Leah Richard Questionnaire

Name: Leah Richardson
Degree: Bachelor of Science – Biology

I am running for this position because:

I want to build on the momentum that this year’s Council has achieved in enriching the student experience on campus and in making significant connections within our local community.

What about your background makes you qualified for this position?:

I am currently the Student Council Vice President of Student Affairs as well as a student representative on the UNB Saint John Senate. I have been working very closely with our present VP External to organize and recruit students to participate in community service initiatives at Hazen White/St. Francis School as well as the Crescent Valley Resource Center. One of my major projects this year was the launching of a Student Mentorship Program at HW/SF school.

What do you plan to do during your term should you be elected?:
With the return of several of our present SRC executives, I look forward to building on the progress we have made this past year. Our present Council has recently launched a number of excellent initiatives such as the campus-wide recycling program, the new UNB Student Volunteer Unit and daily lunch at Colonel Tucker’s! I am very excited to maintain this momentum as we move into the next academic year.
How do you feel you can improve student morale and student involvement on campus?:
It is my intention to utilize a wide variety of communication methods to make students more aware of events and opportunities in and around our campus and to encourage them to become active participants.
How do you plan to effectively communicate the needs of the students to government or any officials you may deal with?:

In my present position as VP Student Affairs, I have been fortunate to establish a network of valuable contacts, both within the university and the greater Saint John community. In particular, I have built strong connections with UNB’s Director of Government Relations, the Communications and Marketing Department, our University President and Vice-President, the Associated Alumni, as well as New Brunswick’s Department of Post-Secondary Education. Additionally, I have established strong relationships with local community organizations such as the Crescent Valley Resource Center and Hazen White/St. Francis School. It is my intention to use these connections with faculty, staff, community leaders and politicians as vital resources to enhance the UNBSJ student experience and to build partnerships with organizations within our community.

If you could add anything to the UNBSJ Campus, what would it be?:
I am passionate about getting students involved in community service initiatives and will work hard to provide opportunities that will promote a sense of unity within our student body.
What is your favorite book?:
Dr. Seuss – Green Eggs and Ham.
Is there anything else you would like to let Baron readers know?:
Although other SRC positions have been decided by acclamation, I strongly encourage every student to cast their vote for the VP External position on February 22, 23 or 24. Simply go to your eServices account, click on the voting tab and select Leah Richardson for VP External. I very much appreciate your support and look forward to working for you in the coming year.  Thanks!