Candidate Statements - February 2, 2026

Yahya Alabed

I am running for Governing Council to push for accountable, transparent governance that prioritizes students over bureaucracy. I will advocate for clear budget transparency, meaningful student consultation in academic and institutional policy, and equitable access to resources across faculties. Students deserve policies shaped by lived experience, not closed-door decisions. With a background in leadership and advocacy, I will challenge ineffective structures, demand data-driven decision-making, and work to ensure institutional policies uphold fairness, accessibility, and academic integrity. I am committed to principled, active representation that turns student voices into measurable change.

Mahi Mukati

My name is Mohammad Mahi Ali Mukati, and I’m running to be a voice for the students on UofT's Governing Council I have extensive experience in student leadership, advocacy, and organizing across campus and beyond. My focus is simple: using digital complaint collection ticket systems and social media presence to improve student representation, ensure concerns are actually followed up on, and make campus decision-making more transparent and accessible for all. I believe council should work with and for us students, not above us. Slide me your vote, you won't regret it.

Lisa Chen

As a mature student actively engaged in student life, I bring lived experience and a non-traditional perspective to the Governing Council. Through leadership and volunteer work at Trinity College, academic training in Computational Biology at the University of Toronto, and involvement in national life-science initiatives beyond campus, I have developed both a big-picture view and a grounded understanding of student needs, academic expectations, and institutional stewardship. With prior professional experience and a strong commitment to governance, I seek to contribute a thoughtful, accountable student voice to decisions shaping the University’s long-term direction.

Ericsson Cui

Fellow students of UTM, I ask you: who speaks for us? We fund this university. We fill its classrooms. And yet, when budgets are written, when priorities are set, when thousands of Work Study positions vanish, where is UTM's voice? Too often, our campus is an afterthought in decisions made downtown. I come before you not with promises, but with a commitment: to advocate, to question, to represent UTM at the Governing Council. I have raised $150,000 for my startup. I know that budgets reveal priorities. On the Governing Council, I will ensure UTM is not an afterthought.

Solomon Devdariani

I'm running for the Governing Council because I want to make sure students are heard in the decisions that shape U of T. As an international student, l've experienced the University from a unique perspective and understand how policies can affect students in different ways. I care about academic quality, affordability, and transparency, and I take this responsibility seriously. If elected, I will come prepared, listen to students, and speak up thoughtfully in meetings. My goal is to represent students honestly while contributing to decisions that support a strong, inclusive, and accountable university community.

Angad Dhillon

I believe students perspectives are essential to responsible university decision making. As a student we experience direct impact of policies related to academics, finances, and campus life and it is important that these experiences are meaningfully represented at the governance level. If elected, I would aim to be a transparent and engaged student representative one who listen to diverse student voices and ensures they are considered in council discussions. I am committed to representing student interests with honesty, respect and a strong sense of responsibility to the university community as a whole.

Grace Ding

I am somebody who truly cares about the University of Torontos community. It is the people and environment that make our university experiences special, something we will only experience once in a lifetime. I want to be the person to ensure that this experience is as incredible as it can be by making sound decisions and one that aligns with every student, and ultimately cultivating your visions. 

Grayson Graham

On the Governing Council, I will advance the student experience and promote opportunities to foster connection. As an international student, I am uniquely equipped to represent and promote the needs of the 30% of international students at the University of Toronto. Being a first-year and Councillor on the Victoria University Student Administrative Council, I offer a fresh perspective centered on innovation, and a history of service aimed at enhancing student life. My primary goals would be to ensure that students are centered in administrative discussions and create opportunities to foster connection between all members of our community. 

Kay Hu

I am a Rotman Commerce student with a specialist in Management, focuses in international business, strategy and innovation, data science and a minor in statistics. My background has helped refined and strengthen my analytical and decision making skills, which will allow careful attention to policy and financial materials. I aim to balance student interests with public accountability, and supporting long term institutional sustainability. If elected, I will engage thoughtfully, act with integrity, and contribute to decisions that better supports current and future students.

