Announced that the referendum was passed meaning that we will have a VP elected last week.
Tim Dixon will be the returning officer.
Explained the format of the evening.
Chris Leech proposing Becky Aski
In her time at John’s, Becki has got stuck into college life in a wide variety of ways. As well as being a John’s Hall Chapel Warden, which has taken up much of her time, she has also burned her fingers in the Toastie Bar kitchen, frozen her fingers in the Just World Shop and her toes on the bar door. She’s always been here to carry bags on Freshers’ Sunday and has been really happy to do many things behind the scenes. Having fully recovered from an illness which has made her defer a year, she’s keen to continue to serve the college she loves.
Having lived with her last year, I know she has many qualities that will make her an excellent JCR president.
Becki is a great ‘big ideas’ person and she’s full of plans and projects to move the JCR and college forward, but she also has the capacity to tackle the small details. One little example is the Speakeasy birthday party that she organised last year. I don’t know how many times I thought she was aiming for far too much, but she was able to bring together all the small bits to fulfil her plans.
She’s great at bringing people together. Her role as chapel warden has given her the chance to get to know quite a few Cranmerites, and she has always been keen to get them talking to those from John’s Hall. She’s organised, task-driven and committed.
Becki is a very supportive friend. She’s always concerned for your well-being and I’ve been very grateful for a number of conversations we’ve had over our time here. She’s a student to student supporter and is very happy to share a cup of tea or glass of wine with anyone to chat.
Becki is also great fun and a little mad! Just a few examples of this are: dressing up as Pumba, the wart-hog, for a fancy dress formal; sailing in the raft race in her navy uniform; and giving a great rendition of the Hanson classic ‘Mmm-Bop’ at Johnstock.
Becki’s determination to complete things has sometimes gone to the extreme. In first year, we had the vague idea of creating a John’s version of Monopoly which we gave the inspired name ‘Johnopoly’. It was Becki who put in the majority of the work in making all the pieces. What more evidence of commitment to John’s do you need?!
Becki has always shown a genuine concern for the good of the JCR and the college as a whole and has contributed to the appointment of the principal, the senior tutor and the last two chaplains. As she’ll explain more in a moment, she plans to continue this, using her experience to build on Becca’s work and create even better relationships between the three common rooms, bringing tangible benefits to all the students.
Her skills in organisation and willingness to work behind the scenes will aid her determination to make her promises a reality, and so I would encourage you to make her your next JHJCR president.
Becky Aski – Hust
Presidential Hust.
The election of JHJCR President is a strange one. After thought and consideration about each candidate, you will presumably vote for the candidate you see as the best option for the role of John’s Hall Junior Common Room President. So today I want to tell you why you should consider how I might be that person. But I also want to talk about a wider issue. The JHJCR President you elect in the next five days will automatically become the President of the Joint Junior Common Room, representing not only John’s Hall Junior Common Room, but also the Middle Common Room and Cranmer Common Room. But it’s worth bearing in mind that neither the Middle Common Room nor Cranmer Common Room will have a vote. So for a post that incorporates both John’s Hall and Cranmer Hall together, the election of which is down to you, I want to give you a picture of the choice you have. To do this I want to tell you about bras.
There are two extremes of bras, both of which will provide support. You could opt for the lift and separate option, where there’s a good distribution of support, in a practical and functional way. It works. Then there’s the wonderbra option. The support is great, and rather than separating, it brings together. It doesn’t just work. It stuns. The shape it gives is attractive, it draws sufficient attention to a good thing and the impression that onlookers get is of confidence, fun and independence. Either of these models are viable approaches for a JJCR President who will be charged with the support of JHJCR, JHMCR and CCR. I realise that this analogy would work better had women three breasts (a scenario for which I’m sure there would be more than just that one benefit…) but go with me on this one. I am offering the wonderbra approach. I’ve witnessed incredible love between students of all three common rooms, particularly in the last year, and I want to see that put into action so we can grow together into one unbeatable college. I’ve worked hard on personal relationships with members of all three common rooms, and am passionate about bringing the two halls, the three common rooms together.
