By: Ben LeBlanc
My name is Ben LeBlanc, and I have served as the Chairperson for 2017/18 SSU Board of Directors. In the past 22 months, I have had the opportunity to be involved with several amazing individuals on the SSU Board of Directors. While attending Board meetings may not sound like the most incredible way to spend an evening, I believe that it is important to constantly improve the #SheridanLife, so each and every one of your Directors attend bi-weekly meetings to hear feedback from SSU Executives, consider important changes to Sheridan’s policies, and ensure that the student voice is heard at all levels.
I encourage each and every student to consider running in the upcoming SSU Board Elections because each of us has a voice, and it is important to utilize it to improve student life here at Sheridan. When I first campaigned for the Board, I platformed on issues such as cafeteria hours, library resources, and high ancillary fees. During my first year, I had the opportunity to sit on the Sheridan Ancillary Fee Committee, which is responsible for determining ancillary fees for students, and voice my thoughts to Sheridan administration about our fees. Additionally, I have been able to work closely with the SSU to advocate for more accessible washrooms on campus, and even assist with the development of HMC2A, the upcoming student center at the HMC Campus. Being profiled on social media, having the opportunity to sit down with Ontario’s Education Minister Deb Matthews, and even participating in a round dance at a recent Roberta Jamieson event are all some highlights of my involvement with the SSU Board of Directors. You never truly know what incredible opportunities await you!
So, this year, I encourage you to put yourself out there, and consider running for the Board of Directors, to actively make a difference on your campus. While you may not be planning events or organizing social campaigns, being a Director can give you the opportunity to guide the SSU to constantly focus on improving the lives of students, all while building your skills learned in the classroom. This is an opportunity you shouldn’t pass up, and I hope to see all your faces on campaign posters and business cards this year!
- Ben LeBlanc, HMC Director and Board Chair