The Athenaeum

Tag: SRC Meeting

  • SRC Decoded: What you missed March 19th, 2021

    SRC Decoded: What you missed March 19th, 2021

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Friday at 1:00 PM on Teams, however, they would usually meet in the Beveridge Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    The SRC met last Friday afternoon over Teams for their weekly meeting. After quickly taking attendance and passing the agenda, the meeting began. This meeting focused primarily of the ASU Bylaw review with some conversation also surrounding SOMETHING

    The significant matter brought to the floor was the possibility of an annual general meeting (AGM), which was addressed by Lydia Houck, VP Academic, and Robbie Holmes, VP Student Life. Lydia asked the rest of the council for suggestions on the best times/dates that would provide the best turnout for both council members and the student body. Robbie added that this would be a valuable event for incoming members of the council to gain information through student feedback so they can best represent their constituencies next year. The biggest question was whether to host the meeting before or after exams; council members saw benefits and drawbacks to each, but it seemed they were leaning towards holding it shortly after exams. No final decisions were made.

     

    The Ripen Partnership

    Brendan MacNeil led this discussion, first explaining that Ripen is a platform for work-integrated learning by allowing employers across any field of work to post a project for students. Students who are registered can then sign up to do this project – these are intended to be done as class projects –, allowing them to gain valuable work experience and be compensated for it (through the Canadian government) while the employer benefits from the work. The ASU has signed up for this initiative as an employer so that they can hire students, giving them the opportunity to gain valuable work experience related to their degree, and get paid for it! Brendan went on to explain that this program is available equally to all degrees, but since it is a government-funded program through taxpayer dollars, it is available only to domestic students. He mentioned that when the ASU met with the program coordinators to register, this issue of opening this opportunity up to international students was a significant topic of discussion and something they are committed to continually addressing. Robbie explained their plans for working with provincial student organizations to help lobby the government into expanding the program. Jordi Chaffer, Science Senator, spoke up, asking whether the ASU would continue with the program if it did not open up to international students, highlighting the unfair advantage this opportunity would give to domestic students.

    Lydia Houck spoke up, explaining that what she thought it was the most important remember that this program was in the very early stages of its implementation; the federal government wanted to gather initial data on the program’s functioning and that an expansion to include international students is something that would hopefully be eventually included by the time the program started running at Acadia. Many council members spoke up to stress the importance of ensuring the playing field is levelled for all students at Acadia. As this was just a discussion item, not a motion, the conversation ended shortly thereafter.

    Menat Tahoun, Professional Studies Senator, led the next topic of discussion, regarding international student representation on SRC. She explained that although in the past years there has been a much more diverse council, it would be valuable to create a position whose sole purpose is to represent and advocate for international students. Menat reasoned that this would ensure international student representation on the council, regardless of which students fill other roles – international or not. Chairperson Molly Anderson paused the conversation to add that this has been a matter of discussion in previous councils and that during those conversations the final consensus was generally that international students fell under the jurisdiction of the Diversity and Inclusion Representative. Soyini Edwards, who currently fills that position, expressed her concern that by putting these students under her representation, her position becomes a “melting pot” for any diverse representation at Acadia, and agreed that a council member dedicated solely to the representation of international students would be very useful. Robbie Holmes, VP Student Life, spoke up in support of this idea and also theorized about some ways it would work logistically so that international students did not have to choose between running for the International Student Representative and another role on SRC. Lara Hartman, Arts Senator, added how this type of position would also be important for other groups on campus, such as a representative for Indigenous students. Soyini made an impassioned speech echoing what she and other councillors had previously said, and driving home the idea that if the SRC is not doing their job to represent all students at Acadia, then the council is irrelevant.

    Lara Hartman spoke up to voice her distaste for the tokenized role that students who are non-white/Canadian have been on council, essentially being given the role or presenting, in Lara’s case all Indigenous peoples on campus, despite her role as the Arts Senator. She problematized this pattern of tokenism and suggested that the solution would be more seats for diverse populations on the council. Robbie Holmes answered, apologizing on behalf of the council if any of their actions made her feel that way, and concurred that this phenomenon of visible minorities representing their population on council rather than or in addition to their official position is something that needs to change. Robbie made the motion to direct this conversation to the Governance Committee, and that motion was passed.

    After a few brief announcements, namely a bylaw review happening next week that students are encouraged to go to and a Women’s Conference on the 27th, this week’s meeting was adjourned.

  • SRC Decoded: What you missed on March 12th, 2021

    SRC Decoded: What you missed on March 12th, 2021

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Friday at 1:00 PM on Teams, however, they would usually meet in the Beveridge Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    The council met this Friday with some new faces in the meeting! After general housekeeping (attendance, acceptance of agenda) the council opened up the floor for a question period. Colin Mitchell, recent Acadia Alumni, former Editor-in-Chief for the Athenaeum, Board of Governor Representative, and Arts Senator began the question period.

    For some context, a hot topic during the past week has been the possible cutting of funding for Axe Radio and the Athenaeum by switching them from Internal Organizations (IO) of the ASU to make them clubs. This idea was brought up because the ASU needs to balance and budget and is currently in a deficit. Robbie Holmes, VP Student Life, clarified that this was not a matter that would be voted on any time soon, and also highlighted some potential benefits that this would give those organizations, in his opinion.

    Colin made an articulate speech making the case to retain honoraria for these organizations, highlighting the significance of the Axe Radio and Athenaeum as a part of the freedom of the press at Acadia, saying they were the “the only two sources of union media of Acadia’s campus”. Colin explained that while it may be necessary for the ASU to make changes so as to cure their deficit, cutting these radio and newspapers from the Union only to suggest they ratify as clubs is not the best solution. Colin emphasized the work these organizations do in supporting and representing the voices of students, the great challenges the Athenaeum has endured (from WWI to COVID-19) and the necessity of free press on campus. He asked that anyone who is capable, please vote ‘no’ to any cuts to honoraria for the Athenaeum or Axe Radio.

    Robbie Holmes took the floor to answer, clarifying that their intention would be to fund these clubs through grants and that the idea of a levy would be fantastic.

    Colin finished by reemphasizing his passion to see the continuity of these organizations, making a personal commitment to do pro bono work making running a referendum to ensure the Ath is no longer a liability to the ASU.

    Next up, Chris, an Acadia Alumni from 2019, took the floor. He shared that he shared many similar sentiments to Colin, explaining that while he was involved in many different clubs and organizations while at Acadia, the most meaningful of them was his involvement in the Athenaeum. Chris made an interesting point that while the council members may wholeheartedly and genuinely like to guarantee these organizations the grant money they have spoken of, that word is only good so long as “their butts are in their seats”, meaning when these positions turn over – which most will next year – there is no longer the same commitment. Chris also mentioned that it would be unfair to take this opportunity away from students, especially those to hope to have PR or journalism in their future. Chris finished by thanking the council for having him and asking them to please make the right choice on this matter.

    Lydia Houck spoke up and clarify that these conversations being had at the council were not in any way trying to limit or prevent the freedom of the press at Acadia. She mentioned that if in the future there were to be a motion to separate the organization from the ASU she would be interested in making the motion conditional to the ongoing insurance of grants for the clubs.

    Blake Steeves, VP Events and Promotions, asked the Alumni attending the meeting what their thoughts were on possible funding from Alumni or the Alumni’s Association. Chris answered that quite frankly he wasn’t sure, but he knew personally he would willingly contribute money to the Ath “for the rest of time” and he had a feeling that if the ASU did reach out to Acadia alumni for financial support of the Ath, they would have no trouble at all with money. He also mentioned that journalists need to be protected as writers and that the ASU offers them a certain degree of protection allowing them to write more honest, important, and perhaps personal articles than they would be able to otherwise.

    Mary Tajeddin, Graduate Studies Senator, asked the Athenaeum Alumni two questions; the first being how did/does the Ath ensure the students hear them. Chris volunteered to answer, explaining that while it is really hard, if not impossible to be heard by the student body on the budget the Ath is given, especially as their resources become increasingly meagre. He said matter-of-factly that “it is hard to reach people with next to no money… Being heard comes down to a dollars and cents kind of conversation”.

    Kyle, another Acadia Alumni who was an editor and contributor for the Athenaeum during his time at Acadia, spoke next. Kyle emphasized the importance, in his perspective, of the Ath remaining an IO, reasoning that having the ability to say you are an employee is much more valuable than having a club membership status, especially when it comes to future employability. Kyle argued that there are very few opportunities for journalism in Nova Scotia, so the Ath is extremely valuable for students. Kyle added that the job he has now, as a Technical Writer, was obtained in part because of the extensive experience he acquired during his time with the Ath. Kyle also echoed Chris in saying that any decisions made to support these organizations right now, unless made extremely securely and worded precisely, will be vulnerable to future council decisions.

    Robbie Holmes answered this, assuring that these motions would be well-written. He then reiterated Mary’s second question, asking about the significance of hard copies, as did the paper online could be a great way to reduce costs. Alex Surette, Sustainability Representative, seconded that opinion, agreeing that going online would help cut down costs, be more accessible to students, and also be more sustainable. Colin subsequently reiterated what Chris mentioned, bringing home to point that the Ath simply cannot, in his opinion, operate the same capacity when they are being continually pressured to cut their budget and function on next to no funds. He added that the value of having print paper lays in its accessibility to the demographic of the Wolfville population who may not be so tech-savvy, and is much more comfortable using printed paper; he stressed that this helps bind the students and permanent residents of Wolfville, which is always a priority.

