working with the LHSA to collect postcards from all of these affected constituent groups at www.PostcardsForLister.ca to send to U of A President Indira Samarasekera and ask her to reverse the changes and work with students to create positive change in Lister.

Attachment 1: Response and Resolution to the Residence Changes Proposed by the University of Alberta
University of Alberta Students’ Union / Lister Hall Students’ Association

Attachment 2: Residence Consultation Framework
University of Alberta Students’ Union / Lister Hall Students’ Association

Attachment 3: Response from the University to the Above Proposals
University of Alberta (student concerns annotated inline by University of Alberta Students’ Union / Lister Hall Students’ Association)

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

No Consultation — University of Alberta Lister Residence Changes

News Staff - Mon Jul 23, 2012

This morning, the University of Alberta announced major changes to Lister Centre, drastically altering the employment conditions of 46 students and dramatically changing the fundamental structure of Canada’s largest undergraduate residence. The Students’ Union was not consulted on this proposal.

Click here to read FAQs and click here to contact University officials about the issue.

“This decision from the U of A to post sweeping changes to student residence without properly consulting the Students’ Union or any residence association is in direct contradiction to the 2009 Memorandum of Understanding, a signed contract between the Lister Hall Students’ Association and the U of A,” said Students’ Union President Colten Yamagishi.

“The U of A’s actions directly contradict the Minister of Enterprise and Advanced Education’s commitment to consult with student leaders and listen to student concerns on issues that affect them. These actions are gravely disappointing — it has become clear that students aren’t receiving the same level of respect or consultation from university officials.”

Prior to this unilateral move by the University, students who held the role of floor coordinator or hall VP were elected by their peers and were joint employees of the LHSA and the University, a model of cooperation and trust between students and their institution. These changes fit with the University’s increasing tendency to marginalize the student voice, and will allow the University to ignore student concerns further.

“Lister’s democratic system of having student representatives elected and accountable to the students they serve has been an important cultural aspect of the residence, and one of the key reasons that Lister has been so successful,” said LHSA President Eric Martin.

“The LHSA had high hopes coming into this year, and we were excited to do what we could to strengthen the bond between our association and the U of A’s Residence Services. It is disheartening to see that this is how they’ve decided to start our year off.”

The Lister residence has been an integral part of student life at the U of A for 50 years. Thousands of U of A alum were outraged when the University attempted to make similar changes in 2008, and the University agreed to consult with students on any future changes. The University has risked its relationship with thousands of alumni, thousands of current students and generations of future students with this unilateral change.

Click here to read FAQs and click here to contact University officials about the issue.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

U of A Students Respond to Shooting

News Staff - Fri Jun 15, 2012

U of A Students Respond to Shooting

The University of Alberta Students’ Union (SU) and Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) responded with sadness today to the robbery-shooting that took place early Friday morning.

“We’re shocked at the violence and saddened by the news that these individuals lost their lives,” said SU President Colten Yamagishi and GSA President Ashlyn Bernier. “Our thoughts go out to the families of the victims.”

“It is in these tragic moments that we must stand strong as a community, and we offer our support to the Dean of Students’ office and the University of Alberta community.”

SU Vice President (Academic) Dustin Chelen expressed his gratitude for the University’s display of compassion, allowing students the option to defer final exams scheduled today.

Students have been touched by the messages of support and the condolences that have been flowing into the U of A from across various social media platforms.

“This has been a difficult morning for our students, and especially for those who live on campus,” added GSA Vice President (Student Life) Huimin Zhong and SU Vice President (Student Life) Saadiq Sumar.

“In light of these tragic events, we’re just thankful that our students in the affected residence were unharmed.”

The SU and the GSA encourage any students who have been affected by the shooting to make use of the counseling services that the University is providing at Lister Hall.

