Howdy
by Steve Jukes // October 12 2009
What a year it has been. As it is my last CANTA column, I could regale you with achievements, successes and eventualities of 2009… but I won’t. It seems as though these things stand up for themselves.
It is a nice touch I think that just as I started out this year publishing the UCSA budget, and for the first time the University has published its 2010 budget for student services and space. I’d like to thank Dr Carr (VC), Ian Town (DVC), and Yvonne Shanahan (CFO) for taking the opportunity to do this.
As is customary there are some people I wish to acknowledge.
To my exec, thank you. I have asked you to represent students this year, not in a beating your chest or raise up an army kind of way, but in a get stuck into the committee structure of the University and make sure students are considered in every decision being made. You have done this and I appreciate it. It is a less visible (but more effective way) of influencing decision makers and I am proud.
There is no doubt that 2010 will bring its own challenges, however in terms of the UCSA focus and structure it is well placed to meet those challenges head on. It is also nimble allowing it to leverage opportunities, responsive so it can implement new initiatives and certain in its direction so it can continue to grow its services to you. I wish Nick, Alana, Gower and the rest of the 2010 exec all the best. You are the right people coming into the organisation at the right time.
Thanks must also go to Andrew Paterson, General Manager of the UCSA. His effort this year has been incredible. Although this is the last CANTA there are still 2.5 months of the year left and work to be done. He works tirelessly to ensure the UCSA continues in its quest to create belonging and ownership amongst its members. Andrew, you are the personification of first in, last out.
There is of course some gloom on the horizon. The Voluntary Student Membership issue has once again reared its ugly head. Although it won’t affect the UCSA’s financial position, it might have the effect of eroding students’ ability to be considered in decisions affecting them. This is a very real concern, and one that Nick and his team will continue to talk with you about. Do make it your business to understand the Bill despite your political disposition.
Well I guess this is it really, I hope you’re set up for exams (as best you can be anyway). I’m sure those of you who camped outside the UCSA for tickets to the tea party will not be disappointed. Try to be as thoughtful of others as you can, and take it easy on the turps!
Keep being good neighbours and good mates.
Jukes out.