Fraser Sockett

Fraser Sockett

CANDIDATE FOR VP Academic

Back for Round Two – Rebuilding Trust, Together

I get knocked down, and I get back up again.

In February, I ran for Vice President Academic as a 4th year HR student. I didn’t win, but I didn’t walk away either. That experience gave me something more valuable than a title: resilience. And now, with the VP Academic position reopened in a by-election, I’m stepping up again because I believe leadership is about showing up, especially when it’s hard.

I understand that this by-election comes with frustration and uncertainty. The most recently elected VP Academic was removed from her VP-elect position, by Senate, in a unanimous vote. That kind of news can shake student confidence in student governance, and rightfully so.

So, why am I running?

Because I believe this is a moment to reset. To raise the standard. To restore trust. And I’m ready to do that through something I call F.I.R.E.—Focus, Integrity, Resilience, and Empowerment.

Focus means listening to what matters most to students. In my previous campaign, I spoke with students across campus, and one concern kept coming up: academic integrity. You work hard for your credentials. You deserve to know they mean something. As VP Academic, I’ll advocate for clear, fair policies that protect academic standards while also evolving to include the responsible use of AI in learning.

Integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one’s watching. It means making decisions that reflect the needs of students, not personal ambition. I’m not here for the spotlight, I’m here to serve.

Resilience is earned. Losing didn’t weaken my drive, it sharpened my purpose! I know what it’s like to fall short and still choose to rise again. That’s the kind of energy I’ll bring to the table: steady, grounded, and determined to deliver.

Empowerment means supporting your academic and personal success. As someone who has experienced burnout, I understand the weight that many students carry. That’s why I’ll push for more substantial mental health support and flexible learning options because success should be accessible to everyone, not just those who can arrive at 8 a.m.

I also understand that affordability is a significant concern for many students, whether it’s textbooks, academic services, materials, or access to technology. While it didn’t quite fit into my F.I.R.E. framework, it’s still on my radar. If elected, I’ll explore ways to keep costs low or stabilize these costs and advocate for more affordable learning resources wherever

possible. Supporting students includes making education more accessible, not more expensive. This by-election isn’t just about filling a vacancy, it’s about choosing what kind of leadership you want going forward. If you’re looking for someone who is committed, transparent, and driven by service, not ego, then I’m asking for your vote.

Let’s rebuild trust. Let’s lead with F.I.R.E, Focus, Integrity, Resilience, Empowerment and you!

Vote Fraser Sockett for Vice President Academic

Any questions, comments or concerns. Email me please: Fraser4VPA@gmail.com