Emily Dugdale

As a passionate and committed individual with a strong background in student representation, coupled with active involvement in the SUSU Theatre Group, I am excited to express my candidacy for the position of Vice President of Activities. Through my experiences as the Criminology course representative and my dedication to the performing arts, I have cultivated a profound understanding of the diverse needs and aspirations that students bring to university life.

In my role as the Criminology course representative, I learned the importance of effective advocacy and equitable representation. I witnessed firsthand the impact that well-organized and inclusive events could have on fostering a sense of community within our academic discipline. However, it also became apparent that not all societies received the support they needed, particularly the smaller ones struggling to find their voice and presence on campus.

My involvement in the SUSU Theatre Group has further solidified my belief in the transformative power of extracurricular activities. Theatre, like many other non-sport societies, faces unique challenges in gaining visibility and recognition. Through this experience, I have come to appreciate the diversity of talents and interests that exist among students beyond the realm of sports.

One of my primary goals as Vice President of Activities is to champion equitable funding across all types of societies. I firmly believe that every society, regardless of size or focus, contributes significantly to the rich tapestry of university life. Drawing from my personal struggle to advertise for a Criminology society I sought to initiate, I am committed to creating dedicated spaces both within SUSU and online for societies to effectively promote themselves. This includes streamlining the advertising process, providing guidance on marketing strategies, and ensuring that every society has an equal opportunity to thrive.

Additionally, I aim to redefine the dynamics of societies fairs, giving prominence to societies beyond the sports spectrum. While I fully acknowledge the importance of sports in fostering physical and mental well-being, I believe it is equally crucial to provide smaller societies with the visibility and resources they need to flourish. My approach is not about diminishing the presence of sports but about creating an inclusive environment where all students can find a society that resonates with their interests.

Through my role as Vice President of Activities, I aspire to be a dedicated advocate for the diverse array of societies on campus. I am committed to fostering an environment where every student feels represented, supported, and encouraged to explore their passions. By promoting equitable funding, offering dedicated advertising spaces, and reimagining societies fairs, I aim to contribute to the growth and vibrancy of the student community at our university. I am excited about the prospect of serving the student body in this capacity and working towards a more inclusive and engaging campus experience for all.