Candidate Ballot Statements

My name is Sariha Dewan, and I am honored to run for re-election on SMCSU.

If you’ve been to campus before, there’s a good chance we’ve crossed paths—whether it was during Orientation, Intramurals, or literally crossed paths at a Run Club. And if you have only seen my name in an email signature,, hi! I’m Sariha, Sara at cafes, but Sariha on the ballot. 

My journey here has been shaped by the roles I’ve taken on: most recently as this year’s Orientation Coordinator and the current VP of Athletics on SMCSU. In each of these roles, I’ve had the unique privilege of seeing firsthand not only what makes student life incredible—but also where we can do better. 

If elected, my priorities will be shaped by what truly matters to students, because at its simplest: I am campaigning for student-driven decisions, for students and by students.

I won’t just promise, I’ll act. 

Advocacy. I will work to amplify your voices in academic and policy discussions.

Connection. Because maybe the real university experience is the friends we made along the way. And to those of you here who I may have the privilege to work with next year, I will always strive for a more connected council. 

Transparency. Leadership shouldn’t happen behind closed doors. As President, I will lead by example, advocate for clearer communication on tuition, fees, funding decisions, and policy changes that directly impact students and push for student voices in key admin decisions because policies should be made with us, not for us.

I don’t believe in leadership for the sake of a title. I am not just running for President. I am running for you. Let’s build a more transparent and connected campus together! 

Vote Sariha for SMCSU President, she’s Dewan for the job.

Imagine an SMC where every voice sparks change—a campus where your ideas build a vibrant community and your concerns lead to real progress.

 I’m Allana, and I’m running for SMCSU President to transform our university experience. University life is about more than coursework; it’s about forging friendships, creating unforgettable experiences, and building a community where every student truly feels at home.

If elected, I will advocate for increased funding from UofT to launch engaging and diverse events designed to foster strong connections—aiming to boost student attendance by at least 25%. I will also establish clear, consistent communication channels between students and administration through monthly town hall meetings, giving you a platform to share ideas and directly shape decisions.

I am committed to creating a more inclusive campus by reforming policies to eliminate systemic barriers. I will introduce workshops for our community to help us address unconscious bias, ensuring our community grows ever more equitable and welcoming. I remember my first attempt to visit the SMCSU office as a new student on campus. I hesitated at the door—unsure if I was allowed inside and ended up feeling excluded, as if the space was meant only for some. I am determined to revamp the SMCSU office into a warm, inclusive hub—a place to study, enjoy snacks, and chat openly with our councilors. 

My leadership journey—as the Founding President of the SMC Fashion Club, VP of True Peace, SMC Orientation Leader, member of the Residence Council, and Student Mentor has equipped me to fight for tangible solutions. I understand how essential it is to feel connected and supported during your university experience.

Join me in creating an SMC where you’re not just a number—you’re the heartbeat of our community. Vote Allana for SMCSU President, because together, we’ll turn ideas into real, delivered results!

My name is Giuseppe Carito, and I am a third year student at SMC. Last year I was a Leader for Orientation, where I showed a group of students just how awesome SMC is. For this year’s Orientation, I served as a Marshal, where I helped plan Games Rotation and the Amazing Race. Currently I am on SMCSU’s Academics Committee, and I am a founding executive of SMC’s Run Club.

But enough about me. SMC is an amazing community because of the people that compose it, and the people that work tirelessly to create programming and events! 

And that’s why I’m running. I want your creativity to flourish and be recognized. I want every single one of you, SMCSU or not, to be able to make the events of your dreams, without the limitations of budget or the size of your team.

Let’s start with budget. If I am elected, I will encourage increased collaborations between SMCSU and clubs and committees. This way, you can create higher-quality and higher-budget events that you can be even more proud of, and that make this community even better.

Next up, the team. Many people have told me that Games Rotation and Amazing Race were engaging and ran smoothly. Those were successful events because they were collaborative, in their planning and execution. If I am elected, I will make sure that all Councillors are properly assisted in their event-planning. This involves going beyond the monthly check in with Councillors. Every event can have a short proposal submitted to me, and I will be there to help Councillors create memorable, inclusive, and engaging events.