For more information, please contact:
Simon Yackulic
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780.492.4236 E:ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Ashlyn Bernier
President – Graduate Students’ Association
gsa.president@ualberta.ca

SU Responds to Minister’s Statements

News Staff - Thu May 31, 2012

Comments from the new Minister of Enterprise and Advanced Education on Market Modifiers, mandatory non-instructional fees and the relationship between the Province and university students have caught the attention of student leaders, coming as SU executives prepare for a summer of lobbying.

It appears that the Students’ Union’s lobbying is being heard loud and clear. Alberta’s Minister of Enterprise and Advanced Education recently stated in question period that the previous imposition of Market Modifiers — massive tuition jumps in professional faculties — were a “one-time initiative” and he explained that there are currently “no plans to reintroduce Market Modifiers.” Previous attempts to reopen the debate by the U of A’s Faculty of Law without consulting the Students’ Union were also shut down by the province, and these recent comments deliver a clear message that the debate surrounding market modifiers has finally concluded.

As for non-instructional fees, which the UASU believes have been used by the University of Alberta as a backdoor method to raise tuition by going around the CPI cap, Minister Khan added, “students need to know that any new fees have to add value to their education.”

When asked about the possibility of massive student strikes occurring in Alberta that would mirror Quebec’s, Khan explained that he was looking forward to meeting with students to maintain an already “strong relationship.” UASU Vice President (External) Petros Kusmu echoed the minister, noting that he hoped to continue the positive relationship between the Students’ Union and the Ministry.

“We’re happy that Mr. Khan has used his first opportunity to address the Legislature to express his commitment to maintaining our relationship and hearing student concerns,” said Kusmu. “We’re also very encouraged by the position he has taken in regards to Market Modifiers, and look forward to discussing these issues further with him.”

Kusmu hopes to use the summer to engage with elected representatives and ensure the student voice is heard loudly.

“It’s a great opportunity now, to build rapport with MLAs and Ministers, get our name out there and start building on our lobbying priorities,” said Kusmu, noting that he will be expanding his lobbying role in his new position as CAUS vice chair.

The University of Alberta Students’ Union is a member of the Council of Alberta University Students (CAUS). CAUS will be lobbying against non-instructional fees being levied on students without proper consultation, pushing to reform the Election’s Act which has unfairly stifled the student vote, oppose municipal taxes on student dormitories, review rural grants and bursaries and stand against any new Market Modifier proposals.

For more information please contact:

Simon Yackulic
External Communications and Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students' Union
1-780-492-4241

Students launching “Get out the Vote” campaign for provincial election

News Staff - Wed Mar 28, 2012

The University of Alberta Students’ Union, together with their partners at the University of Calgary and University of Lethbridge, is launching a campaign to “Get Out The Vote” for the April 23 provincial election. The campaign will officially kick off at the University of Alberta today where SU Vice President Farid Iskandar will announce the number of students signed up to date, as well as highlight the rest of the campaign and events leading up to election day.

Date: Wednesday, March 28
Time: 12:00pm
Location: Myer Horowitz Theatre, Students' Union Building
Participants: SU President Rory Tighe, SU Vice President (External) Farid Iskandar, and Get out the Vote volunteers

For more information please contact:
Jonathan Taves
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Farid Iskandar
Vice President (External)
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: vp.external@su.ualberta.ca

Students have decided the Students’ Union’s executive team for the 2012-2013 school year

News Staff - Fri Mar 09, 2012

Chief Returning Officer Zach Fentiman announced the results of the March 7 & 8 vote to an expectant and tense crowd of candidates and their volunteers late Thursday evening.

Elected to the position of President was Colten Yamagishi, 2011-12’s Vice President (Student Life). Victory for Colten was declared in the fourth round with 63% of the vote.

Dustin Chelen won the title of Vice President (Academic) in the fourth round with 59% of the vote.

Petros Kusmu will advocate on behalf of students to government as Vice President (External). Petros received his majority 52% in the second round of ballots.

Incumbent Vice President (Operations & Finance) Andy Cheema got voter approval for one more year, earning victory in the fourth round with 53% of the vote.