But I think what you really want to know is what benefits are there for John’s Hall Junior Common Room if we become more unified with the MCR and CCR. Around 50% of MCR are former John’s Hall undergraduates. They know how this place works. They know that the voice of the Joint JCR is stronger than that of any of the three common rooms in isolation. They know what members of the JHJCR experience while we study for our degrees. They can testify that when it seems unlikely, we will be coming out the other side of these few years. As President, I will continue to work on existing relationships in order to improve the social interaction between undergraduates and postgraduates, a link I know, after conversation with Richard Kelly, the MCR would be keen to further. The CCR are treated slightly differently by the University and by college. The college allows them to have 52 weeks contracts meaning vac res is no problem for them. As we all know, this is a problem for us, but coming together with Cranmer will present College with a united front, and as Pete Mead mentioned at the last JJCR meeting, with closer relationships, vac res can be a major bargaining point between us and college. But this might seem rather superficial. What about the things that the three common rooms can learn from each other.
Welfare could only benefit from being united. As President I would strive to work with welfare officers across the three common rooms so that we can share ideas and knowledge to improve the existing welfare systems. I would like to see a new balance on Welfare Committee of people passionate about welfare throughout the college. To do this I will use my knowledge of the current welfare system and my experience of being a student2student supporter to explore the possibility of opening the role of student2student supporters up to postrgrads and Cranmer Hall. I believe this is entirely possible, and would benefit us hugely, as any changes to welfare should. Personally, as President, welfare would be a priority. I love people, I love this place, I love tea and I love chocolate. These delights of mine, in addition to having been involved in college welfare mean I have the experience to provide suitable welfare support as is appropriate for one of the highest profile roles in college.
However I can offer much more than a cup of tea and dedicated welfare support. I’m looking forward to the centenary, and as your President I would bring to the centenary celebrations a wealth of experience. I’m a well seasoned party organiser and having worked in award winning bars for four years, not to mention currently planning a wedding; I have all of the skills and knowledge that could be helpful in planning JJCR events for our centenary celebrations. I would like to work with Social Events Committee and the social secretaries of MCR and CCR to plan a year of 100 parties (clearly many of which would be held simultaneously). With the college events that are being planned, I would seek to play a full part in the planning and to ensure that there is a good representation of the wishes of the JJCR. But I think it’s true to say that as the JHJCR, combined with the other two common rooms, we would want to make sure our own celebrations were implemented. Hence my idea for a party for every year of this brilliant college.
We’ve got so much to celebrate, our independence as a recognised college, our heritage and ethos, our excellent reputation, particularly in sport and the arts, and the fact that despite our small size we are one of the best represented colleges in DSU polls, as became evident in Sammy’s hair. As a college we are proactive about social justice and the environment. We are well respected throughout the university and perhaps most importantly the bar’s selection of whiskeys is top notch.
The role of the President of the JHJCR is to make sure that your experience of this college is as positive and uplifting as it can be. This means encouraging the members of the JHJCR on an individual basis, and facilitating the ideas and passions of the body as a whole. As such, we require a voice that is going to stand up for the JHJCR with a strong and reliable tone. Maybe you didn’t see a lot of me last year as I was laid up in bed with glandular fever, from which I have completely recovered. So for those of you who don’t know me so well, I have a voice that is not easily toned down, a voice which has been developed by being captain of a debating society in previous years, and honed as a Guide Leader. I don’t think anyone can really appreciate the hard line required when working with teenaged girls until they’re high on sugar and trying to sneak out of a tent at four in the morning to see the scouts. I have had experience in making a point too when working briefly at Birmingham Public Defender Service, during which I worked on seemingly un-defendable cases. I learned valuable skills such as bargaining as I’m sure you can imagine. I currently have a reserve place with the Royal Navy, a privilege I earned by showing leadership skills, and success under pressure. I relish the opportunity of challenge, and I think that this is key if we are to have a President who will work to get a better deal from college for John’s Hall JCR students, on issues such as vac res.
The introduction of the role of VP in JHJCR exec will change the position of President significantly. I believe that the Presidential role will still be so important as the public face of John’s Hall JCR, and increasingly so as the face of a unity of three common rooms. I think it would be inappropriate to see the President withdraw from JHJCR, but with the addition of the VP, there will be time and capacity for the President to look carefully at how to implement the relationship that the JHJCR wants with CCR and MCR. Being voted in as JHJCR is clearly paramount, that is where loyalty should lie. But I truly believe that that which I am passionate about, the wonderbra scenario, is also what is best and will continue to be best for the JHJCR, politically, socially and concerning welfare. As President I will seek to find out from all who wish to be heard how they want to see the three common rooms relating in future. Putting my own passions aside for a moment, any good JHJCR President must realise that it is the desires of John’s Hall students that should be a priority.