    As the conversation drifted further away from the question period and more into the matter that would only be appropriately discussed with the current Athenaeum staff present, Chairperson Molly Anderson reminded folks to stay on topic and suggested that if a meeting needed to be had with the Athenaeum, that is something they could set up in the future.

    After hearing from another Acadia Alumni, Christine who highlighted the historical significance of having print copies for students to read, Lara Hartman, Arts Senator, gave an impassioned speech stressing that this decision mattered, criticizing herself and the council for being so unresourceful that Alumni had to come in and help them solve these issues, and highlighting the importance that Ath has in providing a place for a diversity of voices to be expressed. She notably called out President Brendan MacNeil for writing in an email that “this was an elected council of sixteen students from an intentionally diverse background…” when, as Lara explained, there was no intention behind it. She continued that each member of the council made the decision themselves to run; they were not encouraged by anyone due to their potential diversity. Lara finished by reemphasizing the necessary role the Ath has in supporting student voices and making it clear that she is backing the Athenaeum Alumni one hundred percent.

    Brendan MacNeil spoke up, sharing his desire to “speak to what this matter actually is at hand”, explaining how he felt the conversation had become dominated by questions of the Athenaeum, student newspaper, and freedom of speech, while the reason this was brought to the table in the first place was to discuss the monetary partnership between the ASU and its IOs (Axe Radio and the Ath in this case), specifically the consequences of those IOs do not live up to the agreements in their constitutions. Brendan expressed his concern that it seemed the only reason to fund the Ath was that it needed more money to do its job. He explained that the ASU is providing funding to the Ath and is not seeing any outreach on their behalf – be it advertisements, student engagement, other promotional opportunities, or adequate content being published.

    Soyini Edwards, Diversity and Inclusion Representative and photographer for the Ath, asked why the organization was not given any notice of this concern before it was discussed in the meeting. Brendan MacNeil suggested she defer to Alicia Johnson who manages the IOs.

    There was some debate about the level of independence of the Ath could have while it was still an Internal Organization, as well as about the amount that was being published this year, and how much of the possible lack of publication could be accredited to the global pandemic we find ourselves a year into.

    Christine spoke to voice her concern not for the specific future of the Ath or Axe Radio, but rather for the future and vulnerability of IOs at Acadia if they can be turned into clubs so easily upon the perception of a less productive year and without a referendum. Blake Steeves and Robbie Holmes both clarified that they agree there should be student consultation upon these decisions.

    Rylie Moscato, current Editor-in-Chief of the Athenaeum, joined the meeting and took the floor to allow attendees to ask any questions they may have. Lara Hartman asked Rylie if, to her knowledge or the knowledge of any other member on her team, the Ath had been warned that it was not functioning to standard, to which Rylie replied no, it had not come to her attention.

    Brendan Keeler spoke up to clarify, once again, that this issue was brought up as a point of discussion, not as an item to be voted on, and also stated that at present, all IOs are within budget. Brendan also asked Rylie what the Ath was doing in terms of the available add space on their prints that have the potential of creating revenue for the Ath, to which she replied that while they were reaching out to many businesses in both Wolfville and New Minas, there was not much interest. She also mentioned that while there were some successful advertisements on their online editions, they could not cash that money until it reached 100 dollars.

    Molly Anderson necessarily moved the meeting forward, as the discussion was not going to end in any motion or decision, and the council agreed that this would be a good conversation to follow-up on in an organized and planned matter later on.

    Lydia Houck, VP Academic, made an announcement regarding her meeting with Academic Affairs. She explained that they talked about the various projects that the Senators are looking to undertake and well as the possibility of academic “mini councils”; their goal is for them to create a formal proposal and plan that they can pass onto the incoming council as there is not much time left in the term. Lastly, Lydia mentioned that they had conservation about potentially making the extended W and F a more permanent decision.

    The next topic of discussion was the new Policy document that the Executive created, which was passed by the Governance Committee. Most changes made to the document were conventions that have been in place all along and are now written officially. The council passed the new Policy.

    After a few last small discussions, the meeting was adjourned.

  • SRC Decoded: What you missed March 5th, 2021

    SRC Decoded: What you missed March 5th, 2021

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Friday at 1:00 PM on Teams, however, they would usually meet in the Beveridge Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    The SRC met again last Friday for their weekly meeting, and with some new faces! This week the council members were shadowed by some of the new elects for next year. Attendance was quickly taken; the agenda was passed (after a few new items were added), and the council members who participated in the general election declared a conflict of interest and agreed not to speak during conversations regarding election results.

     

    New Business

    The council discussed their election process and brainstormed how it could go more smoothly in future years, as well as ways it went well this year. Of specific concern was ensuring that ballots go out to all students at once, as this year part-time students initially did not receive a ballot. The SRC motioned to accept the election results and it was passed. It should be mentioned that although the Sustainability Representative was successfully elected, he officially resigned and the position will be filled through the by-election next year.

     

    Announcements

    Jordi Chaffer, the Science Senator, was looking for suggestions on types of prizes he could give out for the project he has been working on. It seemed that the general consensus was gift cards, but not much discussion relating to the matter was had.

    Soyini Edwards announced that she is running an initiative with the women’s center, to host a women’s conference, titled “Women of the World”. She explained that it will be virtual, and will run in about two weeks. The proposal was quickly passed by the council and Kevin George made his proposal, to run a movie night for students at the end of the term to help students relax while exams ramp up. Black Steeves, VP Events and Promotions, mentioned that Kevin will have to be cautious about how food could be eaten and shared, considering COVID-19 restrictions and safety. More, the capacity of the KCIC is extremely limited, which should be put into consideration as well. Keeler suggested that Kevin could show the movie a few times so that more people could participate. Overall, the council was very helpful and supportive in this plan and it seems it has great potential. The motion was made to accept the proposal, conditional on a report back to the council next week with more specific details.

    Menat Tahoun, Professional Studies Senator, took the floor next to present her proposal. “Chats with 2020 Alumni”. She suggested that this would be a really helpful way to ease graduating students’ anxiety about entering the world with a new degree while the world is in a global pandemic. She said that she is still working through the logistics of the platform she will use, but otherwise, everything has been planned. The project proposal was passed by the council, and Brendan MacNeil led the next conversation. He explained that he wants to run a bunch of surveys to get good insights into how this year went for students and help prepare for next year. These surveys will be tailored to different subjects, such as finances, orientation week, and mental health. Brendan hopes that this will provide students with the opportunity to provide useful feedback on their feelings about this year as a student, especially throughout the pandemic. Another council member proposed to break the surveys down to more faculty-specific categories, and Brendan concurred that the surveys as they stood would do that by nature. Maria suggested that an area be provided to give feedback on Accessibility Services, as it seems many students this year have had frustrating experiences while trying to work with them. Many other council members agreed that they had heard the same things and that this opportunity for feedback would be an appreciated and beneficial idea. Robbie Holmes suggested that students are given an opportunity to provide feedback on how they felt their classes went this year, considering the student experience this year was completely different. Lara Hartman, the Arts Senator, suggested that there also be a place for Indigenous Students to provide feedback, and Brendan agreed that this was a great idea.

    There’s was some discussion about physical accessibility and the council agreed that Acadia’s campus had much work to do to improve its accessibility.

     

    Budgeting

    Brendan Keeler, VP Finance and Operations,  announced that the ASU was in a deficit, due in part to the pandemic no doubt, and that team had brainstormed the idea to cut the Axe Radio and the Athenaeum from funding and to ratify them as clubs, where they could apply for grants. He reasoned that this would not create any major changes to either program and would significantly help the budget. Brendan explained that this would eliminate the honorariums given to members of these programs would affect some people’s decisions but also reasoned that if individuals have a passion for these types of activities, then doing it as a club or hobby may be beneficial as students would have more time to produce content.

    Sadie MacAlear, Community Relations Representative, expressed her concern that if students are putting the time and effort into producing content, then they should be fairly given credit for that. Soyini Edwards, who is a photographer and manager for the Ath, worried that this cut could effectively dissolve the Ath for periods because students are much more accountable to jobs that they must do (in this case in order to be paid) rather than doing something because they like to, especially when the school can be so busy.

    Menat, who works for Axe Radio, asked Brendan Keeler to clarify what differences, other than the honorarium, would be noticed if these programs went from internal organizations (IOs) to clubs. Brendan explained that these IOs are receiving funding from the ASU’s operating budget right now and that this change would save that money.

    Brendan Keeler added that this was a decision that would ideally be made by next week and that if anyone had thoughts or questions to contact him before then.

     

    Wrap Up

    Alex Surette, the Sustainability Representative, announced that the new waste stations are being put up to provide the four-stream recycling program – keep an eye out for them in the SUB! Lydia Houck announced that following her meeting with the Board of Governors, it seems like students who were charged an overload fee who took a year-long 3 credit hour course will be reimbursed. Great news!

  • SRC Decoded: What you missed February 26th

    SRC Decoded: What you missed February 26th

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Friday at 1:00 PM on Teams, however, they would usually meet in the Beveridge Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    This week’s meeting began as per usual with a roll call and the approval of the agenda.

    Before any discussion began, Chairperson Molly Anderson warned there would be the talk of the election, giving Sadie McAlear and Menat Tahoun – who are both running in the election – the opportunity to declare a conflict of interest and agree to refrain from conservation around that topic.

    The first item of discussion was surrounding the Neighbors Helping Neighbors initiative, where Acadia students volunteer to assist residents in Wolfville with tasks like yard work, technology, or just provide some company! VP Student Life, Robbie Holmes assured that the event was still happening.

