Questions for the Candidates of 2024

Each time there’s an election for AUSU, the Voice Magazine likes to ask some questions to help Voice readers understand the priorities, goals, and, to some extent, personalities of the candidates.  This time is no different, and with voting to open this coming Thursday, March 14th, it’s time that you got to see the results.

Nine questions were sent to the seventeen candidates, and thirteen of them responded.  Their answers are printed here, in the order they were received in email.  No editing has been done, and the candidates were informed of this,  so each response you see is a raw reflection of how they chose to respond.

So take a look, note the ones you think would best represent you on AUSU and when AUSU goes to talk to AU, the government, and other student organizations.  Then remember to vote when the polls open and we’ll see how it plays out!


What faculty are you in, if any, and how much longer do you expect to be studying at AU?

 

Josh Flis: I am student in the Department of Psychology, and I will be studying for a while yet!

 

Kari Thompson: I am in the Bachelor of Arts program, majoring in psychology, under the faculty of humanities and social sciences. On paper, I am in my third year of the program, yet as a student with multiple disabilities, I am on a reduced course load, which means I have at least a couple of years remaining to finish my degree.

 

Melanie Rousseau: I expect to be studying at Athabasca at least for the next two years, depending on what life has in store for the next couple years!

 

Chimaraoke Akuchie: I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Professional Arts in Human Services at AU. I anticipate completing my studies within the next two years.

 

Neil Fraser: I am doing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Global Studies, and I am just about to finish my first year of the degree!

 

Faustina Arsenault: My program is in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and I plan to be studying until 2026.

 

Annette Karien: I am in the faculty of science and technology (FST) and will finish my course (Biological Sciences), in Dec 2026.

 

Tammy Monro: I am in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and intend to be studying for at least one more year with plans to extend that to a second year with a certificate program.

 

Dianna Ramirez: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. 2 year longer.

 

Jan Lehmann: Faculty of Science. Couple more years to go.

 

Aiza Nazamatova: My name is Aiza Nazarmatova. I am currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Nursing program at AU and anticipate completing my studies within the next two or three years. In addition to school, I am currently working as a nurse case manager in the Rheumatology clinic at the AHS facility.

 

Dabin Park: I am a Business student with an Accounting major. I expect to study at AU for 3 years.

 

Deidra Mahabal: Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences and I expect to study at AU until Spring 2025.

 

Aside from tuition, what do you think is the most important issue AUSU needs to address for students?

Josh Flis: Exam processes and Brightspace integration are real-time issues that require constant monitoring. Course content delivery can always improve, and exam invigilation agreements could use fresh eyes. I would want to see the current benchmarks and contract with ProctorU, schedule meetings with department heads about course delivery, and survey student cohorts to generate and implement data driven change.

 

Kari Thompson: I believe that ensuring the courses that students are paying a large amount of money for are kept up to date, with textbooks that are currently relevant. Course design should, at least, ensure pertinent Canadian information is provided if the text covers a different country’s information. Additionally, course formats should be accessible to all the different types of learners, as we have a great wealth of knowledge that every student learns differently, which should be accounted for in course designs and adjusted to add the new technological advances (i.e., video format with transcripts).

There should also be a more accessible and simplistic manner for students to address problems they encounter, as walking into the faculty office to speak with a professor or supervisors is not possible in a distance University. There is no physical location for students to go when they have questions, and there are still a large number of links on the AU website that are broken, leaving students stranded for answers.

 

Melanie Rousseau: COURSE CONTENT SUPPORT: it is my mission to improve the guidance we receive in each course in order to achieve success, whether this be methods of course delivery, multiple tutors per course for contact, video calls and lectures, access-friendly study groups, or alternate options for course credit.

It is important to advocate for breaking the stigma and practices of online individualized studies that lean toward making us walk this path alone.

 

Chimaraoke Akuchie: Aside from tuition, I believe the most important issue AUSU needs to address for students is accessibility to resources and support services, especially for students facing financial, academic, or personal challenges.

