I don't need to remind you to do it.
I do just want to take a minute to complain that I woke up this morning, delirious with illness, but super excited to vote nonetheless. Instead I had to wait until about 4pm when I finally recieved the glorious email that allowed me to do the one thing I wanted to do today other than sleep.
Additionally, I'd just like to apologize to anyone following this blog but school/my current sickness have really been a detriment to my ability to keep this blog as well as I'd like to. That being said I wish all the candidates the best of luck over the next couple days. I anticipate the results.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Monday, February 9, 2009
Candidate profiles
What can we learn from them? There were a lot to read and I don't blame you if you didn't so I'll try and do a little summary for you.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
The Shuttle buses were the most oft quoted example here. The university's sustainable development team was also mentioned a fair number of times.
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
Student space was a big one here, many candidates mentioned that the bus strike brought this to the attention of many people. Additionally campus unity (in various forms) was mentioned as a large issue. Student power, tuition fees, and class sizes were all mentioned here as well.
According to the candidates these are the most important issues. Are they the issues that will decide your vote? Are student politicians in touch with all students?
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
The Shuttle buses were the most oft quoted example here. The university's sustainable development team was also mentioned a fair number of times.
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
Student space was a big one here, many candidates mentioned that the bus strike brought this to the attention of many people. Additionally campus unity (in various forms) was mentioned as a large issue. Student power, tuition fees, and class sizes were all mentioned here as well.
According to the candidates these are the most important issues. Are they the issues that will decide your vote? Are student politicians in touch with all students?
The Federators?
In the interest of digging deep down into issues that affect students I've had to wonder: "What could next year's 101 week supergroup look like?"
Well see what the SFUO exec candidates had to say for themselves.
Here's what I wanted to know:
1. What position will you be taking in the band?
2. What song would you most like to perform?
3. What is your best stage move?
4. The Beatles or The Rolling Stones?
VP Finance
Roxanne Dubois
1. I can dance! But signing is more likely!
2. Milord by Edith Piaf, why not!
3. Air guitar, or something of the likes!
4. Beatles!
VP Student Affairs
Michèle Lamarche
1.I have learned to play a lot of different instruments (flute, guitar, drums, xylophone, etc), but I have a disability that affects my hands which would probably affect the quality of the band. I guess I will have to sing…?
2. My favourite song is 'Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now' by Starship, but I have a feeling no one will get it seeing as how I am one of the few possible exec members who can actually remember the 80s, ha. I am thinking of singing 'I am Just a Girl' by No Doubt and maybe changing up the words to connect it to the SFUO, UOttawa and 101 Week. We shall see.
3.Hmmm… well if you ask my Arts Exec, they will tell you that I like to dance with swords… ;)
4.The Beatles.
VP University Affairs
Jeremy Stuart
1. Bass. No one wants to be bass, but I'm nerdy enough to qualify (I also love playing it)
2. "Hey, Hey, What can I do?" by Led Zeppelin
3. My best move is walking off the stage. The crowd really responds to that one!
4. The Beatles were crushed by the Rolling Stones!
Ted Horton
1. Lead Saxophonist / Backup Vocals
2. Your English is Good - Tokyo Police Club
3. Air Harpsichord
4. The Beatles
President
Seamus Wolfe
1. I will spend a little time a possible on stage - I am not the world's best singer
2. Haven't even thought of it, this year I did Fortunate Son by the Credence Clearwater Revival and it went well. I think I'll go down a similar road next year.
3. Not sounding terrible.
4. The Beatles for sure!
Renaud Philippe Garner
1. Pianist
2. Anything by Chopin
3. Setting the Piano on fire.
4. Pink Floyd.
To summarize: It looks like almost regardless, the Federators will have many singers next year. Does that mean we'll have Crosby Stills Nash and Young style harmonies? One can only hope. Additionally, almost everyone picked the Beatles except Renaud who picked Pink Floyd, and Jeremy who picked the Stones. I'll give Jeremy points for being different. Also, just on a personal note, I think the VP University Affairs candidates have the best taste in music.
