A Reflection on SSU Student Governance
A Letter from the CRO - Three Months In Review
As we approach the end of the Fall 2023 term, and reflect on the impact made over the last few months, Dilas Siddiqui, your Governance Coordinator and Chief Returning Officer (CRO),will provide an update on what’s been happening on the student governance side of the SSU. Get a closer look at her transition from CSR to CRO, and discover what your SSU Board has been up to.
Where It All Started
Sitting at my first Board Meeting as the new Governance Coordinator was an amazing experience. The gravity of the decisions being made at the table made me realize just how much influence students can have when it comes to the operating activities of the SSU. Having worked as a CSR before, I knew the SSU offered many services designed to enhance the SheridanLife experience but attending these meetings made me realize that students are consulted every step of the way, and their feedback paves the way for important decisions that affect student life.
Achievements Over the Fall Term
In my first month, the Board achieved significant milestones. We approved the establishment of an Indigenous Emergency Fund, allocating $20,000 to support Indigenous students. Additionally, the International Health Committee, led by Harjot Sidhu, Vidhya Ganapathy Subramanian, Siddhi Gandhi, Sara Haider, Rajdeepkaur Jat, and Ademidun Abimbola, actively engaged with Guard Me representatives to address concerns regarding health and dental plans for international students.
The Board raised important concerns, including how to increase awareness about Guard.Me among international students and address the challenges many students have faced within medical institutions. The committee worked towards solutions, emphasizing the students' right to demand service in emergency situations under the Canada Health Act. Discussions also revolved around potential enhancements to the plan, particularly in dental coverage.
Transportation For Students
The Board, in collaboration with Kyle Budge, also explored transportation concerns, aiming to improve inter-campus options. Talks with transit companies and external organizations are underway to secure additional student discounts. Currently, the SSU also has a partnership with PRESTO and GO that provides Sheridan students with a 40% discount when traveling with GO.
Addressing Student Requests
In response to student requests, the Board made efforts to enhance recreational options on campus. Notably, the Board swiftly responded to students' feedback about inadequate ping pong equipment at HMC, ensuring that new equipment was promptly ordered. Board games like Chess, Checkers, and Monopoly were ordered, and 'Carrom' boards, as well as 'Foosball Tables,' will soon be available for student use. These initiatives reflect our commitment to creating an engaging and enjoyable campus environment.
Fall Retreat and Future Goals
The Fall term concluded with a retreat to Ottawa, where the Board engaged in workshops challenging their leadership skills. They collaborated on feedback from students, identifying key goals for the remainder of the academic year, including revamping financial aid, increasing off-campus events, addressing student housing issues, conducting a student engagement survey, just to name a few.
Looking Ahead
As we wrap up the semester, I encourage you to continue engaging with the SSU. Directors will be available during office hours at respective campuses next term, eager to listen to your input. Your voices shape our governance process, and we are committed to ensuring you are heard.
Wishing you a fantastic end to the semester and a well-deserved break! Stay tuned for exciting developments in the new year.
Best Regards,
Dilas Siddiqui
Governance Coordinator and Chief Returning Officer Sheridan Student Union