 

Neil Fraser:. Plain language reform. I personally struggled with understanding the vocabulary of post-secondary, how course credits work, class requirements for majors and minors, and website navigation. I feel like it would benefit everyone to simplify the language of this process and make it easier for those who may be new to post-secondary to feel more comfortable throughout their experience.

 

Faustina Arsenault: Making courses interactive, with video, audio, and AI formating. Studying solely through an online textbook and written lectures, is not worth the amount of money we pay for these courses.

 

Annette Karien: 1.    The quality of the course content and presentation needs to be improved. There can be more recorded video lectures in all the courses, like those used in Edx, and other Canadian universities. All the psychology courses should have this feature.

2.    Building a more connected community that gives students almost the same feeling as being on campus when attending an in-person university.

3.    For funded students, more 16-week schedule- friendly courses, and more support from administration and staff during the Christmas holidays.

4.    The schedule for the turnaround time for marking assignments, tests and exams needs to be re-emphasized to the marking staff.

5.    Allocating more transfer credits for students with a prior degree.

 

Tammy Monro: Accessibility is an important issue to be addressed by AUSU. While AU is a distance school and that certainly removes many of the barriers students may face, there are still some that exist within the courses themselves. For example, some courses require direct and consistent communication with the course professor which could be difficult for a full-time working student with additional extracurricular responsibilities.

 

Dianna Ramirez: The content formats for accessing course material, AUSU need to advocate for more options such as reading, videos, audio.

 

Jan Lehmann: Ranking second after tuition is course delivery. This is a 3 faceted issue comprising: 1- Lack of video demonstrations of the required material  2- Lack of access to one on one video/call tutoring 3- Lack of options in online exam invigilation.

Tuition, being the number one barrier to learning and seeing the many increases in recent years, could be frozen for at least 5 years so no more increases can take effect during this period.

 

Aiza Nazamatova: While tuition is a significant concern for many students, there are several other important issues that AUSU may need to address to enhance the overall student experience. One significant issue is the provision of robust tutoring support for each course that AU offers. In addition, there are a few other aspects that AUSU should be addressing:

1)                      Advocacy for Student Rights:

As an AUSU Council member, I would be crucial in representing students’ interests. Advocating for students’ rights, fair grading practices, and other academic concerns. This act ultimately will contribute to a positive and supportive learning environment.

2)                      Communication and Information Dissemination

Improving communication channels between the university administration and students is vital. As an AUSU council member, I could advocate for transparent and timely information dissemination regarding policy changes, academic updates, and admission requirements changes for the post-LPN BN program.

3)                      Financial assistance and Scholarships

Beyond tuition, addressing financial challenges is crucial. AUSU could work towards increasing the availability of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs to support students may be facing economic difficulties.

 

Dabin Park: Aside from tuition, the most important issue AUSU needs to address for students is enhancing student engagement and maximizing non-academic offerings.

University should be more than just a certificate; it is an opportunity for students to unlock their potential and broaden their horizons. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize initiatives that go beyond academics, such as boosting participation in student groups, volunteering, and events. These experiences contribute to a well­ rounded education and enrich the overall student experience.

 

Deidra Mahabal: The most important issue that AUSU needs to address is providing more information critical to student enrollment in terms of orientation, changes made to programs that may affect program duration and realistic career opportunities after program completion. I believe preparing students for what student life is truly like with AU is critical to student engagement which can increase enrollment rates and decrease dropout rates.

 

What’s the best part of an average day for you?

 

Josh Flis: A Timmies and whatever book I am reading. Currently, a medium double-double and Musicophillia, by Oliver Sacks. Otherwise, its when I am running – but running is not as comfortable as coffee and a book.

 

Kari Thompson: The best part for me is being able to babysit my grandpuppy, see my partner off to work, being here when my older children need me, and working beside my 11-year-old while we both get our academic work accomplished for the day. I love being able to be a good academic role model.