Samuel Kamalendran

I’m running to deliver strong and reliable representation for every U of T student. My experience in various campus programs and committees - from UTM’s International Education Centre to both The Medium and The Varsity, to two key UTM student services committees - has shown me how to both listen and get results. If elected, I’ll do just that to advocate for fairer academic policies, affordability, expanded research and work opportunities, better housing, improved prayer spaces, and stronger student wellbeing support. Committed to student success and hopeful in our collective strength, I’m confident that we can truly defy gravity together!

Anoosh Kanaparthi

I am running for Governing Council because our campuses deserve to feel safer, more connected, and more supported. After the tragic loss of Shivank, it’s clear that student safety, mental-health support, and real accountability must be taken more seriously. No one should feel unsafe at school. I also want to strengthen our sense of community so our campuses feel like places where students truly belong, not just somewhere we commute to. Finally, I will advocate for a more affordable student experience by pushing for fair parking costs, accessible food options, and lower textbook prices so students can focus on learning.

Keya Karanth-Ostrovsky

Having grown up across India, the United States, and Canada, I have learned early on how institutions, laws, and policies shape people’s everyday lives. Navigating different cultures as someone who is half Indian and half Belarusian has taught me the value of listening, representation, and equity. I am deeply interested in law, human rights, and public policy, and I believe student governance should be thoughtful, inclusive, and accountable. As a member of the Governing Council, I would bring a globally informed perspective and a strong commitment to advocating for diverse student voices in university decision-making.

Ayman Kashif

Hey everyone! I’m Ayman (aye-mun), a third-year neuroscience student at UTM. I run a student club here and am part of the executive teams of other student clubs focused on sports, arts, and non-profit career advising. I’ve served on the Academic Affairs Committee and the Residence Dining Committee, where I’ve seen how raising the right student concerns in the right room can make a difference. I want to do that at the highest level through the Governing Council. You’ve probably seen me at some social event! Dm me with any concerns and say hi if you ever run into me!

Salaar Khan

I’m running for UTM Governing Council to make sure students are represented and the students voices are always heard. My experience in MSA Advocacy, where we often collaborate with the UTMSU, has taught me how to bring different groups together, advocating for what's right, and taking care of issues to get the results that matter. From supporting the Bidet Campaign or standing with students through different committees, I’ve learned to advocate clearly and take accountibility. On Council, my aims going to be to prioritize transparency, have student input, and policies that improve access, equity, and the overall campus experience.

Julia Kozlak

I seek election to the Governing Council as I believe students deserve a seat at the table where our future is decided. From Mississauga to Scarborough, our community is diverse, and our governance should reflect that. I’m committed to moving beyond the status quo by advocating for radical transparency in university policy and prioritising student well-being over bureaucracy. I will lead with fairness and accountability to ensure your academic success, well-being, and meaningful engagement is the university's top priority. Your voice deserves recognition - and I will make sure it is heard!

Christopher Joseph Lechner

My main concerns are (1) improving UofT sexual violence and abuse resources (2) mental health improvements (3) gauranteeing the academic value of classes. Though I have not faced sexual violence before, I have heard many horror stories in this campus over it and of the incompetence UofT acted and how taboo it became to discuss them publicly. Furthermore, as someone with Autism-ADHD+ I can testify to the dysfunctional and counterproductive nature of UofT mental health services which are both hard-to-navigate and slow. Finally, many students have raised various questions on their class's academic competence. Addressing these problems are my priorities.

Lev Liakhovetskyi

While UofT is a great school, some areas desperately need change. There are some ways the university operates that just don’t work anymore, and a set of fresh eyes is needed. As an international student at UTSC, I will bring a new perspective to the school’s governance, focusing on the mental wellbeing of students, as well as the safety of students and staff of the university, which is something that has been recently shown to be inadequate. I will consistently prioritize the voices of all students, finding ways to improve the school, even with incremental steps.