Saadiq Sumar will oversee events and protect student interest in residences as Vice President (Student Life). As the sole candidate in his race, Saadiq beat out the “None of the Above” option in the first round with 81% of votes.

Brent Kelly earned voters’ trust to speak for students as the Board of Governors Representative. He achieved victory in the second round with 54% of the votes cast.

The total number of ballots cast in this year’s election was 6,313, a voter turnout rate of 21.6%.

For more information please contact:
Zach Fentiman
Chief Returning Officer
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-7102
E: cro@su.ualberta.ca

Candidates for the 2012-2013 SU Executive Election

News Staff - Fri Feb 17, 2012

The nomination deadline has passed and the candidate lineup for the 2012 Students’ Union executive election is set!

Your 2012-2013 nominees are…

For PRESIDENT:

Adi Rao
Colten Yamagishi
Farid Iskandar
Big Notorious

For VICE PRESIDENT ACADEMIC:

Quetzala Carson
San Ruth
Dustin Chelen
Kelsey Mills

For VICE PRESIDENT EXTERNAL:
Adam Woods
Dorothy Roberts
Petros Kusmu

For VICE PRESIDENT OPERATIONS & FINANCE:
Andy Cheema
Mike McGinn
Murtaza Jamaly
Jessica Nguyen

For VICE PRESIDENT STUDENT LIFE:
Saadiq Sumar

For UNDERGRADUATE BOARD OF GOVERNORS REPRESENTATIVE:
Brent Kelly
Rebecca Taylor

Decide whom you’ll cast your vote for during the campaign period leading up to the election by following the campaigns and attending the forums.

The first will occur Tuesday, February 28 at 6 p.m. in Lister Centre’s 2nd Floor Cafeteria.

Voting days are March 7 & 8. On those days, you can vote online or at the many polling stations around campus.

Everything you need to know about voting can be found here.

See you on the campaign trail!

U of A and SU host national discussion about academic materials

News Staff - Thu Feb 09, 2012

Students face many rising costs for pursuing a university education, not the least of which is that for academic materials. This Thursday and Friday, stakeholders will discuss changing technology and approaches to creating and distributing textbooks and other products necessary for postsecondary education.

Educators, students, publishers, librarians and retailers will discuss how to ensure academic material industry quality and prosperity, now and in the future, during the Canadian Roundtable on Academic Materials, hosted by the U of A and the Students’ Union.

The first sessions began early Thursday morning, and will continue February 9-10, all throughout each day. Anyone interested in listening in on the sessions at any point can sign in as a guest here.

“New technology is changing the way academic materials can be used and distributed,” said Emerson Csorba, SU Vice-President (Academic) and an organizer of the conference.

“This conference presents an amazing opportunity to get all factions together to discuss how academic materials can become more affordable while still maintaining, or even increasing, their value to students.”

The medium for the conference is Elluminate, which is an online platform similar to Skype. By conducting the conference online, costs are minimized for all students and other participants involved.

Participating libraries, faculties and student associations come from all over Canada, including McMaster, Dalhousie, Saskatchewan, UBC, and Calgary. Major publishers, such as Cengage, Pearson and McGraw-Hill are also attending.

Topics at the conference will be presented by a variety of speakers from across Canada. Some topics include: Copyright Law; varying perspectives around digital books, academic materials and textbooks; the significance of the newly established Apple iTunes U initiative; and setting common strategies for CRAM in 2012 and beyond.

The last time CRAM took place was in 2008.

For more information please contact:
Jonathan Taves
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

University of Alberta aims for third dodgeball world record

News Staff - Wed Feb 01, 2012

The battle for dodgeball domination is back on this Friday as the University of Alberta seeks to reclaim its lost world record.

The quest for the world’s largest dodgeball game has become a heated competition, with the U of A twice breaking the world record, only to have it usurped by American institutions on later dates. The current record is held by University of California, Irvine, with their official achievement of 4,000 players in a single game of dodgeball.

