The Northern British Columbia Graduate Students’ Society (NBCGSS) hosted its Annual General Meeting on October 30th on the unceded territory of the Lheidli T’enneh. The event gathered graduate students, NBCGSS board members, and special guests to reflect on the society’s achievements and lay out future goals.
Key Highlights from the AGM
Indigenous Leadership and Reconciliation
Director of Indigenous Affairs, Briana Greer, presented a landmark development in NBCGSS’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. The society amended its bylaws to establish dedicated funding for Indigenous cultural events, ensuring cultural activities are guided by Indigenous voices. Recent initiatives included a September event with traditional drumming and Métis sash weaving, creating a meaningful connection among Indigenous and international students alike. Plans are underway for a mentorship program launching in January.
Community Development Initiatives
Director of Community Development, Ariadna Lopez Ortega, reported successful community events like a painting session with 23 participants and a rafting trip for 41 graduate students. Ariadna also addressed feedback regarding NBCGSS’s Semi-Formal event, promising its return in 2025 to provide students a celebratory space. Planning has already begun to revive this much-loved tradition.
Equity and Inclusion Efforts
Director Humaira Maisha Mahmud highlighted her active role in advocating for equity and diversity across campus. Her involvement in multiple UNBC committees ensures that graduate students’ perspectives are included in policy-making.
Student Welfare Initiatives
Sophia Robison, Director of Welfare, announced a major step for student food security with the launch of the unified “UNBC Student Union Foodbank,” combining NBCGSS and NUGSS resources. This consolidation extends foodbank access hours and enhances support services, now available to all UNBC students. Additionally, the “Growing Together” community garden initiative provided fresh produce to graduate students, in collaboration with PG PIRG and Oasis organization.
Graduate Student Spaces and Services
Director-at-Large Alireza Noory’s report highlighted his data-driven approach to advocacy. Through surveys, he identified graduate student needs, especially the desire for more entertainment options. Alireza expressed gratitude to those who participated, pledging to continue this feedback-driven approach to enhance student life.
Financial Overview: 2024 Audit Report
NBCGSS Chairperson Behrouz Danesh presented the society’s annual audit, conducted by Tompkins Wozny LLP, for fiscal year 2023-24. Acknowledging the need for clearer data presentation, Danesh assured attendees that the audit report would be posted on the NBCGSS website.
Revenue Breakdown
- Health & Dental Fund: $160,485 (51.5%)
- Operating Fund: $148,934 (47.7%)
- Social Events: $1,685 (0.5%)
- Interest Income: $812 (0.3%)
Total Revenue: $311,916
Expenditure Breakdown
- Health & Dental Premiums: $148,150 (59.3%)
- Staff and Benefits: $26,905 (10.8%)
- Campus Events/Campaigns: $22,037 (8.8%)
- Board Honoraria: $18,877 (7.6%)
- Office and General: $13,976 (5.6%)
- Professional Fees: $9,051 (3.6%)
Total Expenses: $249,628
Net Surplus: $62,288
The audit received a clean opinion, confirming the society’s responsible financial practices. Rozanna, NBCGSS Executive Director, mentioned future plans to provide a forward-looking financial report to enhance transparency.
Special Guests and New Initiatives
Dr. Hossein Kazemian, globally recognized among the top 2% of scientists, encouraged students to expand their academic networks by engaging in cross-institutional events. Robyn Paches from Student Care reviewed available health services, and BCFS Chairperson Jessie Niikoi discussed NBCGSS’s role in provincial advocacy.
Over the Edge Referendum: Graduate Participation in Campus Media
Graduate students may soon have new opportunities in campus journalism. Ahmad Jalil presented a referendum to introduce an $11.93 fee per semester, enabling graduate students to access employment and writing roles at the Over the Edge newspaper. The proposed fee would create parity with undergraduate students, providing a platform for graduate voices in campus media. NBCGSS will release more details on the voting process soon.
Moving Forward
The NBCGSS board acknowledged the need for improved record-keeping and enhanced financial planning for future AGMs. A board meeting is scheduled to develop comprehensive transition documents for the next team, ensuring NBCGSS continues to evolve effectively.
For questions, feedback, or to stay updated, connect with NBCGSS on social media or email gssoffice@unbc.ca or gsspres@unbc.ca.
