I’m running to represent Arts and Science on council; because I have a passion for advocacy, and have a lot of student union experience. I am presently the Academic Coordinator for ASFA, and in this role I regularly meet with the Concordia Administration and advocate for Arts/Science undergraduates like my/yourself. Recently I’ve focused on the ongoing LTA cuts and general budget cut (aka austerity) issues,and in the past I’ve defended pro-palestine demos, fought against international tuition hike stuff, climate justice and LGBTQIA+ issues. I really like defending students' positions publicly as demonstrated by my incessant yapping in student publications. My goals are:

• Actually help the student groups that want fee levy increases through the process,
• Re-join University Senate;
• tell Graham Carr to take a pay cut,
• More Special General Meetings where ALL undergrads can make voice heard,
• Make CSU council a safe space by encouraging other visible minority councilors to file complaints, if they are discriminated against based on the colour of their skin by other CSU councilors.
• Join Policy Committee; I have a lot of experience repairing union policies in English and French

I have now seen many candidates campaign on promises they can't possibly hold if elected because they are in the purview of the Quebec government; like lowering tuition fees. I encourage everyone to do at least a little bit of research on every candidate that you are planning on voting for; especially if the promises they make are too good to be true.

Hello! I'm Ana, a Peru-born student at the Simone de Beauvoir Institute finishing Women's Studies and starting a minor in Black and African Diaspora Studies in the Canadian Context. I've been an active member of Concordia for 1.5 years through WSSSA and ASFA. I stay aware of campus issues: administration cutting faculty contracts and student resources while funding surveillance and private security. I sit critically with Concordia being on stolen land, profiting from Kanien'kehá:ka dispossession, investing in companies tied to war and genocide, and silencing those working for change. My values come from what I study. I want council to hold people accountable by bringing in perspectives often ignored. My politics are rooted in anti-colonial and anti-imperialist feminisms, anti-capitalism, and decolonial practice. I reject pinkwashing, purplewashing, greenwashing, and liberal solutions. I'm for anti-racist, anti-oppression, anti-austerity approaches, and believe in building community beyond cisheteropatriarchy. I believe in a trauma-informed restorative and transformative justice—not police or carceral systems.

You open your syllabus and your stomach drops—textbooks cost hundreds of dollars before classes even begin. That moment of stress, of wondering how you’re going to keep up, is something no Concordia student should have to experience. My name is Anastasia Zorchinsky. I am your current CSU Councillor, and after two years of not missing a meeting, listening, and fighting for students, I am running for re-election to Council so we can keep building a CSU that truly supports you. This year, my priority is urgent: no student should have to choose between their education and their finances. That is why I am already working on a CSU Textbook Relief Fund proposal—so when costs become overwhelming, you have somewhere to turn. Many of you I’ve met told me this is urgent, and I’m ready to deliver practical solutions. Together, we can make this real through four key actions:

1. CSU Textbook Fund- Immediate relief & direct financial support for students in need through a simple application.
2. Long-term change- expand book-sharing, strengthen OER, and ensure textbook costs are visible before registration.
3. Student life & community- protect clubs from funding cuts and support underrepresented students and minorities.
4. Accountability- transparent, responsible use of your CSU fees. Together, we can remove barriers and make Concordia a place where every student can succeed.

Vote Anastasia for CSU Council.

Hello everyone! I’m Anca and I’m running for Councillor because I truly care about how students experience campus life and whether they feel represented in the spaces where decisions are made. I have participated in various clubs and volunteering positions, so I know how frustrating it can feel when policies seem distant or when communication isn’t clear. I don’t want student representation to feel symbolic, but rather real, accessible, and responsive. If elected, my intention is to focus on making communication more open and consistent so students actually know what’s happening and how it affects them. I want people to feel comfortable asking questions, sharing concerns, and offering ideas without feeling ignored. Representation, to me, starts with listening seriously and following through. I also want to advocate for policies that prioritize student well-being and academic success, while making sure inclusivity isn’t just a word we use but something we practice. Every student deserves to feel valued and considered in decisions that impact them. At the end of the day, this position isn’t about holding a title, it’s about responsibility. I’m committed to showing up, doing the work, and representing students with honesty, empathy, and dedication.

Strong representation at Loyola starts with actually getting there on time. Where is the shuttle bus? The silence on Loyola is deafening. As a current councillor and member of the Loyola Committee, I have seen the effort to increase shuttle hours quietly abandoned. That is unacceptable. Transportation between Loyola and downtown should support students, not create stress, delays, and missed classes. I am committed to concrete improvements: increasing shuttle frequency during peak hours, expanding capacity during high-traffic periods with more or larger buses, and extending shuttle service during exams and late-night classes. Students deserve service that matches their schedules. Reliability also requires transparency. I will push for a real-time shuttle tracking system so students can see exactly when their bus is arriving. In addition, I will work to establish a public CSU Shuttle Feedback System to track delays, overcrowding, and missed runs—because problems cannot be fixed if they are ignored. Beyond transportation, I will continue strengthening Loyola campus life through stronger programming and engagement so students feel connected and supported on their own campus. I remain committed to responsible budgeting and transparent use of student fees. Students deserve to know how their money is being spent and to feel confident that council decisions reflect the interests of the entire student body. My focus is clear: dependable transportation, accountability, and strong advocacy. Loyola deserves consistent representation and I am ready to keep delivering it.

Student clubs are what make a university experience worth it. They are where we make friends, build our resume, find our resume, find our community, and often where we feel at home at Concordia. But this year, clubs have been hit with budget cuts, meaning fewer events, fewer opportunities and fewer of us, the diverse student community. That affects everyone, not just club executives. My name is Barbara Sarah, and I am running to make sure student life is not the first thing sacrificed. In a leadership role at the CSU, I will:

1. Bring new money onto campus by building sponsorship partnerships with Montreal restaurants, businesses, and corporations so clubs can run better events without relying only on limited CSU funds.
2. Analyze how and why CSU club budgets have been cut, and how we can change that.
3. I will meet with clubs, listen to what they actually need, and fight to make sure the budget reflects those needs, and I will speak up when funding decisions are too low or unfair. When clubs are strong, the campus is alive, opportunities are everywhere, and students feel like they are at home. We deserve a vibrant, active student life, not a campus that is being cut back.

