The Senate is the senior academic body of the University. Among other things, it advises on University academic standards, academic policies, program approvals and reviews.
2023 Spring Senate Elections Nominees
University Canada West is holding elections for Senate. Learn more about the nominees below.
Staff Nominees
Ana’s Statement of Intent:
At the core of everything I do, I am driven by what is fair, honest and inclusive. I’ve decided to become involved in the Senate because I want to contribute to creating and supporting a community at UCW that embodies these values.
As a staff representative, I hope to bring a perspective that recognizes the challenges of working in higher education and supporting students and staff.
Jeremiah’s Statement of Intent:
My name’s Jeremiah Rojas (he/him), but my friends call me Jay, and I’m excited to share my passion for advocacy and educational leadership by running for Senate. I’m a leadership educator by profession and a sociologist by education. My past experiences serving in academic and non-academic experiences, such as student unions, faith and cultural groups, sexual and gender diversity committees, as well as student wellness advocacy groups, have provided me with valuable insights into the challenges of post-secondary education.
If elected, I bring with me my lived experiences as a Canadian veteran and over five years of Canadian higher education experiences. During my tenure in higher education, I developed strong leadership skills that I believe are crucial to becoming an effective member of the Senate. My ability to manage expectations and make informed decisions under pressure are traits that I’m eager to bring into this role. Additionally, my graduate studies in educational leadership and policy demonstrate my commitment to lifelong learning and my dedication to educational accessibility, advocacy and activism.
If elected to Senate, I’m committed to advocating for policies and progress that enhance the well-being of the UCW Community. I believe that an effective Senate member must possess traits, such as collaboration, communication, adaptability and accessibility. I believe that through my involvement in various committees and councils, I have honed these skills and can confidently apply them at UCW.
I’m excited to bring my knowledge and experiences to the Senate, and I’m looking forward to serving the UCW Community and ensuring that staff’s opinions and feedback are heard and respected. If anyone would like to know more about me or my approach to advocacy, please connect with me.
Maryam’s Statement of Intent:
Dear Committee,
Here are the reasons I’m interested in serving for the Senate as well as experience I would bring to the committee:
To start with, I’ve been working for University Canada West for the last six years as a full-time faculty with the University Access Program (UAP/UAC). UCW has been always my sole work commitment during these six years. I’ve taught several courses in different departments, such as UAP, ACSS and MBAF. I’ve also been a Writing Coach and LFSW workshops facilitator.
In addition, I’ve been a member of different committees at UCW such as the Library Advisory Committee since 2018, a representative for the Base Salary Increase for the UAP in 2021, a member of a committee for hiring the Chair for UAP in 2022 and hiring sessionals for UAP in 2022.
Furthermore, during the pandemic in the process of moving to online classes, I closely worked with the course lead in UAP to develop curriculum for our online classes.
I strongly believe that my teaching experience in both the academic transition program (UAP) and the degree programs as well as my strong relationship with different departments, such as the Career Development Centre, Learning Success Program and the Library will help me during my service to the Senate.
Finally, I seek to continue building these important connections across programs by serving on Senate and being involved in academic decision-making, changes and governance.
Looking forward to getting elected.
Maryam Rostamy
Full-Time UAP Faculty
Faculty Nominees
Yasamin’s Statement of Intent:
I am a highly qualified individual with a passion for education and a commitment to excellence. With a master’s degree in Accounting and a CPA designation, I bring a unique blend of academic and professional expertise to the UCW Senate. I have demonstrated a dedication to teaching and mentoring new faculty, and am committed to promoting a culture of innovation and excellence within the UCW Community.
I am excited about the opportunity to serve on UCW’s senate and am committed to working collaboratively with students, faculty and staff to promote the University’s mission and vision. I continually seek to find well thought out solutions to help ensure UCW continues to be a great place to work, learn and grow for students, faculty and staff alike.