Juan Loaiza-Neira

What I bring to this role is a wealth of experience in effective leadership. As the current Director of Logistics for Cards4Humanity UofT (a student led charity initiative), and the previous Director of Strategy for Young Politicians of Canada, I know how to ensure all voices are heard and respected as we work towards the best solution. I will ensure that the student body is effectively represented within the Governing Council, and that the mandate of oversight is enacted with transparency and accountability. 

Nilia Majidi

My name is Nilia Majidi, and I am an undergraduate student pursuing a double major in Political Science and Criminology & Sociolegal Studies. I am committed to ensuring that undergraduate voices are meaningfully represented in university governance. Through my academic work and community involvement, I have developed a strong interest in institutional accountability, equity, and student access to decision-making. If elected, I will advocate for transparent governance, student well-being, and policies that reflect the diverse experiences of undergraduates at U of T. I would be honoured to serve and represent our student community.

Daniel Mojarrab

may only be in my first year, but I’ve already learned some important lessons: where all the classrooms are, how long lunch lines really take, and that deadlines are very real. I’ve gotten involved, met amazing people, and tried my best to make the school a more positive and welcoming place. I believe leadership starts early, and I’d love the chance to represent our grade, learn from the experience, and maybe make school just a little more fun along the way.

Areeb Naeem

As the Founder of An Edtech Platform with 6M+ visits & 1M+ user, Member of the Arts & Science Council & Agenda Committee, I've observed that UofT has incredible potential. However, to tap into this potential WE NEED PROPER LEADERSHIP in the Governing Council as the spearhead of the University. We need to SPEND ON WHAT THE STUDENTS NEED and AVOID WASTEFUL SPENDING. I am just a student but WITH YOUR SUPPORT, I can get YOUR NEEDS PUSHED to discussion in the Governing Council. REACH OUT to me and learn more about me on https://linktr.ee/areebnaeem

Habiba Nouri

I am running for Governing Council because I truly care about our community and the people in it. I believe leadership should be kind, inclusive, and rooted in listening. I am someone who values open communication, teamwork, and fairness, and I want to help create a space where every voice feels heard and appreciated. If elected, I will advocate with intention, show up consistently, and work hard to represent students with honesty and heart. I would be grateful for the opportunity to serve and give back.

Titobi Oriola

Hey everyone! You might have met me on campus playing tri-campus soccer with the St. George Blues, in political science classes, or at events with Black Student Engagement, the BSA, or the NSA. I'm excited to bring my commitment to community building and serving my community to UofT's Governing Council, helping represent our best interests at the highest level of governance. A track record of community engagement and community service since my first year at the University of Toronto is what makes me YOUR qualified candidate for this position.

Thank you for your support!

Eddy Paez

Coming from the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus, I offer a unique perspective as the campus' first ever Loran scholar. Guided by my previous advisory experience spanning three years on both my school board and provincial level to the minister of education back in my home of Manitoba, I know how to provide constructive and realistic feedback to improve educational experiences. I am a proud member of the vibrant UTSC community actively participating in campus clubs like Music303 and the IDSSA as well as various on residence events!

Albert(Zhongheng) Pan

I am running for a seat on the Governing Council to point the University's decision making in a direction that prioritizes students. Through my experience on the Governing Council, I have seen how the university administration make decisions, and how we can collaborate to put the best interest of students at the forefront of all future planning. Increased funding for student awards, expanded experiential learning opportunities to boost employability post graduation, and stronger academic supports are all part of the University of Toronto I wish to help build, with your support! Vote for Albert Pan to put students first!

Neev Ramani

I am running for the Undergraduate Student Constituency on the U of T Governing Council because I believe in reform that empowers students and strengthens our voice in shaping the university experience. My experience in high school student government, including serving as Headboy, taught me how to listen to diverse perspectives and turn ideas into action. For example, I successfully advocated for policies that improved student mental health support, revamped our school’s feedback system, and increased transparency in budgeting decisions—changes that directly benefited the student body. What sets me apart is my ability to translate student concerns into tangible reforms.

