January 17th, 2018

Statement from OUSA President, Andrew Clubine:

On behalf of the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance, I would like to welcome the Honourable Mitzie Hunter to the role of Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Development. We look forward to working with the Minister on all aspects of this important portfolio - from continuing to examine strategies for improved mental health on campus, to emerging student priorities such as open educational resources.

OUSA also wants to extend a grateful thank you to Minister Deb Matthews for her commitment to post-secondary education throughout her career. From her time as a professor at Western University, to her time as Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Development, Minister Matthews has been a tireless champion of higher education in Ontario. Throughout her tenure in cabinet, Minister Matthews has been an avid advocate of students and championed affordability through programs like the OSAP reform. I have been fortunate to get to know Minister Matthews during the past year, and speak for all of our student leaders when I say we appreciate the time you have given us to share our stories with you.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Minister Brad Duguid for his service to Ontario. During his tenure as Minister of Training, Colleges, and Universities, Minister Duguid, like Minister Matthews, was a strong partner and voice for students. We are looking forward to continuing this relationship with Minister Hunter.

Andrew Clubine