Dr. Chand’s Statement of Intent:
I have been a faculty member at UCW for five years. At UCW, I have worked closely with faculty, students and management. This interaction has helped me develop a deep appreciation of the interrelationship between these stakeholders and its significance in achieving overall program success. I believe the role of faculty members is integral to achieving academic excellence and balancing students’ expectations with the help and input of Top Management. If elected, I will ensure a meaningful contribution to the panel on various issues, including research and development, curriculum design, academic planning and governance.
Dr. Hedru’s Statement of Intent:
I have five years experience of academic and non-academic involvement at UCW. I have been involved with UBC for the last 14 years at the Department of Population and Public Health, involved in the Master of Public Health program. I firmly believe that my experience will positively contribute to shaping the future of UCW.
As a member of the Black Community in Vancouver, that is not represented at different levels of UCW, I want to be involved in the decision-making of the UCW future. I graduated from a five-month training program provided by the Government on EDI on Governance.
Thank you for considering my application.
Dr. Kohli’s Statement of Intent:
I am a Post-Doctorate Researcher at the University of Arizona, USA, Ph.D., India and have two master’s degrees (Canadian and Indian). I have more than 20 years of academic and industrial experience. I have been bestowed the best teacher award and young scientist award. I have about 52 research papers to my credit. My papers are published in various Global Journals of repute, such as Taylor & Francis, Springer, Inderscience, Emerald, etc. I have participated in various international conferences in countries such as the UK, Italy, USA, etc. I am a publisher of two books. I have two patent designs and one utility patent to my recognition. I have been on peer review panels with many reputed publishers.
Dr. Naumenko’s Statement of Intent:
I am glad to have the opportunity to represent you in the UCW Senate. Many of you know me in person, and you can be sure that I will always be on guard for the interests of every UCW faculty member.
We have already achieved a great deal, changing the climate and management in UCW for the better, and this was just the beginning. Together we will make our university the place which works for the people, the place you can be really proud of. So, let’s do it!
Dr. Rubel’s Statement of Intent:
After completing a BA, summa cum laude, Junior Phi Beta Kappa (top two percent), at Columbia University, I earned a PhD in English Literature, with a focus on British Romanticism at the University of British Columbia. My dissertation, Romancing Modernity: Poetry, Process, and Postsecularism (2018) argues that romantic works from William Blake to Mary Shelley offer a means of “romancing” modernity in this moment of eco-anxiety.
A recipient of numerous academic awards, including two SSHRC fellowships and a Mitacs Globalink grant, I have been a presenter at the Mind & Life Summer Research Institute, a visiting scholar at Amherst College, and the first humanities scholar to receive a Francisco J. Varela Grant, for work in eco-theory and contemplative education.
At UCW, I am a passionate teacher of philosophy, literature and writing, and have enjoyed serving as the subject lead for philosophy and a member of committees (BABC self-study committee, promotion committee).
Dr. Saeedi’s Statement of Intent:
Dear members of the University Canada West community,
I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Senate of our esteemed institution. As a passionate and experienced advocate for higher education and a dedicated member of our community, I am eager to contribute my skills and experience to the important work of the Senate.
With over 20 years of experience in the academic industry at various levels at four universities, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our university and the wider higher education sector. Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a commitment to collaboration, innovation and excellence in service and scholarly activities and I believe that these values align closely with those of University Canada West.
If elected to Senate, I would bring a strong voice for faculty members and student engagement, diversity and inclusion, and community outreach. I would work to ensure that the perspectives and concerns of all members of our community are represented in Senate deliberations and decisions, especially if I am assigned to the scholarly activities committee. I would also seek to promote innovation and best practices in teaching, research and other areas of university life while maintaining a strong focus on transparency and communication.
As a member of the Senate, I would be committed to engaging with all stakeholders in the university community, including students, faculty members, staff and alumni. I would listen carefully to their concerns, be their voice and work collaboratively with them to find effective solutions to the challenges facing our institution.