Undeterred, the University of Alberta is rising to the challenge; a new world record attempt has been organized for February 3, 2012 with a target of 5,000 players.

“We’ve seen this rivalry really ramp up over the last year,” said Colten Yamagishi, Students’ Union Vice-President (Student Life). “This game has evolved into the year’s largest single event on campus where everyone can feel like a part of the U of A community.”

All U of A students, staff, alumni, and even prospective students, are encouraged to pick a team: Green or Gold. Green’s goal this year will be to halt Gold’s two-game winning streak!

The world record attempt is made possible through a collaborative effort between the U of A, the Students’ Union, and the University of Alberta Alumni Association.

"Break the Record is an athletic event that has nothing to do with athletics but everything to do with community and playing hard while you work hard," explained Dr. Frank Robinson, the U of A’s Dean of Students.

Participants range from those who have never touched a dodgeball to seasoned veterans, but they will all be part of an overarching experience of school spirit, pride, and fun.

For information on how to participate visit www.breaktherecord.ca.

For more information please contact:
Jonathan Taves
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

GFC committee recommends removal of all deferred exam fees

News Staff - Fri Jan 20, 2012

The University of Alberta is moving to eliminate the current $45 fee charged for a deferred exam.

During the January 19 General Faculties Council's Academic Standards Committee (ASC) meeting, a discussion item was presented regarding deferred exam fees. The committee focused on two principles in particular: that the practices used around deferred exam fees should be consistent across all faculties, and that fees could be a potential deterrent to deferred exams.

"The SU is strongly in favour of the removal of these fees, and we're pleased that this is going ahead," explained Emerson Csorba, Vice-President (Academic) of the Students' Union. "It is unjustifiable to charge students up to $225 to write their exams after facing an illness, personal or family issues or the death of a family member or friend."

A large contingent of ASC, largely made up of associate deans, expressed the same sentiment. The Committee's recommendation will be presented to U of A Provost and Vice-President (Academic) for consideration.

Currently, only two faculties, Business and Engineering, waive deferred exam fees for students facing extraordinary circumstances.

"It's great that all students will now be better able to write exams when they are mentally and physically ready, rather than feel academic pressure in addition to other trials," Csorba said.

For more information please contact:
Jonathan Taves
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Spirit Week shows off U of A’s community involvement

News Staff - Mon Jan 16, 2012

Opportunities for involvement will be showcased next week at the University of Alberta during Spirit Week, which celebrates the contributions students make to the campus community and beyond.

The week kicks off with a free concert on Monday, January 16. A volunteer and clubs fair will host organizations and groups looking to engage students interested in health, athletics, entertainment, education, social development, and more. The fair will run in the Students’ Union building until January 19. A celebration of community will conclude the week on Thursday evening.

“Involvement, whether it’s with a student group, sport or even outside interests, is the key to a meaningful university experience,” said Colten Yamagishi, U of A Students’ Union Vice-President (Student Life). “Events like this make all the forms involvement can take visible to students in one place. It’s all about taking that first step.”

Spirit Week is a joint initiative between the SU’s Student Group Services and InfoLink. Students who come out to the events and the fair will be eligible to win daily prizes like Oilers tickets, a PlayStation 3, or gift cards. Further details of the event can be found at www.su.ualberta.ca/spiritweek.

“The Winter Term, especially its beginning, can seem dreary with the short days and cold weather,” noted Hallie Brodie, an organizer of the event and Manager of InfoLink. “We are trying to change that perspective by gathering people and groups that make our campus great, and showing students how they can contribute too.”

For more information please contact:
Jonathan Taves
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Undergraduate Research Symposium hosted at U of A

News Staff - Thu Nov 17, 2011

Presentations have been perfected and judges’ clipboards are out for the first University of Alberta Undergraduate Research Symposium, organized by the Students’ Union.

The event begins this evening with a dinner and keynote. U of A President Indira Samarasekera and Engineering professor John Nychka are among the speakers. A poster competition occurs all day Friday and will showcase over 120 undergraduate student research projects across all disciplines.

