Meet Your Line Up: Student Executive Elections
Student Executive elections are just around the corner! You’ve surely noticed all of the campaigning around campus over the past two weeks, but here is your chance to hear what each candidate has to say. Read the following blurbs carefully to help you to select the most suitable candidate for each position. Note that a few candidates are running for more than one position!
Here’s a breakdown of how elections will work:
When you vote online, you will be given the option of voting for one candidate in each of the positions (except for General Executive, in which case you may vote for up to four candidates). Along with the candidates, you also have the option of selecting ‘No confidence’ or ‘No vote’.
If you select ‘No confidence’, you are indicating that you do not think any of the candidates should be elected to the position. ‘No confidence’ is treated like a separate candidate, and if it gains the most number of votes for a position it will force a re-election for that particular position. Similarly, if ‘No confidence’ is one of the top four candidates in the General Executive race, then only the candidates (if any) who poll higher will be elected.
If you feel that you do not know enough about any of the candidates, but do not want to specifically vote against them, you can select ‘No vote’. All this means is that you do not want your vote to count in the particular position. Unlike ‘No confidence’, if ‘No vote’ has a higher number of votes than any candidate, it will not prevent him or her from winning the election, nor will it force a re-election.
*The following blurbs were directly submitted to In Unison for Executive campaigns. They have been printed in their originally submitted format and have remained unchanged by the editorial staff:
President
Shannon Pennefather
President
kia Ora Unitec! For those who don't know me I am the USU vise President. For the last year I have worked along side the President to represent you on many important student issues. The biggest changes I have helped make on your behalf are:
-Making the student rep system better
-Making the clubs grant system easier
-Making scholarships at Unitec easier
The relationships I have built with students and staff, the experience I have gained in bringing real change for students and my understanding of student needs make me more than ready to step into the Presidents shoes at the end of the year.
So, what ill I do for you? The USU is going through a period of major change because of law changes. My promise to you is that I will keep the USU student focused and not compromise our values in this new environment. I will work hard to gain more student study/common areas including parent friendly study areas. Most of all I will listen and respond to your needs.
With your support and with the help of my Vice President-Marcelle Rayner- we can make a positive change at Unitec.
Thanks for your vote
Shaun Overton
President
General Executive
For those that don’t know me, my name’s Shaun and I’m running for USU President. Last year, I had a simple campaign – the students said they wanted onions at our free barbeques. I listened to that feedback, and I delivered on it. I’m not going to spin you guys a whole bunch of generic campaign lines that are used time and time again. What I am going to do is be realistic, innovative, creative and If elected I’ll get the job done.
This year, I have risen above the limitations of my position to get the student voice heard at all levels offered to me. I’m an active member on several Unitec committees, adding my 2 cents on the student’s behalf. As President, I want to make real world changes that you want us to. Making student life better at Unitec is what I want to do, and I want you along for the ride. =D
Keep an eye out for me and my co-candidates during the campaign weeks. Please feel free to come and talk to me. I’m really interested in what you all have to say, and look forward to meeting you throughout the coming weeks.
Ivan Mandip Sharma
President
Vice president
General Executive
My name is Ivan Mandip Sharma. I was born in Auckland, Henderson. I am 20 years of age. I am currently studying electrical engineering level 4 and I am also a class representative for C.A.T electrical level 3 and 4. The position I have applied for is president, vice president, and general executive. I enjoy working with people of all cultures and beliefs. I am passionate about working at Unitec and dealing with students’ needs and implement changes where necessary.
If elected in one of these positions I will work hard towards to see that Unitec has a bright future.
At the moment my agenda is to provide Halal, vegan, vegetarian sausages for the free BBQS (food for everyone) and make all student car parks around Unitec free.
Vice President
Marcelle Rayner
Vice President
Waitakere Representative
General Executive
Kia ora
For those who don’t know me, I am the Waitakere rep. For the last couple of months I have represented the students at Waitakere campus on the USU executive. I feel that in the last few months I have really addressed some campus issues regarding safety and security on campus and the creation of a better environment for our students to learn. I have represented our students on the campus committee and developed strategies with them to make the campus a more family friendly environment. Whilst I am new to the position, I feel that I have hit the ground running so to speak and picked up the role quickly, as well as being more available to my fellow students to address any problems they may have and will continue to do so. I feel that as a result of the experience I have gained so far this year, I am confident and ready to take on the role of Vice President working with my fellow candidate Shannon Pennefather as President to ensure that students have a positive experience and have more say in how they study.