 

Melanie Rousseau: My morning personal time. Online studies with Athabasca require me to start my day with an strict, nourishing routine: hydration, journaling, body movement, and fruit! Prioritizing myself with these activities set me into gear for the rest of the day.

 

Chimaraoke Akuchie: The best part of an average day for me is connecting with family, friends and peers, whether it’s through meaningful conversations, shared experiences, or simply enjoying each other’s company.

 

Neil Fraser: Going for a walk with my wife and my dog! I find it helps to reduce the stress and anxiety from the day-to-day issues life throws your way and helps you to focus on the little things in life.

 

Faustina Arsenault: Learning!

 

Annette Karien: As a task focused person, completing assignments and meeting my own deadlines is the best part of the day for me.

 

Tammy Monro: I love to come home after work and be greeted by my excited dogs followed by cooking dinner for my family.

 

Dianna Ramirez: Being able to accomplish my to-do list, I have ADHD and I get easily distracted, so, I take it day by day. Completing a list is a massive accomplishment for me.

 

Jan Lehmann: Family time and cuddling with my children.

 

Aiza Nazamatova: The best part of an average day for me is engaging in meaningful discussions with fellow nursing students through virtual platforms, exchanging diverse perspectives, and creating a vibrant atmosphere with our academic journey.

 

Dabin Park: The best part of an average day for me is studying other cultures and languages. This passion for exploring the world and embracing diversity allows me to broaden my horizons and deepen my understanding of different perspectives.

Each day presents an opportunity for me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, fostering mutual respect and appreciation for our shared humanity.

 

Deidra Mahabal: I am a foodie/food critic so the best part of an average day for me is finding time to fix myself up a nice plate of food that is of interest to me. It’s nice to reward myself with a meal that isn’t a frozen dinner, yesterday’s leftover, or a pot full of goulash.

 

If there was a new service, program, activity, or degree you could convince AU (not AUSU) to offer to students, what would it be?

 

Josh Flis: AU stands on the pillars of research, health sciences, business, and education, which serve in anchoring our academic identity. In my Voice article, “Minds We Meet,” I proposed an integration of MBA coursework with advanced psychology studies, envisioning a top-tier organizational psychology graduate program. I also suggested capitalizing on our reputation for excellence to launch a unique graduate program specializing in personality and learning development.

Importantly, I aspire to survey students and faculty, capturing the pulse of our educational dreams. Given AU’s decentralized structure, the student council can help shape the student experience, potentially outpacing other institutions in industry advancement.

Student services are in a constant state of evolution. Collaborating with AU staff on the continued development of Brightspace and advocating for more video/lecture course content are crucial to meeting the needs of contemporary students.

Therefore, I am committed to empowering our teams and students to achieve these goals. Not just for our present circumstances, but for our collective future as we transition into the workforce. I am the 2024 catalyst to drive this directive forward.

 

Kari Thompson: I would want AU to provide more master’s and doctoral programs. These programs through other institutions are not generally as accessible to individuals with disabilities, or those who must also maintain a family and work. Plus, when you have established a good routine with your higher education, making a big shift to another institution may not be as feasible, leading many to stop short of what they could achieve.

 

Melanie Rousseau: Group-study AU points system – a software tracked through the Athabasca homepage that pairs us with students of our own courses. Each study session, or course content discussion that takes place between different students can be logged and added to a points system that can be put towards perks such as a free exam. This will encourage students to collaborate and help each other!

 

Chimaraoke Akuchie: If I could convince AU to offer a new service, I would advocate for the establishment of a mentorship program that pairs students with alumni or professionals in their field of study to provide guidance, support, and networking opportunities.

 

Neil Fraser: I think a valuable service that AU could offer is “meet and greet” opportunities with your fellow students and tutors! A “Student Café” or “Online Pub” would be a cool aspect of online classes.