“This event is one of the largest of its kind,” said Emerson Csorba, SU Vice President (Academic). “Demand is on the rise for engaged learning like research. The U of A is a leading research institution and every student who comes here should be able to benefit from that advantage.”

The event also provides students who want to become involved in research the chance to connect with opportunities that interest them.

“Participating in research helps students foster a sense of ownership of their education,” said Jessica McAllister, a 4th year nursing student who is presenting her own work on emergency care of seniors. “Discovering things yourself supplements what's learned from professors or textbooks.”

The symposium concludes Friday afternoon, where $9,000 in 20 academic awards will be given to the researchers of the most outstanding projects.

Undergraduate Research Symposium
Nov. 17, 6 p.m. & Nov. 18, 10 a.m. to 4pm
Dinwoodie Lounge, Students’ Union Building
and the Centennial Centre for Interdisciplinary Science

For more information please contact:
Jonathan Taves
External Communications & Media Advisor
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: ecma@su.ualberta.ca

Opportunity to Serve on IT Student Advisory Board

News Staff - Tue Oct 25, 2011

For students interested in getting (more) involved, there is an excellent opportunity to serve on the University of Alberta's Information Technology Student Advisory Board, which is chaired by the Vice-Provost IT Dr. Jonathan Schaeffer. The student advisory board will meet about four times per year (twice in the fall semester and twice in the winter semester) and provide recommendations for how the university's information technology strategy can move forward. If you believe that the university could improve its Bear Tracks design, enhance its use of social media or integrate programs like Drop Box in classes, then you should consider serving on this advisory board. In order to apply for the advisory board, send a one-paragraph e-mail outlining your reasons for wanting to serve on the board to either the VP Academic Emerson Csorba or the VP External Farid Iskandar.

For more information please contact:
Emerson Csorba
Vice President (Academic)
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: vp.academic@su.ualberta.ca

or contact:
Farid Iskandar
Vice President (External)
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: vp.external@su.ualberta.ca

Involvement Opportunity with the Students' Union's Judicial Board

News Staff - Fri Sep 30, 2011

The Discipline, Interpretation and Enforcement (DIE) Board of the Students' Union is looking to recruit up to six undergraduate students to serve on the board. The DIE Board is responsible for the interpretation and enforcement of Students' Union legislation.

The scope of the Board shall deal with actions and appeals brought before it that initiate a complaint about a contravention of Students' Union legislation or request an interpretation of Students' Union legislation.

All current undergraduate students are eligible to apply to serve on the board provided they are not also a voting member of Students' Council, a voting member of a committee of Students' Council, or an employee of the Students' Union.

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter via email to Amanda Henry, DIE Board Registrar, at sga@su.ualberta.ca. The application deadline is October 21, 2011 and 4:00pm. Please note that only short-listed applicants will be contacted, and all positions are subject to Students' Council ratification.

For more information please contact:
Megan Mickalyk
Chief Tribune, DIE Board
University of Alberta Students’ Union
E: mlperry@ualberta.ca

Opportunity to Represent Student Body on University Committees

News Staff - Mon Sep 12, 2011

A letter from Vice President (Academic) Emerson Csorba:

Hi everyone!

I hope that you had an awesome first week back at the U of A, and that you enjoyed volunteering for WOW and Orientation (if you happen to be one of the 700 or so volunteers that did that).

As Vice President (Academic), I serve on about 40 - if not more - university committees. All of these committees are important, and deal with different aspects of the Academy. This year, I plan on delegating about a dozen of these committees to other students. That means that you attend the committee meetings instead of me, in a role where your voice represents the near 30,000 undergraduates on campus. After serving as an Orientation TF last year, I served on a few university committees, and really enjoyed the experience. If you're interested in serving on one of the committees described below, please send me off an e-mail at vp.academic@su.ualberta.ca and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.

