by Lauren Kent
Let us introduce you to the new student union officers for the academic year 2017/2018!
The full-time and part-time officers were elected by the student body, for their popularity and passion. However, if you’re a fresher, you may be unaware of the people who represent you. The officers have the power to make your lives much easier. They are the reason your printing is free and your bus prices are cheaper. So, come and meet the officers!
The Union President
Chisomo Phiri
“Hey, I’m Chizi and I’m your elected student President! I’ve had an amazing three years at university and have been so lucky to meet such a wide range of amazing people. I have also been equipped with a wide range of skills that are invaluable to my future career!”
Chisomo’s aims:
Create more affordable food options for students on campus
Implement a more diverse food offering with an international food venture
Make lockers more accessible on both campuses
Make printing free on campus with access in the library and not just the Students’ Union
Societies & Services officer
Chris Freestone
“Hello, I’m Chris, your Societies and Services Officer. I came to Swansea four years ago and in my time here I’ve seen just how much our city, societies and campuses have to offer. I’ve been involved in societies since my first year, and have served on the Geology Society committee for three years. I know first-hand how important societies are in shaping your university experience and I have the passion and drive to make your Uni experience even better.”
Chris’ aims:
To create a student union app
Reward engaged committee members
Increase Postgraduate engagement with the union
Welfare officer
Shona Johnson
“I’m an avid musician and have been heavily involved with the student’s union since I started uni in 2014. I’ve been on the committee for the live music society for two years, as well as sitting on the societies’ executive committee for two years. I’ve worked for JC’s and been in a few bands outside of uni, playing gigs all around Swansea. Also, last year I was our mental health awareness officer, as I am passionate about student mental health.”
Shona’s aims:
To improve support for students suffering with mental illness
Do my absolute best to improve student well-being across the board
Education officer
Emily Rees
“Hey! I’m Emily, this year’s Education Officer. My time at Swansea University started in 2013 where I began my Undergraduate degree within the School of Management, and will soon be finishing my Master’s degree this year. During my time here at Swansea, I have been involved with the university and Students’ Union in numerous ways through sports, societies, placements, work experience and as a College Representative. Feel free to call, email, or even pop into the Students’ Union building on either campus for a chat!”
Emily’s aims:
To introduce more career building opportunities for all students
To oversee the Rep System to ensure that students voices are effectively represented and strong relationships are kept between students and staff, through myself and the Reps
Sports Officer
Gwyn Aled Rennolf
“Hi! I’m Gwyn and I’ve been elected as your Sports Officer this year. I came to Swansea 3 years ago to study Maths and was amazed by all the opportunities that the University had to offer. In my first year I played American Football for the Swansea Titians and later went on to found Clwb Rygbi Tawe, the Universities first Welsh Language Sports Club. In my second and third year I was elected as President for the club and later became part of the Sport Swansea Executive Committee. Sport has played a crucial part to my time at university and hope that it will for you too.
Gwyn’s aims:
Work with the local community to give students opportunities for coaching experience.
Create an Open Fitness Sports Club
Discounted Varsity Tickets for Varsity Players.
Sports supplements sold on campus.
Get Floodlights for our pitches.
Develop the GWA brand with a new Merchandise range
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There are also eleven part-time officers, giving up their free time to ensure
that everyone has the best possible university experience. For more information on them see an expanded version of this article on our website at
swanseastudentmedia.com
So, you have met all the full-time Union officers who will be your voice for the upcoming academic year. If you have any queries or issues do not hesitate to contact the officers who are there for you, the students of Swansea University.
