Campaign Platform

As the most diverse collection of departments and schools, the Faculty of Arts is the heart of the University of Calgary's creators, leaders, and researchers. However, our academic bandings tend to keep us apart. As VP events, my mission is to move students beyond lecture halls and simple panels and finally start celebrating the arts. I am running on a platform of events curated through a holistic perspective of student engagement. In order to build community, we need more than class attendance; we need connection, support, and recognition in building the path to our futures. My strategy is to provide a diverse event calendar that celebrates the “Whole Student”, socially, academically, and professionally. 

My event calendar stands on three pillars: connection through the Arts in Motion series, building the arts through academic and professional development opportunities, and celebration through the Voices of the Arts series.

Connection throughout our faculty can be difficult, considering the wide range of programs we offer. To avoid each department getting stuck in its silo, I advocate for connection through activity: the Arts in Motion series. Bringing back events such as puppy yoga, and introducing events such as a social bouldering night, a campus wide scavenger hunt, and FASA organized laser tag. This series is about utilizing play as a social buffer.  Whether you're in philosophy or economics, everyone finds puppies adorable. Music and Geography majors alike will feel a thrill when in a low-lit room armed with a laser gun. Through this method, we can break down walls between departments and foster friendships that mean something outside of your discord server.

Before all else, we are students. We have a shared goal of academic success and vibrant futures post-degree. I have identified a need in upper year students, many of whom are moving towards graduate studies. I propose Pathways to Post-grad, an event in collaboration with our associate dean of graduate studies. Students will have an information session, network, and ask questions they didn't know they had. This will bridge the anxiety that many of our students have about what happens after a degree, providing an outlet for any postgrad confusion. While we look toward the future, I haven't forgotten the 'now.' I will continue FASA’s tradition of supported study nights to help us all get through finals together. Additionally, I will offer new workshops in partnership with the CCPD (Centre for Career and Professional Development) for professional growth. These events will center around resume and cover letter development, as well as job interview tips and tricks!

Pursuing a major theme from our events team last year, I aim to continue FASA’s goal to raise the Voices of the Arts this year with a crucial emphasis on celebrating excellence. We will do this in a few different ways. Picture a formal fine arts night spotlighting artwork from our very own students, set to a soundtrack of live jazz courtesy of our music students; an open mic providing a platform for poets, singers, and musicians; another market night to uplift student vendors; and, of course, our annual gala. These events are all designed to provide networking opportunities and showcase the skill and excellence of our department. Why wait any longer to start celebrating the things that make our faculty special?

As VP events, I commit to reliability and outreach. I will ensure that every event is promoted well in advance across all FASA channels. No student should miss out on a celebration because they didn't hear about it in time. I will work directly with department representatives to ensure our events reflect the interests of the entire faculty, not just those of my direct team. I understand that many Arts students have busy schedules; I will strive to host a mix of midday and evening events so that everyone has a chance to participate regardless of their commute. My extensive leadership experience, initiative, and understanding of FASA’s processes and organization make me the perfect candidate for this role.

Vote Nania for VP Events. Let's celebrate the arts together.