I hope that you are interested in these opportunities, and I wish you great success in the upcoming year! Also, feel free to drop by SUB 2-900 if you ever have questions or concerns. My door is always open.

For more information please contact:
Emerson Csorba
Vice President (Academic)
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: vp.academic@su.ualberta.ca

Committee Opportunities:

Arts Acquisition Committee: Meets infrequently, and determines the types of the art the university should purchase.
Community Service Learning Advisory Board: Oversees the community service learning programs at the university. If you have participated in CSL classes at the U of A, this might be right up your alley.
Administrative Information Systems Steering Committee: Deals extensively with the running of Beartracks.
Writing Centre Committee: If you are interested in the quality of writing services offered by the university, this is for you.
Festival of Teaching Steering Committee: Plans the upcoming Festival of Teaching, which takes place in March and celebrates teaching and learning at the U of A. This is a university initiative of growing importance.
University Research Policy Committee: If you are interested in how research is conducted at the U of A, serving on this committee might be of interest to you.
President's Standing Committee on Convocation: This committee provides direction for the organization of U of A convocation ceremonies.
Faculty-Based ICT Steering Committee: Students interested in potential enhancements to technology usage in the classroom should consider serving on this body.
Green and Gold Student Leadership and Professional Development Grant Adjudication Committee: The university is unveiling a new professional development grant, and one student is needed to serve on the committee that selects recipients of the grant funds.
Transfer Credit Arts and Science Working Group: A working group is being struck in order to implement changes to the way that transfer credits are awarded in the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Science. This is a big initiative that affects your study abroad experiences.

Other committee-related opportunities will arise throughout the year, so if you are interested in serving at a later date, please feel free to contact me.

Week of Welcome has what you need for your first week of class

News Staff - Sat Sep 03, 2011

Come one, come all, the annual Week of Welcome celebration is back! The U of A Students’ Union is providing a plethora of fun, food, and excitement with activities of all sorts. Free pancake breakfasts and a whole host of free musical performances are sure to entice the financially savvy, while food and beer can be found daily at the BBQ and Beer Gardens. Don’t forget to pick up your student handbooks at one of our info tents and check out the clubs fair to see what student groups have to offer you. Also, win some sweet prizing or get some delicious goodies from quad activities, which run daily Wednesday to Friday.

After the sun goes down, Week of Welcome has nightly shows guaranteed to entertain: from the sidesplitting comedic performance of hypnotist Wayne Lee, to the high energy music stylings of Dragonette ft. USS, to the free double feature movie night. Be sure to finish your first week of classes with a bang at the Mainstage event, which occurs in our very own Quad on the Saturday. This massive concert features a fantastic line-up of Michael Bernard Fitzgerald, The Midway State, and The Dudes, all topped off with the insatiable Shout Out Out Out Out. Get your tickets from one of our many ticket tables, or buy online if you just can’t wait.

For more details, check out the Week of Welcome website or visit the facebook page.

For more information please contact:
Student Programming Coordinators
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4241
E: wow@su.ualberta.ca

Applications Open for AcaDream Team

News Staff - Fri Aug 26, 2011

One of the goals for this year's Vice President (Academic) Emerson Csorba is the establishment of an AcaDream Team, which is an intensive advisory and planning group for the Vice President (Academic). The team will consist of around 10 students in total, which will meet twice per month at different locations on campus. Simply put, the AcaDream Team stems from the need for the Vice President (Academic) to engage in thoughtful and meaningful debate and discussion prior to making decisions that affect large numbers of students.

Applications for this committee are being accepted from August 26 to Friday September 2 2011, at 5:00 PM. Please submit a one-page letter to vp.academic@su.ualberta.ca, outlining why you are interested in serving on the AcaDream Team, in addition to providing a glimpse of citizenship/engagement experiences you have been a part of as a university student. Short telephone interviews may take place following the application deadline.

