Spring 2011 Election Candidates

Voting period: Monday, 21 March to Friday, 25 March. Voting is conducted on WebCT, and voting booths will also be available in front of Ladha from 11 to 1.

For the unopposed positions, voters will have an option of Yes or No.

Election guideline infractions and penalties are announced here.

President

Kiran Mahal

Hi my name is Kiran Mahal , I am in my 3rd of Biochemistry and I am running to be YOUR next SUS President. I am running in this election because I am passionate about working with students and faculty to enrich the undergraduate experience for all Science Students. SUS does great work for students and I feel that I have the skills and experiences to help strengthen the events, programs and lobby efforts of the society.

I feel that I am the best candidate for this position because not only do I have the experience working on SUS Council and SUS Executive, I also bring a breadth of external experiences, ideas and networks to help move the society forward. I will continue to seek new approaches to open lines of communication and involvement for all Science Students and continue to build on the strong foundation of the society.

1. Ensure an effective implementation of the new council structure and develop initiatives to maintain strong communication with Science Clubs
2. Complete initiatives and projects started by this year's Executive Committee including
   • Establishing a Community Relations and Sponsorship Committee
   • Improvements to the Ladha Centre
   • Strengthening the SUS brand and website
3. Work with Faculty and Student Development to create more unique career and professional development initiatives for Science Students

Thank you for taking the time to vote and taking ownership of your student society! For more information about my platform or experience, please visit www.kiranmahal.com or email me at k_mahal50@hotmail.com.

back to top

Sarah Palin

Candidate did not submit a statement.

back to top

Your typical Pre med student

Candidate withdrew on Sunday, March 13 at 11:59AM.

back to top

Jordan Wright

My fellow Science students,

My name is Jordan Wright and this March I'm vying for the privilege to be your Science Undergraduate Society president. I am currently a third year Pharmacology major, so believe me; I understand the challenges and rewards of being a Science student at UBC. For the past three years, I have faithfully served Science students in a number of elected positions within SUS, including my current executive position as Director of Sports. I also have one year of experience as an AMS club president. Throughout these years full of Science courses, it has been an absolute pleasure meeting many of you and discussing with you how SUS can serve you best. Now I am excited for this opportunity to act as your spokesperson and lead SUS through a year full of harmony and success. If you have any questions contact me at jordanva@interchange.ubc.ca.

Cheers,
Jordan Wright

back to top

Justin Yang

Candidate withdrew on Sunday, March 13 at 4:15PM.

back to top

Luke Yin

Hey everyone, my name is Luke Yin and I would like to be your SUS president next year! Vote for me, and I will ensure that you'll enjoy the following:

• Collaborated events with AUS, EUS, and HKUS. This will allow us to have events that are bigger than ever, throughout the year.
• Weekend and evening access to Ladha. At the moment, Ladha Center is only open until about 8pm, and is closed on weekends. Keeping the building open will allow more Science students to socialize and study.
• Overnight Frosh. Every year, hundreds of Frosh volunteers and Froshees are turned down simply due to lack of space at the event. An overnight Frosh (e.g. camping trip) will solve this problem without compromising the fun involved.
• Science students first. I am more than happy to work with the Dean, but SUS exists for students, not the faculty, and good relations with the Dean should not come at the cost of freedom.
• More sponsorships so we can have bigger events, especially during Science Week.
• A less exclusive SUS. Club reps will get their vote back, and there will be no more discrimination against any group. Those who like to party will not be discriminated against, regardless of what the Dean says. Those pursuing a major outside the Life Sciences will have just as many research opportunities promoted by SUS.
• Non-exec SUS councilors will have easy access to the office.

Please email me at luke008@interchange.ubc.ca if you have any questions. Thanks for voting!

back to top

Vice-President External

Justin Dirk

Candidate did not submit a statement.

back to top

Michael Wong

Hello there!

My name is Michael Wong and I am running to be your next VP External. The portfolio consists primarily of three projects: Frosh, Science Week, and Science Grad. As the current Biochemistry Department Representative, I had the privilege of participating in two of the projects as the Events Coordinator of Frosh and the Co-Chair of Science Week.

If elected, I plan to:

• Conduct research and consult other undergraduate societies to expand the capacity of Frosh in order to inspire more first-years to become involved with SUS.
• Outreach and foster Science Pride amongst all Science students through active promotion of Science Week.
• Organize periodic fundraisers throughout the year to make Science Grad more affordable.

With my passion and first-hand experience of the portfolio, I have what it takes to be your next VPX. So, what are you waiting for? Vote MICHAEL WONG as YOUR next VPX.

Thanks!

back to top

Vice-President Internal

Mona Maleki

Hi Everyone,

Please take a moment and think back to the PEP RALLY during IMAGINE, to that feeling of PRIDE and BELONGING. Recreating that moment among students has lead me, for the past two years, to sit on committees such as FROSH, FYC (co-chair), Science Week, Sports, and to take on the role of BioSoc's SUS rep in council, focusing on communication between the council, the Biology club and Biology students. It is why I want to address first year student's transition into university and communication among students and departments/programs. I was nominated by the SUS student executives because of their thoughts on my work and dedication to SUS. I have grown confident in my skills and If elected as your VPI, I have a strong DESIRE to change and address issues that I have observed. So please JOIN me on a journey to an even more INCLUSIVE Undergraduate Society.

back to top

Sean Zhu

Hey everyone, my name is Sean Zhu and I'm running to become YOUR next VP Internal.