Voting for me would put into the role of Presidency a person who is dedicated to you, always eager to hear what you have to say and ever ready to drink a cup of tea whether there’s a rant to be had, or not.
Ben Jarvis proposing Ruaridh Guy
Ben was going to stand for president before he knew what was involved. This was because people saw him around a lot and Ruaridh has been around too but isn’t a gobby idiot like Ben. Wanted to get to know freshers so was around a lot during freshers week and can often be found in the bar. Is a very keen sports supporter, especially rowing and cricket and represented the university on University challenge. Is very witty although it may not come across when husting. Has a funloving side necessary for president. Does Law. Is extremely hard working and does very well at whatever he does. He is also dependable and trustworthy. That sums up what you need as a president – funloving, articulate and the best person for the job.
Ruaridh Guy
Thank you to Ben.
Thank everyone for being there. Grateful to all who turned up. College all talk about college spirit – even Van Mildert. We talk a lot about John’s spirit and that means a different thing to all of us – watching rowing from the bridge, volunteering in the Just world shop, brunch, Linton Lawn in summer, or losing money on the itbox but we are all involved. It is our involvement that makes the difference. Didn’t always know about John’s spirit. Ruaridh didn’t originally apply to John’s but it is now his home. Is a lawyer – can read reams and reams of uninteresting documents and put forward points articulately but thinks he can balance all of this with his degree and thrive on it and would be honoured to do this for college. Wants to do this because he will enjoy it. Worked on the Bailey ball, including 16-18 hour days. Also worked on CRC so is very proud and pleased that the referendum was passed.
Have already mentioned representation but this is especially relevant with the arrival of the new Senior tutor on Friday so would love to work with him and the new chaplain to integrate them within college. Also to make sure they understand students’ needs, students’ agenda, and working co-operatively.
Vac Res is also an important issue – this was a result of a lack of consultation and awareness. It is important to build strong relationships with college officers but also with the rest of the exec and would enjoy building these relationships with whoever is elected.
Representation is linked with involvement. Heard a lot in the last two years about apathy issue. Involvement depends on relevance. Would love 100% attendance but choice not compulsion is at the heart of student attendance so would not enforce attendance. Would love to make college somewhere where everyone feels important.
Wants to get involved with the centenary and represent current students’ views. For the centenary wants to invite as many of the alumni back for the celebrations and an amazing opportunity to put forward John’s spirit for prospective students. It is also a good party for today’s students. Also wants to use SEC’s expertise for organising Centenary celebrations.
Links between the halls is important but maintaining the differences is also important. Seen the experience offered by the other common rooms when on Finance Committee. Stronger together can also be seen with the DSU. May seem irrelevant beyond Hound/Revolver but have had campaigns such as keep the cap and John’s involvement in these campaigns is something we can all be proud of. Other benefits can also be seen working between halls and colleges. We are an independent college and preserving that brings great benefits, but other benefits come from working together.
He has no monopoly on good ideas but is aware that many students have good ideas and wishes to take these ideas forward. Would be a great honor to represent these ideas so thank you for your support.
Ben Salter – proposing Martin Hodgetts
Martin Hodgetts. He’s had an unfortunate life, what with being a maths student and living on the wrong side of the Pennines (something which I’m still finding it hard to forgive him for), but despite this distressing background he still wants to be President. The President’s job is laborious, time-consuming and utterly, utterly dismal at times, and often I lie awake at night wondering why anyone would ever want to do this job. To be perfectly honest, however, I admire Martin for wanting to put himself in this position entirely for the benefit of the College. Excuse me while I dip into my bag of manifesto clichés, but Martin wants to give something back to John’s, and I think that in being President he will certainly achieve this. I’m here to talk to you a little bit about why I think he’s the right man for the job, and also why his accent shouldn’t put you off voting for him.
