In an unprecedented action by the Students’ Union board, 10 directors have chosen not to participate in The Cord’s annual reviews due to the way that they are formatted. Typically, reviews are collected from one-on-one interviews with each board member, where they are given the opportunity to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of fellow board members. These reviews are not recorded, and answers are not attributed to specific directors. This allows members of the board to be as candid as they would like, making it easier to reach a consensus on quality of performance. Reviews have been completed in this way for many years and were already in progress when The Cord learned of this change. Two board members still chose to participate, and we thank them for their commitment to the transparency and accountability that is integral to healthy board operations.
**Ben Jesseau – President
President Jesseau took on the role of President this year, following in the footsteps of previous President Megan Spenler. He began the year with overseeing the orientation week events on the Brantford and Waterloo campuses.
Described as open and friendly, President Jesseau has worked to maintain a positive relationship with the board by attending various board events and providing information and clarification when needed during board meetings. His work focusing on student engagement directly by connecting with the Laurier community has been appreciated over the course of his term thus far.
Gabrielle Russo – Chair
Chair Russo has demonstrated her care for the operations of the Students’ Union after taking on the role of Chair this year. While she did not campaign, Chair Russo took on the role due to her desire to become involved with the student body and help address their concerns.
Described as being communicative and a good listener, Chair Russo is efficient at her job and keeps board meetings running smoothly. She has successfully implemented changes to the board that she wished to see and is knowledgeable of board procedures.
**Lulia Habtemichael – Vice Chair
Vice Chair Habtemichael could not complete a board review with The Cord at this time. She is thanked for her participation during board meetings and her regular communication with the board.
**Noah Espiritu – Director
Director Espiritu could not complete a board review with The Cord at this time.
**Avinash Godse – Director
Director Godse could not complete a board review with The Cord at this time.
Daniel Rubinoff – Director
Director Rubinoff has focused this semester on improving the board’s financial transparency and continuing to assist the board on the ownership and linkage committee. Described as efficient and experienced, Director Rubinoff has been an active participant in board meetings and has communicated when he has had to miss a meeting or join remotely.
Natalie Bounket – Director
Director Bounket could not complete a board review with The Cord at this time.
Griffin St. George – Director
Director St. George could not complete a board review with The Cord at this time.
Bilal Tariq – Director
Director Tariq could not complete a board review with The Cord at this time.
Aya Ijam – Director
Director Ijam could not complete a board review with The Cord at this time.
Nicole Lehecka – Director
Director Lehecka could not complete a board review with The Cord at this time.
Devanda Nakshatra – Director
Director Nakshatra could not complete a board review with The Cord at this time.
Anya Russolo – Director
Director Russolo could not complete a board review with The Cord at this time.
** – Photo not found
Graphics by Rytham Sahini
