Breaking down the timeline for selecting the candidates
It’s that time of year again: time for vigorous campaigning, campus debates and voting for your undergraduate student government representatives. As the nomination period began on Jan. 12, it’s likely students have seen potential candidates vivaciously running around campus, pen and paper in hand, in the grand attempt to fill their nomination forms. Nomination period ended on Jan. 20, but students still have the opportunity to get involved.
The Central Student Association (CSA) elects its Executive Commissioners and Board of Directors through a democratic manner. This system is held in the highest regard as it is derived from the necessity of assurance that students have their voice is heard. For students who have felt trapped by the university system, or as though they are just single “drops in the bucket,” the CSA is meant to show students that they are not alone, and that their voices matter. To combat these feelings, undergraduate students come together each year in solidarity to form the CSA Executive. Within this democratic electoral process comes the promise that topics of discussion are not dismissed. Elected officials are ultimately responsible to the undergraduate student body. As such, it’s important that fellow student representatives, who have the influence to affect change and engage in conversation with the administration in an effective manner, address student issues. The aim overall is to create a university experience for everyone that is as fulfilling as possible.
While a CSA representative will be conducting the administrative nitty-gritty, candidates will be given time and resources to plan the details of their individual campaign strategies. Jan. 28th is when the real fun begins, as it will mark the beginning of campaign week. With only one week to canvas themselves far and wide, each candidates will certainly have their hands full. Students can expect to see these busy candidates advertising their platforms through a plethora of techniques: posters, classroom talks, buttons, candy; the works. These individuals will be on the lookout to interact and engage you in conversation.
Shortly after this week’s closing of the nomination period, the CSA will post information about each candidate’s platform on the CSA website. If any students are unfamiliar with the inner workings of the CSA, this is a great time for anyone on campus to learn more about what the CSA does and the Executive members’ respective responsibilities. While you might feel tempted to hastily cast a vote for a familiar name, it’s important to make an educated decision this election season. There will be an all-candidates forum on Feb. 3, which will give voters the chance to ask candidates direct questions about their platforms and campaigns.
The campaigning period comes to a close on Feb. 3. Shortly after, students can expect the convenience of voting through their Gryph Mail accounts. Voting is completely online and can be done anytime between Feb. 4 and Feb. 6. Fellow Gryphons are encouraged to step up and have their say.
To the nominees: good luck and may the odds be ever in your favour.