For more information please contact:
Emerson Csorba
Vice President (Academic)
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: vp.academic@su.ualberta.ca

SU By-Election Nominations Now Open

News Staff - Fri Aug 26, 2011

The Students' Union Elections Office is calling for leaders to "emerge from the crowded halls and security of their textbooks" and run as candidates in the upcoming Students' Council and General Faculties Council by-election.

The election will take place on September 29 and 30, 2011. Nomination packages are now available in 2-900 SUB and for download at www.su.ualberta.ca/vote. Completed nomination packages must be submitted by September 19 at 5:00pm.

For more information on the electoral process or available positions please visit the website listed above or contact the SU Elections Office using the contact information listed below.

Best of luck!

For more information please contact:
Zach Fentiman
Chief Returning Officer
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-7102
E: cro@su.ualberta.ca

ECOS Campus Community Garden to receive award from Sustainable Food Edmonton

News Staff - Thu Aug 11, 2011

August 11, 2011

The hard work of green-thumbed volunteers is being recognized today, following an announcement earlier this month that the University of Alberta’s Campus Community Garden will receive an award.

The garden, an initiative organized by the Students' Union’s Environmental Coordination Office of Students since 2005, has earned Sustainable Food Edmonton’s 2011 Community Garden Award.

Sustainable Food Edmonton’s mission is to encourage Edmontonians’ creation and participation in an “equitable and ecologically sound food system.”

“This recognition reinforces the SU’s commitment to citizenship and sustainability,” said Colten Yamagishi, SU Vice President (Student Life). “ECOS provides meaningful opportunities for students to improve the environment and build community.”

ECOS’ Campus Community Garden educates students and volunteers through workshops on gardening, composting, harvesting, food security, and sustainable lifestyles. The garden’s output is enjoyed by volunteers or given to the Campus Food Bank.

The two winners of the 2011 Community Garden Award were selected through a combination of online voting and judging by a group of representatives from City Council and Edmonton's various food security organizations.

The title will be given out today during a ceremony at City Hall.

For more information please contact:
Ian Moore
Director, ECOS
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-7134
E: ecos@su.ualberta.ca

SU Executive set out benchmarks for 2011-2012 year

News Staff - Thu Jul 28, 2011

President of the Students' Union, Rory Tighe, and the four Vice Presidents have compiled a list of goals they are planning to achieve during their term in office.

Each portfolio contains its own set of tasks, as the executive plans to do everything from getting voting booths on campus, to hosting an undergraduate research symposium, to revamping the food and services available for students.

The goals were presented to Students' Council on July 26.

The complete document can be found here.

Students Wanted to Help Plan Undergraduate Research Symposium

News Staff - Tue Jun 28, 2011

The Students’ Union will be holding its first-ever undergraduate research symposium in mid-November 2011. This symposium will celebrate the creativity and innovation of over one hundred undergraduate researchers from all faculties and will provide over $10 000 in awards. The event will kickoff with a dinner and keynote speech in Dinwoodie Lounge.

In order to facilitate the planning of the event, and make it as valuable as possible for students, Vice-President (Academic) Emerson Csorba is looking for five undergraduate students at-large to serve on the SU Undergraduate Research Symposium Planning Committee. If you are interested in participating on this committee, please send a one-paragraph response to vp.academic@su.ualberta.ca outlining your reasons for wanting to help plan this outstanding upcoming event. The deadline for applications to the committee has been extended to July 8 at midnight. Late applications (within reason) will be considered as well.

For more information please contact:
Emerson Csorba
Vice President (Academic)
University of Alberta Students’ Union
P: 780-492-4236
E: vp.academic@su.ualberta.ca

SU Managers converge in Edmonton to talk strategy

News Staff - Mon May 30, 2011

The University of Alberta Students’ Union is hosting the annual conference of the Association of Managers in Canadian College University and Student Centres (AMICCUS-C) from May 30 to June 2.

AMICCUS-C is a network of the permanent staff that work at student associations across the country and assist the elected representatives carry out their mandates.

Managers from across the country will meet in Edmonton to share ideas, network and collaborate.

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