Hi there, my name is Alysha Li and I am the Vice-President University Affairs at the University Students’ Council (USC) at Western University.

 It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself as the 2012-13 OUSA President. I am humbled to have the opportunity this year to serve the Executive, Steering Committee, and OUSA’s nine member associations. It is an honour to be working with a group of dedicated and passionate student leaders from across the province to advocate for student priorities throughout the year.

 OUSA also welcomes Rylan Kinnon and Medina Abdelkader to Home Office, joining Chris Martin, and I am delighted to be working with this talented team in the upcoming year.

 I would like to send a sincere “thank-you” to the outgoing President Sean Madden, his Executive and Steering Committee, as well as departing Home Office staff Sam Audrey, Alvin Tedjo, and Laura Pin. The countless hours you have dedicated to the organization to improve the lives of Ontario students is something that is recognized and greatly appreciated.

 This year, OUSA started off strong with a successful Transition Conference with guests from Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities, the College Student Alliance, the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario, the Ontario Confederation of University Faculty Associations, and the Council of Ontario Universities. OUSA appreciates your time to share with us your thoughtful insights and visions.

 2012-13 will be an exciting year for OUSA as we set forth to continue working with our members and partners to contribute in discussions about the new funding formula and tuition framework, ancillary fee regulations, and mental health on campuses. OUSA is proudly a member-driven organization and we will strive to continue our efforts in the upcoming year to carry our vision for an accessible, affordable, accountable and high quality post-secondary education in Ontario.

Alysha Li
OUSA President 2012-2013