In addition, I will be an effective collaborator with administration, as we have a common goal of ensuring student success.

Last but not least, I am here to listen, and to advocate for all student needs. I want each one of you to tell me what would make your university experience amazing, such as event ideas, equipment, facilities, or just general concerns. This can even be in office hours, which I plan on making very welcoming, and very fun.

I always stay classy, and with your vote, I can continue to grow SMC. For more memorable events, more support for our Councillors, and more assistance for what impacts you, you’d Better Call Giuseppe!

Orientation Marshal and Leader, a Run Club founder, and on SMCSU’s Academics Committee. I will advocate for increased club and SMCSU collaborations to allow more elaborate events, more support as Councillors plan events, and to listen to all student needs! Better Call Giuseppe!

Since my first year here at UofT, I have developed a passion for serving the St.Mike’s community and building a welcoming environment for students to enjoy. I have had some amazing opportunities to work with a number of SMC groups such as the commuter coordinators and the last two orientation teams. I have helped to develop many events and initiatives, like SMCheese, that aim to not only grow the SMC student community, but to also just be an enjoyable time and lessen the stress of being a UofT student. I believe that these past roles have helped to build my leadership and collaborative abilities while also making me keenly fit for the role of SMCSU’s Vice President. 

Regarding my initiatives and goals of becoming Vice President, my main strategies include prioritizing councillor wellness and tracking objective progress through more regular and informal check-ins. These informal check-ins not only help to keep better and more up-to-date track of SMCSU objectives, but they would also help build closer bonds between members. This leads me to my next point of aiming to foster a family oriented team. I intend to achieve this by holding more team building exercises but also through encouraging further collaboration between councillors and other SMC teams on events and programming. Such collaboration not only builds a stronger community of student leaders, but also has the ability to increase the scale of our events, making them bigger and better for students. 

Additionally, I am hoping to create event feedback systems, that way councillors can have a better idea of what students actually want in terms of events and plan with those wants in mind. Finally, I want to further promote SMCSU’s already great transparency initiatives. I find that the majority of the student public does not really know about these initiatives, and I believe that further promotion of Transparency through SMCSU social media platforms could help to boost student participation and keep SMCSU accountable for our actions

All this is to say that I have a deep desire to continue my work here at St.Mikes through the role of SMCSU’s VP and I hope to give back to a community that has already given me so much. Vote Cameron Wright for SMCSU Vice President, the Wright Man for the Job! 

Hi SMC, I’m Ethan Lopez, a 3rd-year Life Sci student, a 2024 SMC academic o-week marshal, 2024-25 SMC commuter coordinator and your next VP academics! My goals for this role involve three primary principles to help SMC reach its academic potential; Providing closer academic and career opportunities for the student body, alleviating stress fun events as a necessary element to academics, and being open and available for your best academic path forward. Vote for me and SMCee your future!

Study smarter, not harder! You’re paying for incredible academic resources—why not use them? Too often, students struggle to find the right tools, wasting time and energy on trial and error. I’ve created a centralized website to make these resources easy to access, so no one has to figure it all out alone.

University shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. I know what it’s like to feel lost, to try different study methods that don’t work, and to struggle to balance academics with mental well-being. I don’t want any student to go through that alone. That’s why I’m committed to making academic success easier, more accessible, and more inclusive for all SMC students.

4 pillars of my campaign:

• Study smarter, not harder – Learn effective study techniques and how to use UofT’s academic resources.
• Hands-on experience with resources – Interactive workshops, study groups, and mentorship programs to help students apply what they learn.
• Mental well-being, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion – A supportive environment that acknowledges the different challenges students face.
• Who you know AND what you know – Career panels, networking events, and alumni mentorship to bridge the gap between academics and real-world success.

I want to make academic support more interactive—not just a list of resources, but real opportunities for students to practice, connect, and thrive. I plan to organize study sessions, career panels, and mentorship programs that help students get the most out of their education. And more free food of course.