Not all of you will know Martin as well as I do, so I think I should tell you what type of person he is. “Organised” is an understatement. “Hard-working”, “efficient”, “conscientious” and “dedicated” are also all very fitting words to describe this man. I have absolutely no worries about whether he will be able to do this job well and to his full potential. But, more importantly, there is more to him than just an Exec member. He is a wonderful friend – kind, considerate, friendly, funny, and witty. He’s the only person I know who can fit a quick coffee date with some of his best friends into his busy schedule of algebra, looking after the finances of the JCR, trigonometry, producing a play and picking which outfit to wear that day (it does take him longer than normal). What I’m trying to say is that to have a President who is not only organised enough to do the job but also friendly and approachable is a very desirable opportunity, and one that should not be wasted.
“But wait!” I hear you cry. “Surely this person is far too busy to dedicate his entire 4th year to running the College! How could he possibly fit it all in?” And to those rude people who insist on crying out during JCR meetings, I say this – he’s no stranger to pressure and time commitments. Martin has been on the Exec not once, but twice. That’s two years’ worth of experience of boring meetings and… well, more boring meetings which display his dedication and time management skills. It also shows his passion for a College which obviously means so much to him - and being on the Exec isn’t the only thing which has built up this passion for St John’s. He started off as Joint Assistant Services Manager, showing instant people skills and a focussed attitude with regards to stash negotiations and getting up early to collect the milk. He’s also a Student2Student supporter, building on his natural skills as a good listener and helping out on the Welfare team in order to provide much needed care and a listening ear – something which, as I’ve said, is also a damn good skill for a College President.
To conclude, I think that Martin Hodgetts is crazy. If I’d been on the Exec for two years and lived to tell the tale, I’d want to crawl away sharpish to spend my final year in non-political peace, never to attend a JCR meeting again (for fear it might make the nightmares come back). Having said that, I admire Martin for having the strength and passion to keep going, and for having the desire to do the important job of running the College and wanting to do it well. To me, a President is one who can not only push themselves to the limits for the demands of the job, but also one who you can talk to as you would talk to one of your friends. Should Martin get elected President, it wouldn’t go to his head. I could still talk to him in the dining room or the bar, just as I would normally. That’s why I think he should be President.
Martin Hodgetts – Hust
Thank you Ben for that introduction
Standing here in front of you all is something that I didn’t think that I would be doing for a third year running. As Ben said, I thought that I would be running away to hide from College politics, possibly somewhere in Switzerland, but here I am standing up to try and convince you as to why you should vote for me to be JHJCR President. I didn’t make this decision lightly, I have considered the implications of the huge time commitment, the strain that it can put on friendships and the loneliness that being President can bring, however having talked it over with some of my closest friends I decided that my desire to do this job would overcome these things. I would not have put my name forward if I thought I was anything but prepared to take up the mantle that Becca will leave behind, and in sticking up my manifesto in the Bailey room I committed myself to, should you vote me in, fulfilling the job of President to the very best of my ability.
However this doesn’t tell you the reasons why I decided to run for this position, for that the very nature of John’s needs to be examined. John’s is in itself an enigma nowhere else have I come across a place that comes anywhere close. Whilst taking one of the candidates for the new position of Senior Tutor round John’s I was asked how best to sum it up. The first word that came to mind was diversity. Within John’s there are so many different types of people, who generally speaking create a community that rivals most others. This diversity requires representation, so that not just certain groups of people are represented but so that every single member of this community is. John’s independence in the university provides it with an almost unique position. We have our own maintenance team and a somewhat different structure within college. To add to this, how many other undergraduate university establishments do you know that share not just their accommodation but also so much more with a community of ordinands? This individuality is reflected in John’s participation throughout the University. It’s not in many places that a Johnian’s name will not be found. Members of our community can be found to take part, and often not just small roles, in the Union, University sport and the DSU. The Bailey Theatre Company has become increasingly successful and John’s Actors can be found in a wide variety of Durham’s Theatre as well as several members of John’s holding key positions in both Purple Radio and DUOS. In fact for such a small college we are quite well known throughout the university. Yet it’s also the sense of community that we have in college itself. A hard working environment team, the home of Traidcraft, as well as so many character filled individuals that you bump into in the Bailey room or just wandering down into town. It is this sense of community which should be evident in the centenary celebrations, in which Johnian’s past and present can come together to enjoy a variety of different projects, headed by myself in conjunction with the Social Chair. All of this fills me with a sense of pride and a real desire to serve each of those people, each of you, in the best way I feel that I can.
