Ryan Ackers
21 years old; 2nd year; Studying Poli. Sci and American Studies
Ticket: We the Students
Website: www.wethestudents.ca
Past and Present U of T Involvement: Though I have no SAC experience, I gained university student council experience on the University College Literary and Athletic Society. I was the Deputy of University Affairs on this council, and worked to plan events such as a women’s studies lecture featuring Dr. Sylvia Bachevkin. Other responsibilities included planning events like the Valentine’s Day event at University College. I currently generate money for the University working for the University of Toronto Telefund. This job has helped me develop excellent communication skills, which are crucial for a smooth student government.
Platform: My main objective as VP External is to work with all levels of government, as well as external support groups that save U of T students money, with an emphasis on the tuition freeze. I plan to work with the Rae Review to ensure that U of T gets the money it needs to remain the top academic school in Canada, while working with external support groups to ensure that students do not have to pay for the anticipated tuition hike. I have also contacted numerous Queen’s Park MPs in regards to the OSAP reform recommended by the Rae Review. Other objectives include an expansion of student services and an increase of funding to student groups. Finally, I plan to help support the community through charities, as the University of Toronto could not function without its city.
Why You?: My approachable and friendly nature has allowed me to forge strong relationships with many students during my time at U of T. I collaborate well with others, a trait which will aid me in my efforts to work effectively with all levels of government, external support groups that save students money and my fellow SAC executives and board members to make SAC an efficient and friendly council.
The last book you read that wasn’t assigned for a class: The Best Grillpan Cookbook Ever, followed by The Family, by Mario Puzo.
What do you take in your coffee?: A fine grind expresso shot of Higgins and Burke…Black…fine grind…not coarse grind…and with one of those little cute fancy coffee cups…and a doilie.
Ashwin Balamohan
No response.
Jennifer Hassum
22 years old; 3rd year; Student in History and American Studies
Ticket: Progress
Website: www.voteprogress.ca
Past and present U of T involvement: I have been a Queen’s Park intern, an executive on the Arts and Science Students Union, a former club president, and currently serve as Deputy Vice President External. I was central in organizing students’ response to the Rae Review on Post Secondary Education as well as the key organizer of the February 3rd “Reduce Tuition Rally.” As well, I successfully lobbied for a second TTC Metropass sales location at the New College Residence, helping to shorten line ups.
Platform: I will continue to work on maintaining the tuition fee freeze. The Rae Report contains many problematic recommendations that will result in higher tuition and greater debt loads. I intend to be an advocate against any regressive moves in our post-secondary education system. I will also work to expand TTC Metropass sales locations to Engineering as well as St.Mikes/Vic. I believe we can win a greater discount from the TTC through a concerted lobbying effort by students across the city. Another key issue I will work on is allowing international students to work off campus. Lastly, SAC should start using their resources to highlight international humanitarian issues, such as the continuing crisis in Darfur, Sudan.
Why You?: It’s odd that during student election times everyone seems to come out in favour of the tuition freeze or even reductions. The thing that differentiates myself is that I have shown a commitment to these issues all year round, not just during a two week election campaign. I feel that I have the best experience when it comes to issues of post-secondary education. I am capable of both lobbying Queen’s Park on behalf of students in a professional and knowledgeable manner while having the skills to organize and mobilize students on campus. We need someone ready to work from day one to make sure that students’ voices and concerns are not ignored. The assault on accessibility is very real and very concerning, but I have the commitment to stand up for students and the skills to advocate effectively for students.
The last book you read that was not assigned for a class: Breakfast of Champions, by Kurt Vonnegut
What do you take in your coffee?: I like my sugar with coffee and cream 🙂
Jonathan Jaffit
No response.
Kasia Wichrowska
19 years old, 2nd year studying International Relations
Ticket: Diversity
Website: www.votediversity.com
Past and present involvement at U of T: This year I was a director at the NAMUN conference. This task involved lots of exhaustive research work, as well as the ability to work with a large and diverse group of people. I’ve also been involved with the United Nations Society. On my spare time, I’m a judge of rhythmic gymnastics, something that requires leadership and commitment. I’ve also volunteered with the Liberal Party of Canada extensively, so I know how to lobby them. Finally, I’ve also been involved with the Polish Student’s Association.
Platform: Education is a right, and students should be able to get it, regardless of their financial situation. I will lobby the Governing Council and the government to make sure that the tuition freeze that is in place right now continues. Also, I will lobby both the university and the government to reduce Engineering, Commerce and Science fees. It is not fair that they pay up till four thousand dollars more per year for a comparable education. I will also re-evaluate our commitment to CFS as I do not believe that the last referendum was fair. I will also lobby the TTC to mail metropasses to your house. Finally, I will get SAC involved in social justice events. I think SAC should have held a university wide Tsunami Relief Concert recently. I see unfulfilled potential here, and I think that if we speak with one voice, we can make a difference.
Why you?: I think the most important thing that the VP External can have is a drive to get the job done. I’m a very committed individual, and have the motivation to work hard on these issues of tuition freezes, and TTC lines. I’m also an outsider to SAC, so I’m bringing new ideas to it, a new mind for old problems. I think it is crucial to have a fresh perspective. I also possess political experience; from my volunteering with the Liberal Party…it taught me of how things got done in our political system. I want to use this knowledge for you!
The last book you read that was not assigned for a class: A Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide, by Samantha Power
What do you take in your coffee?: I’m not a coffee person. Tea any day of the week!