Your education is an investment—let’s make sure you get the most out of it. Academics and career exploration don’t have to be a reality that’s harsh, Just Vote Arsh!

Hi SMC, I’m Aiden, or as some prefer, “Snow Jesus”.

As team lead of the Snow Angels this year, I worked with the VP Athletics to coordinate cleaning of our outdoor ice rink!

As your VP Athletics next year, I will leverage intramurals, events, and fitness-oriented clubs at SMC to foster an even stronger community.

Furthermore, I will work to provide resources to support you among your unique fitness journey.

I hope to become not just someone you can trust for athletic advice, but also someone you can call a friend.

Hope to see you around!

As a SMCSU Athletics Committee member, Commuter Ambassador, and multi-sport athlete, I know what it takes to build a strong athletics community. Sports are my passion, and I’ll make sure every athlete—new or experienced—feels supported. No matter what, I’ll be there for you, let’s do it SMC!

My name is Carrie Ji, and I am running for VP of arts. As an active arts committee member since 2024, I have helped organize and participate in numerous SMCSU events. Now, I want to bring my skills to SMC and make the arts more accessible and engaging.

I will facilitate events that provide students a space to express themselves. I will supply various artistic materials during office hours to reduce the costs preventing students from participating in activities and hobbies. I aim to implement surveys and feedback forms so students have a direct say in allocating the arts budget. 

Additionally, I plan to organize contests and interactive events like photography, literature, and poetry galas to encourage engagement. Finally, I will manage large-scale, community-driven projects that bring students together to create meaningful artwork that enhances the appearance of SMC. If you have a unique suggestion you would like to see in the arts committee, I am open to everything via the accessible form.

I hope everyone is excited about what I have in store, and I would love your support to bring these ideas to life!

Hi! My name is Karen and I am a first-year social science student hoping to major in international relations! I could spend my time boring you with my qualifications, but I truly believe that communications is not just about the quality of posts on our social media pages; it's about finding any and every avenue to get students to be involved with SMCSU and the events that they hold. Whether this be from exploring avenues such as physical calendars for student viewing, or monthly email blasts including all of SMCSU held events I plan to hold the councilors accountable. Each and every one of us pays out of our own pockets to support the student union and I believe that transparency shouldn't just be suggested, it's crucial. I would like to focus on this transparency through bridging the gap between councilors and the student body. I think student voices should be amplified, and I plan to act on that. A vote for me is a vote for the student body, and I hope that you consider sliding with Slade!

SMCSU comms should work for you—not be something you have to dig through. As Director of Social Media for ISO and Comms Assistant to the Principal, I’ve run outreach that’s clear, engaging, and actually useful. I’ll make updates easier, student voices louder, and decisions more transparent—because comms should be a conversation, not a broadcast.

Hello, I’m Vanecia, and I’m running for VP of Communications because I believe communication is the bridge between the student body and the opportunities that exist around us. We already have incredible resources in place with things like email newsletters and an event calendar, but the challenge isn’t about creating new projects. The key is enhancing what we already have to increase awareness and engagement.

We need a shift in how we use and promote the platforms we already have. 

I will focus on improving engagement with our current communication tools by introducing incentives—like challenges and giveaways—that encourage students to interact more with the platforms they already know. These small, creative efforts can make a huge difference in raising awareness and getting more people to participate in events and activities that are already available to them.

The key to effective communication is engagement, by creating new opportunities to get people involved. I’ve proven my ability to promote events and stay dedicated to a cause, whether it’s running the SMCSU formal account or organizing communication across multiple student organizations. I am committed to improving the way we connect as a community, and I’m excited to use my dedication and experience to ensure that students are not only aware of what’s happening but motivated to get involved. 

Vote for me as VP of Communications because I’m passionate about this community, and I’m ready to put in the time and effort to make sure our communication stands out. I am dedicated, competent, and most importantly, I care.

Thank you!

Through all my efforts as a Commuter Coordinator, Orientation Marshal, and SMC Run Club Founder in pursuit of creating a warm environment for my peers, I am fit and determined to enhance our community life at SMC, through new and novel events that invite Everyone to embrace the same college spirit.

