First off, I would like to thank Yessenia on behalf of all staff, for her tireless, sometimes thankless advocacy work this past year. She set a very high bar and left some big shoes to fill.
Since day one, she brought me into the fold and set up a training manual to onboard me as president-elect, and I feel very fortunate to have been the test subject. Because of this, I feel confident stepping into the role, knowing she has set me up to succeed. I endeavor to do the same with our new president-elect Alyssa Kuron.
I would also like to wish a warm welcome to Gail Bender and Matthew Grant, our two newest directors. And to our outgoing directors, Kelan Hirtle and Lilian Liao, I thank you for your time on the board and hope you both can find another way to stay involved in the UWSA.
Now, for what’s ahead. As I have only been president for less than a week, I don’t have much to report on. However, please keep watch for an upcoming salary town hall meeting, our 2025–26 salary recommendations that are just starting up and short polls that we'll be sending you about salary and benefits. These surveys are very important and allow the UWSA to know where our members stand and what issues we should focus on.
Policies 33 (Ethical Behaviour), 57 (Employee Accommodations), and 12 (Compassionate Care & Bereavement Leave) are being updated this year, and our Memorandum of Agreement with the University is up for review.
I will be hosting drop-in sessions with the president monthly, both in-person and virtual, throughout the year. Dates and location will be announced soon by email and on our website, which is being updated to the WCMS 3 system with our new branding.
In addition to our drop-in sessions, we are also going to expand our themed lunches so we can get out and meet our members across campus. As for our satellite campuses, we will make sure to visit you all again and will bring some swag and treats to enjoy!
I look forward to the year ahead, so please remember that your voice starts here!
Lisa Habel
UWSA President
Lisa Habel
UWSA President, 2024–2025