Ajaswi Regmi

Have you ever played darts blindfolded? That’s what achieving success at UofT can feel like. 

With unclear grading structures, no access to syllabi during course enrollment, information overload + unclear campus resources, and limited investment in what directly supports learning, students are often left guessing. As a 3rd year student leading a Tri-Campus association, I’ve seen how UofT’s pattern of unclear organization across all three campuses causes the most ambitious students to lose their love for learning. 

You are entitled to clarity. I’m running to set the target, so that your academic success isn’t a guess, but a fair shot.

Ian Robert

Boozhoo, I have helped to build a Nation. Through working with my First Nation (Bingwi Neyaashi Anishaabek) over the past few summers, I received the opportunity to secure funding for projects, speak on panels, and serve on the Nation's Youth Council. Although we are not building a Nation, we’re building a community at UofT where everyone feels they belong. Build a community by choosing me as your choice of candidate. Miigwech

Artan Saberi

Becoming part of the Governing Council would allow me to represent the voices of all people, from individuals like myself who have or continue to face inequity to those who are privileged to avoid it. I am on my journey to medical school and have tremendous experience in a healthcare setting, where I contributed to helping those at the most critical points in their lives. As an immigrant, I understand the commitment and genuine passion it takes to earn your place in such an impactful team. I will ensure that I play my role in fulfilling the university's academic mission. 

Rita Sande

I am seeking election to the Governing Council to contribute a student-informed perspective to university governance. As an Arts and Science undergraduate at UTM specializing in Economics and Political Science, with minors in Psychology and Philosophy, I am interested in how institutional decisions are made, justified, and experienced by students. I believe effective governance must balance autonomy with accountability, uphold academic freedom, and remain transparent to the communities it serves. Guided by ethical reasoning and logic, I am committed to engaging in governance processes and institutional stewardship. If elected, I will represent student voices with clarity, independence, and principled leadership.

Jingqi Shi

Every vote carries the weight of your expectations. My commitment to you is simple: I will be your direct line to state government, ensuring that every decision made by this Council is transparent, fair, and worthy of your trust

Wolfgang van Gulik

UofT is strongest when its students are not only heard, but meaningfully represented in the decisions that shape our academic, financial, and campus life. As an experienced member of the board of directors of the UTSU, I am running for Governing Council to ensure that student perspectives are taken seriously at the highest level of university governance. If elected, I will focus on: affordability, stronger student representation in government, and supporting a vibrant, well-resourced student life. If you want a representative who will ensure the Governing Council puts students first, I would be honoured to earn your support.

Elijah Primavera Wee Sit

I am running for membership at the Governing Council primarily to uphold the interests of undergraduate students at UofT. I am determined to help foster an inclusive environment for all students, with a particular focus in fostering active participation in student life and communities. The large student body at UofT may make it daunting and difficult for students to find a particular community that they would thrive in, hence I would help find solutions to better create a more tight-knit community at this great university. 

Suri Wu

I’m Suri Wu, I’m running for Governing Council to ensure that students’ voices shape how this university evolves. Governing Council manages UofT’s academic, financial, and strategic decisions, and students deserve representation grounded in transparency and accountability. If elected, I will work with fellow governors to hold the university’s integrity accountable, to urge a clear communication, and to strengthen trust between students and the institution by ensuring that policies reflect both short-term and long-term needs of students, and impacts student bodies in a positive and reliable way with no false promises 

Sean Xiao

You don't know me? Why me? If I describe myself without mentioning my name, nationality, hobbies, academic program, etc, I'd say that I believe "the dreams of human will never end". Every single one of you, I know there is a dream perhaps just sprouting from your heart, or already grown into an adolescent tree. As part of student council, I am someone who will assist that in the action of happening. I am not someone who make unrealistic promises that seems too good to be true. Trust me, the dreams of human will never end!!