Hey everyone! My name is Anabel and I'm running to be your VP of Community Life to make our community better and more inclusive. As your VP, I want to strengthen our already prosperous St Mike’s Community by bringing in new events for specific year students so that everyone can feel welcome, supporting and building our college’s club scene, and integrating events with and between residence students and commuters. I want to make events and reach out to people who have perhaps never been to a SMCSU event before and make them feel welcome; while also keeping our college’s fun traditions alive and well (like our fantastic pub nights!). My ideas for some great events include a silent disco, a themed escape room, and more farm and therapy animals on campus for us to enjoy! I'm also promising to have great food options at all community events so that we can all enjoy a great snack together! I have worked on the big SMC Formal event this year, and before my time at UofT I was Minister of Social Events at my high school back in Victoria BC, so I’m ready for the new responsibilities as VP of Community Life. For the events, the vibes, and the fun everyone likes, let's build a better community at St Mikes! 

As an activist, and woman of colour, my lived experiences have shaped my passion for equity, justice, and accessibility. I know firsthand what it means to navigate spaces that weren't always built with us in mind. I want to ensure that SMC is a space where every student, regardless of background, identity, or ability, feels seen. heard, and supported. I have spent my time at Uoft dedicated to advocacy and community-building.

From my work as Co-President of SAGA Pears (St. Michael's Against Gendered Assault, to my role as Co-President of the Hart House Social Justice Committee, and my involvement in disability justice, gender-based violence advocacy, and harm reduction. If elected as VP Equity, I will act as a bridgeway of support-ensuring that SMC students have access to the resources they need to thrive. 

This means: Expanding financial, physical, and digital accessibility for all students Working with administration to strengthen policies on anti-discrimination and student support , Organizing workshops, panels, and events that highlight issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion, Advocating for better funding and resources for existing student initiatives and clubs And Developing wellness programs to support marginalized students. Equity is more than just equal access-it's a commitment to action. It's about ensuring that no student falls through the cracks. With your support, we can build an SMC that prioritizes justice,care, and community. An SMC that considers student's identities beyond the books.

My name is Nyah and I will be running for VP of Equity. I am the perfect candidate for this position is because not only I am diligent as well has hard working, and especially inclusive! 

My mission is to not only have our spaces accessible, but inviting to everyone around and being the bridge between students and councillors too! Some event ideas include Autism Awareness Day, Women’s Day Celebration, Designing Orange Shirt Day, etc., Using my background experience not only with Orientation Leader, Treasurer of PrideSMC, Yearbook Committee, but also working with youth and children of all ages to create a better safe environment for all students.

In recent news of Commuter Coordinator being on hold for the next school year, a lot of commuter students are left and feel as though they are isolated, to which one of my main motives is to make many activities, also collaborating with other committees, to make it accessible and myself open for those who want to reach out and talk! 

I have the megaphone, but it's your voice that matters: let's amplify it together. 

As your VP of Equity, I promise to protect and advocate for equal student rights and opportunities, value the student body's uniqueness and identities, and, most importantly, listen to YOU. As a current member of the equity committee, I have the qualifications needed for the role, and you can count on me to fight for you. I will ensure that your academic experience at SMC feels welcoming and respectful of your identity. If elected, you can always come to me; I am not just a representative– I am your advocate and your friend, and your struggles are my struggles. We are in this together. By working together, we can dismantle academic barriers and create a space where you feel represented and valued without the fear of judgment and being unheard. Your voice is the root of change, allow me to make sure that it is heard. When you vote for CHESquity, you help create a better SMC for you and for the future. 

My name is Himmal Ladhar and I am currently a second-year Political Science major, and throughout my time at university, I have gained invaluable experiences that have deepened my understanding of equity and its importance in building an inclusive community.

This year, I have had the privilege of serving on St. Mike’s Residence Council, where I

advocated for the needs and concerns of my fellow residents. Additionally, as a

mentor-leader, I’ve had the opportunity to guide first-year students as they transition into university life. I am also an executive member of Pride SMC, where I work to create safe, inclusive spaces for all students. These roles have equipped me with the skills, passion, and commitment to make a positive impact as your VP Equity.