I've proudly been able to represent SUS for the past two years as a department rep, but this year I hope to be able to bring to YOU the society at its finest, and provide to you the services to maximize your years here in Science and at UBC. I feel as if I have the experience, drive, and necessary skills to fulfill this position to its fullest.

150 words are nearly not enough to explain to you how badly I want this position, so please feel free to email me at Sean.s.zhu@gmail.com if you'd like to personally talk to me about it. Please remember to vote on SSC, by hitting Grades & Records and Webvote between Mar 21-25. I look forward to hearing back from you and representing YOU as your next VPI.

back to top

Director of Administration

Charlie Sheen (still winning)

Boom, crush. Night, losers. Winning, duh. I am on a drug. It's called Charlie Sheen

back to top

Gary Tse

Candidate did not submit a statement.

back to top

Director of Finance

Joaquin Acevedo

Hello Everyone,

I am Joaquin Acevedo, currently a first year science student. I am running for SUS Director of Finance for the year 2011/2012.

As Director of Finance will ensure that the SUS budget is well managed in order to continue being a thriving and sustainable society. I will increase efficiency in day to day operations such as disbursements and Club Grants. As Vice-Chair of Finance Committee this year I have been able to acquire the information and experienced to be Director of Finance.

Though this position is uncontested I still want all science students to know what I plan to do in office, as well as address all issues you may have. If you have any questions feel free to contact me at:

votejoaquin@gmail.com
604-218-0914.

Vote Yes for Joaquin Acevedo as Director of Finance.

back to top

Director of Sports

Iyad Salloum

Hey folks,

My name is Iyad Salloum and I'm running to be your Director of Sports. I believe that I have the experience and skill set for this position. I have been heavily involved with SUS over the last 2 years, most notably with the sports and social committees.

As the Director of Sports I will be:

1. Continuing the Science Athlete of the Month program which was formed by the current committee and myself to support Science's varsity athletes.
2. Organizing free weight lifting and exercise workshops for science students.
3. Offering larger rebates for teams that register under Science and sport Science FC jerseys for REC events like Day of the Longboat, Gladiator and Storm the Wall.
4. Partnering up with AMS clubs like Right to Play-UBC and Lose the Shoes-UBC and organizing epic sporting events that aim to raise funds for their respective charities.

For any questions, please shoot me an email at ihsalloum@gmail.com.

Vote Iyad for SPORTS!

back to top

Danielle Samels

Hello hello! I am Danielle and I want to become your 2011/ 2012 SUS Director of Sports! This past year I have been on SUS council and I have LOVED it! Therefore, next academic year I want to get more involved and go a step up, and be on the SUS exec as the Director of sports; leading my fellow science students to a world with more physical activity. I am a very athletically inclined person, and in the past I have competed provincially, nationally and internationally in different sports, notably gymnastics. I have participated in essentially every UBC REC event there is; Storm the wall, Longboat, Waterwars, Gladiator as well as the intramural and sports leagues. As your FEMALE director of sports I plan on making some mind-blowing sports teams and having the most fun, (and most talented) and active committee just for us science students!

back to top

Public Relations Officer

Mark Ventura

Hello extraordinary science students! My name is Mark Ventura and I would like to become your Public Relations Officer. I have the motivation and experience needed for this position but need you to vote YES!

I've been greatly involved with SUS since my first year at UBC, as the First Year Representative in first year, and a club representative and Sales Manager in my second year. As PRO, I will work towards actively, consistently and professionally raising awareness of SUS and the opportunities within it.

My hope is to better acquaint students with all that SUS has to offer. I hope to bring about improved branding, long-lasting sponsorship, and media for the benefit of us science students. If you've got any questions feel free to email me at venturam@interchange.ubc.ca or visit my Facebook group.

Let's do this! Vote YES for Mark Ventura for PRO!

back to top

Science Student Senator

John MacLean (JJ)

Candidate missed the statement submission deadline.

back to top

Saba Marzara

Hi Science Students!

I'm Saba Marzara and I'm running for YOUR Science Student Senator. I've been an elected SUS council for the past two year and I'm your current Public Relations Officer. I want to take a leadership role as the Science Student Senator so that I can use my experience and knowledge to improve the academic experience of UBC Science undergraduates.

If elected I would like to tackle academic issues that will closely impact Science Students and focus on:

• Creating, facilitating and funding enriched student experiences by increasing research opportunities, community service learning and co-ops.
• Expanding housing opportunities and increasing informal learning spaces
• Integrating research, teaching and operational management of the campus to develop ideas, technologies and partnerships for sustainability.