 

 

FULL-TIME UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS - CONSTITUENCY II

All Full-Time Undergraduate Students registered in the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, Faculty of Dentistry, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Medicine (including post-graduate medical trainees), Faculty of Music, Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, and Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education. Both members elected in Constituency II must not be registered in the same faculty or school. In the event that a member elected while registered in one faculty of school later registers in the faculty or school in which the other elected member is registered, the transferring member shall resign from the Governing Council.

2 Seats, 5 Candidates - Election Required

Johnny Dong

Hi ya’ll! I’m Johnny, a first-year Chemical Engineering Student! I’m currently serving as the First-Year Representative on the Engineering Society Board of Directors, as well as the First-Year Representative for Chemical Engineers! Through these roles, I’ve been deeply involved in academic advocacy on the faculty level, working to represent student concerns and support positive academic changes. I’m excited for the opportunity to do so on the university level! 

Hibah Hussain

Hello! My name is Hibah Hussain, and I hope to represent you and your interests on Governing Council. I am an engineering undergraduate committed to strengthening student voice and institutional accountability at the University of Toronto. Having served as a student member of the University’s Academic Board and on executive teams for numerous U of T student groups, I know how to ask tough questions, advocate for the interests of those I represent, and ensure all voices are heard. I'm committed to bringing real student issues to the table, and with your support, working toward meaningful and lasting change.

Kevin Li

My name is Kevin Li, and I pledge my commitment for representing the values and inclusivity of the student body. Having previously served in this role along with University Senate, University-Level Disciplinary Committees in my home province, and President of the largest classical music festival in Western Canada; I know how to stand for students and make sure their values and voices can be resonant especially in the face of the greater social forces present. I pledge to prioritize student involvement in the council, for the veneration and protection of what matters most- you, your voice, and your values. 

Annie Luli

My name is Annie Luli, I am applying to serve on the Governing Council because I believe I would be a strong advocate for students. My experiences as a swim-coach and team-captain, have let me develop leadership, communication, and collaboration skills while working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. These roles taught me the importance of being understanding, reliable, and fair when representing others and making decisions. I am hardworking and committed to listening to different perspectives to ensure student voices are heard. I would bring a responsible, approachable, and student-focused mindset to the council and contribute positively to the community.

Rithik Sreekumar

I am Rithik Sreekumar, a first year Engineering Science student at UofT.  I am running because too often, this university has prioritized its reputation over the well-being of its students. Behind UofT's image of excellence are students who are burnt out, overwhelmed, and struggling in silence. Academic excellence should not come at the cost of our health, mental or physical. On governing council, I want to push for investment into smarter, humane academic policies, and rebuild a nationally recognized culture of students who are challenged, but equally as important, come before optics and branding. For any questions, please contact: rithik.sreekumar@mail.utoronto.ca

GRADUATE STUDENTS - CONSTITUENCY I

All Students registered in Division I (Humanities) and Division II (Social Sciences) of the School of Graduate Studies.

1 Seat, 11 Candidates - Election Required

Evan Kai Pang Chan

I am eager to be your student advocate on the Governing Council, drawing from my experience cofounding organizations across Canada. As a PhD student and Junior Fellow at Massey College, I have heard the stories of thousands of students across the tri-campuses. I will advocate for increased funding for Masters/Professional Programs, better support for international students, more resources for research and student-instructors, and expanded mental health initiatives. I will be your liaison for concerns, working closely with the Governing Council, School of Graduate Studies, and Unions to ensure your voices are heard.

Yvonne Connage

I am a Master of Teaching candidate in the Black Future Educators’ Pathway at OISE, University of Toronto, with a strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive education. As a mature student, mother, business owner, and active community volunteer, I bring lived experience, collaboration, and accountability to governance work. I am deeply engaged in supporting Black students, advancing Indigenous perspectives, and strengthening student voice within institutional decision-making. If elected, I will advocate for transparent governance, equitable policies, and meaningful student participation that reflects the diverse realities of our academic community.