I am running for this position because I believe that every student deserves equal access to opportunities, resources, and support. My primary goal as VP Equity will be to create programs that not only celebrate our differences but also foster deeper understanding and connection among all students. I will work to offer initiatives that educate and empower us on important issues of equity and inclusion. From celebrating Black History Month and International Women’s Day to Pride Month, I am committed to organizing events that honor our diverse backgrounds and experiences.

I envision a campus where all students feel seen, heard, and supported. I believe we can build a campus culture that completely reflects the values of equity, and I would be honored to help lead that effort. I would greatly appreciate your vote, so that together we can continue to make St. Michael’s College a place where every student can thrive, knowing that their unique identity is celebrated and respected.

As a second-year, transfer, and international student, I understand the challenges of adjusting to a new school and country. In my time at UofT, I have worked to build inclusive communities as the Director of Research for the Multiracial Students Association, Director of Outreach for Covering Soles UofT, a ResNet Technical Assistant, and a Campus Events Ambassador. If elected, I will introduce a mentorship program to connect international students with experienced peers, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive. I will also strengthen partnerships with the Centre for International Experience, cultural student groups, and advocacy

organizations to provide resources on tuition, housing, and healthcare. Through engaging events and initiatives, I will work to make St. Michael’s College a welcoming home for all international students.

Vote Iguehi for VP International Community Outreach—because no international student should have to navigate UofT alone!

As Treasurer of the Residence Council, I managed a $55,000 budget, gaining valuable financial experience. Now, I'm running for VP Finance. I envision creating a platform and environment where student leaders will not have to worry about finances and can fully focus on running better events. 

Hello! My name is Tommy Gillespie, and I am a third year Rotman Commerce student studying finance, economics, and PoliSci.

As VP Finance, I will be:

- Experienced: I have served as an orientation leader, mentor, and St. Mike's campus minister, alongside various Rotman leadership roles. These experiences have given me a great understanding and appreciation of the amazing people that make SMC tick and what clubs must go through to get funding and support.

- Transparent: I am committed to making it easier to understand both how SMCSU spends its money and what information you would need to have for securing club funding. Instead of just posting quarterly reports tucked away on the SMCSU website, I would work with VP Comms to create simple infographics to post on our social media.

- Diligent: I will perform all of my constitutional duties with care, making sure our budget is balanced, cheques are processed on time, and all expenses are valid. My number one goal will be to treat you and your money with deserved respect.

- Fair: I believe that SMCSU has a duty to serve all elements of our community with passion, and I will fund events that provide quality programming to all SMCSU members. I will have a special focus on making sure that commuters and first-years still receive the funded programming they deserve despite the commuter and mentorship programs being put on pause.

- Committed to serving YOU! I will run a finance portfolio that values YOUR needs, making financial resources accessible to St. Mike’s students and making sure that our finances are in safe hands.

Vote Tommy Gillespie – YOUR candidate for VP Finance!

HI EVERYONE!!!! Please vote for me to see more accessible mental health resources, collaboration with clubs to highlight different forms of wellness, and giveaways to support students! As a member of SMCSU’s Mental Health Committee, executive member of Hh2art, and former Student Council Co-President, I can guarantee that I can bring you the best quality results for mental health accessibility and events next year. If you want to learn more, check out my instagram: @jenna4vpmentalhealth. PRETTY PRETTY PLEASE vote for me, and btw if you made it this far please have a very lovely rest of your day and remember you are loved so so much <3 Peace and love always, Jenna :)))

Mental Health matters and if I am elected as your VP of Mental Health at St. Michael’s College, I will work to ensure every student feels supported, heard, and valued. Mental health support should be consistent, accessible, and shaped by you. Vote Sierra for VP of Mental Health for real, consistent, and permanent change. 

Hi SMC, and thank you for engaging in elections!

I’d be honored to serve as your VP of Mental Health and take this role seriously. Mental health is critical, especially for students, and I will work tirelessly to support you.