    Next up, Jordi Chaffer, the Science Senator, filled the council in on the small-scale turned large-scale project that he has been a part of. He explained that the Research and Graduate Studies Dean who he has been working with, will be proposing their project to the other Deans in the weeks to come and that it seems the university staff see it as a great opportunity to pull in prospective students. Jordi emphasized his desire to ensure this project continues to be student-led, and that there seems to interest and support within the student body to ensure that can happen. Mary Tajeddin suggested that there be two award categories: one for ongoing research and the other for early lit-review proposals. Other council members seemed to think this was a great idea.

    Bylaws were the next topic of discussion. Molly announced that the council will be holding several bylaw review sessions with students and that members are expected to be fully versed on those bylaws so they are prepared and can adequately explain and discuss them with students. Robbie necessarily added that if members do not understand the bylaws well enough to discuss them with students, then they shouldn’t be voting on them. Lara Hartman, Arts Senator, gave full disclosure stating that she has a plate fully loaded with commitments meaning she may not be able to attend these sessions, despite her best intentions. Mary Tajeddin echoed those thoughts. Brendan MacNeil added that he is hoping for as much student engagement throughout these sessions as possible so that members should try and advertise them as best they can.

    Brendan MacNeil led the conservation into a discussion about the Career Services Centre. He explained how he wanted to bring forward a motion regarding the SRC’s commitment to the centre in relation to Matthew Rios’s presentation last year (refer to SRC Decoded article for October 26th for a recap). Brendan explained his desire to increase the support – which is currently lacking – that students receive from Acadia. This would be anything from resume and interview workshops, to preparing for the workplace as a professional, to assist with job placements. This initiative is a cooperation between the Alumni Association, the university, and the ASU with the ultimate goal of developing a high functioning and effective Career Services Centre at Acadia that is supported and run by Acadia after four years. Brendan’s proposal is regarding what the ASU can commit to this project.

    Firstly, he inquired what amount of work these committees can invest to support this professional development project for the student body. He went. Brendan said that he feels that student-run organizations have a history of doing really good work in this department already, but with a new budget they would have many more opportunities. That being said, Robbie put forward the first motion: to ensure that ASU groups work in an environment of collaboration with the Career Services Centre of Acadia, including but not limited to funding grants available to them as student organizations under the ASU. Brendan seconded the motion, and it was passed unanimously.

    The second motion regarded the ASU’s monetary contribution to this project. Brendan suggested that the ASU contribute their own $10,000 each year in addition to the $350,000 across 3 years from the Alumni Association. He explained that the two roles in Career Services at present are funded by the Alumni Association and his proposal is to create four more student positions that are funded by the ASU which are devoted to programming for students. He explained that there is a $150,000 reserve in the Student Wellness Fund which can only be spent on student wellness and that the ASU takes the yearly 10 thousand from there. Alex Surette, Sustainability Officer, asked whether the student positions would remain even after the Centre is transferred to the university and Brendan MacNeil answered honestly that he did not know. He went on to mention the council has the power to make that conditional upon approval; when the power is transferred to the university, they can put in the contract that those student positions must be maintained. Brendan moved this motion: to allocate $10,000 annually for the next three years from the accrued capital of the Wellness Fund to the Acadia Career Services initiative, pending approval by the Financial Affairs committee, with a yearly re-evaluation by the ASU executive, conditional that the ASU make some form of commitment to carry-on these initiatives after year-four. Soyini Edwards seconded the motion and it was passed unanimously.

    Next up Molly addressed an issue that occurred during the ballot distribution for the election. General election ballots were accidentally only distributed to full-time students at first, so the council thought it best practice to extend the period of time for the ballots to be submitted so that those students who received theirs late weren’t rushed to vote. Brendan Keeler motioned to extend the voting period by 24 hours for all associate members of the Union, to conclude at 4:30 pm on Saturday, February 27th, the voting period for all ordinary members of the Union will remain the same, as indicated in the previous election plan that was submitted to SRC. Alex Surette seconded the motion and once again, the council passed the motion unanimously (save those with a conflict of interest).

    Molly passed the conversation to Alex Surette, who wanted to discuss his project proposal. He proposed to create a sustainability page on the ASU website which would include past and current sustainability initiatives that have occurred on campus that the ASU have been involved with. This would also provide a place for students to access different contacts and see how they can become more involved. Menat motioned to make his proposal, Lydia seconded it, and the council passed it.

    Lastly, Community Relations Representative, Sadie McAlear made a proposal to the council to create a Wolfville Vlog Series that engages students and permanent residents in Wolfville. Some examples would be a video compilation of people in Wolfville answering the question “What is Wolfville to you?”. Sadie emphasized her desire to help bring the residents and students together to create a tighter-knit community and thought this project would be a great way to facilitate that. Alex motioned to accept the proposal, Menat accepted in, and the council passed it.

    After a few more short conversations the meeting for this week concluded.

  • SRC Decoded: What you missed February 19th, 2021

    SRC Decoded: What you missed February 19th, 2021

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Friday at 1:00 PM on Teams, however, they would usually meet in the Beveridge Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

     

    Commencement

    After a quick roll call, Chairperson Molly Anderson put forward the meeting’s agenda and VP Academic, Lydia Houck, asked to add a motion under new business.

    As per usual, Molly asked if there were any conflicts of interest, and unusually, the council had to decide whether some of its members should abstain from the conversation in this meeting, as it regarded the ASU election, which some council members were running in. Sadie McAlear, Kevin George, and Menat Tahoun, who are all running for re-election, declared conflicts of interest and agreed to refrain from speaking in that conversation.

    Zach Goldsmith inquired as to the logistics of council members meeting virtually or in-person for council meetings once they were able to do so, bringing up the point that many Theology students are not on campus and it may be more accessible for members to have the option of attending virtually. Robbie Holmes replied that he believed the general consensus was that for the foreseeable future, their hope is that those who can attend in-person will, but those who cannot, will be able to attend their meetings virtually. Molly concurred that the option for members to attend meetings virtually is something that is in the works in terms of being protected by SRC policies.

     

    New Business

    The only issues left on the agenda after this was new business, where Lydia had asked to discuss the option for a vote abstention on the election ballots. She explained that historically there has been an abstention option on the ballot (meaning for any given question, you had the option to select abstain, and not vote either way) and that students are wanting that option back. Danish, who runs the elections, agreed that the option to abstain would be beneficial and even get a better voter turnout, according to the feedback he received after the last election.

    After this discussion, Lydia moved to include an abstention option on the ballot for all positions in all ASU elections moving forward, including the ASU 2021 election.

    Danish clarified that in regards to needing a two-thirds majority to win a vote, an abstention vote would not count as an “against” vote, it would simply not be accounted in the vote at all. Robbie suggested that they instead motion to add the abstention option for only candidate positions, not referendums. This is because they do not want students to choose to abstain from voting in referendums by cause of laziness and think that removing the option to abstain in referendums will help promote more student engagement in their government. This motion was passed unanimously (save the members who declared a conflict of interest).

     

    Announcements

    Alex Surette made a quick announcement that he is working to create a video to show how to use the new waste sorting resources that are coming onto campus. Molly quickly reminded members that they were expected and encouraged to attend the general debate and to ask provoking questions. Finally, Brendan MacNeil issued a formal apology to the council about the motions that were debated in the previous meeting, as he felt he had not given the council enough time to prepare and enough context to enable them to effectively and informatively discuss the matters.

     

    Conclusion

    The meeting ended shortly thereafter, and the council spend the rest of their time in an informal work period.

  • SRC Decoded: What you missed February 12th

    SRC Decoded: What you missed February 12th

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Friday at 1:00 PM on Teams, however, they would usually meet in the Beveridge Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    The meeting started as per usual with a role call and the passing of the agenda. Chairperson Molly Anderson ensured there were no questions, presented the previous meeting’s minutes, which were quickly accepted, and stated that there were no presentations or tables of matters.

     

    Report to Council: Board of Governors Meeting

    The first matter of business was a report to the council from the Board of Governors meeting which happened on February 12, by Brendan MacNeil. He gave a brief summary, stating that student engagement in the university’s activities was much higher this term, both in terms of their participation in and running of events, as well as their physical presence on campus. Brendan suggested that this means students are feeling much more stable studying during these unprecedented times. Brendan also mentioned that the new vendor for the student health and dental plan has been finalized and that they will be releasing that information within the next week or so.

     

    Updates

    The meeting moved on to address committee updates, and the Sustainability Officer, Alex Surette, took the lead. He said that he is currently looking to gain members on his committee and that he is also meeting with the Town of Wolfville Environmental Sustainability Committee to discuss plans with the Dykes regarding climate change-induced flooding. Alex also mentioned that he is working with Acadia’s Sustainability Representative and got funds approved for new waste management in the SUB which is going in this week!

    Soyini Edwards, the Diversity and Inclusion Representative followed, giving her updates. Soyini explained that their committee has been more focused on the larger Acadia Diversity and Inclusion Committee but that she is working on making the smaller ASU committee more cohesive too.

    Next was VP Student Life, Robbie Holmes, who says his upcoming goal was to reach out to our international student population, as many of them have shown interest in joining the committee at the university.

    Blake Steeves, VP Events and Promotions, finished off the updates by explaining that his committee has had trouble coordinating their meetings recently, but that he has been working on organizing more events for students in the weeks to come.