Daniel Ebrahimpour

My experience at the University of Toronto has brought me into contact with hundreds of students and the different challenges they face. With my background in industry, nonprofits, and campus leadership, I am confident I can represent the diverse needs and perspectives across U of T’s student community. I care deeply about creating opportunities for students from all backgrounds and ensuring the university remains innovative, accessible, and globally engaged. I would bring a balanced perspective that reflects both student priorities and the broader mission. It would be a privilege to represent the students in my constituency.

Seo Young Lee

Hello,
I am a graduate student pursuing Phd in Adult Education and Community Development. I advocate for equity-informed, transparent and student-centred governance. Through my leadership in student associations (Departmental Students' Association in LHAE, OISE) and campus initiatives (student panellist, volunteer note-taker, Korean language volunteer group), as well as through community work, I am continuing to build inclusive spaces for dialogue, collaboration, and peer support. If elected, I will bring graduate student perspectives into decision-making and support governance that reflects care, attention, listening, accountability and community. Thank you.

Alvand Mohtashami

I hold a community-minded orientation that ensures all University of Toronto students, faculty, and staff can fully participate in the academic and social aspects of campus life. During my B.Com and B.Ed degrees at McMaster University and the University of Windsor, respectfully, I held governance and leadership roles within each study period. I have experience in the administration and delivery of educational and recreational programs to a wide range of learners, starting at the core of the university and branching out into the wider community. 

Zoë Nicoladis

My name is Zoe, and I am a graduate student in Human Geography running for Governing Council. I am guided by values of equity, participation, and care, and I believe institutions work best when students are meaningfully involved. My experience includes transit advocacy, founding a student club at UBC, serving as a Go Global Ambassador, and leading an AmeriCorps team. These roles taught me how to listen, collaborate, and take action. If elected, I will bring tons of energy, preparation, and integrity to governance, and represent students with enthusiasm and compassion. 

Ese Okereka

As graduate students, we feel the effects of governance decisions every day. They shape tuition, finding suitable housing, and the time and cost of commuting to campus. They also affect access to internships and jobs and limit where students can work. These choices shape how our degrees lead to credible career opportunities. With over a decade leading across academia, energy, and consulting, and as an Executive MBA student at Rotman, I bring a collaborative lens to governance.  Together, we ask clear questions, weigh trade-offs, and drive discussion toward sound decisions. Visibility alone doesn’t drive impact, but working together does.

Ali Sajid

As a third-year PhD student at the University of Toronto, I understand the challenges we face, such as: securing adequate funding, managing mental health pressures, and navigating complex administrative requirements. I am committed to advocating for graduate students in the Humanities and Social Sciences divisions and, if elected, will prioritize: (1) strengthening funding packages to reflect Toronto's cost of living; (2) expanding mental health resources; and (3) providing students with equitable access to opportunities and protections. I will work to ensure graduate student perspectives shape the policies that govern our university experience, and I would be honoured to represent you.

Latifa Soliman

Latifa is a proven student leader and researcher, demonstrated by her tenure as President of the International Students’ Association at OISE where she revamped student support and facilitated EDI focused orientations. As Communication and Outreach Coordinator for the GSRC she successfully planned and executed the Graduate Students’ Research Conference notably pioneering a hybrid format to enhance accessibility and sustainability. Her leadership extended to the OISE Research Standing Committee where she influenced major decisions and advocated for low-carbon research practices. These roles showcase her exceptional project management, stakeholder collaboration, and commitment to translating research and policy into tangible equitable student outcomes.

Miles Sullivan

Hey everyone! Our campus work best when decisions are both principled and practical. I am interested in serving on the Governing Council to bring a thoughtful, student informed perspective to decision making at the University of Toronto. With a background in finance and audit, I value evidence based analysis, accountability, and clear governance. I aim to contribute constructively to discussions on resource allocation, institutional priorities, and student impact, while respecting the academic mission that defines the University of Toronto.