I am honored to be considered for this important role, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve the University Canada West community as a member of the Senate. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Mohsen Saeedi
Jack’s Statement of Intent:
Tansi! I am a person of Plains Cree and Métis ancestry who is committed to Aboriginal-Canadian economic reconciliation.
My educational background includes: two years in the General Studies-Economics at the University of Calgary, a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the University of Saskatchewan and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Simon Fraser University. I am currently working on a Doctorate in Business Administration degree at the Paris School of Business in Paris, France. The focus of my research is creating shared value, leadership and Indigenous business development.
In addition to my role as Continuing Faculty at UCW, I am a Director on the Board of a First Nation economic development corporation. I have been a First Nation Band Manager, executive director of a First Nation agency and administrative officer of a First Nation educational institute. As the Executive Director of a treaty group, my role was mainly administrative with additional duties related to the negotiation of a tripartite agreement amongst the member First Nations, and the Federal and Provincial governments. As the Administrative Officer and Principal at Chemainus Native College, I fulfilled functions commensurate with those performed by executive directors or presidents of educational institutions. Prior to this appointment, I was the Director of Programs at Chemainus Native College. As Director, I was responsible for the leadership, administration and development of all secondary and post-secondary programs at the College. While at Chemainus Native College, I made presentations at provincial and national conferences on topics such as labour law in First Nations schools, prior learning assessment and the evaluation of co-op education programs. I participated extensively with the development of CANDO’s Certification and Accreditation programs.
My educational and work experience would benefit all areas of development, and the business goals, that the UCW Senate is involved with.
Dr. Turi’s Statement of Intent:
I have been teaching at the UCW for nearly five years. I have had the chance to work and collaborate with some of my colleagues on different academic, social and research works. I also had the opportunity to experience the UCW academic leadership as an acting chair of the department of quantitative studies in Spring 2022, which has given me a chance to have a closer look into the diverse academic workforce in our department. Hence, it will be an absolute pleasure for me to represent my fellow faculty members at the UCW senate.
Please see the table below for the timetable for the Spring 2023 Senate Elections:
Date |
Activity |
| Tuesday, February 14, 2023 | Call for Nominations |
| Thursday, March 9, 2023, by 5 pm (PST) | Nominations Deadline |
| Monday, March 13, 2023 | Announcement of Candidates |
| Tuesday, March 14, 2023 | Campaign Period Starts |
| Tuesday, April 11, 2023 | Campaign Period Ends |
| Thursday, April 13, 2023, at 12:01 am (PDT) | Voting Period Begins |
| Thursday, April 20, 2023, at 11:59 pm (PDT) | Voting Period Ends |
| Tuesday, April 25, 2023 | Publish Election Results |
| Tuesday, May 2, 2023 | Orientation for New Members |
| Thursday, May 4, 2023 | First Senate Meeting for New Members |
The following vacancies are available for students, faculty and staff.
Faculty Representatives |
Term of Office |
| 2 Vacancies | May 2023 – April 2026 |
Staff Representative |
Term of Office |
| 1 Vacancy | May 2023 – April 2025 |
Student Representative |
Term of Office |
| 1 Vacancy (formal online student representative) | May 2023 – April 2024 |
Senate members will advise and provide recommendations to the Board on a number of subjects, including program proposals advanced to the British Columbia Degree Quality Assurance Board, the evaluation of programs and educational services, the setting of the academic schedule of the University and other matters specified by the Board.
The Senate meets monthly, on every first Thursday of the month virtually on Microsoft Teams.
Senate Election Forms
- Faculty Candidate and Nominators’ Declaration Form
- Faculty Nomination Form in the MyUCW Portal
- Staff Candidate and Nominators’ Declaration Form
- Staff Nomination Form in the MyUCW Portal
- Student Candidate and Nominators’ Declaration Form
- Student Nomination Form in the MyUCW Portal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General FAQ
The Senate normally meets on the first Thursday of every month (except in January and August), and the meetings are usually from 3 to 4:30 pm.
Senate members are also expected to serve on at least two committees, which may also meet monthly.
