UWSA – University of Windsor Students' Alliance

Cole G.

Candidate: Cole Gorham

Position: Director, Faculty of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

social Media

1. Outline your relevant experience for this position

As a first-year Law & Politics student, I have worked hard to establish myself at the university and in my community. As the First-Year Representative for the Pre-Law Student Society at the university, I have shown my leadership and communication skills, collaborating with fellow students to address their needs and concerns effectively while promoting higher education to first-year students. I try to give back to my community as much as possible, which is why I’m an avid volunteer with the Parkinson’s Society of Southwestern Ontario. Furthermore, my real-world political experience sets me apart from any other candidate. I have worked for multiple politicians as a constituency assistant across the political spectrum, including Brian Masse MP for Windsor West and Andrew Dowie MPP for Windsor Tecumseh. This exposure allowed me to help the people in my community and learn the importance of bipartisanship in achieving meaningful results. In my role as a constituent assistant, I have gained valuable experience responding to inquiries, concerns, and requests and ensuring a timely followup and resolution. This experience has taught me the importance of actively listening and maintaining an approachable demeanour towards anyone. Additionally, my involvement in managing, planning, organizing, and promoting community events has provided me with the organizational and promotional skills needed to create engaging and impactful activities for students of the Faculty of Art, Humanities, and Social Sciences.

2. What specific initiatives and projects would you undertake related to this role?

In this role, I plan to facilitate many different initiatives and projects. My overall goal is to improve the lives and experiences of students within the Faculty of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. One of my top priorities is student safety, exploring ways we can improve campus security, and increasing public awareness of the safety resources we already have, such as the “Safe Lancer App”. I will also advocate for the installation of menstrual products in all women’s washrooms across campus. This initiative aims to provide a basic necessity to all female students. An initiative I plan to implement immediately is always having an open and transparent dialogue with every student I represent. I will encourage students to reach out to me with any questions or concerns via email or phone, even during the election. I want to make it clear that I am working for you, and I will use everything in my power to represent you and improve your overall university experience.

3. How do you plan on facilitating positive work relationships within the UWSA Board, members at large and UWindsor administration?

A positive working relationship within the UWSA Board, among its members, and with the University of Windsor’s administration is a crucial aspect of effective governance and achieving our shared goals. My approach to facilitating these relationships involves actively listening to the concerns, ideas, and suggestions from the board and most of all, its members, and acknowledging the concerns and struggles they are facing. This will create a well-rounded democratic environment where individuals feel valued and respected. As well as where differences and concerns can be discussed. Conflicts arise in every organization, which is why I plan to approach conflicts with a constructive mindset, working towards solutions and mediating disputes when necessary.

4. Describe the importance of the UWSA in your own words

The UWSA plays a very important role for over 16,000 students at the University of Windsor because it provides students with various essential services such as academic support, health plans, student groups, and so much more. As a first-year student, I know how difficult it is to transition to university from high school. The UWSA is there to provide students with the proper resources they need to succeed in their education. When we talk about student support services, the UWSA plays an extremely important role in providing mental health support to students in need. One of the UWSA resources that provides students with that support can be found at the peer support centre. This service is offered to students who are looking for a safe and inclusive space to talk with a professionally trained counsellor. The UWSA also serves the students of the university by addressing their concerns and ideas to improve their overall university experience. It's important for students to have the representation and support they need for success.