Candidate: Jade Butler

Hello everyone, my name is Jade Butler and I am running to be your Student Representative on the University Council here at UoA!

A little bit about me... I am in my third year studying a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a Bachelor of Commerce in Management. I am the current Engagement Vice-President of AUSA, and I have had the privilege of representing and advocating student interests in various settings at The University of Auckland. This role has prepared me with the skills, knowledge, and passion necessary to effectively serve as the Student Representative on the University Council.

One of my primary goals as a Student Representative would be to ensure a closed loop in student feedback. The university sends us numerous surveys throughout the year, however, we have no idea on how/if it's being acted on and how the University takes on our feedback.

My experience at AUSA has taught me the importance of advocacy and communication, and this background would make me a strong advocate for students as I understand the importance of clear communication deeply as I've seen what happens from a student perspective when we are out of the loop.

Community engagement here at UoA is at the heart of what I do. As Engagement Vice President, I've led initiatives such as themed weeks, including International Week, Pride and Women's Suffrage Week, that promote inclusivity and awareness on campus. I am committed to continuing this work by ensuring that the University Council is aware of and responsive to the diverse concerns of our student body and ensuring that teaching methodologies and research opportunities align with student needs. This means I will consult with students and advocate for policies and practices that promote inclusivity, equity, and representation at all university levels. Being a part of AUSA has taught me the various avenues of contacting representatives of different communities; this knowledge will be incredibly beneficial to utilise and accurately reflect the student body's thoughts and feelings on any given matter. It is important to me to ensure that the Council's decisions reflect the needs and aspirations of all students, regardless of their background or field of study.

Overall, my experience as Engagement Vice-President at AUSA and my passion for student voice have equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm to serve as an effective Student Representative on the University Council. I am committed to ensuring student voices are heard and acted upon in teaching, community understanding, and management. Together, we can build a more inclusive and forward-thinking university!