 

Faustina Arsenault: A better text-to-speech program for accessibility, more science degree programs – such as a neuroscience, pre-med programs, and virtual clubs for students to connect over shared interests.

 

Annette Karien: More PhD and Masters options and implementing the BSc in Psychology program. The world is a global village, and the university can gain more from offering online options in these fields, as since after covid, distance and online education has been in high demand. More people are choosing flexibility as a major factor in acquiring more education.

 

Tammy Monro: Either a diploma or degree in social work that is accredited and can be used to register with a social work governing body.

 

Dianna Ramirez: Community building: such as clubs, in person meetings, forums.

 

Jan Lehmann: Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

 

Aiza Nazamatova: I could advocate for a new offering at AU, I would propose the introduction of a mentorship program and virtual tutoring services that connect students with experienced professionals in their field of study, providing valuable insights and guidance for career development.

 

Dabin Park: If I could convince AU to offer a new program, I would propose expanding diversity events and club activities. These initiatives celebrate cultural diversity, promote cross-cultural understanding, and provide opportunities for students to engage with different communities on campus. By fostering inclusivity and appreciation for diverse perspectives, these events and activities would enrich the overall student experience at AU.

 

Deidra Mahabal: AU should provide alternative pathways for students to meet course prerequisites so they can enroll in these courses and complete them so they can finish their program.

 

What’s going to be the biggest challenge for you should you get elected?

 

Josh Flis: My greatest challenge will be the inevitable farewell at the end of my term. I thrive on purpose-driven leadership, a realm in which I truly belong. This is my calling, my forte, and there’s little else that resonates with me as profoundly.”

 

Kari Thompson: The biggest challenge for me would be the limitations placed on the role, that despite having better and/or more effective solutions for the University to implement, we are limited in the ability to force needed changes.

 

Melanie Rousseau: Being able to reach students with limited social media. So far, I have been using my Instagram and Facebook platforms to discover the current needs/ideas from students. I am concerned about missing a large fraction of student voices, unless I can find other means of communication.

 

Chimaraoke Akuchie: The biggest challenge for me, should I get elected, will be balancing my responsibilities as a student council member with my academic workload and other commitments i.e. family. Time management and prioritization will be key.

 

Neil Fraser: I think my biggest challenge will be something a lot of students at AU can relate with… not having enough time! Working full-time and doing full-time classes is already a busy schedule for myself, but I look forward to taking on this role if I am lucky enough to get elected!

 

Faustina Arsenault: Fighting to change every course’s format on AU, to be modernized, interactive, to create a better learning experience for everyone

 

Annette Karien: Getting students to participate in the contribution of knowledge which can make the student experience more personalized to help them timely complete their courses, frustration free.

 

Tammy Monro: I often have a habit of taking on more than I should because I am passionate about making a difference.

 

Dianna Ramirez: Being a single mother.

 

Jan Lehmann: The uncontrollable nature of change is often a challenge to any human and I can see it being my biggest challenge in this advocacy role. Sometimes change takes a long time to occur and sometimes it happens too quickly and some change we have no control over. Affecting change in the context of student council requires a holistic approach and true team work and adapting to the change that is beyond our control requires resilience.

 

Aiza Nazamatova: Should I get elected, my biggest challenge would be balancing the responsibilities of the positions with my academic commitments, ensuring both receive the attention they deserve.

 

Dabin Park: The biggest challenge for me, should I get elected, will be setting a positive example for my fellow students. As a representative of the student body, it is essential for me to lead by example and demonstrate integrity, dedication, and a strong work ethic. Striving to embody these qualities will not only earn the trust and respect of my peers but also inspire them to actively engage in campus life and contribute positively to our community.

 

Deidra Mahabal: The biggest challenge for me is being a perfectionist who sets high standards in all that I do and often overthinks.

 

Is there a program or activity AUSU does now that you think it should expand?

