On-Campus

As your student union, we have the responsibility to represent the concerns of all students throughout decision-making at the university. A common misconception is that SUS is a part of UFV. In fact, SUS is its own separate entity that is devoted solely to the interests of students. This allows us to ask the tough questions and ensure accountability for the actions of the university.

We advocate in a variety of ways, generally through providing the student perspective on policies and procedures, and occasionally fighting for change through mobilization of the student body and continued pressure. We advocate on behalf of both the student body as a whole and for individual students when issues are brought to us, such as with appealing a final grade or supporting students in navigating policies such as bullying and harrassment.

Off-Campus

Provincial Advocacy

SUS has been making strides in strengthening our independent advocacy to the provincial government through personal connections and meetings with Members of the Legislative Assembly, media appearances, advocacy campaigns, and cooperation and networking with other BC student unions and stakeholders. We are committed to ensuring that the interests and concerns of the students of UFV are heard and prioritized by the provincial government when decisions are made that impact students.

Federal Advocacy

We are also a member of the Canadian Alliance of Students Association (CASA), a federal student lobby organziation that advocates on behalf of students to the federal government. CASA includes 24 student unions from coast to coast representing 274,000 students. Including their partnership with the Quebec Student Union, it represents over 365,000 post-secondary students to the federal government. By being a member, SUS can bring the voice of UFV students to Ottawa, vote on the organization’s direction, contribute to policy development and work on advocacy campaigns throughout the year. Additionally, SUS participates in “Advocacy Week” where we have meetings with Members of Parliament in Ottawa to advocate for the needs of our students.