SAVE STUDENT LIFE. VOTE BARBARA

Chana Leah for CSU Councillor – Faculty of Arts & Science Hi, my name is Chana Leah, and I am in my third year pursuing a major in Child Studies with a double minor in Early Childhood Education and Exceptionality & Diversity. I have had the privilege of serving as a Councillor on the Concordia Student Union, representing the Faculty of Arts & Science. Throughout my term, I have worked hard to advocate for students, ensuring that your voices are heard and that meaningful changes are implemented. I served on the Loyola Committee, where I was able to approve funding for free lunches and social events at Loyola and even helped support an affordable nail service for students! If re-elected, I will advocate for our LTAs rights and contract renewals, I will continue to work on improving the student experience by increasing access to free feminine hygiene products across campus, standardized letter to number grades across our faculty, and by creating more social events at Loyola and the downtown campus such as book swaps, clothing swaps, and a composting workshop with our greenhouse! Beyond my involvement in student government, I am passionate about education, community engagement, and social advocacy. I spend my free time working with children, volunteering, and connecting with nature. I am deeply committed to advancing women’s rights and environmental sustainability. I believe that student leadership is about action, and I am dedicated to creating tangible improvements that enhance student life. I look forward to continuing to serve the Arts & Science community and bringing your ideas to life.

When I joined Concordia I was sure that I would simply attend classes and get my degree as quickly as possible without getting involved in student government. Now, I am certain that I can, and should, help with uplifting student concerns and voices, and to advocate for positive changes for all of us. As a Mature Entry Student, I have the ability to use my experience to try and make a difference for students. I am a Jack-of-all-trades; I’ve worked in construction, hospitality and food, agriculture, and start-up tech. All of this means that I have made opportunities for myself to learn new skills and break through barriers to other sectors. This makes me a good resource for students to draw on to help build up their skills in an increasingly difficult and hostile job market. The problems that Concordia faces go beyond budgetary, and the solutions to our issues don’t lie in cutting faculty and services, and I would work hard to pressure administration to restore the shuttle services, as well as insist that they re-evaluate their position on cutting LTAs and other faculty. Using my years of work experience; I intend to work smart, listen with both ears, and speak with my entire chest when it comes to representing the student's voices and concerns. I am not shy to confront and speak boldly to representatives of power and authority, and I promise to bring that energy when pushing for meaningful changes on Campus.

Hi everyone my name is Constance Nowell and I am a third year political science and human rights student running for the CSU student council to represent ASFA. I have  experience in marketing, events, and volunteering with NGOs and campus clubs. I am passionate about human rights and improving student life at Concordia. 

And here are some of my main points:

Outdoors & Campus Spaces: Expanding outdoor seating on both campuses and improving indoor areas, including tunnels, to make them safer, more welcoming, and comfortable for studying, relaxing, and socializing. Students need accessible spaces to connect, collaborate, and take breaks between classes.

Student Rights & Resources: Ensure students know their rights and have clear access to campus resources. This is especially key for first year students, who often aren't informed on the resources they have access to.

Free or accessible Ready-to-Go Meals: Provide accessible, free, and convenient meals for students on the move. This includes free ready-to-go options and longer access to food resources, so no student has to skip meals due to a busy schedule.

Transportation: Advocate for a reliable and efficient shuttle system between SGW and Loyola campuses. Improved schedules, reduced wait times, and better communication will help Commuting students manage their time and reduce stress.

Student Voice & Representation: Prioritize open communication with students, actively listen to concerns, and ensure all voices are represented in Student Council decisions. Campus life impacts their everyday life, students need to be heard. I am committed to making Concordia more accessible and inviting. I aim to make campus feel less hostile and like a true campus. 

Don't forget to vote, you deserve to be heard !

Hi! My name is Dalia, and I am a Psychology student who passionately believes that student wellbeing is a basic right, not a luxury. Amidst a university facing financial pressures, growing class sizes, rising stress, and broke overworked students, the student body deserves a CSU that actively protects their wellbeing and supports their success. I am running to support a CSU that treats student wellbeing as essential by pushing for:

• Affordable mental health care, through student discounts and partnerships with external organizations.
• Faster access to counselling, including advocating for increased capacity and reduced wait times.
• Expanded service hours, including evenings and weekends for students balancing work and school.
• Direct support for students facing financial and food insecurity, so no one has to choose between their basic needs and their education.
• Promoting consistent meditation and mental health workshops at Concordia, so students can learn how to unwind, take a breath, and learn more in group setting while connecting with new folks.

I will advocate for policies that reflect compassion, accessibility, and equity, and that ensure that every student is treated with dignity and care.

A stronger community starts with students who feel supported. Vote Dalia ♥

• Previous council member (twice) Political science + SCPA + URBS
• Anti-Aramark - Pro-Democratic participation
• Anti-Studentcare Legal (ripoff for students)
• Pro-BDS
• Anti-Administrative double-talk
• Pro-Pedestrianize McKay
• Anti-LTA firings
• Pro-Divestment from fossil fuel investments

Students come to Concordia to graduate on time and move forward with confidence. That vision died on the course registration website.

Too many Arts & Science students are being waitlisted for required courses, denied seats after the DNE, left waiting weeks for academic advising, and navigating unnecessary administrative delays that push their degrees further out of reach. At the same time, humanities programs are being cut - fewer courses, fewer professors, and fewer opportunities in the very disciplines that define a university education. This isn't an accident, this is a direct result of the mass termination of LTA contracts, just this year. Concordia can no longer pride itself on high quality education. This is not acceptable. I am running to make degree completion the top priority: more sections in high-demand courses, priority registration for students close to graduating, transparent data on course availability, stable faculty positions, improved coordination between departments, more academic advisors, and a clear online booking system with real wait times. Concordia may be facing financial challenges, but students should not pay the price with lost time, lost opportunities, and delayed futures. Your tuition is an investment, and your education should not be reduced or obstructed by inefficiency. This is not about politics - it is about your time, your degree, and your future. If you want a councillor focused on practical results and ensuring every student can access the courses, advising, and support they need to graduate without unnecessary delays, I would be honoured to earn your vote.