The key way in which I feel that I can do this is through putting myself forward to fill this position. In fact the President acts as an intermediary to a variety of people, to whom the views of the JJCR need to be put across with passion and reason. It is in this area that my experiences at a JJCR, College and University level prove to be most useful. As a twice member of Exec I have learnt a lot about college politics and this has provided me with a good relationship and in some cases friendship with several members of the College Staff. As services manager I learnt how to deal with a diverse job, which required attention at all times of the day. It also developed a skill set which is needed for the role President. I’m sure that Enoch will tell you how difficult it can be at times to communicate needs to external companies and the time management skills that are required to ensure that each section of the job is fulfilled. Being Treasurer on the current exec has also taught me a lot. The chairing of committees, in order to ensure that everyone has a fair say, and the organisation and understanding required to get a VAT return in on time are amongst skills that will prove to be invaluable in the role of President. It is also through these roles that I have had an experience of working at a college level. Having been a member of house and bar committees, has given me experience in meetings mainly dominated by students. Yet Resources Committee, which is a sub committee of college council, has shown me workings of the college at a higher level. The President of St. John’s also has to represent your views to the University. My involvement in the Finance and Services Committee, which oversees budgets and decisions that the DSU makes, has provided a solid foundation from which I could go on to ensure that the views on an independent college are expressed. This will be of particular importance with the introduction of the Charities Act, in which the views of independent colleges will need to be upheld.
Yet it’s not just representation that is the President’s only job, in fact to a significant degree it is also a Welfare role. The welfare structure in John’s is strong on both a Student and College level. Yet with the absence of both a Chaplain and a Senior Tutor, the need for student welfare support has been of particular importance more recently. As a Student to Student Supporter I have received a large amount of training in a welfare capacity. Sessions such as Listening Skill’s Workshops, Welfare awareness days and participation in welfare committee in combination with my approachability and the fact that I am quite well known, provide me with a very strong background for when welfare cases should arise. One way in which guidance and support can be given to people in need is through the availability of information. It is for this reason that one of my priorities would be the structure of the JCR website. If it could be adapted to be more user friendly and informative, it would provide a great resource for people who lived both in and out of College.
In addition to this, improved communication would be beneficial to many other areas. College and Student interactions is an area in which I would like to see a development during my term in office. With recent problems of Vac Res and Facilities in Margaret’s, I believe it to be essential that college here the views of the students. By trying to increase the contact time between the JCR president and the principal, as well as inviting one of the college officers to answer questions at at least one JCR meeting every term, I would hope to significantly develop the existing relationships. The opportunity for progress that has arisen through the recent change in college staff is one that I believe it essential to utilise. By working closely with Mark Ogden, the new senior Tutor, we can begin to tackle and move forward to creating a strong working relationship between the JJCR and College. It is precisely these changes that convinced me that I would be the best person for the job of President.
With the new appointments in College, and with the three common rooms within John’s working more closely together than ever before, the drive for change and continual improvement in these areas will be reinforced and accelerated by someone who has experience in the workings of the JJCR and College. The term of president is short, and for it to be used most effectively the new president needs to hit the ground running. It will be easier for someone who has experience in many different areas to be able to find their feet at the speed that will be needed. The introduction of a Vice president to the Exec, will remove certain organisational jobs from the President and allow them to concentrate on larger areas of development. This is the first year in many that the Joint Junior Common Room Exec has met and the Member’s fund has been re-established. We are moving forward as a JJCR but this also needs work to ensure that we continue to do so. Working together to ensure fairness and equality throughout the student body, and a pooling of resources will ensure that our voices will be heard together louder and clearer than ever before.