     

    Bylaw Referendum Question

    Brendan MacNeil led the meeting into their next topic: the bylaw referendum. He discusses the process that has been happening under the Governance Committee, wherein the bylaws are being entrenched into the constitution. However, the constitution dictates that this process cannot happen without a referendum which acquires at least a two-thirds majority vote from the students, therefore a referendum vote needs to be on the next election’s ballot. The official question would read: “Be it resolved that the ASU by-laws be added into the ASU constitution, referred to as Article 1 of the bylaws, starting at bylaw Article 4”. However, the issue was wording this question in a way that’s accessible for all Acadia students. Zach Goldsmith elegantly suggested a clarity paragraph that could be put above the question, explaining its significance, and other members on the council seemed agreeable to his statement. Brendan MacNeil suggested that these proposed changes go into effect May 1st, 2021, in accordance with the transition of roles in the SRC.

    Tensions rose in the meeting as council members such as Lydia Houck and Blake Steeves brought up their concern with the order of events regarding their changes to the bylaws as well as the amendment of the constitution. To give some context, the SRC is currently working on refining their current bylaws, and the concern surrounds the issue of students voting to entrench a set of bylaws into the constitution which they have not yet seen, and which could be continually changed until April 30th. Brendan MacNeil suggested that this was inevitable if the council wanted to achieve both before the end of the term. Lara Hartman, the Arts Senator, and a graduating Politics student shared her opinion, agreeing that it seemed “snakey” and that she suspected if students had a full understanding of the situation, the vote may not go through.

    Zach Goldsmith spoke next, explaining that though he understood those concerns, he believes the ultimate goal of the referendum – protecting the bylaws from being changed on a whim – is extremely important and suggested adding that these bylaws are still under review into the referendum question.  Robbie Holmes echoed Zach, adding that he saw value in ensuring that the bylaws that they were cementing were appropriate and worthy of being entrenched, but also reinforcing the shared concern of having students vote on something they do not know.

    Brendan Keeler spoke up, saying he agrees there is reason to ensure the security of those bylaws. Soyini Edwards agreed that so long as students fully understood the implications of this referendum, then that it was a good idea. Brendan MacNeil quickly added that he felt this decision would be empowering to the students, in that it would protect the fabric of their government from rash decisions in the future.

    An abstention option was proposed to provide students who perhaps didn’t feel comfortable or knowledgeable an option to abstain from voting on certain issues, which several council members supported, while others worried that providing this option would make the running of elections vulnerable to being redundant.

    After some discussion about the logistics of the abstention option, Brendan MacNeil put forward the motion to include the ASU bylaws be added under the ASU constitution, beginning May 1st, 2021.  Lara asked if the question could also include a place for a description of what the question is proposing, to give students context. Brendan agreed and proceeded to propose the motion and included adding a description to the question that is reviewed by the council the following week. Brendan MacNeil abruptly left the meeting, so the motion he brought forward died (as no one seconded it), and a new motion was proposed, which read “motion to add ASU bylaws to the ASU constitution upon the approval of proposed bylaw amendment by the 2020/21 Student’s Representative Council”. Lydia Houck seconded that motion but was opposed by a massive majority of the rest of the council, and the motion failed.

    The conversation regarding the election ended as chairperson Molly Anderson said she needed consultation before moving that conversation any further forward.

    The meeting ended shortly thereafter.

  • SRC Decoded: What you missed February 5th

    SRC Decoded: What you missed February 5th

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Wednesday at 5:30 PM in the Beveridge Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    The student’s representative council continued their weekly meetings last Friday, here is what you missed:

    Bylaws and Constitution: Out with the old, in with the new!

    The council started off by quickly adopting the minutes from their previous meeting and then the show hit the road. President Brendan MacNeil and ASU General Manager Meghan McDonald started with a presentation about the bylaws review that is happening within the Governance Committee. Brendan explained why this process was necessary and important; many of the rules regulating the SRC were at the wrong levels within the constitution, making them either too vulnerable to change or unnecessarily difficult to change. He explained that the Governance Committee was “cleaning up” those regulations to make both the SRC more accountable to their constitution and to make the constitution itself more reinforced and succinct.

    Brendan went on to discuss his hopes for the Union and student engagement. He is hoping that with this new level of transparency and clarity, students will be more engaged with the policies that govern their student government, as well as participating in it. He touched on the importance of the bylaws protecting their organization from third-party organizations who may be predatory on student governments and leave them bankrupted. Brendan wrapped up by explaining that the financial manager will be sitting on the finance committee to ensure there is a failsafe who knows the internal details of the Union’s finances and when decisions are being made by that committee. Meghan McDonald briefly mentioned the introduction of “society fees” which would support any society under the ASU to create their own society fees.

    Attendance

    The council went into a discussion about the nails and bolts of the bylaws, discussing the impeachment process for members of the SRC and ensuring the policies were logical across the different faculties and schools (especially the Divinity College and the Graduate School). Zachary, Theology Senato, brought up an interesting point regarding member attendance to the meetings; he questioned whether or not the council needed to motion to accept a member’s reason for regret when they miss a meeting, at the beginning of the said meeting. Brendan MacNeil answered cautiously that he wants to ensure attendance is the norm, not absence, and he worries that if accepting regrets becomes a part of the weekly meetings, then absences generally will be more frequent. Zach responded that he understands that absences should not be normalized, but wondered whether it was something the council should be doing if it is suggested in their bylaws and Chairperson Molly seconded that it maybe be quite helpful for there to be an explicit procedure to acknowledge absences so that they happen less frequently and for serious reasons only. The council decided to sit on that topic and discuss their opinions next week.

    Announcements

    Members gave a few high-level announcements and updates on their own initiatives.

    Election and Referendum

    Molly moved onto the issue of running an election with only one candidate as a YES/NO vote. Brendan and Zach, who were there a few years ago when the process changed, explained that this event has gone in and out of practice because its benefits and consequences seem almost equal: while having this type of election is a good safeguard for democracy and ensuring that a person does not fill a role when students do not deem them appropriate, the election has a history of being landslides votes ‘yes’ and being essentially redundant, while also being costly for the ASU. The discussion ended with the committee unanimously deciding to reimplement the YES/NO voting option for unopposed candidates in all ASU elections beginning with the winter 2021 election season.

    The committee finished up their meeting with a couple of quick announcements before signing off for the day!

  • SRC Decoded: What you missed January 29th, 2021

    SRC Decoded: What you missed January 29th, 2021

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Wednesday at 5:30 PM in the Beveridge Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    After some general grounds-keeping conversations and new introductions, the Student Representatives Council started their meeting!

    This meeting centred mostly on the goals each council member had for the rest of the term.

    Lara Hartman began with her plans, highlighting her desire to ensure she is supporting arts students as best she can (as the arts senator).

    There was a short change of topic, while Lydia Houk discussed the possible re-emergence of a program wherein the Town of Wolfville councillors are paired with members of the SRC as part of a mentorship program. Lydia thought this would be an especially valuable opportunity for the new members. Brendan MacNeil then briefly touched on an opportunity for council members to collaborate with the Sustainability councillor for the Town of Wolfville before turning it over to Sadie McAlear, the new Community Relations Councillor.

    Sadie emphasized that she’d like to have a better understanding of the SRC, make stronger connections within the community, and also some projects that she would like to undertake. Lydia followed mentioning goals surrounding getting feedback from a diverse population of students and also having more collaboration between the students and the faculty. Robbie Holmes proceeded, sharing his aim of helping ensure a smooth transition within position roles, as he has much familiarity with the council. Brendan Keeler said he had plans to make information more readily available and straight-forward for future VP Finances as well as creating a full volunteer program for the Finance office.

    Alex Surette spoke about his goals to bring more students into the sustainability initiative as well as a sustainability project focused on reusing clothing. Blake Steeves went next and described his goal to run a successful social media campaign for the general election and to ensure Cheaton happens! Jodi Chaffer said he would like to continue growing and establishing his initiative from last semester researching campus and also to increase MCAT and LSAT studying support for students. Zach Goldsmith strives to be a good bridge between the Theology Department and the ASU and to hold the event which he organized last semester. Menat Tahoun put an emphasis on her desire to communicate well with the incoming professional studies senator and make a smooth transition. Molly Anderson said she would like to make decisions and discussion within the SRC as accessible and comprehensible as possible to students, and also properly storing and archiving outstanding documents. Finally, Brendan MacNeil shared his goals. He would like to increase the employability of students as Acadia and to equip them with as many tools as possible throughout their education so that they are prepared to enter the workforce. Additionally, like many others, Brendan aims to ensure the transitions of roles happen smoothly and effectively.

    The council wrapped-up with a few small conversations and the meeting was adorned!

  • SRC Decoded: What You Missed November 18th

    SRC Decoded: What You Missed November 18th

    I hope everyone had a good reading break! The SRC did not meet for a couple of weeks because there were no motions to pass; however, they resumed their weekly meetings last Wednesday. Here is what they discussed:

    The first topic of discussion was centered around an audit which should close on December third (the statements will then be released). Of particular interest were the funds of the previous grad classes of Acadia (dating back around twenty years). Though Alumni Affairs has requested the possession of these funds on the basis of an alleged agreement, President Brendan MacNeil stated that no such contract has been recorded, so the funds will remain within the ASU. The logic behind this is that the reason the funds were initially paid to the ASU was so that the funds of previous students could be spent on current ones. MacNeil went on to explain that these funds would go into a capital fund and would likely be spent on a “large capital project”. When the funds are spent, recognition will be given to the grad classes who these funds came from.