Elaheh Taghizadeh is running for CSU Council as a Faculty of Arts and Sciences representative to deliver practical changes that directly improve student life. What I will advocate for:

• Library Access During Reading Week:

  Implementing Concordia-only library access during reading week so students can study without overcrowding.

• Extended Shuttle Bus Hours:

  Extending Loyola shuttle service until at least 9 PM to support students with evening classes, labs, and work commitments.

• Extended Lab Access:

  Increasing lab access hours for science students who need more time for coursework, projects, and research.

• Fair and Equal Representation:

  Advocating for an impartial CSU that represents all student groups equally and provides balanced support when it matters most. My campaign is focused on real, achievable solutions, improving academic access, campus transportation, student support, and fairness within the CSU. I am committed to being a strong, practical voice for Arts and Sciences students and ensuring that our everyday concerns are heard and acted upon!

You shouldn't hear that you're favourite LTA is being let go through word of mouth. The budgetary cutbacks are concealed and shrouded and students deserve to know which professors are being let go, what programs are being gutted, and what services are being erased. Therefore, if I am elected, I will publish a detailed cross faculty outline about what is being cut and how it is affecting your education on my instagram gabe.hendriks.

Pro Palestine organization being barred from campus is outrageous. It is our charter right to political organize at post secondary institutions. It is imperative to allow our organizations to express themselves on campus freely and democratically. Minority groups on campus enriches our dialogue, not drown it. 

Finally, less significantly but just as relevant, physical comfort on campus should be prioritized especially during midterms and finals season. The heat in the Library, Hall, and JMSB buildings is at times unbearable. Through CSU, I will advocate for better AC management. 

VOTE FOR GABE FOR ARTS AND SCIENCE COUNCILLOR!

Vote for Hailey to align Concordia with sustainability and student life! I come to the table with experience turning student ideas and funding into real results, and would love the opportunity to bring this to the CSU. Through my work with fee-levy groups at Concordia’s Sustainability Action Fund and Sustainable Concordia, and being a student in the Loyola College for Diversity and Sustainability, I have developed my theoretical and practical knowledge on sustainability, as well as board member competencies.

As an executive in student associations—holding positions as VP Academic of the Sustainability & Diversity Student Association, VP Internal of the Biology Student Association, Academic Coordinator of the Sociology and Anthropology Student Union, and Chair of ASFA’s Loyola Committee—I have worked with a variety of people and fostered collaboration across student and faculty groups.

Through working as a tutor, educator, and community volunteer, I understand what students need to succeed academically and personally. I thus have incredibly diverse experience helping decide where student funding goes, supporting projects that improve campus spaces, student services, opportunities for involvement, and advocating for better facilities, events, and services that directly impact student life.

By being on the CSU, I will bring more smart funding and guidance to student initiatives to improve Loyola and SGW. Particularly, by making spaces more accessible and through supporting projects that lower costs for students while making Concordia more sustainable and enjoyable, we can improve the social and environmental space in which students find themselves here on campus!

My name is Joshua Louis, and I am a third-year student in Political Science and History with a minor in Law and Society. I am running for the Concordia Student Union Council because I believe students deserve strong, informed, and persistent representation, especially at a time when austerity measures are placing increasing pressure on education and campus services.

I currently serve as the External Affairs Coordinator for the Political Science Students’ Association (PSSA), where I represent student interests to faculty, administrators, and external stakeholders. I am also the Internal Director of the Concordia Global Affairs Association (CGAA), where I oversee internal governance, operations, and organizational coordination. These roles have given me hands-on experience in advocacy, policy work, institutional negotiation, and student governance.

If elected to Council, my priorities are clear. First, I will advocate against austerity and work to ensure that student voices are heard when decisions are made that affect access to education, services, and campus life. Second, I will push for better shuttle bus schedules that reflect students’ real commuting needs, particularly for those balancing work, internships, and classes across campuses. Finally, I will work to improve internship support and transparency within the Co-op program so students are better prepared, supported, and positioned to succeed professionally.

I am committed to being an active, accountable, and approachable councillor who brings experience, organization, and genuine advocacy to student government.

Good morning,
My name is Juan José Torres León, and I am a first-year student in the Community, Public Affairs, and Policy Studies (SCPA) program. I am originally from Colombia and am part of the first generation of my family to immigrate, having officially settled in Canada in 2022.

I began my undergraduate studies at the University of Montreal in the Economics and Politics program. However, after learning more about Concordia University through my sister, who is studying Communication and Literature there, I decided to transfer in 2025 to complete my undergraduate degree. At the same time, I made an internal change within the University of Montreal to the Political Science program, as I only had a few credits left to complete it.

On a personal level, I consider myself an active person, both physically and intellectually. I enjoy practicing Pilates and tennis, and I strive to maintain a healthy, organic diet. During the 2023–2024 academic year, while studying at the University of Montreal, I served as Secretary General of the Latin Association. Currently, at Concordia, I participate in the Jurist-in-Residence program as an events and communications ambassador.

My professional goals after graduating from Concordia include continuing my studies in Law and specializing in corporate law.

Hi! I’m Konrad, a 4th year Political Science student and I’m running to be your Arts and Sciences Councillor. I am a student activist with years of experience in student unions as ASFA Councillor for the Political Science Students from 2024-2025, Mobilization Coordinator at the PSSA since October 2025, and as a student representative on the Arts and Sciences Faculty Council going on two years. I have represented Arts and Science students at multiple levels in Concordia governance, and I’m running to:

• Transition the CSU to a direct democracy where all members have direct say in its governance on a monthly basis.
• Support current and future fee levy organizations that students rely on.
• Fight against Concordia’s austerity measures.
• Continue the fight for BDS.
• And ensure accountability in all elected CSU executives and councillors.