All other candidates were emailed but their reponses were not recieved. Poor showing from the VP social candidates in my opinion.
Well see what the SFUO exec candidates had to say for themselves.
Here's what I wanted to know:
1. What position will you be taking in the band?
2. What song would you most like to perform?
3. What is your best stage move?
4. The Beatles or The Rolling Stones?
VP Finance
Maureen Hasinoff
1. I'd totally be the front singer!
1. I'd totally be the front singer!
2. I would probably perform either We will rock you or dancing queen
3. Doing the jive
4. The BeatlesRoxanne Dubois
1. I can dance! But signing is more likely!
2. Milord by Edith Piaf, why not!
3. Air guitar, or something of the likes!
4. Beatles!
VP Student Affairs
Michèle Lamarche
1.I have learned to play a lot of different instruments (flute, guitar, drums, xylophone, etc), but I have a disability that affects my hands which would probably affect the quality of the band. I guess I will have to sing…?
2. My favourite song is 'Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now' by Starship, but I have a feeling no one will get it seeing as how I am one of the few possible exec members who can actually remember the 80s, ha. I am thinking of singing 'I am Just a Girl' by No Doubt and maybe changing up the words to connect it to the SFUO, UOttawa and 101 Week. We shall see.
3.Hmmm… well if you ask my Arts Exec, they will tell you that I like to dance with swords… ;)
4.The Beatles.
VP University Affairs
Jeremy Stuart
1. Bass. No one wants to be bass, but I'm nerdy enough to qualify (I also love playing it)
2. "Hey, Hey, What can I do?" by Led Zeppelin
3. My best move is walking off the stage. The crowd really responds to that one!
4. The Beatles were crushed by the Rolling Stones!
Ted Horton
1. Lead Saxophonist / Backup Vocals
2. Your English is Good - Tokyo Police Club
3. Air Harpsichord
4. The Beatles
President
Seamus Wolfe
1. I will spend a little time a possible on stage - I am not the world's best singer
2. Haven't even thought of it, this year I did Fortunate Son by the Credence Clearwater Revival and it went well. I think I'll go down a similar road next year.
3. Not sounding terrible.
4. The Beatles for sure!
Renaud Philippe Garner
1. Pianist
2. Anything by Chopin
3. Setting the Piano on fire.
4. Pink Floyd.
To summarize: It looks like almost regardless, the Federators will have many singers next year. Does that mean we'll have Crosby Stills Nash and Young style harmonies? One can only hope. Additionally, almost everyone picked the Beatles except Renaud who picked Pink Floyd, and Jeremy who picked the Stones. I'll give Jeremy points for being different. Also, just on a personal note, I think the VP University Affairs candidates have the best taste in music.
All other candidates were emailed but their reponses were not recieved. Poor showing from the VP social candidates in my opinion.
Jeremy Stuart Update
Jeremy has updated his site with a series of videos (in English only). The website looks good, the videos are low quality but a nice way to communicate. Check it out here.
Iain Brannigan (BOA SocSci)
1.What is your name, what position are you running for, and could you please sum up your platform in one sentence?
My name is Iain Brannigan and I am running for BOA (Social Sciences). My platform in one sentence is - supporting student empowerment while educating and encouraging more respect to our environment.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
One thing the admin is doing right is the shuttle service they supplied during the bus strike.
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
One of the largest problems on campus is the lack of respect for the environment (or student apathy in general).
4.What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
I will stick to my ideals and cut the massive surplus of rhetoric that plagues politics. I will also bring pita and hummus.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
If I came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in my office - I would congratulate my dealer for having some good shiz.
My name is Iain Brannigan and I am running for BOA (Social Sciences). My platform in one sentence is - supporting student empowerment while educating and encouraging more respect to our environment.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
One thing the admin is doing right is the shuttle service they supplied during the bus strike.
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
One of the largest problems on campus is the lack of respect for the environment (or student apathy in general).