    Academic Affairs

    Academic affairs reported a meeting had with students, largely in response to how their academic experiences were going this term. Overall, students are feeling overwhelmed, they lack motivation, and are just generally having a hard time. This most common feedback was that most professors are assigning a larger number of small assignments which results in more stress for students. Academic Affairs has compiled some possible recommendations they could bring forth to different bodies, such as providing a mental health “tool kit” that could be shared with students, having an evaluation during the term so profs can get real-time feedback and adjust accordingly, and finally extending the drop without F grade deadline until the end of the term.

    Governance committee and the review board

    These two bodies are both currently have enough missing seats to function at an appropriate level. The hope is that after the by-election, the issue can be re-visited and perhaps resolved. The SRC anticipates filling the rest of the governance committee positions after the by-election.

    Student Consultation Day

    Brendan MacNeil explained a new initiative he has recently planned where all the Deans, the Provost, and Peter Ricketts are given an opportunity to get feedback from their students and engage with them. MacNeil has recommended that senators find a way to share this information with the student in their discipline and encourage them to sign up for this opportunity on November 30th.

    A short announcement was made by Lydia Houck regarding the “councillors to councillors” initiative. This involves connecting councillors from the SRC with councillors from the Town of Wolfville to promote the university to community relations and create valuable relationships. The plan as of the meeting is the resume this initiative after the results from the by-election come in.

    Announcements

    Zach, the Theology Senator, is doing a Q&A to “ask a Theologian anything” in effort to help shine some light on the seemingly mysterious discipline of Theology (hint: it’s not the study of rocks). He will advertise this event via word of mouth and email. He, alongside his professor Steven, will discuss questions like: why study theology? How does theology apply to students outside of its discipline? And more. Questions can also be submitted beforehand or asked live!

    Diversity and Inclusion representative Soyini Edwards is planning an event where students can “beat the hell” out of piñatas to help destress. Stay tuned!

     

  • SRC Decoded: What you missed October 28th, 2020

    SRC Decoded: What you missed October 28th, 2020

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Wednesday at 5:30 PM in the Beveridge Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    This week’s meeting started as usual with a land acknowledgment and the acknowledgment of the ASU’s statement of autonomy. Missing from this meeting was the Arts Senator, VP Student Life, and the Sustainability Officer. After rolls were called, the agenda was passed, and the meeting began.

     

    ELECTION UPDATE

     

    Chairperson, Molly Anderson, explained that the By-Election received no student interest and therefore the Council has the option of opting not to run an election with no candidates for the sole sake of the referendum question. The other option, she explained, would be for the council to run the election again. She opened this up to the floor. Lydia Houck, VP Academic, shared her thoughts, explaining that they could run the election again with much more success if they changed their strategy. Blake Stevees, VP Events and Promotions quickly agreed. VP Finance and Operations, Brendan Keeler, also agreed, adding that he felt the council as a whole fell through with the promotion of this election and that in the future each member should make sure they talk to those around them about these opportunities. Following this discussion, Anderson concurred that a second by-election would be logistically possible if better organization happens prior.

     

    Discussion: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Acadia

     

    President Brendan MacNeil let the next topic regarding the presentation by Polly, the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion officer for the university that would be held the following week. On Polly’s behalf, he asked whether any member of the council had suggestions for topics to be covered. Houck spoke up to clarify what type of training they would receive (I.e. a bigger, open presentation or more specific training) and MacNeil answered that he thought it would be a bit of both, with some specific advice on how to operate responsibly and respectfully in certain situations. Anderson added that after reviewing the presentation that Polly gave the RA’s, named “Anti-Oppression 101”, she felt the presentation would be fairly general. MacNeil went on to stress the importance of bringing up topics to be discussed as there are “a lot of structural issues, systematic racism, and other things at Acadia that we should be addressing as leaders.”

     

    To “get the ball rolling” MacNeil started by explaining that one of the topics they will be discussing will be diversity in the hiring process of the Union; this would extend from language used during the hiring process to intentional outreach to student from all populations, to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment. Mary, the Graduate Students’ Senator, expressed that when she is among her fellow graduate students, she does not so much feel the effects of racism; she reasons this is because many graduate students are also international students and therefore understand each other.  However, she went on to say that when she is on campus, she definitely experiences racism. It presents itself in the more implicit forms, like people not wanting to talk to her or sit next to her in meal hall. Mary thinks this may be a result of a lack of education and that Wong International Center needs to do a better job educating people and allowing international students to express their diverse cultures and languages, as well as educating international students about culture in Canada to make their transition smoother.  Jodi Chaffer, Pure and Applied Sciences Senator, added with frustration that he believes Acadia’s International Society has been promoting itself for a while now but that at events when students are given opportunities, like Mary mentioned, to explore each other’s cultures, the turnout is almost exclusively international students. He thinks the focus needs to be on creating curiosity in domestic students to learn about how diverse Canada is inside and especially outside of the Atlantic. Many members agreed that one of the biggest issues was the fact that events tended to be promoted distinctly as events for international students or events for Acadia students in general, and that this distinction created a divide in the student body that reproduces itself.

     

    Council discussed possible solutions such as more inclusive advertising of such events and creating events that promoted the integration of international and domestic students. Moreover, Mary brought up the point that many domestic students see the Wong International Center as a place that is off-limits to them, even though events held there are advertised as open to all students. Members also agreed that the ASU becoming more involved with the Wong International Centre could be a significant help. To end this discussion, Bauffer suggested the ideas of working across clubs to promote inclusion and diversity, with examples like bringing Acadia International Society and Biology Society together to do a workshop about the importance of diversity in the sciences. At this point, Molly Anderson suggested this conversation be continued with Polly at the presentation as her input may prove to be helpful.

     

    SRC and Student Engagement

     

    Leading council into the next topic, Anderson expressed her concern regarding the lack of student engagement with the SRC. She said that it was “a really bad path to be heading down because . . . it can stop us from being able to move forward as an organization”. She went on to explain that as of right now, the Governance Committee does not have enough members to function. Along similar lines, the Review Board cannot either because it must be filled after the by-election, which couldn’t run because there were no candidates. Anderson worries in the past 12 months the SRC student engagement has declined so much that students don’t know who the SRC is or what they do. She continued that if this decline continues, the Union could be in a position in a few years times where no one runs for President or Members of the Executive and the resulting structure of the organization could jeopardize the legitimacy of student representation. Anderson suggested that rather than discussing this issue formally as a council, that they instead break off into smaller groups and discuss informally, as this could be more productive.

     

    ANNOUNCEMENTS

    To end the meeting, MacNeil shared that the Axe Student Bar and Lounge has reopened!

  • SRC Decoded: What You Missed October 21st, 2020

    SRC Decoded: What You Missed October 21st, 2020

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is the independent organizational body that represents the students of Acadia. More than 50 years old, the SRC provides representation and communication for students at Acadia and manages the ASU. There are many positions involved in the SRC, even some that need feeling! Attendance at the meeting this week was the executive, made up of the President, VP Academic and External, VP Finance, VP Events and Promotions and VP Student Life (Robbie Holmes). Also in attendance were the Faculty Senators, the Diversity and Inclusion Representative, and Chairperson, who ran the meeting

    This week’s meeting started with a land acknowledgment of the Mi’kmaq land that Acadia University occupies, as well as reading the SRC’s statement of autonomy. All members of the SRC were in attendance, aside from the Diversity and Inclusion rep (absence not explained). The agenda and minutes of the meeting were passed, and the meeting began. Covered in today’s meeting was the Career Services Center report (as discussed in last week’s meeting) as well as a small update on the By-Election and an important discussion in the SRC’s role in the Fishery conflict happening in Nova Scotia.

     

    Career Services Center Research Presentation    

    The presentation, led by Matthew Rios, Vice President of the Acadia Alumni Association, and Quincy Cochrane, a third-year business student at Acadia, discussed their findings after a summer research project looking into the effectiveness of Acadia’s current (non-existent) Career Services Center. Interestingly, Rios is a 2014 Acadia graduate and served on the SRC for 5 years, spending his last two years as President. Rios explained how the Alumni Association had identified a need to support students in a very important transitionary period; life after Acadia. They want to enhance the career services offices university offers. In his research, Cochrane interviewed people from many universities in both the Maritimes and other places in Canada. He identified the key components of career services – things such as skill development, employers, staffing, etc. Rios went on to explain that, “for a career service to operate, there needs to be work done in all of these buckets. If all of us were to think right now of the work being done in any of these buckets, the answer would be nothing”. The duo gave three steps they would like to see Acadia’s career services move toward catching up, competitive advantage, and then cutting edge. Rios explained that he is excited about the prospect of Acadia students graduating with not only a degree but also “competencies” that will make students attractive to employers. This includes skills such as the ability to highlight one’s strengths, communicate effectively or speak articulately. The Alumni Association, as Rios explained, is considering supporting this project with an annual contribution of 50, 000 dollars. He went on to explain that the University claimed it is not currently in a position to make significant monetary contributions but said it could commit to funding the full-time employment that this service will create, as well as providing program funding and promotional support. During the following discussion period, Robbie Holmes, VP Student Life, stressed that “even though we are putting student dollars into this program, the fact of the matter is that students are going to get a lot of money out of it”. After the speakers left, the council had a short discussion about their plans moving forward and agreed to continue the conversation on with the project.

     

    Election Update

    Chairperson Molly Anderson explained with disappointment that most positions on council are still open and have not been applied for. Holmes suggested that perhaps, this is because deadlines for applications were not posted to students. Nevertheless, these positions remain open, and additional information on council positions and directions on how to apply can be found on the ASU’s Instagram page @acadiastudents.