Many Concordia students are working while studying to support themselves and their families. My name is Liam and I am a Economics student, juggling a job, full time studies, and extracurricular activities, and let’s be real, many of us are in the same boat- balancing work and school is not easy, and students deserve more support, and I want to make sure the CSU supports those that need the support, especially since we pay tons of fees every semester to the CSU through our tuition. I am running to advocate for:

• Better support for students who are managing jobs and are struggling to graduate because of financial strain- such as financial grants, scholarships to help students afford university and bare necessities
• More flexible course options and fair and diverse scheduling options for students, because those who work know the struggle to find a course that fits your work schedule and we should have more courses to choose from and advocate against the class cuts! Students should not have to choose between earning an income for a living and succeeding in school.
• A strong university is one where every student has a fair chance to succeed.

I’m a returning/mature student in philosophy and actively involved at Concordia for over a decade, mostly through the fee-levy group SEIZE. After years of campaigns, I believe we are within reach of abolishing the prison-industrial food company Aramark (which runs the residence halls), and revolutionizing Concordia’s food system. But every time we’ve been poised to make gains for the student solidarity economy, we have been thwarted by a tiny group of Zionist councilors who abuse parliamentary procedure to cripple our union. So I’m throwing my hat back into the ring with those who stand up for student interests, which includes the repeated democratic mandate of solidarity with Palestine.

I'm in my third year of Biochemistry which means I spend most of my time at Loyola, and I’m running because I want student priorities to actually be shown in every day decisions that affect us. I’m the kind of student who really feels it when the practical things break, especially getting between campuses and dealing with registration. I want to focus on the shuttle service and the recent hour cuts, because it directly affects students ability to get to classes. Advising is also hard to access when you need it the most, so I'd also run quick scheduling workshops and have office hours for students, so students can get guidance quickly and easily. I’m committed to listening to students, bringing concerns forward clearly, and advocating for solutions that make Concordia easier to navigate.

Hello, my name is Parsa, and I am an Iranian student in the Faculty of Arts & Science running for CSU Council because students deserve real support, especially during difficult times. I have been actively involved in the CSU committee responding to the emergency situation affecting Iranian students, working to connect students with financial relief, academic accommodations, and university resources when their families are facing a crisis abroad. That work has shown me how important it is for the CSU to respond quickly, compassionately, and effectively when students are in need.

Beyond crisis support, I am running to improve everyday student life in Arts & Science- fighting for more resources for students facing financial or academic pressure. I believe in a campus where every student, from every background, feels represented and supported, and where student voices are respected and included in decision-making. I will advocate for affordability, accessibility, and stronger academic support so students can succeed without unnecessary barriers.

I would love to represent you,
Parsa.

Stronger support, fair access, and real results for Arts & Science students. My name is Mohammad, and I'm running for CSU Council because every student deserves a university experience grounded in equity, accessibility, and opportunity. Too many Arts & Science students are struggling to get into required courses, access advising, or find the support they need to succeed. I will advocate for more course sections, improved advising access, stronger mental health services, and expanded support for students facing financial and food insecurity. I believe in a campus where every student has a fair chance to succeed and feel like they belong. I will work to ensure student voices are heard in every decision, that resources are distributed fairly, and that the SU delivers real, tangible improvements to your daily life. If you want a representative who stands for equity, accessibility, and meaningful change for Arts & Science students, I would be honoured to earn your vote.

Graduate quicker, richer, and with a heck of a lot more fun!
Ryan is a 4th year student double majoring in Political Science, Urban Planning, with a minor in Law and Society. He is Concordia’s ‘26 Model UN Conference Director-General, served as the PSSA’s VP Finance, and was elected to the CSU as a Councillor in Fall ‘25 with over 66% of the vote. He has worked as a political aid for a Member of the Canadian Parliament and volunteers his time instructing youth in the Air Cadets.

• Got funding to offer ultra low cost food options at Reggie’s. Get course credit for work experience - in development.
• Met with Vice-Provosts about a longer Reading Week - stay tuned!
• Championed struggling clubs and overhauled CSU elections policy.

Hello, my name is Safwan Al Mamlouk, and I am a second-year ASFA student majoring in Political Science. I am running for a position on the CSU council because I believe our university should be accessible, transparent, and welcoming to every student. As someone actively involved in student associations across campus, I have had the opportunity to work closely with diverse groups of students and hear directly from them about their experiences and concerns.

Through this involvement, I've gained a clear understanding of what students are looking for: affordable on-campus services, greater transparency in decision-making and stronger communication between the students and the student union. Many of us are balancing studies, work, and personal tasks, and the university should support us with accessible resources that make student life easier.

If elected, I will advocate for more affordable initiatives on campus, improved outreach so students are informed about news and resources concerning them, and inclusive spaces where all voices feel represented. Leadership means listening and acting with accountability. My goal is to make sure you feel heard, valued, and free in shaping your university experience.

Let's make our voices heard, strengthen our community, and build a more inviting and supportive space for our fellow students. I would be honoured to represent you.

Hey everyone! I’m Samirath Gbegan, a third-year undergraduate student in Economics. I’m running to be your Arts and Science councillor at CSU. Since my first year at Concordia, I have been actively involved in student clubs, and now I want to represent you. My priority is to protect your academic and financial interests. I will actively seek your input to ensure CSU policies reflect your current needs, and advocate for financial accountability.

• Improve the efficiency of council.
• Advocate for student needs (course availability, shuttle bus hours, food accessibility).
• Support LTAs.
• Ensure student money is used efficiently, in ways that benefit students first.
• Support student-led initiatives.
• Amplify student voices.

• Implement free breakfast and dinner programs at both campuses: I want to accomplish providing students with 3 meals a day at both campuses!
• Develop a new subsidized housing project: As a renter myself, I know how hard students are affected by the housing crisis, so I would build my familiarity with housing policy and the CSU’s relationship with UTILE to work on another project similar to the Woodnote!
• Work on pedestrianizing of Mackay Street: having studied the environmental and social benefits of reducing car traffic through campus, I would continue the work I’ve been doing with Pedestrianize Mackay since 2023 to advocate for the city to make Mackay fully pedestrianized.

I work to make sustainable living at Concordia practical, inclusive and student-driven by addressing the most common challenges i've seen students face, food insecurity, housing instability and meeting daily needs using resources at their disposal.