For more information, see the Senate Bylaws.
Yes! All new members will participate in an orientation session and will receive a comprehensive manual before their first Senate meeting.
No, this is a volunteer position. For faculty members, this position will be considered towards any applicable service requirements. All Senate members may submit requests for reimbursements for any reasonable expenses incurred.
Please complete the appropriate form.
If you have any questions about the nomination process, please contact [email protected].
If you no longer wish to stand for election and wish to withdraw your nomination, please contact [email protected] to withdraw your nomination. Once withdrawn, you will not be eligible for the election and any votes for a withdrawn candidate will be invalid.
Please note that, if you are elected, it is our expectation that you will serve the entire term of office, to the best of your ability.
An orientation session will be held for all candidates prior to the start of the campaign period. It is the sole responsibility of the candidate to ensure they are familiar with all the rules of the election, whether they attend the orientation or not.
Each nominee will be asked to provide a Statement of Intent (maximum 300 words and no links) in the Nomination Form. This Statement of Intent will be made available to the electorate on the Senate Elections webpage.
Campaigning is allowed and encouraged, but must be undertaken at the individual’s expense and in their own time. Candidates may not abuse UCW’s resources for election purposes. All candidates are required to act with honesty and integrity.
Candidates are expected to conduct themselves in a manner respectful of other candidates, and all campaign material must comply with human rights and other legislation.
Campaigning includes: word-of-mouth and direct communications, posters, flyers, websites and social media. Encouraging individuals to vote is not considered campaigning if there is no reference to an individual candidate or group of candidates.
Each candidate may post one campaign poster (8.5×11”) on each Community Board at the UCW campuses and may choose to distribute flyers on UCW campuses (at their own expense). Staff and faculty candidates may also post one campaign poster (8.5×11”) in each UCW faculty and staff lounge or work area.
If you have any questions about the campaigning process, please contact [email protected].
Student FAQ
To be eligible to nominate another student or vote, you must be:
- An undergraduate or graduate student registered at UCW in Spring 2023 term;
- In good standing; and
- From the same student constituency (i.e., formal online) as the nominee/candidate.
To be eligible to stand for election, you must be:
- A formal online undergraduate or graduate student registered at UCW in Spring 2023 term;
- In good standing; and
- Intending to register in two of the following academic terms (Spring 2023, Summer 2023 or Fall 2023 Term) during his/her/their term of office (May 2023 – April 2024).
For more information about eligibility, see Sections 2.1 and 4.1-4.5 contained in Appendix A to the Bylaws (Rules to Govern Elections to the Senate).
Please see above. Classroom time is reserved for academic activities, and your professors and fellow students expect to have class time dedicated to learning. Visits or campaigning by student candidates cannot be accommodated.
No, you must select one student position to run for.
The at-large student member will represent the interests of all UCW students on Senate.
Faculty FAQ
Nominations will be submitted on your own behalf but must be signed by three other eligible faculty members.
To nominate an individual, vote or stand for election, faculty members must:
- have a continuing appointment at UCW as an instructor, a lecturer, an assistant professor, an associate professor or a professor in a degree program (e., undergraduate and degree).
Instructors that have a continuing appointment and that teach in the University Access Program (UAP) may nominate an individual, vote in an election or stand for election as staff members, not as faculty.
Please note that visiting, adjunct and sessional faculty are not eligible to nominate, run for election or vote in the upcoming Senate elections.
For more information about eligibility, see Sections 2.1 and 4.1-4.5 contained in Appendix A to the Bylaws (Rules to Govern Elections to the Academic Council).
No. Faculty and staff members who are also UCW students are not eligible to run as student representatives.
Staff FAQ
Who is eligible to nominate, to stand for and vote in elections to Senate as a staff representative?
Staff members must be employed by UCW and be past their probationary period to be eligible to stand for election. All staff members are eligible to vote for and nominate another staff member.
