My name is Maya Graham and my pronouns are she/her. I’m 18 years old and currently majoring in Sociology and Gender Studies. At the moment I’m serving as the member-at-large on the LUSU Board of Directors and from my time in this role I know that I want to continue to work within the board. I’m an outspoken and passionate person who is capable of speaking up for the needs of students, which is why VP Advocacy is the role I believe I will best serve within. I firmly believe that clubs are the best part of university and an incredible way to branch out, so I want the opportunity to help these clubs function and continue to give students a safe space.

As I mentioned, I am currently the member-at-large, which is a non voting position on the Board of Directors. From this I have already gained experience working with the board and will already be familiar with the processes that come with being a member. Outside of school, I have previously volunteered with Special Olympics. This experience taught me how to be patient and understanding when helping others. This specific organization also taught me how to read behaviours and communicate with people who are non verbal or minimally verbal. It is because of my time volunteering with Special Olympics that I discovered my passion for advocacy.

My vision for the student body is a safe and inclusive environment that makes people excited to show up to University everyday. If I am elected I will take the initiative to work with the LUSU clubs to have events such as Welcome Palooza in a manor that allows students to join a club in an anxiety-free way. Throughout the term I would stay involved and try to ensure that these clubs get the funding they need and can have as many events as possible. I want to organize an environment where even online students can feel as though they are a part of campus life. The most important thing to me is making sure that mental health and ability doesn’t interfere with a student’s ability to make the most of their time at Lakehead.

People can learn more about my campaign by approaching me if they see me in person, or reaching out to me via my Lakehead University email or even social media.