Through my role at the Concordia Student Union, I support students in navigating campus resources and addressing barriers that affect their well-being. As a Sustainability Ambassador, I worked with the Sustainable Event Certification program, where I learned about the institutional and logistical challenges Concordia faces in advancing sustainability on campus while supporting student groups in implementing sustainable practices at their events. I'm able to  support students through my involvement as a Fair Trade Ambassador, particularly concerning responsible consumption and ethical purchasing.

I currently serve as President of the Sustainability and Diversity Students Association, a board member of the Quebec Public Interest Research Group at Concordia and more recently with Sustainable Concordia, organizing programming that connects sustainability with equity and community building, including discussions on inclusivity and workshops that explore growing and planting practices for self-sufficiency (SDSA).

Hello! My name is Arielle and I'm a second year student in Art History and Studio Arts with a minor in Political Science. I am running for CSU Council because I want to advocate for Fine Arts students in the face of increasing austerity measures and censorship. I also hope to work towards increasing free food programs and committing to Palestinian solidarity on campus. I love being involved in my community - I currently serve on the Board of Directors for the Fine Arts Student Alliance (FASA), I've participated in the Art Matters Festival as both a volunteer and as an artist, I love volunteering at the People's Potato, and I'm a contributor for the Link newspaper. My experience has led me to understand the importance of CARING! about what goes on at our school and taking an active role in improving student life. If you ever want to have a chat about art and politics, you can always find me in the VA third floor studio.

Every day I walk through the halls of the Visual Arts building surrounded by the work of my peers. Paintings, prints, sculptures, photographs filling the walls and studios everywhere. These halls remind me that art is not a luxury. It is something students fight to keep alive.

My name is Asad Du Boulay, a transfer and international student of color running to represent Fine Arts on CSU Council. I have been involved in student organizing across Concordia, previously running for CSU Council in 2025 where I advocated for BDS policies, supported student strikes, and pushed for stronger protections for student organizing. I currently serve as an executive member of the Fine Arts Student Alliance for 2025 to 2026, helping organize events that uplift marginalized artists and bring our community together.

But creativity does not happen in isolation. Students cannot make work when they are hungry or when materials are out of reach. Programs like CUCCR, which provides free materials for student projects, and The People’s Potato, which feeds hundreds of students every week from Monday to Thursday, make it possible for students to continue studying and creating.

When universities face financial pressure, the arts are often treated as expendable. Studio space disappears. Materials become unaffordable. Students are asked to do more with less.

I am running to defend the resources that allow Fine Arts students to keep making work.

Hello, I’m Sarah, an Art History student in the Faculty of Fine Arts, and I am running because Fine Arts students deserve a representative who already shows up, listens, and delivers. I am currently on the CSU Sustainability Committee, where I have worked on protecting and improving student funding streams, advocating for better use of student spaces for creative work and events, and supporting initiatives that make our campus environmentally equitable and financially sustainable for student-led projects. As a neurodiversity student myself, I have also advocated for inclusive policies and support systems so neurodivergent students and all students facing barriers are considered in decision-making.

I am running because this past year taught me how to truly help students through the CSU, and I want to keep using that experience to make a bigger positive impact next year. Fine Arts students should not feel overlooked, we should feel visible, supported, and invested in, and I will do everything I can to make that happen.

I am a first-year BFA photography student and a Persian-Canadian shaped by the experience of immigration and cultural transition. Before studying art, I worked in Computer Engineering, but I chose Art as a way to explore human stories and create meaningful dialogue. My work, rooted in documentary and street photography, reflects an interest in identity, belonging, and the subtle moments that reveal our shared humanity.

Living between cultures has taught me the importance of listening, empathy, and nuance. I do not identify with rigid left or right positions; instead, I value independent thinking and honest conversation. I believe universities should remain spaces where diverse perspectives can coexist without polarization, and where students feel safe expressing ideas without being reduced to labels. My goal is to help create room for thoughtful, independent voices that might otherwise feel unheard.

If elected, I hope to represent FineArts students with care and clarity, with particular attention to first years students who are still finding their place within the faculty. Transitions into new environments academic, cultural can be challenging, and I want to help build stronger connections, transparency, and accessibility. Concordia’s strength lies in its diversity, and I hope to contribute as a grounded, attentive voice committed to dialogue and genuine representation.

Hello! My name is Saraluz Barton-Gomez, and I’m entering my fourth year as a double-major in Community and Public Affairs and Political Science. I’m running for External and Mobilization Coordinator of the CSU with the Step Up slate.

Over the past year, I have served as an elected representative on the CSU Council, the Community Action Fund, and Concordia’s Senate, the university’s highest academic decision-making body. Through these roles, I’ve developed a strong understanding of the CSU and Concordia’s governance structures and how to effectively advocate for students within them. I have also served as the Communications Secretary (2024-2025) and the Mobilization Secretary (2025-2026) for the School of Community and Public Affairs Student Association.

Additionally, I’ve worked as a Research Assistant studying democratic governance in universities and as a Community Mobilization Agent in NDG (2024-2025).

Throughout my mandate, I am committed to:

• Student Affordability: Increasing awareness of funding resources available to students, while expanding free and subsidized services on campus.
• Engaging Students in Decision-Making: Increasing student understanding of Concordia’s decision-making structures and supporting participation in the systems that affect us.
• Strengthening Student Solidarity Beyond Campus: Building strong coalitions with other student unions to address shared challenges (ex. underfunded services) and create solidarity.
• Collaboration with Faculty Associations: Holding monthly meetings with student executives, particularly those in mobilization and external roles, to build support and collaboration.

