Know the Candidate

1. Please outline your relevant experience for this position:
   As the current VP Finance, I have the experience directly in this position and have the insight into what this job actually entails on the day to day. In that way, I am uniquely qualified to keep the GSS finances running smoothly for the next fiscal year. Given that I am already immersed in the role and familiar with the initiatives and projects that we are currently working on, my re-election will ensure that the GSS is able to make progress on these goals without wasting time and resources in the transition to a new VP Finance. Before my time with the GSS, I accrued years of real-world experience keeping accurate financial records, managing a budget and staff, overseeing the operation of both events and businesses, and working effectively with diverse teams to accomplish common organizational goals. I am happy to discuss my experience and how it fits this role with anyone, please feel free to contact me!
2. What specific initiatives and projects would you undertake related to this role?
   If I am re-elected for this position, I will continue working closely with the Executive team and other GSS leadership to ensure that graduate students are getting the most value possible out of their student fees and that the fees are being spent in a socially responsible manner. It is not my aim to push my own agenda and push for initiatives on my own accord, but rather to listen to the students about how they want their money managed. I do feel it is particularly important to ensure that opportunities for scholarships, employment, and participation are fully equitable and accessible. No one should be left out. In that spirit, I do intend to prioritize frequent inclusive social events and ensure that we have access to comfortable and useful common spaces, because we could all use some community connection after the last two years. What those will look like is up to you, because this organization is for you. I look forward to hearing what else is important to you, the grad students of UWindsor, and advocating for all of our interests. In that spirit, I do intend to prioritize frequent inclusive social events and ensure that we have access to comfortable and useful common spaces, because we will all certainly need the human connection once this pandemic is over. What those will look like is up to you, because this organization is for you. I look forward to hearing what else is important to you, the grad students of UWindsor, and advocating for all of our interests.
3. How do you plan on facilitating positive work relationships within the GSS board and membership?
   While this job is mostly ‘behind the scenes’, If I am re-elected I intend to continue to foster open and trust-based relationships with the GSS board and membership using my well-developed teamwork skills. This organization cannot function without people working together, listening to each other, and appreciating the unique perspectives that each person has to offer. I am ultimately here to listen!
   
4. What lessons/skills have you acquired from overcoming an obstacle in your educational career and how can you apply those learnings to this position
   The GSS exists to serve students and advocate for them in a way that is equitable and transparent. We exist as a resource for students and ensure that student voices are heard and considered by the University administration. We work closely with faculty, administration, student groups, and other organizations to hold these groups accountable and to advocate for graduate student interests. The importance of the organization is only what it is afforded by the people it serves.