Nominations
The GSA-UW is now accepting nominations for the upcoming Board of Directors election to fill nine (9) vacant positions. University of Waterloo graduate students are invited to put forward their application and run as a candidate in the Board of Directors election. Official notice is hereby served for the election to fill the vacancies of the GSA Board of Directors.
The directorships terms of office are:
• Nine (9) directorships beginning May 1, 2024, and ending April 30, 2026.
We are accepting applications from February 12th – March 10th, 2024 at 11:59 EST. All applications are to be sent to the CRO at gsa-cro@uwaterloo.ca.
Description of Director Position:
The GSA Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing corporate interests of the Graduate Student Association. Directors are elected by graduate students each year at the GSA Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in the Winter term.
The Board of Directors have monthly regular meetings, and operates according to the Carver Policy Governance framework, meaning that the Board focuses on strategy and oversight, and delegates day-to-day management to staff. Directors are expected to dedicate 15-20 hours of time commitment per month. Directors are eligible for a monthly remuneration of $50 for their active participation on the GSA Board.
We are seeking people with not-for-profit experience. A background in accounting and auditing, budgeting, insurance and lobbying, marketing, privacy management, or risk and controls knowledge is desirable but is not necessary. A technical description of the position can be found in our Policy Registry, and in GSA Bylaw #5.
The GSA Board of Directors are involved in significant conversations and decisions directly related to student life at UW, and this dialogue is strengthened when the Board of Directors is comprised of students with diverse backgrounds, identities, challenges and experiences. The GSA Board of Directors is responsible for identifying and removing structural barriers and enacting policies and practices of inclusions so that all graduate students have equal access to and can benefit from the programs and services offered. The GSA welcomes and encourages applications from qualified individuals who are Black persons, Indigenous persons, and persons of colour, persons with disabilities and/or accessibility needs, all religions and ethnicities, and all gender identities, gender expressions and sexual orientations.
Nomination Period & Form:
- Nomination forms can be found here: Director Nomination Form
- Nominees can either use single form or multiple copies of the form to collect all 5 signatures from members nominating them. Digital signatures on nomination form are also allowed.
- Nomination forms must be submitted to the Chief Returning Officer (CRO) at gsa-cro@uwaterloo.ca before the March 10th, 2024 at 11:59 PM EST.
- Nominees will receive a confirmation of receipt from the CRO following the closure of the nomination period
- Graduate students who will be enrolled in an academic program for the majority of the 2 year term (4 academic terms) are eligible to run for a director position
Campaigning & Voting Period
- The campaigning period will be from March 18, 9:00 AM to March 23, 11:59 EST.
- Candidates are offered to provide a photo and a brief statement to be posted on the GSA website (Maximum 150 words)
- Online voting BEFORE the AGM: Starts on March 25 and closes on April 3, at 4:30 PM EST. A notice will be sent to all eligible graduate students and they may vote once during this period.
- Online via electronic ballot at the AGM: April 3, at 4:30 PM EST.
Nominees for 2024 Directorships
Introducing your candidates for the 2024 Board of Director Elections!
Candidates are listed in alphabetical order by last name. Click on their profile to read their candidacy statement.
Please note that emails of the candidates are provided on their profile. We strongly encourage you to reach out to the candidates to ask them any questions you may have and engage in conversation prior to voting at the Annual General Meeting on April 3, 2024
Visit the Annual General Meeting 2024 webpage to learn how to place your vote!
Email: adgawali@uwaterloo.ca
Hello, I am Akshay Dhananjay Gawali and currently, I am a grad student at the University of Waterloo pursuing Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering. I have over 4 years of substantial experience in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering, along with a variety of abilities, and a proven track record of strategic decision-making, and leadership. Focusing on the concerns of every student will be my top priority to foster growth, enhance transparency, and ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability. I’m determined to uphold my duties as a board member and work in the best interests of the University of Waterloo and its stakeholders. I’m prepared to provide the necessary time and effort to participate completely in board meetings, committees, and strategic planning activities. Being granted consideration for a position on the board of directors is an honour, and I am looking forward to collaborating with the other board members to achieve the organization’s goals. Now, I humbly ask for your support and vote in the upcoming election.
Favourite Spot on Campus: My favourite spot on campus is the SLC building because I see a lot of students working, some students sit and relax, and some students eat food and meet their friends. I go every day to the SLC building to meet my friends and have fun with them.
Favourite Ice Cream Flavour: I like the combination of chocolate and vanilla flavour ice cream.
Email: d2eaton@uwaterloo.ca
As a devoted physics PhD candidate specializing in laser physics, I offer a fresh perspective to the GSA candidacy. My primary goal is to champion the personal and professional growth of our graduate student community. I aspire to create an environment where every member feels empowered to pursue their academic passions and achieve their career aspirations. I will advocate for resources that cater to individual developmental needs to succeed while here at Waterloo and beyond. Together, let’s build a GSA that not only celebrates academic excellence but also fosters the development of each graduate student.
Favourite Spot on Campus: My office.
Favourite Ice Cream Flavour: Cookie dough
Email: hskhangura@uwaterloo.ca
Hello everyone! I’m Harmehak Singh Khangura, and I’m thrilled to throw my hat in the ring as a
candidate for the Board of Directors at the Graduate Student Association at the University of
Waterloo.