Hi! My name is Lina Elbakaye, and I’m entering my third year as a Political Science major and human rights minor running as Internal Affairs Coordinator with the Step Up slate. I currently serve as President of the Political Science Student Association (PSSA) for the 2025–2026 academic year. This year, I’ve represented undergraduate students on the Arts and Science Faculty Council, CSU Council, Concordia Senate, and Political Science Department Council. I’ve also participated in subcommittees related to academic matters and appointments. Through advocating for student concerns and meaningfully contributing to many university decision-making processes, I’ve developed a strong skillset for governance, communication, coordination, and navigating institutional procedures. Throughout my mandate, I am committed to:

• Start-a-Club Sessions
  Running monthly sessions to guide students through the process of creating and managing clubs so they feel supported.
• Revamping Clubs Resources
  Developing better systems for club training, sponsorship, and event planning, as well as making sure the CSU’s website has updated and thorough information.
• CSU Transparency & Accountability Recaps
  Posting clear monthly summaries of what the Council and executives have worked on to our online platforms, so students can better understand what the CSU does and how decisions are made.
• Monthly Executive Open Days
  Dedicated monthly hours where all executives are present at the same time to answer questions from students. Students and clubs can come and ask questions, get answers on the spot, and avoid being redirected between offices over email. These will rotate between SGW and Loyola campuses to ensure accessibility.

I am a third-year Mechanical Engineering student at the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science at Concordia University. Throughout my studies, I have developed strong analytical, problem-solving, and teamwork skills through rigorous coursework and collaborative design projects. I am passionate about innovation, student engagement, and continuous improvement within our academic community. I hope to contribute a practical, solution-oriented perspective to the Student Union Council while representing engineering students with professionalism, integrity, and dedication.

You didn't choose engineering to graduate with fewer resources, bigger classes, and less opportunity. My name is Josh Almaleh, and I'm running to represent Gina Cody students on CSU Council to make sure your degree still delivers what you came here for: real skills, real experience, and real career opportunities. Right now, engineering students are facing budget cuts, reduced teaching resources, and increasing pressure on co-op and lab access- the very things that make our degree valuable. At council, I will push and advocate for practical improvements that directly affect engineering students, including:

1. Stronger co-op and internship support, with better advising access, clearer placement data, and more employer connections
2. Protection of lab equipment and hands-on learning spaces, so students can actually build, test, and learn properly
3. Sustained funding for engineering clubs and competition teams, which are essential to developing real-world experience
4. Adequate TA and academic support, especially as class sizes grow
5. Clear, transparent use of student fees, focused on services that directly benefit Gina Cody students

My name is Kiarash, and I am running to proudly represent us, the Engineering students, and to fix the issues that directly affect your degree. Right now, lab access is too limited- students at both Loyola and downtown campuses are being forced to rush projects, stay late without support, or fall behind. I will use a leadership position at the CSU to push for extended lab hours, better scheduling, and fair access so every engineering student has the time and resources to succeed.

But this goes beyond labs. Students are dealing with class cuts, graduation delays, and a co-op system that is often unclear and difficult to navigate. I will act as a strong advocate between students, the university, and the CSU to address these problems directly, by pushing for clearer co-op pathways, better internship support, and more transparency so you can plan your degree and your future with confidence.

You deserve an engineering program that works for you, not one that slows you down. I am committed to delivering practical improvements that make your academic life easier and your career path stronger.

My name is Ryan Assaker, and I am a third year Public Policy student at Concordia running for General Coordinator of the CSU. I began my involvement in student governance in my first year as an executive in the School of Community and Public Affairs Student Association. I later served as ASFA Finance Coordinator in 2024 to 2025 and currently serve as CSU Finance Coordinator for 2025 to 2026.

This year, our team secured funding for two free food programs on campus, Spinach Collective and Hive Free Dinner, expanding access to essential supports as students face rising costs. As Finance Coordinator, I prioritized financial transparency by publishing reports, engaging with student media, and making budget decisions more accessible to the student body. I have represented students at Concordia’s highest governing bodies, including Senate, advocating directly in spaces where institutional decisions are made.

I have drafted policies for the unions I have worked in, worked extensively with bylaws, and developed a strong understanding of how Concordia’s systems operate. I have also worked with student associations and faculty members to ensure coordination when student interests are at stake.

As General Coordinator, my focus would be to enable our team to deliver meaningful results by defending students against austerity measures such as shuttle bus cuts and LTA contracts, strengthening representation in university governance by giving a clear voice to student concerns through the CSU, and continuing to fund subsidized programs that reduce the financial burden on students.

Hello JMSB students! My name is Arsalan, and I am a Persian JMSB student running to make sure your academic success is supported every step of the way. Too many students are paying high fees but still struggling in core courses without access to the help they need. I am running to deliver real solutions that make a difference in your grades and your everyday student life. My priorities are: Guaranteed exam prep support-free or subsidized final review sessions, mock exams, and study resources for core JMSB courses so every student can be fully prepared. Accessible tutoring, tutorials, and workshops-CSU-supported tutoring and study sessions offered both in person and hybrid so students can access help even during breaks, weekends, or busy work schedules. Clear value for your student fees- transparent reporting on where your CSU fees go and ensuring those funds are used for services that directly benefit JMSB students, including academic support and success tools. You deserve a student union that helps you succeed academically, reduces your stress, and gives you real value in return for what you pay every semester. If you want better grades, stronger support, and a CSU that works for you, I would be honoured to earn your vote.

Your degree should lead to a career - not just a diploma. My name is Galya and I am an accounting student running to represent JMSB students on CSU Council to make sure your time at Concordia actually prepares you for the real world, with opportunities, connections, and results. According to Bloomberg, JMSB is ranked the #1 business school in Canada - but too many students still struggle to access internships, employer connections, and career support. At council, I will advocate for changes that better support JMSB students, including:

• Expanding employer and networking opportunities in the MB Building
• Improving access to career advising for students with busy schedules
• Strengthening connections between students, alumni, and industry partners, not only for career opportunities but for lifetime connections
• Supporting internship and experiential learning pathways within degree programs

• Responsible and transparent use of student fees, focused on services that benefit students directly
• Continued support for JMSB student clubs, competitions, and initiatives

My goal is to represent you with clarity, professionalism, and accountability, and to bring forward the priorities that matter most to JMSB students.

Your voice deserves to be heard, Vote Galya.

Study smarter. Pay less. Succeed more. My name is Joey, I’m a Finance student, and if elected, I will use a leadership role at the CSU to negotiate partnerships with platforms like Wizeprep and other study services so Concordia students get major discounts or even free access.