4.What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
I will stick to my ideals and cut the massive surplus of rhetoric that plagues politics. I will also bring pita and hummus.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
If I came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in my office - I would congratulate my dealer for having some good shiz.
Tyler Steeves, Amy Kishek. What are they up to?
Well I saw Tyler Steeves at Subway today, working the excruciatingly long lineup. I didn't have a chance to speak with him since I was just on my way out when he arrived but he certainly has a charismatic personality.
However, I keep seeing his posters in groups of 3 which I think is a little much. How frequently are 3 people trying to look at the same poster at the same time in the same exact space?
Amy Kishek was in the University Centre today, she had a table set up and stuff. I was trying to get to class but she looked pretty happy so I'll assume things were going well? Maybe Amy can clarify? Her facebook status says she has fruits and cookies.
However, I keep seeing his posters in groups of 3 which I think is a little much. How frequently are 3 people trying to look at the same poster at the same time in the same exact space?
Amy Kishek was in the University Centre today, she had a table set up and stuff. I was trying to get to class but she looked pretty happy so I'll assume things were going well? Maybe Amy can clarify? Her facebook status says she has fruits and cookies.
The last day before voting
And this blogger has fallen unpleasantly ill. It's quite unfortunate, but I'll mention what was seen during my time out in the world today while my neocitran cools off.
TBT 333- 1pm
Lots of presentations so they were saddled with a 1 minute deadline by the professor who had his timer ready to go. Who spoke?
Mike Fancie- Pointed out that part time students can't vote for Senate or BOG. Said he'd like to change that. Also wants Student Appeal time shortened. The points are fair, although judging by his survey of the room they aren't particularly relevant to most of the students there. He should aim towards issues that affect all students in ways they can appreciate.
Roxanne Dubois- Roxanne's approach to the 1 minute limit wasn't pick your battles, it was speak faster. Which can make things a little difficult. She is the only one I remember writing on the chalkboard though, and she was polite, staying until the end of all presentations and thanking the professor. Mentioned consultative budgets again etc.
Michèle Lamarche- Essentially asked people to vote yes for her, and explained the e-voting a little bit.
Maureen Hasinoff- I only saw Maureen speak in the debates before where she seemed uncomfortable. Today it definitely seemed as though Maureen had more support. She pushed for the kitchen in 1848 again and using Chartwell's as a target seems to work to her advantage. Additionally she spoke of the budget being posted online. She stuck to a few key points which I thought worked well.
Peter Flynn- Peter took the minimalist approach to a new level today. He basically said "Peter Flynn, tomorrow, wednesday, thursday online, BOA, responsibility, integrity, and transparency." And he was done. People seemed to support that. Or the fact that it was so short. Who knows.
TBT 333- 1pm
Lots of presentations so they were saddled with a 1 minute deadline by the professor who had his timer ready to go. Who spoke?
Mike Fancie- Pointed out that part time students can't vote for Senate or BOG. Said he'd like to change that. Also wants Student Appeal time shortened. The points are fair, although judging by his survey of the room they aren't particularly relevant to most of the students there. He should aim towards issues that affect all students in ways they can appreciate.
Roxanne Dubois- Roxanne's approach to the 1 minute limit wasn't pick your battles, it was speak faster. Which can make things a little difficult. She is the only one I remember writing on the chalkboard though, and she was polite, staying until the end of all presentations and thanking the professor. Mentioned consultative budgets again etc.
Michèle Lamarche- Essentially asked people to vote yes for her, and explained the e-voting a little bit.
Maureen Hasinoff- I only saw Maureen speak in the debates before where she seemed uncomfortable. Today it definitely seemed as though Maureen had more support. She pushed for the kitchen in 1848 again and using Chartwell's as a target seems to work to her advantage. Additionally she spoke of the budget being posted online. She stuck to a few key points which I thought worked well.
Peter Flynn- Peter took the minimalist approach to a new level today. He basically said "Peter Flynn, tomorrow, wednesday, thursday online, BOA, responsibility, integrity, and transparency." And he was done. People seemed to support that. Or the fact that it was so short. Who knows.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Hey Seamus! speaking of "NO!" campaigns...