 

Josh Flis: Id love to see the online student engagement activities expanded. More video sessions with professors, government leaders, our partnered research programs. At AU, students experience separation by both time and space, so leveraging our digital community to enrich the learning experience not only connects the students more often, but even spreads inspiration more potently. Frome a stakeholder perspective, this can be so positive for us as students, alumni, and for the staff, and partnered allies. All stakeholders benefit!

I’d also love to see more legal studies courses, these would supplement our current streams so well, and could lead to a potential JD program, which would be impressive!

 

Kari Thompson: I think AUSU should expand on the bursaries and awards provided to students, as more should be supplied in areas with abundant applications. Plus, there should be a defined separation between the bursaries and awards for need and those based on a defined achievement.

 

Melanie Rousseau: Mental Health and Wellness program, as well as tutoring services

 

Chimaraoke Akuchie: I believe AUSU’s advocacy efforts could be expanded to include more support for student mental health and wellness initiatives, such as organizing workshops, support groups, or awareness campaigns.

 

Neil Fraser: I think that it would be a great idea for AUSU to offer more affordable health and dental benefits for the student body. I would also like to try and look into adding those fees into your tuition on an opt-in/opt-out basis, making it less money for you to worry about as you are working hard on your post-secondary education.

 

Faustina Arsenault: Having clubs for students to participate in with monthly/biweekly meetings, like physical universities do.

 

Annette Karien: Promoting the AUSU app and promoting the optional health insurance service available to students.

Cheaper AU Merch for students will also be a welcome development.

 

Tammy Monro: At this time, I am not sure if there is anything I would suggest expanding. This is because I feel that with the current political climate it will be important for AUSU to continue to be the voice of students who rely on AU as a way to achieve their educational and career goals and that may involve the majority of the union’s time.

 

Dianna Ramirez: Yes the podcast! Opening up the mic to more students (all though I’m not sure if this is an option already). This can help students have a sense of belonging by contributing to AU community.

 

Jan Lehmann: More online events to bring students together.

 

Aiza Nazamatova: AUSU could improve tutoring services for students who may struggle with academic achievement, and expanding the tutoring program to cover a wider range of subjects would benefit students seeking academic support.

 

Dabin Park: I believe AUSU should expand its support for student-led initiatives and events, and club activities by providing additional funding, resources, and promotion.

Encouraging more diverse and inclusive programming will cater to the interests and needs of all students.

 

Deidra Mahabal: AUSU should expand on their current career development online platform and offer workshops to help students develop professional writing skills to meet the criteria needed for scholarship applications, personal resumes/curriculum vitae, or volunteer applications. It’s unfortunate to see so many scholars walk away with outstanding degrees but are still stuck working their summer jobs at the local grocery store, café, or retail outlet.

 

 

 

Is there a program or activity AUSU does now that you think it could cut back?

 

Josh Flis: I’m not sure I would want to cut back on programs without data to review. And I’m not aware of any activities that are materially problematic for AU students now.

 

Kari Thompson: I cannot think of any programs or activities that could be cut back. Nevertheless, I am open to the opinions that others may have, especially if the funds already being used can be reallocated to areas that better address the needs of the students.

 

Melanie Rousseau: Unsure about this one! This will require me to soon dive deeper into all that Athabasca has to offer.

 

Chimaraoke Akuchie: While AUSU provides valuable services and programs, I think there could be potential for streamlining certain administrative processes to improve efficiency and resource allocation.

 

Neil Fraser: The needs of the student body vary so much and if we were to cut back on certain programs or activities, we should only do so after having a good discussion on it. I feel like if we needed to pick and choose which programs should be cut back on without having those discussions.

 

Faustina Arsenault:  I honestly don’t think there’s anything that needs to be cut back!

 

Annette Karien: I am not aware of any currently.

 

Tammy Monro: I feel that all services, programs, and activities are valuable to each student.

 

Dianna Ramirez: N/A

 

Jan Lehmann: I have not encountered such a program or activity. As a student I am very grateful for AUSU and each person that dedicated time and effort to support the students and enhance the student experience at AU.

