University governance

Politics are everywhere and UBC is no exception. For the political junkies out there, or for those who are just curious, here is a brief overview of UBC’s governance structure, and how to get involved.

UBC VANCOUVER SENATE The Vancouver Senate is the largest governing body on campus. Under the University Act, the Senate is responsible for creating new scholarships and academic programs, setting term and break dates, as well as other functions pertaining to UBC’s operation around BC.

Students elect 18 representatives every March to sit on the nearly 90-seat body. This breaks down to five student-at-large positions, one student senator per faculty and two students representing graduate studies. While small, the Student Senate Caucus has been instrumental in passing things like last year’s winter break extension and the ban on remote invigilation softwares like Proctorio!

BOARD OF GOVERNORS (BOG) If UBC is considered bicameral, then the BoG is the so-called “house of sober second thought.” With only 21 members — most of whom are appointed by the provincial government, not elected by students, faculty or staff — BoG takes a more conservative approach to governance. This has notably included approving yearly tuition increases despite students voicing their opposition during consultations. The body is also tasked with non-academic affairs like sexual misconduct policy, as well as external consultations with government at all levels.

Currently, Max Holmes and Georgia Yee serve as your two student representatives on the Board. Like student senators, they are elected every March. So, if working alongside Vancouver business people and UBC faculty sounds fun, why not throw your hat into the metaphorical ring?

ADMINISTRATION Last, but not least, is UBC’s admin who manages the day-to-day business of the university. Headed by President Santa Ono and seven vice-presidents, the admin quite literally runs everything from finances to ensuring students have a great experience at UBC. You’ll likely get a few student surveys from some VP office during the year. Fill them out, but also be sure to vote in student elections — the AMS, GSS and Student Senator Caucus are much better at pushing for student priorities than a survey sent via email. U