Millennium Villages
None other than current VP social Joël Larose has translated his letter to the Fulcrum on the subject into an actual campaign. There has been a heated discussion on the elections homepage, as well as in the Fulcrum and now it seems to be coming to a head. I think there's little doubt that this is the most controversial of all the referendums this year and the debate seems to be heating up rather than cooling down.
None other than current VP social Joël Larose has translated his letter to the Fulcrum on the subject into an actual campaign. There has been a heated discussion on the elections homepage, as well as in the Fulcrum and now it seems to be coming to a head. I think there's little doubt that this is the most controversial of all the referendums this year and the debate seems to be heating up rather than cooling down.
More videos from Dominic Villeneuve
I like Dominic Villeneuve for two reasons. One, I've met him a couple times now and he's a really approachable guy, which is a good quality for anyone seeking to win a representative position. Two, he always lets me know when he's putting new videos up, which saves me some trouble of checking his site. Anyway, here's the new one (the English one which I think is clever, and the French one which shows off his singing ability)
English
Français
English
Français
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Another update from Model Parliament
So Model Parliament today saw some highs and lows. And some candidates were there too!
I think everyone who was previously mentioned as being there was there again. Aminka Belvitt who's running for BOA was there as well. And what happened:
Peter Flynn DID table documents attesting to his high economics grades. If that doesn't sway anyone's votes one way or another, he did start spinning his arm in the air and bouncing around like a rodeo clown during 2nd reading of a bill. He also has a firm handshake.
Iain Brannigan was there, he talked about how if he was on the BOA he'd like to see more recycling initiatives as well as things about student power. the $35 fee to split tuition payments came up as well and he's certainly targeted that. He also promises me the answers to my questions will finally be arriving in my inbox soon.
Cam Gray (for BOA) was there as well. A few things not really BOA related: he likes his pizza, he hates e-coli, and it's hard to say he's not a nice guy.
Being the, I assume, most political student association on campus means that political debate is fairly likely to occur. Here is what people were saying in a segment I'd like to call...
Word On the Street
There appears to be an anti-Seamus sentiment amongst students; one campaign volunteer who shall remain anonymous said he/she would drop his/her candidate's campaign in order to run a "No to Seamus campaign."
No clear alternative is being proposed either. Some say Steeves but mention his poor debate performance as an obstacle. Others say Renaud is "idealistic." And not neccessarily in a good way.
Marc Kelly was immediately rejected as a viable candidate.
Vaguely Related
I think everyone who was previously mentioned as being there was there again. Aminka Belvitt who's running for BOA was there as well. And what happened:
Peter Flynn DID table documents attesting to his high economics grades. If that doesn't sway anyone's votes one way or another, he did start spinning his arm in the air and bouncing around like a rodeo clown during 2nd reading of a bill. He also has a firm handshake.
Iain Brannigan was there, he talked about how if he was on the BOA he'd like to see more recycling initiatives as well as things about student power. the $35 fee to split tuition payments came up as well and he's certainly targeted that. He also promises me the answers to my questions will finally be arriving in my inbox soon.
Cam Gray (for BOA) was there as well. A few things not really BOA related: he likes his pizza, he hates e-coli, and it's hard to say he's not a nice guy.
Being the, I assume, most political student association on campus means that political debate is fairly likely to occur. Here is what people were saying in a segment I'd like to call...
Word On the Street
There appears to be an anti-Seamus sentiment amongst students; one campaign volunteer who shall remain anonymous said he/she would drop his/her candidate's campaign in order to run a "No to Seamus campaign."
No clear alternative is being proposed either. Some say Steeves but mention his poor debate performance as an obstacle. Others say Renaud is "idealistic." And not neccessarily in a good way.
Marc Kelly was immediately rejected as a viable candidate.
Vaguely Related
Update from the Fancie Camp
I have what I am told is exclusive information from the Mike Fancie campaign. Look out for an update from him on empowering students and campaign funding on Monday. Additionally, he has informed me that he has removed a banner from Tabaret in response to Kyle Simunovic's loss of a banner which according to Kyle's website occurred on Thursday.