Thanks for your vote
Will Edser
Vice president
Finance Officer
General Executive
What’s happening Unitec?
My names Will; I’m running for V-Prez. To be blunt, things need to change a bit. North End, Albany & Waitakere student engagement with the USU is minimal... if not even existent, despite Pennefathers promises last year (maybe because of the lack of events, BBQ’s, student representation or even an office?). Village residents are still unhappy with their leaky homes, south end students still hate the 180 student central (which misplaces all your paperwork)... the list goes on.
During my time at Unitec, I have been a student of three separate academic departments (Sport, Nursing, and Foundation Studies) and a Unitec employee of another two… I have also participated in casual employment with the USU (as well as voluntary), so I have a great rapport with Unitec & USU staff, and know how things work and what has to be done to get the ball rolling. On a usual day you might see Shaun & I out and about, like on the BBQ’s, around building 1 engaging students or at tertiary challenge managing the event (Unitec won the shield btw).
Vote for myself & Overton if you want a reliable, honest and hardworking exec..
Finance Officer
Chantelle Francis
Finance Officer
General Executive
My name is Chantelle Francis and I am running for the Finance officer for the USU, as I am currently studying accounting. We all as students want to come to Unitec and have a happy learning environment.
Just a little about my past at Unitec and my involvement with the USU.I have been a student representative for the business school and really did enjoy dealing with some of the issues that some of the students may have faced in our lectures. I am currently the student program representative for the NZ Diploma in Business and general executive for the USU.
I find it every interesting and enjoy representation for students. I now know a lot of our rules at Unitec and try to bring up as many issues that students may face, both current and in the future, and take it to the representative meetings.
I would just like to have the opportunity to learn more about the union and Unitec, and get more involved with students.
Maori Representative
Jessica-Ann Holes
Maori Representative
Kia Ora,
Ko Jessica-Ann Holes toku ingoa
No Nga Puhi me Ngai te Rangi nga iwi.
Hey everyone my name is Jessica-Ann Holes, Im currently in my first year of Business Management studies.
I wish to be the maori representative for USU because I believe that I have alot of experience to bring this role, and also have a voice for maori in the USU forum. In addition to develop and form relationships with other students not of Maori decent. My wish is that within this role I am able to help ALL students succeed in their particular path of study and beyond.
When one succeeds we all succeed.
International Representative
Bharat Odedra
International Representative
Hello everyone, My name is Bharat odedra and I come from India. I am studying civil engineering and this is my first year at Unitec and in this beautiful country New Zealand! I am willing to serve you all as the International representative. Being one, I completely understand the problems and difficulties that come in the way of all international students, which directly or indirectly throw a huge impact on the sole purpose we all are here for i.e Academics!
As your voice I would try to serve you to the best of my capabilities and would help you to solve your issues, like my own. I wish you all the best for your decison.
Thank you, have a great year ahead. "
Many thanks
Marina Beck
International Representative
New to New Zealand? Studying in New Zealand? Or native to New Zealand?
I am Marina Beck, from Black Forest, Germany, here to represent all International Students of Unitec (current estimation of around 2,500!!!). Trouble with Visas, Immigration or Health insurance? Confused about “foreign” policies? Looking to broaden your cultural horizons and meet new people?
Whether, an international or domestic student, if you can answer yes to at least one of my questions, then I am here for you. Since my kick off at Unitec over 1 ½ years ago, (studying Bachelor of Communications) I have personally experienced just about every policy, process and paperwork. Representing you in 2012, I will share my knowledge, give advice and listen to any of your student issues. It can be hard communicating with another culture, even though we speak the same language, it is very important to me as International Rep, to break down these barriers and help create new cultural relationships.
I will ask questions. I will increase our communication. I will provide you with a student voice. Beck for the Better! Vote for Marina Beck.
Mohit Vyas
International Representative
General Executive
No blurb submitted
Waitakere Representative
Benjamin Conder
Waitakere Representative
I am a Year One student in the Bachelor of Nursing Programme based at Waitakere Campus. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Unitec so far and feel that a position on the USU student exec team would be a good opportunity to give a little back.