 

Aiza Nazamatova: As far as I am aware, there were constant changes in the curriculum and admission requirements for the post-LPN BN program. One of the reasons I would like to step into the AUSU Council position is to bring nurses and other healthcare professionals’ voices to the table. As we are facing nursing shortages not only province-wise but across Canada, it is crucial for the government authorities and other universities, including AU, to make it accessible for licensed practical nurses to upgrade to Registered Nursing degrees to ensure efficiency in the healthcare system.

 

Dabin Park: At present, AUSU is doing well in providing various programs and activities for students. However, I believe there is still untapped potential for introducing new programs or activities to further enrich the student experience. Rather than focusing on cutting back existing initiatives, AUSU should prioritize exploring opportunities for expanding its offerings to cater to a wider range of student interests and needs. This proactive approach will ensure that AUSU continues to evolve and meet the ever-changing demands of the student body.

 

Deidra Mahabal: No, I don’t think there is a program or activity that AUSU should cut back on. I believe that the ones that are in place are purposeful, enhance student engagement, and help with student life.

 

What do you hope being elected will bring you personally?

 

Josh Flis: An elected position will bring me back into the mix of collaborative business operations, contract negotiations, and creating opportunity. The council role will position me to brainstorm with others, together forging the future for AU students, which is so exciting!

 

Kari Thompson: I hope that being elected will help me elevate my social capabilities. As this position would put me far outside of my social comfort zone, and prospectively learning from more naturalistic social experiences.

 

Melanie Rousseau: I hope that an elected position will allow my voice for change to be amplified. I have always pushed to be my own personal advocate in life, and desire to carry the voices of others during their education journeys with the volume that this position will bring.

 

Chimaraoke Akuchie: Personally, I hope being elected will bring me the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the AU student community, as well as personal growth and development through leadership experience.

 

Neil Fraser: Getting involved in politics and running for elected office is where most of my aspirations lie once I finish my degree, so I look at this as a great way to prepare myself for my future career.

 

Faustina Arsenault: As I have over a dozen courses to finish before graduation, I would really like the future courses I take through AU to be more interactive, and less reading based, due to visual disabilities from my traumatic brain injury. I hope to use my experience to fight for a change to course materials and formats for all students.

 

Annette Karien: Leadership experience and satisfaction for having contributed to my community.

 

Tammy Monro: The ability to advocate for those with softer, quieter voices such as the single parents and newcomers who rely on AU as a way to progress their education and careers. AU is a valuable resource for individuals who can’t attend traditional brick and mortar schools due to working full time, distance, or child minding. Bringing together a variety of passions and voices is important to creating a robust council and I hope to have a chance to bring forward mine to use for those who are not in a place to run for or sit on council.

 

Dianna Ramirez: I hope to gain more experience advocating, as well using my platform to bring awareness of issues being faced by marginalized communities.

 

Jan Lehmann: As a student counselor I will get to drive the change I wish to see, undergoing growth by practicing leadership, organization, effective communication and collaboration, all while serving my AU family and advocating for fellow students.

 

Aiza Nazamatova: Being elected, I hope to gain valuable leadership experience, deepen my understanding of student advocacy, and continue meaningfully to improve AU’s student experience. I hope that this experience allows me to voice some of the struggles and challenges that nursing students face during their academic years with AU. I would like to minimize barriers for nursing students to enter the Bachelor of Nursing program with fewer course loads and practicum hours to advance their education.

 

Dabin Park: Being elected would personally bring me a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment, knowing that I have been entrusted with the responsibility to represent and advocate for the interests of my fellow students. It would also provide me with valuable leadership experience and the opportunity to make a positive impact on campus life.

 

Deidra Mahabal: I hope being elected will allow me to be a mentor for AU students who view me as approachable, considerate of other opinions, and can take student’s hardships find solutions, be persistent, and turn them into positive experiences.