Fancie says: "I want this campaign to be equitable and just, so in sympathy I felt it was the right thing to do."
More to come on Mike Fancie's run for Senate as it develops.
Fancie says: "I want this campaign to be equitable and just, so in sympathy I felt it was the right thing to do."
More to come on Mike Fancie's run for Senate as it develops.
Maureen Hasinoff (VP Finance)
1.What is your name, what position are you running for, and could you please sum up your platform in one sentence?
My name is Maureen Hasinoff and I am running for the position of V.P. finance. My platform is based on changing the current system that is in place so that students are effectively represented and have a voice in the SFUO.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.My name is Maureen Hasinoff and I am running for the position of V.P. finance. My platform is based on changing the current system that is in place so that students are effectively represented and have a voice in the SFUO.
I think that the bus service that was provided for the students was one of the most effective and used campaigns by the University Administration, it really was there to meet the needs of students when they were literally stranded.
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
I think the largest problem on our campus is the lack of student space. Students need space to study, to hang out, to meet and we really do need to improve on the amount of space we have on campus. We need to make sure were utilizing our space effectively to meet the needs of students.
4.What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
I bring a fresh perspective of someone who is determined, self-suffient and who has the experiance in finances. I bring new ideas and new plans that reflect students and what they need out of their student federation.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
I would take it home with me, i've always wanted a pet elephant.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Election news?
Ok, so I spent the majority of my evening at model parliament. Several candidates are taking part:
Peter Flynn (BOA SocSci)
Iain Brannigan (BOA SocSci)
Cam Gray (BOA SocSci)
Ivy O (BOA SocSci)
Austin Menyasz (BOG)
Kyle Simunovic (BOA SocSci and Senate)
What did I learn? Not much, it's been busy in the Senate but I can tell you that:
Peter Flynn is willing to table evidence that he passed 2 first year economics courses (with A+'s!)
Iain will act in unparliamentary manners (and be forced to apologize for them).
Austin Menyasz is hungry after a night in the Senate. That and he appreciates that this new round of politics is a break from the other politics.
Kyle Simunovic makes member's statements about fictional old ladies who make wonderful jam in the BC riding of: West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country (which is the most ridiculous riding title of all time.)
I'll see what I can dig up tomorrow.
Peter Flynn (BOA SocSci)
Iain Brannigan (BOA SocSci)
Cam Gray (BOA SocSci)
Ivy O (BOA SocSci)
Austin Menyasz (BOG)
Kyle Simunovic (BOA SocSci and Senate)
What did I learn? Not much, it's been busy in the Senate but I can tell you that:
Peter Flynn is willing to table evidence that he passed 2 first year economics courses (with A+'s!)
Iain will act in unparliamentary manners (and be forced to apologize for them).
Austin Menyasz is hungry after a night in the Senate. That and he appreciates that this new round of politics is a break from the other politics.
Kyle Simunovic makes member's statements about fictional old ladies who make wonderful jam in the BC riding of: West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country (which is the most ridiculous riding title of all time.)
I'll see what I can dig up tomorrow.
Roxanne Dubois (VP Finance)
1.What is your name, what position are you running for, and could you please sum up your platform in one sentence?
Roxanne Dubois, VP Finance, Ensuring a responsible management of the SFUO's ressources while reinforcing our strong social engagement.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
Diffusing the projects we have been trying to push forward with them!
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
Commercialisation: unclear criteria for the selling off of different parts of campus (buildings, student spaces, buildings).
4.What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
I bring a vision for the position of VP finance that is looking further than the actual numbers: making sure we keep a strong social engagement through our initiatives and budget priorities.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
I would talk about it! (the elephant in the room...get it? :p )
(Roxanne's elephant response made me lol)
Roxanne Dubois, VP Finance, Ensuring a responsible management of the SFUO's ressources while reinforcing our strong social engagement.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
Diffusing the projects we have been trying to push forward with them!