Officers of the University (President, Vice-Presidents, or the Registrar), faculty members (except UAP faculty with continuing appointment), Chairs, and the University Librarian are not eligible.
For more information about eligibility, see Sections 2.1 and 4.1-4.5 contained in Appendix A to the Bylaws (Rules to Govern Elections to the Senate).
Voting and Campaigning FAQ
Continuing faculty are those who teach in the degree programs, and have continuous appointments, an assigned rank and either a contract with no end date or are on a continuing track.
Yes, librarian staff are allowed to vote in the staff election. The University Librarian is the only person in the Library department who cannot vote. The same is true with the Registrar and Registrar’s Office staff.
The campaigning period started on March 14 and ends on April 11. Candidates may release campaign messages during this time period. Voting will be online only.
The voting system will automatically block ineligible voters. Staff members will only be able to vote for staff, and faculty will only be able to vote for faculty. The system will track the votes and an audit will be conducted at the end to make sure the results were tracked appropriately.
The University will not provide resources for campaigning, and all campaign materials (such as posters, signs, social media, websites, etc.) will be produced at the candidates’ expense.
Candidates are reminded to minimize disruptions during business operations; while it is acceptable to remind voters during regular meetings, there should not be any solicitation of votes during regular business interactions.
We ask that each candidate respect their colleagues’ time and our shared workspaces by following these campaign best practices:
- Limit group emails to a maximum of two (2) messages on behalf of each candidate during the campaign period (March 14 to April 11)
- For all group emails, please blind copy (BCC) all recipients
- Campaign posters may be placed on the boards in the faculty prep rooms and employee lounge areas at both the Vancouver House and West Pender campuses
- Limit of one campaign poster per candidate per board/area
- Campaign posters may not be placed on walls or in stairwells at either campus
Candidates are reminded to be respectful of other candidates and support a campaign process that is fair, reasonable and in compliance with human rights or any other applicable legislation.
In terms of communication, candidates are recommended to present themselves honestly, covering items such as your motivation for running in the election, your intentions if elected and what would be the focus of your attention during your term on the Senate.
Yes, both Chairs and current elected members of the Senate are allowed to vote.
Senate votes are not tallied by department; all faculty and staff members (and more broadly, all Senate members) are asked to consider the best interests of the University and its students.
It is the candidate’s responsibility to reach out to voters. Candidates are encouraged to be mindful of using the University resources for campaigning purposes.
The membership for each Senate Committee is generally restricted to members of the Senate (including elected representatives of students, faculty and staff). The Committee Chairs can extend invitations to non-committee members for projects or certain initiatives, as needed.
All employees of the University are eligible to vote for another staff member. The exceptions are: officers of the University (President, Vice-Presidents or the Registrar), faculty members (except UAP instructors), Chairs and the University Librarian. For election purposes, UAP instructors are considered staff.
Faculty will not be able to vote in staff elections. Instead, faculty members with a continuing appointment can vote for their continuing faculty representative.
For more information about eligibility, see Sections 2.1 and 4.1-4.5 contained in Appendix A to the Bylaws (Rules to Govern Elections to the Senate).
The successful candidates for the Senate elections are determined according to the ‘first past the post’ principles: candidates with the most votes are declared winners.
In the event of an equality of votes between two or more candidates in an election, the final result will be decided by lot amongst the candidates, under the direction of the Registrar.
Candidates will be acclaimed for a vacant position if:
- The number of candidates nominated is equal to or less than the number of vacant positions;
- A candidate has withdrawn his or her nomination and, as a result, the number of remaining candidates is equal to or less than the number of vacant positions.
For more information, see Section 12.0 (Election Results) contained in Appendix A to the Bylaws (Rules to Govern Elections to the Senate).
The Senate Elections team has advertised broadly for the available positions on the Senate and has used the principles of equity to ensure that expressions of interest are appropriately supported and guided through the application process. As the final decision is made through an open election, the final decision on the candidates belongs to the voting members of the UCW Community.
Please direct any questions about Senate elections to [email protected].