Hai Tran

As a doctoral candidate at the Faculty of Law, I have served on our Graduate Student Union, built green energy with nonprofits, and am now advocating for affordable student housing. Given our turbulent economic and political atmosphere, I will focus on improving our students’ cost of living, housing security, and freedom of speech. I will hold the university accountable for its funding promise to research students and promote the same relief for tuition-paying and working students. My work follows the belief that democracy starts from the grassroots, and universities are the forum of students, faculty, and staff alone. 

GRADUATE STUDENTS - CONSTITUENCY II

All Students registered in Division III (Physical Sciences) and Division IV (Life Sciences) of the School of Graduate Studies.

1 Seat, 8 Candidates - Election Required

Ferdinand Reke Avikpe

I have seen how decisions made far from classrooms and labs shape students’ academic paths, financial realities, and sense of belonging. Through extensive experience in student governance, academic leadership, and community engagement at the department, faculty and university levels, I have worked closely with students, faculty, and administrators to turn advocacy into action. On the Governing Council, I will bring a clear, evidence-driven approach, push for transparent decision-making, and ensure student perspectives meaningfully shape institutional priorities. I am committed to accountable governance that serves students and strengthens the university as a whole.

Tyler Biswurm

Hi, I'm Tyler! I’m a Master's student researching AI in law and medicine. I bring years of relevant experience, including as Vice President of UofT’s undergraduate student government. I know how this university works and how to navigate it to deliver results. Graduate students deserve better. I’ll fight for funding indexed to Toronto’s cost of living, more affordable housing, and community-building that connects us with our talented, diverse colleagues. I’ll push for bolder innovation in education and student services. Let’s make UofT a place where grad students don’t just survive — but thrive and belong. Vote Tyler!

Victoria Liu

My name is Victoria, and I am a PhD candidate in the Department of Psychology. I am running to modernize graduate training. While our departments excel at academic preparation, many graduate students have limited exposure to industry, entrepreneurship, and non-academic professional practice. To address this gap, I founded and lead Innovation OnBoard UofT, the first student-led platform creating structured, cross-faculty pathways that bridge research with real-world application. If elected, I will advocate for governance decisions that integrate professional training and cross-sector experience into graduate education by aligning curriculum and funding priorities, so students can smoothly navigate diverse post-graduate career paths.

Sebastian Villada Rivera

My leadership and service in student leadership (e.g. UofT Institute of Transportation Engineers), academic conferences (UTERC 2025), and faculty governance (Engineering Faculty Council) have strengthened my skills in communication, collaboration, and collective problem-solving skills, which are central to effective University governance. As a former University of Toronto undergraduate and current graduate student in engineering, I have mentored peers and worked closely with faculty and university staff, gaining insight into diverse stakeholder perspectives. I am committed to upholding the University’s mission while championing equity, inclusive education, and informed, collaborative governance.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastianvillada/ 

Konrad Samsel

As a member of the UofT community since 2017, I have led advocacy efforts for the UTSU and other student organizations on student food insecurity, mental health, cost of living, and employment. On these issues, I also wrote submissions to City Council (2022), Ontario’s Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs (2022-2023), and co-authored an open letter to the Ministry of Health highlighting Ontario’s backlog in youth mental health services (2022). As a co-opted GC board member (2023), I frequently engaged with student and administrative stakeholders and, as a result, helped expedite improvements to dining-hall pricing policies and campus safety infrastructure.  https://sites.google.com/view/kcsamsel/home

Dominic Shillingford

My name is Dominic, and I am a doctoral student in Mathematics. I have been involved in student leadership including most recently acting as the Vice-President Internal for the Graduate Students' Union. This experience gives me unique expertise on the structure of the University of Toronto's governing bodies and I am excited for the opportunity to apply this knowledge to speak on behalf of graduate students and advocate for your needs.

Naaz Sibia

I'm a 3rd-year PhD student in Computer Science and a proud UTM alumna (2022). I serve on the Graduate Education Council and the Graduate Academic Appeals Board, where I work on policy, curriculum, and fair decision-making. I co-organized the Toronto GAAP to support equitable admissions, and previously served as a CUPE 3902 steward advocating for TAs. Through leadership roles in ACM-W North America and Global, I support marginalized communities in computing. If elected to the Governing Council, I will fight for stronger funding, fewer administrative barriers, and a clear graduate voice in university decisions that affect us every day.