Some of the things I will be addressing are the need for more lockers, further improving safety on our wonderful campus and making it a friendlier environment. I would like to increase the USU presence with more events, including family friendly ones. I am keen to help the Waitakere campus and Unitec as a whole offer the absolute best opportunities in learning and student services.
With many changes happening around Unitec at the moment I am hoping that I will be able to be a part of this. I offer a new and fresh perspective to the USU team. I am approachable, willing to listen, friendly and open to just having a chat.
Vote for Benjamin Conder if you want a great advocate for Waitakere Campus and Unitec as a whole.”
Hope you have a great day.
Regards
Mira el Haddad
Waitakere Representative
General Executive
Inspired by the people who brought you mustard and onions on your sausages, its my pleasure to introduce to you.... Mira!!!!! (loud roar from crowd)...As seen above, I am Mira.... & I’m going to get your vote in less than 200 words!
The dream to be part of USU all started when I was but a young child.... Justice and fairness (and a crap load of free stuff) for all was just part of the dream. Living the dream life as a poor uni student has enlightened me to the pain and suffering of my fellow students... the issues and deprevation that we all at times have had to face (noodles for EVERY meal, BORROWING toilet paper from uni.... sound familiar?). I want, nay, NEED to be your voice! Your pain is my pain, but mostly yours.... Let me be your shining star amongst the dark clouds that impinge on your study, let me be the voice in your head... oh wait sorry... I want the best and so should you, vote Mira for Waitakere Rep. See, woman of my word, under 200 words.
PS: I put the Mira in Miracle..... enough said.
General Executive Member
Kat Dimes
General Executive
Hey Guys!
My name is Kat and I’m one of the two girls studying Engineering Level 4 starting this semester. I’m a Student Rep for my programme and running for the position of General Executive on the USU Student Executive for 2012. I’m a small town girl who has come to the big little city to make a difference and to attempt to change the world one small step at a time.
I’ve had the awesome opportunity of being involved on a Student Executive board before and absolutely loved it. It inspired me to do everything I could to make sure we get everything we came here for! I’m hard core; I don’t stop until a solution is found and everyone is happy with the outcome. I enjoy being a student voice and representing my class, department, faculty and the entire student body. I believe in getting the most out of my student experience and making every moment count - if you're too slow you miss out!
“If someone or something is worth fighting for, you’ll fight with your entire heart”.
Ryan Aldrich
General Executive
Hello I’m Ryan Aldrich. I want to be one of the USU general executives to make student life at Unitec fair, enjoyable and manageable. A time we will reflect back on as important and irreplaceable. Moving into my fourth year of studying Landscape Architecture at Unitec and by living on campus I understand the desires, needs and views of Unitec students.
Students need
- Better Copy and Print Services. Prices are too high! Another copy centre at the north end of campus.
- Improved Food and Drink Outlets on campus. There should be a greater range and healthier options!
- Student Job Search is a service that is poor. Better facilities need to be offered on campus. Students want a service that finds relevant jobs and work experience.
- Unity throughout Unitec. Students require better Communication Between the Campuses. All campuses should have at least the same services and facilities found at Mt Albert. There needs to be more events at the north end of campus.
- Students want more Common Space all over campus! This is particularly desired for at the North end of campus and at Waitakere.
Vote Ryan Aldrich for USU general executive!
No Confidence
Hi Unitec!!! I’m No Confidence and I stand for No Interest. I don’t mean No Interest on your personal loan and hire purchase items, LOL – no, I mean I have absolutely No interest in you, your welfare, or your stupid problems that have No consequences whatsoever for me or my own political ambitions. Lecturers hassling you? Pfft, whatever. Can’t pay for food? Don’t have time for you, sorry – I have to be home for when my pool cleaner arrives, and make sure he doesn’t dump the leaves on my rose garden like he does EVERY SINGLE TIME. What a jerk. Mo’ money mo’ problems, etc. etc..
Anyway, if you vote for me, I promise to turn this campus into the soulless, bleak environment you deserve. L@@k to the future. If it looks as bland and uninspiring as I think it should be, then I’m your guy.
Vote for nothing. Vote for a non-existent student body. Vote for meh.