I’m running to make sure every student has access to the tools they need to do well, without paying extra out of pocket. Many students struggle in courses not because they aren’t capable, but because they can’t afford the extra help that others have. You already pay CSU fees every semester, those fees should give you real value back, like better grades, less stress, and stronger support.

But this goes beyond one platform. I will also push for more tutoring, better review sessions before exams, accessible academic workshops, and centralized resources that make it easier for every student to succeed. Whether you’re struggling in one class or aiming for top grades, you should have support available to you. This is about fairness, opportunity, and results that impact your everyday student life.

My name is Mahad Jamshed Ali, I am a second year International Business student. I am here to fight to make student life easier at JMSB. As most students know, study rooms are often empty and shown as booked. I want to tackle these overbookings of study rooms by implementing a policy of cancelling bookings if a person does not show up within the first 15 minutes of the booking. I want to allow students to use empty classrooms as study spots with schedules of class hours and free hours shown outside the classrooms. I want to push for the implementation of a proper reporting system for dirty toilets and overflowing trash cans to keep JMSB safe and clean.

I have experience as Director of External Affairs and Advocacy for the MSA at Concordia as well as experience as VP Events at Amana Concordia and I am President of the Concordia Comic Book Club. These leadership experiences have helped me develop my abilities to serve my distinct communities and ensure that their needs are properly taken care of.

Hey everyone! I’m Michael, a third-year JMSB student, and I’m running for CSU Council to ensure student voices are heard and that we all get the most out of our CSU membership. My top three priorities are:

1. Changing the start date of Reading Week to Saturday so no one has an exam on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. As an international student, I know how stressful it is to plan a trip home when your exam schedule is uncertain. I will support our JMSB reps in CSU Council and in meetings with university management to push for this change.
2. Building partnerships with local restaurants to highlight student discounts that already exist and create new ones. Affordable meals near campus should be easier to find.
3. Making weekend tutorials accessible to all students by offering them in a hybrid format. Whether you live far, have a job, or just need flexibility, you deserve access to academic support. Vote for me because talking isn’t enough. It’s time to deliver!

Your student fees should give you real value back. My name is Niki, a Persian student in International Business at JMSB, and I am running to deliver practical benefits that improve your daily student life. I will work to secure partnerships with restaurants, cafés, and take-out spots around campus so Concordia students receive consistent discounts on meals — saving you money every week. I will also focus on career-oriented initiatives, internship support, and academic resources to help JMSB students graduate with strong opportunities. My approach is simple: listen to students, turn ideas into action, and deliver results that make your life easier and more affordable. No politics — just practical improvements that help you succeed. If you want a representative focused on value, results, and your future, vote for Niki.

Students come to university to build their future, but too many struggle to find internships, work experience, and clear career pathways. My name is Niko Khristoyeva, I am an international business student (IBUS), and I believe that your degree should open doors, not leave you searching for direction after graduation. I am running to represent JMSB students on the CSU to make career access a priority of our student union. Every single one of us pays fees to the CSU every term, and JMSB students should feel that the union is supporting them too.

My focus will be:

• Strengthening connections with employers,
• Expanding internship opportunities,
• And improving career services for students across all programs.

Every student deserves access to opportunities that help them build skills, gain experience, and enter the workforce with confidence. I will work to ensure the CSU pushes for real partnerships and practical resources that support your future. I would be honoured to earn your vote and represent you on the CSU this year.

Hello, my name is Nicolas, I am a political science major aiming to conduct research in migration. My interest in this field is connected with my extensive history working in the non- profit, academic and public sectors. Before enrolling in Concordia, I worked at McGill’s School of Continuing Studies, where I was tasked with getting donations for initiatives for Ukrainian refugees, Indigenous students, and sustainable supply networks.

My reason for campaigning stems from the pressure felt by all, resulting from the provincial-wide budget cuts in the academic sector. I find the treatment of the LTAs disturbing, and I know I am not the only member of this community affected by these budget cuts. As a political science student entering their fourth year, I have been forced to take cross-listed courses and have only ever taken one course at this university from my department because of these cutbacks.

I believe that someone needs to remain critical and hold decision-makers accountable for questionable choices in our school’s budget. With my experience as a teacher, as a coordinator for a major university’s board of donors, and as a fellow student, I believe I am fit for the job. If chosen, I will collaborate with the other sitting student senators in voicing concerns, championing causes and proudly representing the CSU.

Thank you for your consideration.

Hey, I’m Kinsey El Tanani, a third-year Political Science and Immigration Studies student running for Loyola Executive of the CSU. My goal is to make lasting improvements to shuttle accessibility, expand food security initiatives at Loyola, and ensure Loyola is treated as a fully supported campus in CSU funding, services, and programming.

I currently serve as a CSU Councillor representing Arts and Science students, sitting on both the Loyola Committee and the External Committee. In these roles, I advocate for Loyola students and mobilize support around key issues, ensuring Loyola’s concerns are reflected in CSU discussions and institutional decision-making. I also serve as an ASFA Council Member representing Political Science students, advocating for departmental and faculty-level student interests.

Throughout my mandate, I aim to strengthen Loyola funding. I will advocate for increased funding, expanded bursaries, and greater access to special project funding.

I also aim to formalize student-athlete representation within CSU governance by establishing working groups and advocating for a dedicated funding stream for student-athletes.

Finally, I will continue pushing for restored early-morning and evening shuttle hours, OPUS fare subsidies for Loyola commuters, and improved coordination with the STM to strengthen inter-campus transportation.

I’m Isabelle Ranger and I’m a double-major in Political Science and Philosophy. Over the past two years, I’ve worked as a Student Advocate (currently Lead Student Advocate) at the CSU Advocacy Centre and I’m a 2025-26 student senator. As a CSU Advocate, I support students navigating Concordia’s complex academic regulations and complaint processes. This role requires a detailed understanding of university policies and the practical realities of a decentralized bureaucracy. Through this position, I’ve gained direct insight into administrative gaps, procedural inefficiencies, and the structural tensions that shape student experiences.

On Senate, Concordia’s highest academic decision-making body, I’ve had the opportunity to take part in important discussions around financial impacts to education during a period of profound uncertainty. This established institutional knowledge I’ve developed across the administration allows me to start this mandate with focused, clear goals.