     

    Fisheries Conflict 

    Regarding the conflict in the fisheries in Nova Scotia, the SRC is thinking about giving students resources to take action in support of Indigenous peoples. Vice President Holmes agreed that addressing this injustice is important as they are a council with a platform and an influence. He strongly believes that the council should release a statement condemning the unnecessary violence and discrimination that is happening in Digby while also offering ways to support Indigenous communities, lists of politicians to speak to and general support for Indigenous peoples here at Acadia. Other members agreed and added that the focus should be fighting the violence and racism and supporting those affected at Acadia while staying away from the “political aspect”. Lara Hartman, Faculty of Arts Senator, who is a First Nation’s person from British Columbia, shared her view. She, unlike other members of the council who spoke previously, felt it was important to “pick a side” rather than to remain impartial, as remaining impartial was, in her perspective, “picking a side”. She also mentioned that Zabrina Whitman, Indigenous Affairs Advisor of the University should be consulted before the council decides how to proceed with the matter. Hartman said that she knows herself, and likely others, are definitely feeling the impacts of this crisis. This motion to release a statement was passed and will be directed by the executive.

     

    Announcements

    President Brendan MacNeil finished the meeting by summarizing his meeting with the Board of Governors explaining that he left the board with three main priorities: university affordability, Open Educational Resources (things like online textbooks that make getting course material more affordable), and health services accessibility on campus.

     

  • SRC Decoded: What You Missed February 26th

    SRC Decoded: What You Missed February 26th

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Wednesday at 5:30 PM in the Beveridge Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    This week, council met to discuss further the details of the ASU Investment Policy, reflect on climate change events being held on campus and recent progress with the federal government, as well as talk about support surrounding Indigenous students and the protests and the blockades happening in British Columbia.

    Divesting for the Future

    Brendan MacNeil, Vice President Finance and Operations, has been working alongside Sustainability Officer Max Abu-Laban to ensure the ASU Investment Policy is renewed to a standard that reflects Acadia University’s values.

    Currently, one of Acadia’s mission statements is: “True to its institutional mission and vision, Acadia University will become one of Canada’s most environmentally and sustainability-focused universities”; however, MacNeil pointed out that most scholarships paid to students are currently funded by the oil and gas industry. MacNeil questioned whether this will be Acadia’s legacy in the future.

    In order to give further context, MacNeil informed council of a statement that was made by NASA which says: “Humans have increased atmospheric CO2 concentration by more than 30% since the industrial revolution began. This is the most important long-lived forcing of climate change.”

    MacNeil then added that 27% of carbon dioxide emissions come from oil and gasoline. While MacNeil fully recognizes the pushback that may be received from relocating funds from oil and gas companies. Currently, the biggest argument against divestment is the worry that if Acadia takes their investments out of the oil and gas industry it will increase the risk of our portfolio and decrease our returns; however, if you look at the annualized volatility of oil prices it’s actually 36%. To put this number into context MacNeil shared that the annual volatility of banks through two recessions (2001 and 2008) is only 28% which means that oil prices are 50% higher than that of banks through two recessions.

    Councillor Jonah van Driesum applauds MacNeil and Abu-Laban for the work they are doing to make the university more environmentally friendly but asks if funds will also be taken out of mineral companies. Brendan MacNeil replied stating that the University would still have shares in Canadian Natural Resources. Additionally, Councillor van Driesum adds his worry about whether or not divestment will prevent the school from investing short term in individual companies [who’s programs could benefit us] that are working to become greener. MacNeil responded honestly stating, “The answer to that is yes. As long as the [company’s] main matter is oil and gas. However, all funds will be reinvested into renewable resources companies.”

    Abu-Laban delicately raised the controversial matter of investing in military supply companies, sharing that divestment of oil and gas companies provides the opportunity to invest in these military supply companies. Abu-Laban asked council if they could see Acadia University in ammunitions. Councillor van Driesum commented in response, that he personally would not want his own company investing in selling arms, and as the SRC is advocates for morality, he cannot agree with Abu-Laban’s point. Gabrielle Bailey, VP Events and Promotions, diffused the conversation by suggesting the council take one thing at a time and the divestment plan will be brought to a vote next meeting.

    MacNeil closed the presentation by asking council, “Do we want to be able to say Acadia University was one of the first Atlantic Canadian universities to divest from fossil fuels? That our scholarships are fossil fuel free? That we were a leader in environmentally sustainability endowment funds?”.

    Let’s Talk About Climate Change

    Sustainability Officer Max Abu-Laban reflected on the Let’s Talk About Climate Change event which he organized with the help of the town of Wolfville that took place on February 4th. Abu-Laban shared that the quality of the conversation was uplifting and inspiring and added that he appreciated the SRC council members who were able to show their support at the event. Around 25 people showed up to the event and they discussed in groups the different actions that can be taken as a community to limit climate change, any barriers that may prevent us from doing so and ways around them. Abu-Laban continued discussing that the discussion also talked about next steps and where else the community can direct all this fantastic energy surrounding climate change. After reflection, Abu-Laban concludes that the event was a success and the movement is always looking for continuous support from interested students and members of the community.

    Viewing of The Office

    First-Year Representative Menat Tahoun excitedly announced a stress-relieving activity happening on March 6th. She proposed a viewing of selected episodes of the TV show The Office for all students, noting that the event is not exclusive to first-year students. The event will take place in the KCIC auditorium from 7:00PM to 9:00PM. Tahoun informs council that snacks will be available, and students will be able to come and go as they please.

    Additionally, there will be a button making activity to fit the theme of The Office with all materials and craft supplies provided.

    Indigenous Student Society of Acadia (ISSA) Letter

    Soyini Edwards, Diversity and Inclusion Representative, voiced the concerns of the Indigenous students at Acadia regarding releasing a statement surrounding the blockade protests. The letter provided from the ISSA, which was addressed to ASU President Kyle Vandertoorn, discussed that a few other universities across Canada, such as Dalhousie University, University of Victoria and UNBC have sent out statements to say they stand with indigenous students, and the ISSA is asking the SRC to do the same. Edwards gave ISSA support by stating that Acadia does start every meeting and every event on campus with the acknowledgement that Acadia University is located in Mi’kma’ki, the unceded ancestral territory of the Mi’kmaq nation.

    Edwards stressed, “It is necessary to stand in solidarity with people whose land is being taken away.”

    President Vandertoorn informed the council that she has been in contact with the Coordinator of Indigenous Affairs, Sabrina Whitman, who has advised that since the Chiefs in the valley have not released a statement taking a position yet, so it may be a good idea to remain neutral and find out what other universities are doing within the province first. The President adds that a meeting with the Chiefs will be held next week to conduct further conversations about what the appropriate actions are to take. Vandertoorn continued sharing that the SRC will always support the indigenous students at Acadia, and are taking Sabrina’s advice on what she would do in our position very seriously.

    Councillor Jonah van Driesum encouraged council to not take a position yet for fear of complicating the relationship with the Chiefs of the valley. The majority of people he has talked to on campus about the protests do not support the blockades and van Driesum sees it as unwise to be putting out a view that disagrees with the view of the students. Van Driesum stressed that he is not dismissing the importance of the event, he is simply split on the issue and thinks a lot of people are as well. In response, Vandertoorn stressed that when taking an action such as this, it is wise to do as much research as possible and reiterated that a decision will only be made after the meeting with the Chiefs next week.

    Sustainability officer Max Abu-Laban rebutted van Driesums stance respectfully stating, “There is an expression, ‘We are all treated people’. We come here as settlers and it is our duty as settlers to stand in solidarity […] and I don’t know how many of you know what is going on in BC, but it is quite bad and there’s people being forcibly removed by the RCMP.”

    Abu-Laban continued offering examples of student support at DAL and other major institutions that are hosting sit-ins and teach-ins in an effort to stand in solidarity with their fellow students. Finally, Abu-Laban shared that he understands there’s a lot of other complex things happening and we don’t necessarily want to implicate the Students Union, but the issue is something that we should all be thinking about as Canadian students.

    Advocacy Asks for Parliament

    Last week, President Kyle Vandertoorn travelled to Ottawa with CASA, an organization that represents students in post-secondary education. This was the fourth conference at Parliament Hill that Acadia has attended, and they were able to bring forward 6 advocacy asks. Vandertoorn shares exciting news with council that not even 24 hours after the last meeting, the inclusion council member of parliament live-streamed the participants, promising them that 3 of their advocacy asks are already being invested in on behalf of the Federal Government. These asks include:

    • Increasing the Canadian student grant by 40%
    • Resigning a loan repayment grace period post-grad from 6 months to 24 months.
    • Implementing a pause on loaner payment for new parent grads with existing student debt until their children reach the age of 5.

    Vandertoorn shared with council that it was a really great opportunity for everyone involved. She is extremely grateful that the Federal Government is considering some of the asks. Vandertoorn also stated that this is a really big accomplishment as this rarely happens, and she encourages the council to share the details on social media or any way they can because it is important for Acadia students to know that the ASU played a major role.

    Announcements

    The Axe will be hosting a lip-sync battle next Thursday, March 5th at 8:00PM. Historically, it has been a very fun event and students can buy tickets in advance or pay at the door. Any students who wish to participate should contact VP Events and Promotions Gabrielle Bailey right away as there are only 3 or 4 spots left.

    Leadership awards are being held on April 1st. Nominations are open now! A list of descriptions for each award was sent out to every students’ Acadia email. Get your nominations in as soon as possible to Gabrielle Bailey.

    Lastly, Max Abu-Laban will be leading a student walk-out on March 4th from 10:45AM to 11:45AM with the Acadia Climate Action Club.