My goals include improving resource access, bringing in mental health experts for seminars, hosting diverse wellness events, and being a supportive figure for students navigating mental health on campus. I aim to provide a balanced approach to mental health support while actively working to destigmatize mental illness and educate the student body.

With leadership experience in SMC student groups and mental health-related training, I’m prepared to advocate for you. As an executive assistant for the SMC branch of the PEARS Project, I’ve supported survivors of gender-based violence and helped plan wellness-focused events. My role within SMCSU Arts Council has also given me experience planning and hosting events, and certifications in safeTALK suicide alertness and peer support through PEARS have equipped me with the skills to create meaningful change.

Hi y’all! My name is Clizia Martini. I currently a 3rd year psychology specialist who is running to be your next VP mental health. My experience of being an orientation marshal, working at CAMH, planning my city’s first pride parade, amongst other things have enabled me to build upon the skills needed for this role.

I have 3 main goals I hope to achieve if elected:

• First, I hope to improve accessibility to mental health resources by creating a comprehensive guide
  • My vision is to include resources beyond just a list of therapists, this includes considering different price points and health coverages, culturally informed practices, diagnostic testing.
  • I also want to provide a step-by-step guide on how to get started and some general expectations to have
• Secondly, did you know St. Mikes used to have a wellness councilor? While admin says they are looking for a new one, we have little information on where they are at. So, I want to advocate and maintain transparency with St. Mikes admin about hiring a new wellness councilor
  • I’d include students in what they want from a wellness councilor and help keep admin accountable by scheduling recurring meetings about this
• Lastly, I want to educate students about mental health misconceptions which are commonly overlooked
  • I aim to accomplish this by collaborating with other portfolios showing the interdisciplinary nature of mental health. An example of this that comes to mind is working with the academics portfolio or taking advantage of the wellness studio that we are lucky to have.

Although I am just one person, I have big dreams of changing the conversation around mental health to become more preventative. Even outside of SMCSU, in my personal life I hope to continue working towards this goal.

Thank you!

I’ll keep it short and simple. A vote for me means less talking and more doing. Experience faith in action! I’ll bring pilgrimages to holy sites across the GTA, multi-faith discussions with guest scholars, and more volunteer opportunities to serve our community. Let’s make faith more engaging, inclusive, and action-driven at St. Mike’s. Together, we’ll rejuvenate spiritual life at St. Mike’s.

Shinny Sunny day, I’m Sun, a rising fifth-year Biology Specialist with minors in Maths & Immunology and I am also running for VP Student Organizations.

First-Year Voices Matters: When I was in my third-year, I changed my program

from Math to first-year Life Sciences. It was a unique experience because I had the

opportunity to take courses with my orientees, where they were the ones who

marshalled me through exam seasons. Their ambition to start clubs inspired me, and

through my role on the Academic and Student Orgs Committee, I gained hands-on

experience promoting and reviewing the Club Recognition By-laws while shadowing

the responsibilities of this councillor.

I reviewed and witnessed the MIKE Publications’ Constitution and By-Laws

that had not been properly viewed for many cycles and incorporated various changes, especially providing explicit definitions and safe insurance for both the electoral officers and the candidates. From this experience, I want to deliver the same energy to the prospective Clubs Recognition By-laws to ensure the amendment of these protective rights are given to future club founders that align with the best interest of the union.

My Goals: If I get elected, I will actively collaborate with VPs Equity & Finance to

ensure that recognition and funds are equitably delegated to SMC clubs and

unapologetically utilize the equity survey form. The equity survey form serves an

important root to all clubs because it allows a systemic change to thrive for the

welcoming environment for all members.

Additionally, I want to contribute to systemic issues for this union to review and

amend the By-Laws to ensure the election officer, candidates and the sitting council

can expect a comfortable election by defining statements with more explicit words and examples. 

S . T . U . D . E . N .T O . R . G . S  F . O . R  S . U . N

Hi, I’m Karin, running for VP of Student Organizations. With my experience and passion for SMC, please give me a chance to C.A.R.E. for you through Collaboration, Awareness, Recognition, and Engagement. Let’s strengthen student life together! Read more at @votekarin_studentorg