Brock University Students’ Union (BUSU) Vice-President, University Affairs, Andrea Lepage along with six other Brock student representatives will attend the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA) Spring General Assembly (GA) this March in order to advocate for a better, safer student experience for all students.

“Every student faces unique barriers and concerns that may affect their ability to participate fully in post-secondary education,” explained Lepage. “Sharing your experiences as a post-secondary student and participating in advocacy initiatives benefits current and future generations.

The OUSA Spring GA will take place March 2 to 5, 2023. Eight Ontario schools will gather to revise and pass standing policy that is used to lobby the provincial government throughout the year. The GA will debate three policy papers: Teaching & Assessment, Student Accessibility & Disability Inclusion, and Two-Spirit & LGBTQIA+ Students.

Lepage will also author the “Research and Information” section of the paper “Two-Spirit LGBTQIA+ Students” which she is currently collecting feedback from students for. The goal of this policy is to provide recommendations that will contribute to improving access to and safety in post-secondary education for Two-Spirit LGBTQIA+ Students.

“The individuals who identify as members of Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ are distinct, valid, and valued members of their communities. Conspicuously there continues to be a lack of recognition of the intersection of people who hold these identities,” said Lepage.  “The awareness surrounding the personal and academic challenges and barriers that 2SLGBTQIA+ students face continues to be problematic on Ontario post-secondary campuses, as information and supports are not readily available or accessible to students, faculty, or institution staff.”

The Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA) represents the interests of approximately 150,000 professional and undergraduate, full-time and part-time university students at eight student associations across Ontario. OUSA’s approach to advocacy is based on creating substantive, student-driven, and evidence-based policy recommendations.

“As a Brock University Student, it is important to have your voice heard so we can improve your student experience,” said Lepage. “OUSA is your student voice on matters related to improving accessibility, affordability, accountability and quality of your university education.”

Learn more about your VPUA or reach out via this link.