     

  • SRC Decoded: What You Missed February 5th

    SRC Decoded: What You Missed February 5th

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are tasked with running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The SRC meets every Wednesday at 5:30 PM in the Beverage Forum located off the Michener Lounge in the Students’ Union Building (SUB). Each meeting is open to the public and students are welcome to attend meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    Council met this week to discuss the Black, Indigenous, People of Colour Caucus (BIPOCUS) Proposed Budget, the updated Acadia Students’ Union Travel Policy, and the Vice President of Finance’s Position Report. All in all, this week’s council meeting proved to be very informative.

    Black, Indigenous, People of Colour Caucus (BIPOCUS)

    The Black, Indigenous, People of Color Caucus (BIPOCUS) is an organization within the Acadia Students’ Union created by Acadia students. The group focuses on equity on campus, including any issues that may impact a person’s experience or education at Acadia University.

    Makenzie O’Quinn and Soyini Edwards are co-presidents of the Black Students Association and the Indigenous Students’ Society of Acadia. The BIPOCUS Working Document states, “O’Quinn and Edwards were being asked to work and provide insight on items which fell largely outside of the mandate of their societies. This has resulted over the past several years with labour far exceeding the labour experienced by other clubs under the ASU.” BIPOCUS is the result of the need of an assisting organization to help the two presidents balance all of their duties.

    According to the BIPOCUS Constitution 2019/2020, the organization’s mission is:

    1.     To provide solidarity between Black, Indigenous, or students of colour at Acadia University.
    2.     To increase advocacy capacity for members of the Black Students’ Association and the Indigenous Students’ Society of Acadia, as well as Black, Indigenous, and students of colour at large.
    3.     To begin breaking down systemic and historical barriers between Indigenous and Black students and the Acadia Students’ Union.
    4.     To increase the availability of student leadership opportunities for Black, Indigenous and students of colour at Acadia University.

    The group plans to fulfill its mandate by hosting weekly meetings and attending conferences. Additionally, BIPOCUS aims to increase the representation of students as well as the diversity of the council’s members by sitting on Senate. The caucus will be working closely alongside Edwards, who is also the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion officer of the ASU, as well as with the Black Student Advisor, the Office of Indigenous Affairs the Equity Office, Welkaqnik and the Wong International Centre.

    While BIPOCUS does accept membership of individuals who are not black, indigenous, or students of colour, only members who are within the listed categories above will be granted voting rights in accordance with the Human Rights Act Section 6, Subsection c (ii). This being said, BIPOCUS welcomes everybody’s support.

    ASU Travel Policy

    ASU President Kyle Vandertoorn brought to council the ASU travel policy which includes conferences or board meetings that take place outside of Wolfville. Kyle began the discussion by announcing some exciting new changes to the policy.

    Firstly, the changes addressed that in regard to travelling to places where meals are not otherwise provided, the previous budget was $7.00 for breakfast, $10.00 for lunch and $15.00 for dinner. ASU president, Kyle, comments, “it is embarrassing that people often cannot afford to tip or even afford their entire meal under this budget and they often have to dip into their own pockets”.

    The policy has been updated significantly to $10.00 for breakfast, $15.00 for lunch and $35.00 for dinner according to the ASU Travel Policy Section 2, Subsection a (i – ii). Vandertoorn explained that the budget for dinner was originally $25.00; however, incidental expenses were incorporated. This change means travellers will have an extra $10.00 to help pay for any unforeseen expenses, such as toothbrushes or medication.

    Secondly, students and employees who are commuting to conferences and other events in their own vehicles are now eligible for reimbursement for how far they travel. The ASU Travel Policy Section 5, Subsection c (iii) states, “employee may be reimbursed for mileage at a rate set by Nova Scotia Kilometrage and Transportation Allowance Rates for government and public-sector body employees”.

    This new addition to the travel policy is extremely helpful in preventing Acadia University students and staff from having to spend their own money to attend events that are mandatory for their position.

    Vice President of Finance Position Report

    Brendan MacNeil, VP of Finance and Operations, kept the council up to date today on the ASU’s revenue and expenses. He explains that there are three main contributors to the ASU’s revenue: alcoholic beverages and food sold at The Axe, health and dental plans, and the student union fees that students pay.

    While health and dental plans and student union fees each make up 25% of the ASU’s total revenue, MacNeil informs the council that retail sales are down, referring to Cajuns shop and the Union Market, which bring in about $40,000.00 to $50,000.00 per month. Additionally, The Axe is also experiencing a decrease in sales with a drop of approximately $30,000. This may seem like a rather large reduction, but MacNeil shared that labour expenses have decreased greatly as well which has helped the ASU to balance expenses. A full ASU budget will be out by the end of April.

    Nonetheless, the ASU appears to be in good shape. Sales have decreased but expenses have also decreased, and largely at that. As a result, the ASU income has increased significantly from $18,000.00 to $400,000.00.

    Moreover, the Investment Policy is in the process of being rewritten (it is due every 5 years to be revised and adjusted). On this, MacNeil is excited to announce, “I and the Sustainability Officer are exploring the possibility of adding a line that says our portfolio will not invest in fossil fuel companies.”  There is more to come in on the ASU’s investment account in the next few weeks.

    Announcements

    The only announcement this week was from Sustainability Officer, Max Abu-Laban who wants to thank everyone who was involved in his “Talk to Me About Climate Change” event for all of their support. The event, which took place Tuesday, February 4th, was a huge success.

    Abu-Laban announces to the council that there is another climate strike taking place this Friday, February 7th at the clock tower on Main Street, for anyone who is looking to get further involved. Abu-Laban also added that 10-year-old activist, Lily from Gloosecap, Nova Scotia, will be attending the event and will speak on U-Hall Hill. She has inspired students at Acadia with her passion for the environment twice already and will be back for a third time to do it again. 

  • SRC Decoded: What You Missed November 27th

    SRC Decoded: What You Missed November 27th

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are in charge of running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The Council meets weekly on Wednesdays at 5:00 PM in the Beveridge Forum which is located off of the Michener Lounge in the old Students’ Union Building (SUB). Every meeting is open to the public and students are encouraged to attend the meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    Council met this week primarily to ask questions about the ASU Act of Incorporation, which was brought forward by former ASU General Manager Ian Morrison at the last meeting and approve the motion for the UPass Referendum Moratorium. Additionally, council members were appointed to committees, a concerned student came to discuss an issue and announcements were made.

    ASU Act of Incorporation

    At the last SRC meeting, former ASU General Manager Ian Morrison discussed the existing Act of Incorporation which was put into effect on March 27th, 1967 and the proposed new incorporations act titled the Acadia Students’ Union Act (ASUA). Ian Morrison presented to council last week with the proposed referendum question for the ASUA and another proposed referendum question for constitutional change regarding bylaws. This week ASU lawyer Tom MacEwen was present to answer any concerns council members may have with the referendum questions or ASUA.

    Jonah van Driesum, Councillor, raised an issue with the language of the referendum question which does not explicitly say that once the referendum is passed by the student body, any amendments legislation makes afterwards would be in effect. Specifically, van Driesum voiced concerns about potentially being blindsided by legislature in the future. MacEwan explained that the ASUA had already been through legislation a number of times and while he cannot confirm they won’t make changes, it seems very unlikely after the number of drafts that have been made. In response, van Driesum stated that although unlikely, it is worrisome to agree on something when it could very well have amendments placed on it.

    VP Student Life Robbie Holmes asked MacEwen if the ASUA puts the ASU in more risk than they are under the current Act of Incorporations to which MacEwen replied explaining that if the union did not want to go with the ASUA they could reincorporate as a society but the ASUA does make the ASU a natural person which increases their rights from the previous act.

    The ASUA will be brought forward as New Business next week.

    Moratorium on the Upass Referendum

    Members of the council arrived at the meeting having viewed the proposed moratoriums for both the UPass referendum and future failed referendums. Councillor van Driesum was one of the members on the Governance Committee that helped to craft the moratoriums. He announced to council that the language of the moratoriums was very specific in order to demonstrate what the moratorium will do, and the open language does not limit the council’s scope.

    Sustainability Officer, Max Abu-Laban stated to the council that while a four-year moratorium provides enough time for there to be a new student body to come in and potentially change the outcome of the UPass, four years eliminates the students who were passionate about bringing it up in the first place. In response, van Driesum explained that the moratorium explicitly says that it does not limit anyone from raising the issue at council in the future for discussion. Abu-Laban then pointed out that the moratorium seems intimidating for anyone who would want to raise the issue in the future; however, van Driesum reiterated his initial statement that it is not meant to be intimidating and the open language allows council to make decisions in the most open way possible.

    Additionally, van Driesum believes that the time gives the people who are passionate about the UPass, time to rethink and strategize about how to bring it to council in order for it to succeed. President Kyle Vandertoorn echoed Jonah’s beliefs shortly before VP Finance & Operations Brendan MacNeil raised a concern of his own.

    MacNeil believes that by allowing time for all current supporters and objectors to leave Acadia the moratorium will not allow anybody time to rethink and strategize and history may be repeated anyways.

    Abu-Laban proposed changing the moratorium to three years, however, Vandertoorn pointed out that the past UPass referendum took three years to reach the voting stage and so if it is going to be three years, why even have it in the first place. Van Driesum then informed Abu-Laban and MacNeil that if a bus pass was brought up to council with substantiated changes, such as including an opt-out or a change in fee amount, then it would be considered a new referendum and could go ahead.