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
Commercialisation: unclear criteria for the selling off of different parts of campus (buildings, student spaces, buildings).
4.What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
I bring a vision for the position of VP finance that is looking further than the actual numbers: making sure we keep a strong social engagement through our initiatives and budget priorities.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
I would talk about it! (the elephant in the room...get it? :p )
(Roxanne's elephant response made me lol)
Sarah Jayne King (BOA SocSci)
1.What is your name, what position are you running for, and could you please sum up your platform in one sentence?
Sarah Jayne King for BOA Social Sciences. I am running for students - strong voices, food security, equity, health and sustainability, and anti-oppression.
Sarah Jayne King for BOA Social Sciences. I am running for students - strong voices, food security, equity, health and sustainability, and anti-oppression.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
The University of Ottawa administration is doing a good job of keeping students out of the loop in important matters (or seeking tokenistic input) like the Senate recording policy. But on a truly positive note, our Sustainable Development team is pretty awesome.
The University of Ottawa administration is doing a good job of keeping students out of the loop in important matters (or seeking tokenistic input) like the Senate recording policy. But on a truly positive note, our Sustainable Development team is pretty awesome.
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
The largest problem on campus is the lack of student space. There is far too much corporate interest on campus, and not enough space for students to study, eat, and socialize.
The largest problem on campus is the lack of student space. There is far too much corporate interest on campus, and not enough space for students to study, eat, and socialize.
4.What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
I can bring a great deal of experience having sit on other boards (like OPIRGs) in the past. I am a person with strong convictions who is willing to listen and understand the needs of others.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
If the elephant was Austin Menyasz, I would ask him to kindly leave if had nothing constructive to offer. If the elephant was kind, I would offer her some water.
(I would like to say that I've found this one of the most entertaining sets of responses yet. She gave both a sarcastic and real response to the administration question, which is interesting. Additionally, she took a shot at Austin, and who doesn't love some election excitement?)
I can bring a great deal of experience having sit on other boards (like OPIRGs) in the past. I am a person with strong convictions who is willing to listen and understand the needs of others.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
If the elephant was Austin Menyasz, I would ask him to kindly leave if had nothing constructive to offer. If the elephant was kind, I would offer her some water.
(I would like to say that I've found this one of the most entertaining sets of responses yet. She gave both a sarcastic and real response to the administration question, which is interesting. Additionally, she took a shot at Austin, and who doesn't love some election excitement?)
A Quick Update
Today will be a slow blog day. I've got work to do, I have things around my apartment to do and I'm preparing for model parliament which starts tonight, and I'm barely on campus today. So, sorry.
There are other excellent blogs running as well if you're in dire need of news. I will continue posting questionnaires as I receive them from candidates running for all sorts of positions, if you never received a questionnaire let me know how I can email it to you, or just send me the answers to the questions you see everyone else answering: uoelection09@live.ca
Additionally, I have a couple projects I think are interesting in the works and they will be announced as soon as I can do so with some certainty as to their success. Lastly, look forward to some referendum info being posted here soonish (and if you're on a referendum committee, feel free to email me! You can get some space up here too!)
I'll probably post later on tonight, although who knows what kind of things I'll have to post.
ps. Does anyone know all the posting rules? Because I saw a certain high profile candidate had 3 posters grouped together? Is this allowed. (Morrisset stairwell if you're interested)
There are other excellent blogs running as well if you're in dire need of news. I will continue posting questionnaires as I receive them from candidates running for all sorts of positions, if you never received a questionnaire let me know how I can email it to you, or just send me the answers to the questions you see everyone else answering: uoelection09@live.ca
Additionally, I have a couple projects I think are interesting in the works and they will be announced as soon as I can do so with some certainty as to their success. Lastly, look forward to some referendum info being posted here soonish (and if you're on a referendum committee, feel free to email me! You can get some space up here too!)