My priorities are to streamline academic bureaucracy and expand access to information for the student body. I’m committed to:

• Advocating for greater accountability and consistency among departmental academic advisors and addressing persistent flaws within Concordia’s academic information system (SIS), as errors and misinformation significantly affect students’ degree progression;
• Prioritize transparent, thorough reporting of Senate decisions and deliberation to ensure the student body is informed and able to critically engage with Concordia’s institutional direction;
• Initiate a comprehensive review of the Academic Code of Conduct, which hasn’t been updated in over a decade. This includes developing an institution-wide framework to establish standards of ethical, responsible, and equitable use of AI in academic contexts.

My name is Leen Al-Hijjawi and I am a Political Science student at Concordia University. I am running for Academic & Advocacy Coordinator because I believe student representation should be accessible, responsive, and focused on the real concerns of students.

Through my previous experience as CSU Loyola Coordinator, I had the opportunity to work directly with students and better understand how the Concordia Student Union operates. This experience allowed me to see how student concerns are communicated within the CSU and how important strong advocacy is in ensuring that students’ voices are heard in decision-making spaces.

If elected, I will focus on advocating for students in discussions related to academic policies, improving the effectiveness of CSU services, and ensuring that student concerns are brought forward to the CSU and Concordia University Senate. I believe student representatives should be approachable and maintain an open-door policy where students feel comfortable sharing their ideas, concerns, and experiences.

I also want to ensure that students feel informed and included in conversations that shape their education. By listening to student feedback and engaging with students across campus, I will work to represent the diverse needs of the Concordia community.

My goal is to make sure that students feel supported, heard, and represented throughout their university experience. I am committed to advocating for students and working collaboratively to strengthen student representation at Concordia.

I would be a strong candidate for the Senate position because I approach student representation not only as a responsibility, but as a form of active advocacy within academic governance. As a third-year political science student, I am trained to analyze institutional power, policy outcomes, and decision-making structures, and I am motivated to ensure that these processes remain accountable to the students they affect. I work to amplify underrepresented voices, translate student concerns into concrete proposals, and push for more inclusive and transparent practices within student spaces.

My work in the art and science faculty association helped me gain hands-on experience in representation, coordination, and accountability. I am particularly committed to issues of equity, accessibility, and academic fairness, especially as they relate to marginalized and first-generation students navigating university structures that are often complex and exclusionary.

As a Senator, I would not view my role as passive participation, but as an opportunity to question, challenge, and improve academic policies when they fall short of student needs. I am committed to showing up consistently, engaging critically with Senate materials, and maintaining open communication with the Concordia Student Union and the broader student body. I would take my responsibility seriously by attending meetings diligently, consulting students proactively, and reporting back clearly. I would use this position to ensure that undergraduate voices are not only present at the table, but heard, respected, and reflected in the decisions that shape Concordia’s academic future.

I’m a 22-year-old queer, transgender, anti-Zionist Jew who is an undergraduate student in Neuroscience. I’ve been involved in student organizing since 2019, when I helped organize a province-wide movement in Ontario against heavy-handed education funding cuts. I’m running because I’m sick of feeling like marginalized students and our viewpoints have no representation in our student government. Concordia students are currently experiencing crackdowns on student activism and freedom of expression, widespread extreme austerity measures leading to the loss of beloved professors and essential courses, and an administration that cares more about giving themselves hefty annual salary increases than funding our education. Meanwhile, bad faith actors in our student government abuse parliamentary procedures to block representatives from solving these issues and instead focus on using student government as a vehicle to promote fringe, far-right, pro-genocide policies. Our university should be a place where people from all backgrounds can freely share and fight for what they believe and get the education they deserve, but current policy has steered us in the opposite direction for too long. As Arts & Science senator, I will focus on advancing student interests, fight against extreme austerity measures and the cuts to our education that have removed many beloved professors, uphold the repeated student democratic mandates in solidarity with Palestine, fight against the draconian repression of student activists by the Concordia administration, and work to promote freedom of expression on our campus.

Hi! I’m Emma, a third-year Sociology student and the current Outreach Coordinator at ASFA, where I’ve spent the past two years strengthening community engagement for over 14,000 Arts and Science students. Through leading two Frosh weeks and building creative outreach initiatives, I’ve seen how thoughtful programming can transform students’ experience on campus and their connection to representation. As Student Life Coordinator, I’m focused on three key priorities:

First, I want to strengthen collaboration across student groups and on-campus programs, including clubs and faculty-level student associations. By building stronger partnerships and encouraging cross-association initiatives, we can expand the reach of existing programming, share resources effectively, and create events that bring students together across faculties.

Second, I believe student life must be affordable and accessible. As many students navigate rising costs and food insecurity, events shouldn’t add financial pressure. I will prioritize low-cost and free programming, partnerships with campus initiatives that support food access, and event models that make participation realistic for all students.

Third, I want to invest in practical, student-centered programming — including workshops, wellness initiatives, and skill-building events that support students beyond social engagement.

I’m committed to building a student life that is collaborative, accessible, and rooted in students’ real needs.

Hello! My name is Adey Singer, and I’m an Art History student running for the position of Finance Coordinator. My goals for this mandate are to make lasting improvements to CSU’s administrative capabilities and improve financial processes to help our clubs and services flourish and ensure responsible use of student money. My experience includes serving as FASA’s (Fine Arts Student Alliance) Finance Coordinator in 2023-2024, the Programming Coordinator for the Art Matters Festival fee-levy, the Administrative Coordinator for the Pan-African Student Union, and the CSU Council Minute-keeper in 2025-2026. These positions have given me administrative skills and experience in student unions that allow me to understand not only what changes I want to make, but how they can be implemented. Throughout my mandate I aim to:

• Improve efficiency of reimbursements by conducting a thorough review of operations and updating the existing system.
• Expand funding for CSU Clubs, host financial training workshops, and offer consistent drop-in hours with the Internal Coordinator for additional support
• Collaborate with faculties and clubs to make sure students know about as many funding opportunities as possible
• Conduct surveys and consult students to improve the allocation of CSU funds and update the financial policy.