Joshua Yang

I am running for Governing Council to help the university prioritize practical oversight and operational efficiency. As a PhD student, I understand the challenges of our science community firsthand. I negotiated contracts and oversaw projects that resulted in a 40% reduction in laboratory consumable costs. To better support researchers and ensure institutional resources are used effectively, I will advocate for the strategic reallocation of funds toward increased stipends and professional development programs. I will provide a transparent, direct voice for the science community to ensure graduate students have the support they need to succeed.

Rutwa Engineer

Professor Rutwa Engineer teaches in the Department of Mathematical & Computational Sciences (MCS) at the University of Toronto, Mississauga. She holds a non-budgetary cross-appointment with the Institute for the Study of University Pedagogy (ISUP), Institute for Management & Innovation (IMI), and a faculty affiliation with the Schwartz Resiman Institute for Technology and Society (SRI). She has taught and coordinated some of the largest computer science courses in first and second year at UTM, including introductory programming courses and introductory systems courses. She has 23 peer-reviewed publications and counting, focusing on computing education, responsible computing, and epistemic diversity in computing. 

Andrew Petersen

I am a Professor, Teaching Stream in the Department of Mathematical and Computational Sciences and have worked closely with faculty across the campus in service roles with the Robert Gillespie Academic Skills Centre and the Office of the Dean. Over the past three years, I have served on the Governing Council and UTM Campus Council, gaining direct experience with U of T's governance system. I am committed to continuing this work, approaching complex issues with care, broad consultation, and respect for diverse perspectives, and exercising prudent, ethical judgment in the long-term interests of the University of Toronto.

teaching staff for constituency VII

All Teaching Staff members who hold their major appointments in the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, & Design, Joseph L. Rotman School of Management, Faculty of Information, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Music and the Factor Inwentash Faculty of Social Work.

1 Seat, 5 Candidates - Election Required

Ramy Elitzur

Serving as a Governor has been a privilege and a responsibility. I am seeking re-election at a pivotal moment for the University, as it faces academic, financial, and public-policy challenges while remaining a leader.
I have been faculty at the Rotman School of Management and the University for 37 years. Drawing on my background in financial oversight and governance, service on the Governing Council, Academic Board, Planning and Budget Committee, and University Affairs Board, I have engaged in deliberations and decisions, including raising financial, budgetary, and institutional accountability issues, and will continue to strengthen governance as the University confronts challenges. 

Colin Furness

If you encountered me as a public epidemiologist during COVID, then you have seen my commitment to the public good. I'd like to bring that ethic to Governing Council. I pay close attention to how the University promotes professional identity among our students and graduates, and I also think a lot about how our built environment can foster/hinder vibrant community. I greatly value collegiality and consensus as governing principles, but when necessary I can speak truth to power. Governing Council makes big decisions with big impacts on the professional faculties; I want to be the effective representation we need.

Jan Mahrt-Smith

I teach Sustainable Finance at Rotman, and I am running for GC to help make UofT better. I was on GC from 2015-2023 and contributed as Chair of Planning & Budget and in other invited roles. I maintain great relationships with former GC colleagues and the administration. I will continue this collaborative approach. My priorities were and will be student and staff mental health, financial transparency, and academic freedom. My cross-appointment to the School of the Environment connected me to divisions outside Rotman. I will reach out across divisions to help build this amazing, weird, complex, and globally excellent university.

Douglas Sanderson (Amo Binashii)

I seek nomination to the Governing Council to contribute to the careful stewardship of the University of Toronto. I bring long experience in academic life, institutional governance, and public policy, along with a respect for the distinct role of Council in overseeing the University’s mission, finances, and long-term direction. I value clear thinking, good judgment, and collegial debate—and I take the work seriously without taking myself too seriously. I would serve with independence, care, and a genuine commitment to the University’s future.