 

Outside of AU, what’s your passion?

 

Josh Flis: I love playing music, and I wish I had a small bar band. Reading is important to me. Skiing and snowboarding are two sports without which I can’t live. I don’t play video games, but I am enthusiastic about Bungie games and the stories they tell. I am an ex-foodie, and I’ve ate at NOMA Copenhagen, Araxi, Le Saint Amour, and over a dozen Top Chef restaurants across Canada. My favourite 3 Canadian restaurants are Rodney’s Oyster House, BUCA, and Matty Mathesons old spot in Parkdale, Parts & Labor. My best friends are cool, down to earth, and supportive, so I am supportive of them, too. Finally, I think genuine human love or respect for one another is the highest form of social justice.

I’m running for council. It’s your vote and our future. Vote FLIS

 

Kari Thompson: My passion has always been children. I want to improve the lives of as many children as possible, leading me to seek systemic changes, which must begin with helping the adults in their lives to achieve their goals. As those adult behaviours and achievements being modelled and perpetually observed, will elevate their children’s perceptions of their potential. I know it did for me when I observed my mother achieve a degree in computer science, after starting her return to school just to gain her high school diploma when she was 40 with six children at home.

 

Melanie Rousseau: Long-distance running!

 

Chimaraoke Akuchie: Outside of AU, my passion lies in advocating for diversity, inclusion, social justice in the

Thank you again for the opportunity to participate in this Q&A.

 

Neil Fraser: My passion outside of political science and global studies is nature! Hiking in the mountains with my wife and dog, trail-running, birdwatching, walking… truly doing anything outside in nature is my passion! Although, I would have to say a very close second is playing music!

 

Faustina Arsenault: Traumatic brain injury awareness, all things health and neuroscience, neuro-rehabilitation, randomly learning about things, music, fashion, and cooking!

 

Annette Karien: Helping the people around me and connecting people to resources that help them be a better person.

I am also a science and technology enthusiast and spend my time learning about inventions.

I look forward to seeing more advanced technologies in health; yes, including robots, and personalized AI technology for disabled people. Imagine an advanced technology can use magnets and vibrations to help the blind see the faces and objects around them.

 

Tammy Monro: I have many passions including supporting individuals in families during some of their worst days. I enjoy giving back to the community through volunteer activities such as being a victim advocate with my local victim services and being a board member on our local animal shelter’s board of directors.

Outside of my volunteer activities, I like to dive into the world of being a giant nerd. I like to sew costumes, build props, and more specifically LARP and play tabletop roleplay games like D&D. This is what fills my bucket!

 

Dianna Ramirez: I dedicate my time to reduce systemic racism for migrants living in Canada. I hope I can continue to empower my community and share stories of harsh reality of many injustices happening here.

 

Jan Lehmann: Serving my community through advocacy and building resilience and driving growth in myself and others.

 

Aiza Nazamatova: Outside of AU, my passion lies in playing tennis and volunteering at the YMCA facility, where I burn some calories. These activities not only serve as personal outlets but also contribute to my overall well-being and the well-being of my community.

 

Dabin Park: Outside of AU, my passion lies in organizing and participating in diversity events. Drawing from my cultural background and experiences, I am enthusiastic about showcasing different cultures and helping newcomers integrate into our community. I believe in the power of cultural exchange and understanding to foster empathy and appreciation for diversity. I enjoy dedicating my time and efforts to causes that make a difference in people’s lives and contribute to building stronger, more connected communities.

 

Deidra Mahabal: My passion is children, I am intrigued by how they learn, their daily interactions, and their sense of being; whereas, I believe each child has a gift. I want to help children find their purpose and become the rocket scientists, lawyers, or veterinarians that they aspire to be when they grow up. The types of dreams that often seem so far-fetched. As a volunteer ambassador for the Stollery Children Hospital Foundation, I am intrigued by the way pet art therapy is therapeutic to children and adolescents.