My section of the executive 2/3rds report will cover the progress I have made on my campaign goals, how some of these goals have evolved and other notable items that I would like to report.
Campaign Goals
I campaigned on three main goals. Two of which were centred on consultation, and the last focused on planning and implementation.
Myer Horowitz Theatre Renovation Project
I promised to integrate student opinion into the Myer Horowitz Theatre Renovation Project. I have been doing so through a series of interviews with various stakeholders on campus, including faculty associations and frequent users of the theater. This is being included in the Student Events Initiative (SEI), which I will go into detail on later.
Deferred Maintenance
My second goal was the creation of a report on student priorities in deferred maintenance. I have been interviewing representatives from various organizations that are tied to buildings, faculty associations, residence associations and Greek organizations to name a few. My goal is to publish this report by the end of my term.
Student Programming at Room at the Top & Dewey’s
Lastly, I have been working to support increased student led programing in Room at the Top and Dewey’s. This has been successful thus far, with collaborations like Latin Dance Night at Room at the Top seeing huge attendance, and an increased number of student groups booking both spaces. I will report preliminary numbers to council sometime in the coming months.
Additional Projects
I have undertaken three other large projects over the past eight months. First, which is an evolution of my campaign goal of consulting on the Myer Horowitz Theatre Renovation, is the SEI.
Student Events Initiative
The SEI is a push by the Students’ Union (SU) to create relevant, consistent and exciting events in SUB, and ensuring the building is equipped to facilitate these. So far, the SEI has consisted of various levels of student consultation, including classroom talks, information booths and focus groups. For all details surround the SEI, see the website here.
SU Food Services
Secondly, in conjunction with the SEI, the SU has been evaluating how to move forward with our food services to students, including our own vendors and the foot court in SUB. We are evaluating what the future of our food-based businesses will be through the consultation in the SEI, as well as a food survey you may have seen in your inbox this fall. Most leases in the food court are up for renewal this year. We have issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the expiring lease spaces. You could see some changes in the SUB food court in the near future. We are using feedback from students to educate our decisions in which vendors will best serve students.
Room at the Top Renovation
Finally, Room at the Top received a needed renovation over the summer, which is nearing completion. The space has new furniture, paint, lighting and washrooms. A student mural was commissioned on the west-facing wall next to the elevators. The bar is now much more modern, attractive and comfortable.