Director, Faculty of Science

  • Throughout my experiences, I have cultivated a strong foundation in leadership, advocacy, and collaboration, making me well-suited for the position of Director for the Faculty of Science. I currently hold the position of Entertainment Coordinator for Relay for Life, where I developed skills in event planning, team management, community engagement, sponsorships, and fast paced thinking. Additionally, my role as a Mentor for Rotary 6400 has allowed me to guide and support youth in my community, fostering both personal and academic growth. In high school, I held the position of Deputy Prime Minister, where I gained experience in parliamentary procedures, decision-making, and representing student interests. As a former member of the GECDSB Student Senate, I participated in board-wide meetings, addressing student concerns and initiating new projects to improve the student experience. I also contributed as part of the GECDSB Black Student Advisory Committee, where I worked on reviewing and recommending policy changes to ensure equity within our school system in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Ontario Human Rights Council. My work on the EQAO Student Engagement Committee further honed my advocacy skills, representing Southwestern Ontario at a provincial level and championing student voices in educational decisions. These experiences have given me a strong background in leadership, policy review, and student advocacy, all of which will be invaluable in my role as Director for the Science as part of the UWSA.

  • As Director of Science, I would focus on creating a more dynamic and collaborative environment for both faculty and students in the sciences. One key initiative would be to foster stronger interdisciplinary connections across departments, ensuring that students and researchers have more opportunities to collaborate on projects that span multiple fields of science. This can be done by creating initiatives that tackle real-world challenges. I’d advocate for joint courses and team-based projects, allowing students from different departments to collaborate. Additionally, I’d organize workshops, conferences, and mentorship programs to foster connections between faculty and students across disciplines. By securing helpful grants and building external partnerships, I would ensure that these collaborations have the resources and support needed to thrive. Ultimately, these efforts would cultivate a culture of collaboration that drives innovation and scientific discovery. I’d also prioritize expanding resources and support for research initiatives, including securing funding and building partnerships with industry leaders, government agencies, and non-profits. This would help elevate the visibility and impact of our university’s research while providing students with invaluable real-world experience. Additionally, I would advocate for enhancing student engagement in scientific endeavors by supporting programs that bridge the gap between classroom learning and hands-on research, such as internships, lab assistant positions, and community science outreach. Finally, fostering diversity and inclusion in science would be another major initiative. Ensuring that all students, regardless of background, feel welcome and supported in their pursuit of scientific education and research is critical to a thriving academic community.

  • To build positive relationships within the UWSA Board, members at large, and the UWindsor administration, I would prioritize fostering open communication and relationship building through trust. Establishing regular check-ins, whether through weekly meetings or progress reports, would be essential to ensure that everyone is aligned and informed. I also believe in the importance of creating an environment where everyone feels heard and respected. By encouraging active listening and valuing the diverse perspectives within the group, I can ensure that all voices are represented. This not only strengthens relationships but also leads to better decision-making, as we benefit from a wider range of ideas and experiences. Finding common ground is key to unity, so I would work on aligning the goals of the board, members at large, and the administration. Lastly, I would support both formal and informal activities to strengthen connections within the group. Formal team-building exercises or workshops could improve collaboration and communication skills, while informal social events would help foster a more relaxed and open atmosphere. Encouraging these kinds of interactions would not only improve professional relationships but also create a more positive, supportive environment where everyone feels motivated to work together toward shared goals.

  • To me, the UWSA represents much more than just an organization, it’s a family. It’s a place where students find connections, support, and hope during their university journey. The UWSA has served as a solid foundation for many students, including myself, offering vital resources, a network of peers, and a sense of belonging that can be hard to find in the larger university setting. It plays an essential role in helping students navigate both academic and personal challenges, while also fostering a vibrant community where every voice matters. I’m choosing to run in the 2025 General Elections because I have a deep passion for helping others and making a positive impact. I’ve always been driven by the desire to represent voices that may not always be heard, especially those of students in STEM fields. As someone who understands the unique challenges faced by STEM students, I want to ensure their concerns and needs are well represented at the board level. Additionally, I am committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of student life. I want to be part of the decision-making process that ensures the UWSA’s policies reflect and support a truly inclusive campus community. By running, I hope to contribute to a university environment where every student, regardless of their background, feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. This is my chance to help build a UWSA that truly reflects the diverse and vibrant student body it serves.

Lladaneyah Gayle