Oliver Picken

Hi, my name is Oliver and I am running to be your next VP Activities! I am in my final year studying Music and for the past three years I have been active in many societies, focusing mostly on Performing Arts societies, while also serving in multiple committees. 

I believe that one of SUSU’s strengths compared to many universities of a similar size, is the diversity of student-led groups. This is how the majority of students engage with SUSU post-COVID, and should be recognised and prioritised as such. In some areas, however, societies have struggled to regain their footing since COVID, with the cost of living affecting society participation as well as squeezing budgets to run events and activities. I will lobby the university to increase the size of their grant to SUSU for funding societies for the longer term, to keep up with the financial demands many activities face.

Where grant application money is unable to cover the cost of society events, societies could look to external sources of funding. However, it is currently difficult for non-sports societies to convince local businesses to become a sponsor. Greater help could therefore be given by SUSU to help societies build stronger connections with the local community.

Student groups should also be prioritised when using university spaces and resources - for example the inhibiting cost of hiring out Turner Sims for many performing arts societies. SUSU and University estates both face some complex challenges that may not be able to be fixed within one year, however I would like to challenge the university to add renovations to Nuffield Theatre, a space that would significantly benefit many students, back onto their estates transformation roadmap.

Taking on the responsibility of running a society can be daunting. I would like to implement a way for society committees to share best practice and learned experience with each other, as well as making the lines of communication between SUSU and societies clearer and more transparent. I would also work to implement a system of ‘continuous induction’ for society committees, introducing and reminding societies of SUSU systems eg. minibus hire, safeguarding and accessibility training, throughout the year rather than condensed into the first week of term, where vital information can be lost or misunderstood.

Having worked as a receptionist for SUSU for the past year, I am aware of the different systems and logistical challenges that societies face. I am also knowledgable about how SUSU works as a charitable organisation and some of the challenges I may face in the role. My experience as the Music Department President has also given me the confidence to represent the student voice in large scale forums of discussion and meetings with the university, which will be needed to implement my policies. 

I believe that we can start to make change in how societies are supported and appreciated by SUSU, the University and the wider community. 

Thank you!