File photo. Current BUSU President Carissa Taylor.
Hi, everyone.
As some of you may know, BUSU held their regular elections for the 2013-2014 academic year last week, on March 18th and 19th. I ran for re-election, but ended up losing by 30 votes to Stephanie Bachewich. I had told those close to me throughout the campaign that if I were to lose, I would feel as though the work I did this past year was not appreciated by students. I have invested so much of myself into this position, neglecting to take care of myself. My identity was tied up in this role.
After losing, I am actually not as shell-shocked as I thought I’d be. Instead I have been overwhelmed by the support that I’ve received from both those within Brandon University and also from those within the city of Brandon. So because all of you have helped me get through such a difficult time, I feel the need to thank you all in return.
To those within the community: your words mean so much to me. I sometimes felt as though BUSU was secluded from the greater community, and hearing otherwise from you is very reassuring. It is great to know that people from outside of our university paid attention to the things that were going on. It shows me that, even though I may have at times doubted it, the things we do really matter beyond our small world of BU.
To those within Brandon University: thank you for your support this year. I feel like, ending my term, there is a better sense of community than there was when I started. That is really incredible for me, and I am flattered if I had any part to play in that. I am so grateful that I was able to turn to so many of you when I needed advice or guidance about things that I was completely unprepared to deal with. I look forward to continuing friendships with many of you, and I respect you for devoting your lives to helping students.
To students: I was honoured to be elected to represent you this past year. The job can often be exhausting, but I was excited to come into work every day because of you. Being able to help make your day easier made me feel like what I did was worthwhile. You are the lifeblood of Brandon University, and you make it such a vibrant place to be. Walking down the halls of Brandon University is great, as I am constantly running into many of you whom I consider friends. I’ve learned from so many of you, and I appreciate the support, guidance, and perspective you’ve given to me. So many of you have amazed me with your talent, intelligence, and willingness to go above and beyond what is expected of you to contribute to making Brandon University a better place. Thank you for allowing me to play such an active role in your lives this past year.
I wish next year’s council and executive the best of luck next year. I respect the council that was elected, and I think that they will do their best to make BU a better place to “be you”. (Cheesy enough?) I congratulate Stephanie on winning the election and succeeding me. Students saw something in her that they liked, and I am sure that she will put her all into the position. Jenna is going to make an amazing VPE, and I never failed to be inspired by what an incredible, caring person she is. She is one of those rare people who always makes you feel better after talking to her. I was impressed with Matt throughout campaigning, and he has both enthusiasm and humour that I think will serve him well.
I look forward to seeing the progress BUSU continues to make in order to serve students and improve Brandon University. Thank you to all for the support, and I look forward to being involved in Brandon University in other ways.
All the best,
Carissa Taylor
Republished from The Quill print edition, Volume 103, Issue 26, March 26, 2013.