If elected I will be a strong voice for students on council and senate but I need your vote to do it! If you have any questions please email me at sabamar@interchange.ubc.ca or come to the Ladha Centre during my Office Hours on Mondays/Wednesday at 9am.

I'm really looking forward to seeing you all come out and vote! Thank you for your support!

back to top

Social Coordinator

Oliver Bozek

Whatsup Science Students? I'm Oliver Bozek and I want to be your Social Coordinator! This past year I've served SUS as a MUG Leader, Frosh leader and a Social Committee member. So far next year I'm going to be a squad manager for Imagine Day and hopefully your Social Coordinator too! While a member on this year's Social Committee I played an integral role in the organization of our annual Cold Fusion Concert as well as contributed to every other social event we threw. As an active member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity I have taken on numerous leadership roles: such as being responsible for throwing our annual formal ball with over 180 guests in attendance. I have tons of event planning experience, whether it be formals, concerts, parties or sporting events. I have the necessary skillset to make any event I throw a success. I'm a very approachable, organized and energetic person. If elected I will bring all my skills, talents and energy to the table and take our Social Program to the next level! I encourage you contact or approach me and ask me anything. Vote Oliver Bozek for Social Coordinator!!!

back to top

Lara Brewster

Hi guys my name is Lara Brewster, I'm a third year Microbiology student and in this years SUS executive elections I am running for the position of Social Coordinator. I have extensive experience working with SUS this year as the MISA Rep, the Human Resources Manager for Science Week and a member of the Code and Policy committee. The Social Coordinator is responsible for the organization, promotion and running of all SUS social events like Cold Fusion. Given my extensive event planning experience I am the perfect candidate for this role. I'm very excited to contribute to the awesomeness that is Science and I have already begun brainstorming how we can make next year's events even more epic.

When you want to party you have to call the Brewster!

Vote Lara!

To learn more about my campaign please e-mail me at l.brewster@losetheshoes.ca

back to top

AMS Representative

Choose up to four.

Maria Cirstea

For the past 2 years I have worked hard to represent you on AMS council. Continuity is key in keeping programs/plans stable. My focus:

• Financial accountability: Sitting on Budget Committee last year, we were forced to make tough cuts. With the new fee structure, I will ensure the money goes straight back into services, clubs and student benefits
• Businesses: The tough economy is hitting everywhere. I will continue listening to students and working with the businesses/facilities on plans which cater directly to them while still turning revenue. Toonie Tuesdays at the Gallery and $5 meals are just the start
• Whistler Lodge: As chair of the Whistler Review Committee, I am working to ensure the Lodge stays student oriented and does not lose us more money
• Transparency: I will continue to consult students and, through SUS, keep them aware and updated on all decisions affecting them

back to top

Salar Fazeli

Candidate did not submit a statement.

back to top

Maia Kaplan

Candidate withdrew on Sunday, March 13 at 2:15PM.

back to top

David Kim

Hi!

My name is David Kim and I am hoping to serve you for another term as your AMS Representative for SUS.

I was elected to AMS council in late 2010 and since then, have learned how the AMS operates. With this understanding and with knowledge of the issues that students currently face, I can focus to push for positive change to benefit you.

I'm a strong advocate for education, I will work to:

• Lobby for increased student financial aid and increased funding for education
• Push a better transit system (Support the UBC Line)
• Keep council & executive accountable

Vote for me and I will continue to fully advocate the issues that affect you. I will bring my extensive experiences to the table and work towards resolutions and changes that need to be implemented and be a strong voice for you.

Best,
David.
For more info: http://www.wix.com/votedavid/info

back to top

Saba Marzara

Hey Everyone!

I'm Saba Marzara and I'm running to be your AMS Representative. I have been heavily involved with SUS for the last two years as an elected SUS councilor and I'm currently your Public Relations Officer. With my involvement with SUS I have gained the skill set, and determination for this position and believe that I have the knowledge and experience to represent Science Students effectively on the AMS council.

Now that the referendum is over we will soon see big changes within the AMS but there is still a lot more to be done! With your support, I will deliver the changes you want to see and will become YOUR voice on AMS council. Help me make the AMS a better, more effective organization by voting Yes for Saba as your new AMS Representative!

If you have any questions please email me at sabamar@interchange.ubc.ca or come to the Ladha Centre during my Office Hours on Mondays/Wednesday at 9am.

I'm really looking forward to seeing you all come out and vote! Thank you for your support!

back to top

Iggy Rodriguez

My name is Ignacio Rodriguez, I am seeking re-election to my third term as SUS Ams Representative. Since being elected two years ago I have enjoyed many opportunities to contribute to the success of the AMS. Most importantly as a member, and chair of the Legislative Procedures committee I have worked hard to make the AMS a more efficient and accountable organization. I have worked extensively in council and committee on changes in our record access policies, as well as reforms to our donations policy in order to ensure AMS members can know what the society is doing. As the chair of the Legislative Procedures Committee I am currently working on a review of our election code to guarantee students a level playing field free of negative campaigning. I would hope to continue these projects in the next year, thank you for considering my candidacy for re-election as AMS Representative.

back to top