The OTSU—your student union and your collective student voice—exists so that you have the tools and resources you need to be successful as a student and as a member of your campus community.

At the heart of this is student representation and empowerment. That is why we are excited to host our upcoming Town Hall on November 14, and present you with the opportunity to ask questions, get involved with student governance processes, and engage with the union.

We’ll host two hybrid events, one in SHA 020 at 10:00 a.m. and one in CHA 105 at 2:30 p.m. Both town halls are open to all Ontario Tech students, and will be available for students to participate virtually.

No registration is required and you can join the meeting online here:

What is a Town Hall?

A Town Hall is an open forum for candid discussions and to ask questions that stimulates a respectful dialogue centred on progress and improvement. The aim of our Town Hall is to provide students with the opportunity to engage meaningfully with their student union, and provide them with the space to talk about matters that affect campus life, such as university affairs, union matters or clubs and society matters, or student services.

How Does This Town Hall Work?

The Town Hall is a chance for students to get answers to their most pressing questions about the OTSU. Each member of our executive team will be present to answer student questions, but because time is limited, discussions will be structured according to the following topic clusters:

1. External Advocacy and Partnerships
   • (e.g. OUSA, CASA, external partnerships)
2. University Affairs and Student Representation
   • (e.g. Ex-officio seat at Academic Council, academic advocacy initiatives, university committees)
3. Student Services and Initiatives
   • (e.g. OTSU print shop, events and engagement, student services)
4. Open Forum and Q&A Session

At the onset of each topic cluster, students will be given the floor to raise their hands and ask questions relating to that discussion item. A moderator will be present to ensure discussions remain focused and move the discussion along at regular intervals, ensuring that the Town Hall gives equal opportunity for students to discuss each topic.

In the interest of time, each topic will have a time allotment. At the end of each topic’s allotted time, discussion will move on to the next item.

Town Halls are typically in-person meetings, but recognizing that students may not be on campus, the meeting will be streamed virtually so that everyone can access the meeting. Those joining virtually are encouraged to put questions in the chat, but in-person questions will take precedence.

Why Your Participation Matters

Student unions exist to represent the interests of students, and your voice is essential in guiding the direction of our union’s work. When you participate in a Town Hall, you’re not only voicing your own concerns but also contributing to a collective conversation that helps shape the future experience of students for years to come. Each perspective adds value, bringing attention to issues that might otherwise go unnoticed and ensuring the union’s priorities reflect the diverse needs of our community.

Taking part in this Town Hall means actively participating in decisions that will influence your university experience and future students’ experiences. Your input can lead to tangible changes that improve the quality of campus life, advocate for student rights, and build a more supportive and engaging environment for all.

Join Us and Make a Difference

We invite all members to join this conversation, regardless of how involved you’ve been with the union in the past. Whether you have a question, a concern, or simply want to listen and learn, your presence makes a difference. Together, let’s build a student union that truly reflects the voices, aspirations, and needs of its members.

Mark your calendar, bring your ideas, and help shape the future of our student union. Let’s make your voice heard – we look forward to seeing you there!

Kind regards,

Rai Ali,

OTSU President