Nick Hall
Second-year Archaeology student Nick Hall boasts a wealth of experience, having been a Course Rep, Vanbrugh JCRC Welfare Rep and Darts Society Chair, and proudly claims in his manifesto that he “knows what it takes to get things done”.
He told Vision that he’s running for Union Chair because: “Democracy is important to me and should be engaging and interesting for every student. Currently the system’s good but there’s so much more that can be done to get more student’s involved with the whole process.”
Hall has three key policies: to encourage “a more open union”, “a more democratic union” and “a more accountable union”. His plans include establishing union officer surgeries in the Courtyard, bye-law reviews, ensuring more publicity for meetings and starting a fortnightly blog on YUSU website explaining what progress he’s making.
Josh Allen
Second-year History student Josh Allen’s experience is derived not just from Uni politics but also his work as a ballot counter, polling clerk and even a local election candidate.
Speaking to Vision, Allen said, “I feel that my extensive experience both as a Chair and someone who not just engages with, but makes democracy and participation happen, qualifies me for this role.”
Allen signposts his policies in his manifesto under the headings “demystification”, “grassroots” and “communication To ‘demystify’ he plans on making available clear, jargon-free information about what it is that the Union does. Like Hall, he plans to expand ‘communication’ through the Union Chair’s use of social media by creating facebook and twitter accounts and frequently updating the blog. Allen plans on encouraging ‘grassroots’ student action by developing campaign networks so students can fight for what they believe without standing for election.
Mark Taylor
Second year Archaelogy student Mark Taylor is basing his candidacy around his skills as an effective Chair. The Halifax college native has been the Arts and Humanities Faculty Co-ordinator and the Student Representative on the W&D Validation Panel.
In his manifesto, Taylor says that he feels he good at “ensuring that all who have something to say are not overshadowed by the more vocal members of the group” and at “taking a directing role to encourage re-engagement and focus” when the conversation moves off-topic.
If elected, Taylor promises to maximise use of time in meetings, maintain a productive environment and ensure considered decisions are made.