    This discussion ended with Abu-Laban stating that the moratorium is another structural barrier on student democratic and he feels like it is being traded for student government efficiency. Vandertoorn responded by saying that it is the SRC’s job to advocate for students and it should be a carefully thought out process rather than it being easy for students to impeach or bring a referendum. The SRC is promoting students to have a well thought out plan to lobby for a referendum or impeachment and if the plan is well researched and explored, it should, in theory, go through. The SRC is listening to the student body and right now they have turned down a UPass three times. Van Driesum did state that Abu-Laban’s concerns are why he worked on the moratorium in the first place.

    Abu-Laban then motioned to amend the UPass referendum moratorium to be changed from four to three years. By a vote of 8 members against and 4 members for, this amendment was not passed and the moratoriums were presented to council to vote on.

    The UPass referendum moratorium is as follows: ‘This motion suspends the research, development, financial support and other resources that have been put towards the proposed and rejected U-Pass for four (4 )years with a mandatory two (2) year review by council. At the review council can continue the moratorium or end the moratorium. The end of the moratorium at any point does not resume the use of resources by the Council or Union towards this proposal unless otherwise dictated by council. This motion does not prevent council from ending the moratorium earlier if it so chooses. The scope of this motion only extends to the resource’s council has at its disposal and does not limit any member of council or the union from raising the issue at council or any other setting.

    This motion was approved by council with a vote of 9-3.

    The moratorium for future failed referendums is as follows: ‘This motion suspends the research, development, financial support and other resources of council towards any proposed referendums after they have been rejected by students for a period of four (4) years with a mandatory two (2) year review. At the review council can continue the moratorium or end the moratorium. The end of the moratorium at any point does not resume the use of resources by the Council or the Union towards any proposal unless otherwise dictated by council. This motion does not prevent council from ending the moratorium earlier if it so chooses. The scope of this motion only extends to the resources council has at its disposal and does not limit any member of council or the union from raising the issue at council or any other setting.’

    This motion was approved with a vote of 8-4.

    Question Period

     Helen Allen, third-year student and second-year as a Teacher Assistantship (TA) for the Biology Department, approached council with some serious concerns. She described to council a series of events that took place last year where her money from being a TA and her on-campus part-time job had been withheld from her.

    Allen provided council with a copy of her TA contract which had no fine print and detailed that she would receive a lump sum of around $540 at the end of each semester. At the end of her first semester last year she had not received payment two weeks later and discussed this with multiple personnel on campus whom she was told may help. Eventually, she was told that her payment went towards her student account which Allen was not made aware of could happen and after balancing her student account the $540 was still nowhere to be seen.

    She mentioned there was nowhere in her contract that had anything to do with her student account and yet funds were applied and withheld based on her student account, which did not seem fair. After multiple emails and discussions, Allen was able to get her money back but it took time and the university did not seem to care. Allen provided council with all documents and receipts detailing her experience and mistreatment by the University who did not seem to care whether she received her pay and could pay for her living expenses. Allen mentioned that she is not the only student who experienced this as well.

    Holmes and Vandertoorn told Allen they sympathized with her experienced and while they, unfortunately, could not fix or prevent it from happening again, because they are separate from University funds, that did not mean they couldn’t offer her help. They gave her information to contact the ASU lawyer, Tom MacEwen who would be able to give her some assistance.

    Appointments and Announcement

     Lynn Verheul, Community Relations Officer, was nominated and appointed to the Student Life Committee during the meeting.

    Cassidy Churchill and Paige Stewardson, Professional Studies Senator and Arts Senators, are hosting a viewing of ‘Home Alone’ in the KCIC Auditorium on December 1st from 7-9pm. Snacks will be provided.

  • SRC Decoded: What You Missed November 20th

    SRC Decoded: What You Missed November 20th

    The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is a council composed of a body of students elected by their peers, who are in charge of running the Acadia Students’ Union (ASU). The Council meets weekly on Wednesdays at 5:00 PM in the Beveridge Forum which is located off of the Michener Lounge in the old Students’ Union Building (SUB). Every meeting is open to the public and students are encouraged to attend the meetings to learn more about the decisions being made on their behalf.

    This Wednesday, the SRC received a presentation regarding the ASU Act of Incorporation, was given a Fall By-Election Report and quick update on the UPass Moratorium. Additionally, members of council proposed events, welcomed new members and gave various announcements.

    ASU Act of Incorporation

     The ASU was given a presentation by Ian Morrison, former General Manager, regarding the ASU Act of Incorporation. The presentation began with some background on the existing act which was put into effect on March 27th, 1967. The existing act allowed the ASU to be formed and to create bylaws that are not consistent with the provincial bylaws. Simply, Morrison put, this act outlines what the ASU and SRC can and cannot do. However, Morrison highlighted a few problems found within the Act of Incorporation including that the act states that officers must be elected but executive officers can be appointed, and that the ASU draws its authority from the province.

    Morrison discussed how his team has been working to change the act and bring forward a new one titled the Acadia Student Unions’ Act (ASUA). While the document is fairly like the last it does include a few notable changes:

    1. States the ASU is able to do anything that a natural person can do, they would be only limited by legislation. Although increasingly common in the west, this act would be the only case in Nova Scotia where a union would be considered a natural person.
    2. Allows the possibility of all officers to be appointed to the council.

    The changes in this act would not condemn any past actions of the ASU and would only be in effect from that point onward.   Morrison went on to say that the act and referendum questions have been through about eight drafts with the Legislative Council in the past year.

    Council would approve the referendum question for the ASUA and a referendum would be held in February 2020. The proposed referendum question is as follows and would require the majority of votes to pass:

    “Do you support the adoption, by the legislature of the Province of Nova Scotia and the proposed ASUA including any amendments made to the proposed Act by the Legislature of the Province of Nova Scotia which shall repeal and replace Act to Incorporate Acadia Students union (1967)?”

    Sustainability Officer Max Abu Laban raised the concern that by making it possible for the appointment of any officer on council this would be taking away the students’ ability to vote for who they want to hold a position. Answering his concern both Morrison and Robbie Holmes, VP Student Life, explained that the SRC has continually chosen to have a vote in order to promote student democracy and that won’t change but positions such as VP Finance & Operations require a certain skill set that isn’t always present in potential nominees. Holmes went on to say that in the past the SRC has been worried about who may fill the VP Finance & Operations role and this allows them to appoint individuals with the skillset needed and dismiss those who do not obtain this skillset.

    Morrison also proposed a referendum question for constitutional change regarding the bylaws which previously called for 25% of the student population being present in a general meeting. The proposed referendum question is as follows and would require two-thirds approval to pass:

    “A quoram for a general meeting of the Union shall be 2% of the membership of the Union or 100 members of the Union, whichever is larger”

    ASU Fall By-Election Report

    Chief Returning Officer Chantelle Peng presented the fall by-election report to members of the council. The SRC needed to fill both the councillor at large and first-year representative positions and the nomination period was open from November 8th-15th, 2019. Peng went on to describe the election schedule the election would’ve taken before explaining to council that due to their only being one candidate for each respective position; however, Peng made the decision to approach Chairperson Sulaman Quershi asking him if he would admit both candidates into the positions, should they accept, under Bylaw 3.

    Both candidates accepted the roles of Councillor at Large and First-Year Representative and the election schedule was cancelled by Peng.

    Committee Appointments

     Jonah van Driesum, Councillor, resigned from both the Elections Committee and the Hiring Committee in order for the new SRC members to fulfill their requirements. Molly Anderson, Councillor, was nominated and voted into both the Elections and Hiring Committee.

    Moratorium on UPass Referendum Update

     Originally the council was set to vote on the UPass Moratorium which was sent back from the Governance Committee. Due to new members joining the SRC, not all members were given the chance to review the proposed documents. As a result, the UPass Moratorium has been deferred until next week.

    Proposals

     VP Student Life, Robbie Holmes, proposed cleaning the SRC room in order for it to be used by members of council for work, office hours, meetings etc. Currently, Holmes believes the room is underutilized and this is due to boxes blocking the back room. He asked for volunteers to help clean the room to which Anderson volunteered.

    Cassidy Churchill and Paige Stewardson, Professional Studies Senator and Arts Senators, proposed a Holiday Movie Night which would take place in the KCIC Auditorium on December 1st from 7-9pm. They will be hosting the event to bring together students from all faculties in a holiday event inclusive of all religions and cultures by playing the holiday movie ‘Home Alone’. Snacks and drinks will be provided by Churchill and Stewardson.

    Diversity and Inclusion Representative, Soyini Edwards, talked about the Phenomenal Women’s Conference which was held in the Fountain Commons and Mackeen Room on November 21st (6-10pm), 22 (12-2pm) and 23 (12-2pm). The Phenomenal Women’s Conference is an event working at tackling the insecurities and troubles that the women on this campus face every day. In collaboration with the Women’s Centre and Acadia’s Mental Health Initiative, this event will benefit the students that participate by seeing that they are not alone in their struggle and create a closer community and hopefully have them not be shy/ ashamed of that struggle.

    Announcements

     Brendan MacNeil and Gabrielle Bailey, VP Finance & Operations and VP Events & Promotions, are dedicated to uncovering why student activity and engagement has been low recently. They encouraged council members to give them any insights that may be helpful regarding engagement at The Axe, events and programs.

    Graduate Studies Senator Matthew Penney will be holding a lunch panel with members from all faculties in the winter semester coinciding with an event held January 31st – February 1st, pending a location. He asked council for any topic suggestions they could use during the panel.

     

     

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