Name: Rhys MacDonald
Faculty: Commerce
Major: Accounting and Human Resource Management
Year: Third

What has been your greatest accomplishment at Saint Mary's?

My greatest accomplishment at SMU has been representing my fellow students over the past year on the Academic Senate. We passed through the Charter of Rights and Responsibilities in the Senate, and it is now in everyone’s agenda; this has increased the awareness of this document by a large proportion, and I consider this a great achievement.

Describe a situation where you showed leadership.

Last year, I applied for a position on the Academic Senate, and unfortunately did not receive it. This did not stop me from working hard for the students to promote their academic rights. I volunteered as the student-at-large on the Academic Senate Student Caucus, so that I could gain the necessary skills to perform the job of Academic Senator. You can see from my past experience with the Senate that I am dedicated to this position, and did not just decide to do this last week. You can expect to continue having this passion in the office of VP Academic if you vote for Rhys!


What previous experience qualifies you for this position?

Over the past two years, I have been working on various academic issues for the students here at Saint Mary's. I have worked closely with the past two VP Academics to lobby for the rights of the students. One of the main priorities that we have implemented is having the Charter of Rights and Responsibilities passed through the Senate, and it is now available to all students in their agenda.

Why are you the best candidate for the job?

I have always been dedicated to the advancement of academics for the students here at Saint Mary’s. I ran for the Senate in the last executive election, without running for VP Academic. I did this to gain the experience necessary to be able to perform the job at my best capacity. By doing this, you can see that I am dedicated to the experience, and not just jumping on the election bandwagon.

What is the most pressing problem/situation at SMU that you intend to solve/improve?

As VP Academic, I would create a more comfortable study and work environment for students. I would do this by using the limited space that we have more efficiently. Improved chairs and tables in the library would create a more productive work environment for students, and this is important for the success of our students.

List up to five main campaign goals:
- Create a more comfortable study environment for students
- Allow first year students to declare their major and to participate in the co-op program
- Advocate for more student support of grade appeals
- Continue the growth of professor appeals
- The creation of a teaching assistant society