I'll probably post later on tonight, although who knows what kind of things I'll have to post.
ps. Does anyone know all the posting rules? Because I saw a certain high profile candidate had 3 posters grouped together? Is this allowed. (Morrisset stairwell if you're interested)
Stephanie Marentette (BOA SocSci)
1.What is your name, what position are you running for, and could you please sum up your platform in one sentence?
Stephanie Marentette, BOA Social SciencesPlatform in one sentence: The BOA has a serious visibility problem that I hope to change so that more students in my faculty become aware of things going on on campus and who they can talk to if they have questions or things they would like to see happen on campus.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
I think that the Univeristy Administration is decently able to adapt to bizarre situations such as the bus strike. Providing shuttles and having the President of the university offer up his own residence to try and encourage people to let students stay in their homes until the strike was over was a good effort. Some people may not have been helped by this or felt that it was good enough, but at least something was done to try and help students get to class. I also like how involved Allen Rock is in running the university. By doing things such as staying in a student residence to be able to better understand how it feels to be a first year and to offer up his home proves that he cares about the university and the students who go here. Having the univeristy function the way it is supposed to depends on good leadership at the top, which we are very
fortunate to have.
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
The largest problem on campus is the fact that in order to get anything done, there is this huge and complicated process that seems to change on a rotating basis which I feel is a real deterrence to student groups on campus. I personally have experienced this myself through trying to speak
to people on campus about UNICEF events that the club has tried to launch. There was one time where I spoke with person A, who then told me to talk to person B. Person B then referred me back to person A, who then said talk to person C. Person C then sent me to person D, and this continued for about a week. That is absolutely ridiculous and I feel that student clubs and groups with really valuable ideas and events to offer to students do not achieve anywhere near as much as they could if they had a bit more support and that support was effective.
4.What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
I can bring to the table my experience and my approachability. Everyone running for the BOA has really great ideas that they want to see implemented, which I do as well. But what separates me is that I will take into consideration not just my ideas, but those of the students I represent, and I will achieve the best possible result for our faculty through my ability to work with others. It doesn't do anybody any good if the person representing them only pushes their own agenda and is not able to effectively work with the other members of the board.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
I would be pretty excited since I've always wanted a pet elephant :)
Stephanie Marentette, BOA Social SciencesPlatform in one sentence: The BOA has a serious visibility problem that I hope to change so that more students in my faculty become aware of things going on on campus and who they can talk to if they have questions or things they would like to see happen on campus.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
I think that the Univeristy Administration is decently able to adapt to bizarre situations such as the bus strike. Providing shuttles and having the President of the university offer up his own residence to try and encourage people to let students stay in their homes until the strike was over was a good effort. Some people may not have been helped by this or felt that it was good enough, but at least something was done to try and help students get to class. I also like how involved Allen Rock is in running the university. By doing things such as staying in a student residence to be able to better understand how it feels to be a first year and to offer up his home proves that he cares about the university and the students who go here. Having the univeristy function the way it is supposed to depends on good leadership at the top, which we are very
fortunate to have.
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
The largest problem on campus is the fact that in order to get anything done, there is this huge and complicated process that seems to change on a rotating basis which I feel is a real deterrence to student groups on campus. I personally have experienced this myself through trying to speak
to people on campus about UNICEF events that the club has tried to launch. There was one time where I spoke with person A, who then told me to talk to person B. Person B then referred me back to person A, who then said talk to person C. Person C then sent me to person D, and this continued for about a week. That is absolutely ridiculous and I feel that student clubs and groups with really valuable ideas and events to offer to students do not achieve anywhere near as much as they could if they had a bit more support and that support was effective.
4.What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
I can bring to the table my experience and my approachability. Everyone running for the BOA has really great ideas that they want to see implemented, which I do as well. But what separates me is that I will take into consideration not just my ideas, but those of the students I represent, and I will achieve the best possible result for our faculty through my ability to work with others. It doesn't do anybody any good if the person representing them only pushes their own agenda and is not able to effectively work with the other members of the board.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
I would be pretty excited since I've always wanted a pet elephant :)
Martin Schoots-McAlpine (BOA Arts)
1. 1.What is your name, what position are you running for, and could you please sum up your platform in one sentence?