I am currently pursuing Master of Engineering program in Electrical and Computer Engineering
(ECE), having commenced my studies in Winter 2024. Prior to joining the University of Waterloo, I
completed my Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Engineering at Guru Nanak Dev Engineering
College, Punjab, India.
As a proud member of the graduate student community, I am passionate about contributing to the
enhancement of our academic and social experiences. If elected to the GSA Board of Directors, my
primary goals revolve around fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all graduate
students. I envision initiatives aimed at promoting mental health and well-being, facilitating
networking opportunities and advocating for resources and services according to the diverse needs
of our student body.
I firmly believe that by working together and harnessing our collective strengths, we can create a
vibrant and thriving graduate student community at the University of Waterloo. With your support, I
am committed to representing your interests and aspirations on the GSA Board of Directors.
Together, let’s shape a brighter future for graduate students at the University of Waterloo.
Favourite Spot on Campus: Student Life Centre (SLC)
Favourite Ice Cream Flavour: Butterscotch
Email: kbiggart@uwaterloo.ca
Hi! My name is Kaylee (she/her), I’m starting the second year of my PhD in experimental condensed matter physics this spring. I was elected to the GSA-UW’s Board of Directors in April 2022, and as of May 2023 I’ve been appointed as the Board Chair.
The GSA’s purpose is to support grad students through our graduate studies, and I believe the best way to guarantee the GSA is fulfilling this purpose is to ensure the organization itself is operating responsibly. As a Director and Board Chair, I have used critical thinking, problem solving, and interpersonal communication skills to make informed decisions with the best interests of the GSA at heart.
My vision for the GSA is long term stability, as that will provide grad students with the best support available. This includes formalizing Director training, reviewing the organizational structure and hierarchy of the GSA, and overseeing upgrades to the Grad House.
Favourite Spot on Campus: Grad House!!
Favourite Ice Cream Flavour: Chocolate with chocolate syrup and whipped cream
Email: oobabalola@uwaterloo.ca
I am Oluwatobiloba Babalola, and I am humbled to introduce myself as a candidate for the Graduate
Student Association board directors. With a background in design and currently pursuing a Master’s
degree in Architecture at the UW Cambridge campus, I am deeply committed to fostering a supportive
and inclusive environment where every graduate student’s voice can thrive.
Drawing from my experience as the GSA Council representative for the Architecture School, I understand
the pivotal role a strong student community plays in fostering personal and collective growth,
networking, and professional development.
My vision for the GSA Board is to collaborate with fellow directors to prioritize student welfare,
leveraging feedback and insights garnered through the GSA Council. Together, we will ensure that every
graduate student feels valued and supported, contributing to a thriving academic community.
Your vote is instrumental in shaping the future of our association. I am dedicated to serving our collective
interests and advancing our shared goals. With your support, we can build a resilient and empowered
community where all voices are heard. Vote for me, Oluwatobiloba, and let’s realize our vision together.
Favourite Spot on Campus: Peter Russell Rock Garden
Favourite Ice Cream Flavour: Vanilla
Email: tschitnavis@uwaterloo.ca
As an enthusiastic member of the University of Waterloo community, I am Tushar Sunil Chitnavis, currently pursuing a Master in Management Sciences (MMSc.). With a rich background in software development and a passion for iOS development, I bring a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic thinking to the table.
My vision for the Graduate Student Association is to foster a collaborative environment where innovation thrives. Leveraging my 6 years of IT experience and insights from international exposure, I aim to enhance the graduate experience by promoting diversity, inclusion, and professional development. Let’s work together to create a vibrant, supportive community that propels us towards our collective aspirations.
Favourite Spot on Campus: E5 3rd floor sitting area (overlooking LRT tracks)
Favourite Ice Cream Flavour: Butterscotch
Favourite Spot on Campus: SLC has something to offer for everyone. From grabbing a quick coffee to having a hearty meal with friends, it definitely tops the list
Favourite Ice Cream Flavour: Strawberry Cheescake
Nominations from the AGM 2024 Meeting "Floor"
There will be opportunity for members to nominate themselves for directorship from the virtual “floor” of the AGM. Any number of nominations will be accepted. Candidates who submit themselves as a “floor” nomination will be added to the ballot along with the other candidates. You will have a brief time slot in the agenda to introduce yourself and indicate why you should be selected as a Director.
If you plan on nominating yourself:
- Be sure to attend the AGM yourself
- You will still be required to submit a nomination form with 5 signatures from current graduate students.
- The best plan would be to gather signatures on your nomination form now ahead of the AGM and submit the form to the Chief Returning Officer (CRO) as soon as it is ready.
- Nomination forms can be found here: Director Nomination Form
- The nomination form will only be considered completed when the applicant receives the endorsement from five (5) graduate students, as indicated by completion of lines 1-5.
- Nomination forms must be submitted to the Chief Returning Officer (CRO) before the completion of Agenda item 3 during the 2024 AGM.
- Be ready to speak to your qualifications and aspirations for the directorship position
- Invite your friends, peers, and colleagues to vote. Voting for nominations from the floor will only be available for attendees of the AGM.
Questions
The Board of Directors is responsible for the operations of the GSA and is accountable to the graduate students of the University of Waterloo. For information please view Board of Directors, the Association’s governance webpage, and By-Laws (By-Law#5).
Comments, concerns, and questions should be directed to the Chief Returning Officer at gsa-cro@uwaterloo.ca.