My name is Martin Schoots-McAlpine, I'm running for the BOA-Arts, and to sum up my platform in a short phrase (one better than a sentence!): student power.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
The administration is setting up a committee to try and improve the "student experience". Bare in mind that they hand-pick who will sit on said committee, the lack of a democratic process is appalling, and the administration's past connection to student issues is laughable at best. We'll see where this goes... I have my doubts that we'll see any improvement. But hope springs eternal, as they say.
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
The largest problem on campus is the lack of power students have. There are all kinds of "minor" problems (minor in that they should be easy to fix, not minor in that they don't matter) such as: poor quality cafeteria food, poor service in residence, not enough electrical outlets in class rooms, music students don't have enough stands, the library isn't open long enough, etc. . However, if students exercised power, we would see all of these problems evaporate: as it stands, not only is the administration not concerned with student issues, but even if they were the administration wouldn't be able to address these problems properly because they aren't students and therefore don't know what the "student experience" is.
4.What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
I will bring my analysis of campus power-relations, as well as a genuine interest in what students need, and connecting with students to find out what students need. I don't think any other candidate, bar maybe a few, has a similar focus.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
Well, if it was a meeting of the Committee to Find the Missing Elephant, I'd run back to the meeting room and tell them that our problem had been solved. If it wasn't, I'd ask the elephant politely to get out of my office.
My name is Martin Schoots-McAlpine, I'm running for the BOA-Arts, and to sum up my platform in a short phrase (one better than a sentence!): student power.
2.Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
The administration is setting up a committee to try and improve the "student experience". Bare in mind that they hand-pick who will sit on said committee, the lack of a democratic process is appalling, and the administration's past connection to student issues is laughable at best. We'll see where this goes... I have my doubts that we'll see any improvement. But hope springs eternal, as they say.
3.What is the largest problem on campus?
The largest problem on campus is the lack of power students have. There are all kinds of "minor" problems (minor in that they should be easy to fix, not minor in that they don't matter) such as: poor quality cafeteria food, poor service in residence, not enough electrical outlets in class rooms, music students don't have enough stands, the library isn't open long enough, etc. . However, if students exercised power, we would see all of these problems evaporate: as it stands, not only is the administration not concerned with student issues, but even if they were the administration wouldn't be able to address these problems properly because they aren't students and therefore don't know what the "student experience" is.
4.What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
I will bring my analysis of campus power-relations, as well as a genuine interest in what students need, and connecting with students to find out what students need. I don't think any other candidate, bar maybe a few, has a similar focus.
5.And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
Well, if it was a meeting of the Committee to Find the Missing Elephant, I'd run back to the meeting room and tell them that our problem had been solved. If it wasn't, I'd ask the elephant politely to get out of my office.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Couple videos I've seen up
Michèle Lamarche (VP Student Affairs)
1. What is your name, what position are you running for, and could you please sum up your platform in one sentence?
My name is Michèle Lamarche and I am running for Vice-President of Student Affairs. The main focuses of my platform are support and resources for our clubs, services and students as well as ameliorating student life on campus in general.
2. Name one thing the University of Ottawa administration is doing right.
I am proud of the way that the UofO handled the bus strike. They organized shuttle service and offered downtown housing options to students. What great stories you could collect after living in Allan Rock's house for a few weeks!
3. What is the largest problem on campus?
For me, I consider student space a large problem. There is simply not enough room for the amount of students who attend the University of Ottawa. As the student population continues to grow, so should the space and the resources for the students. The students pay to be here and they should not feel as though they have no where to go or that they are in the way. This is an important topic for me and I look forward to working towards rectifying this problem.
4. What can you bring to the SFUO/BOA/BOG that no other candidate can (aka why should someone vote for you)?
The three words that I have chosen to describe myself during my campaign answer this question: my initiative – my dedication – my experience.
5. And to steal a question from my co-op workbook: if you came back from a meeting and there was an elephant in your office, what would you do?
I would send it back for a camel.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)