So I stand here before you all asking to be that mouth piece to ensure that each of your voices are heard. I’ve been involved in many areas of the life of John’s students. I’ve spent time working in the Toastie Bar, the JCR and Just World Shops. I’ve participated in sporting events and stood on the sidelines cheering. I’ve lived in as both a Fresher and a Third year, and spent my second year trekking up Gilesgate. I’ve watched and taken part in Bailey Theatre Company Productions. I’m not a stranger to getting involved and stuck in to many aspects of John’s life. I have enjoyed my time here at John’s and I want to help to ensure that you and future generations of Johnians enjoy theirs. It is for that reason that I urge you all to vote in the presidential elections and if you, like I do, feel like I am the best person for the job please vote for me. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
Stevie
Many of you will not know Hadi – this may affect your choice but do not let it as this guy has his head screwed on and is so organised. Does a combination of ridiculously difficult modules in college and is so cool. My aim is to make him cry and it will never happen. He is quietly good – will not run around shouting but is worth listening to. Accepting of all religions, something which is very important in John’s – still don’t know what religion he is. Marginally disagree with his proposal to make the wearing of burkhas compulsory. Has not been on countless execs but will listen to everything and remember everything. Is hideously intelligent and on top of things. Will bring diversity to John’s and he deserves a lot more praise than I can do. It is not a question of whether Hadi would be a good president – just a job of whether you have realised it.
Hadi hust
Thank you Stevie!
So good evening everyone! As most of you would have probably figured out by now, my name is Hadi Makarem. For those of you who don’t know me already, well... WHY DON’T YOU?! Not only do I have the charm and good looks, but I do have the benefit of numerous leadership qualities which I think will make me a good representative, and more importantly, a suitable leader and President of St. John’s College! It is important for YOUR leader to hold such qualities like being a good speaker, hard working, and a fair representative of all Johnians. These are some simple, but at the same time crucial traits that President should possess, and that’s what I can provide as YOUR leader.
As President, I am willing to take on the responsibility. We may be a small college, but we are just as important as all the rest, and we are still a social framework of individuals, which needs to be looked after and represented in our university. More importantly, carrying responsibility doesn't intimidate me, because the joy of accomplishment is what leadership is all about. Another quality that I believe will stand me in good stead as president is the ability to draw the positives from criticism. I reckon this is an important asset for individuals in a prominent position. A potential leader needs to be firm and not feel discouraged. I’m a staunch believer in freedom of speech and expressing your personal views and opinions and that is what we must appreciate while living in John’s. I STRONGLY believe that if I were elected as President, I would be a tough-minded leader who sees things as they are, prepared to put in my full commitment. Leadership creates a certain separation from one's peers. The separation comes from carrying responsibility that only the President can carry.
So this brings us over to the next quality, and that is PEER RESPECT! Peer respect doesn't reveal ability, but it can show character and personality. So make sure that you vote for the person you hold in high esteem and who you believe can liaise within the student body. From this, there has to be a feeling of family respect. And we are like a family at John’s. So, we have to learn to support each other, and with that, you need a strong President who can listen to you, who is listened to, and who respects and supports all students, groups, societies, teams, and even staff. And I believe that I can take on this role, as President!Now don’t get me wrong! Being President of a College like St. John’s is hard work! I have thought about it to myself very hard, and I believe that a person who doesn't feel the thrill of a challenge is not a potential leader. I feel that I would have the ability to build on new ideas, trying to come up with even better alternatives, and that’s how I aim to work as President. I should expect political dilemmas and obstacles, and I must take them seriously. I mean, folks, I wanna ask you something – have you ever REALLY thought what politics is all about? Did you know that the word 'politics' is derived from the word 'poly', meaning 'many', and the word 'ticks', meaning 'blood sucking parasites'?! Sounds like a tough job which I am ready to handle!
Some believe that having previous experience is an advantage. And that is true. I have been Head Boy at my school, and therefore I have experience being the leading figure of the Senior School, taking the leading role in speeches, liaising between the student body and staff, and working to bring new ideas and improvements to school. HOWEVER, at the end of the day, being Head Boy is like being the teacher’s pet and it isn’t the same as being the President of a College. With no doubt, there is much more work involved in this role! To further give you a brief idea on what previous experiences I have had, I am at the moment working on the exec for the Hill Orchestra, which serves as an example of my commitment to that society. And if you remember, I also co-founded the John’s Swimming Team, and managed to get a budget passed, and this has resulted in the team becoming a huge success. This not only shows that I enjoy wearing Speedos, but it proves I have a working knowledge with how things work within the JCR, but I hope this example could help inspire you, other Johnians, to step forward and propose other new societies that you believe may be worth having, and I am willing to provide all the support necessary if I were your President! I have also learned a significant amount while attending a Cranmer Information Meeting, and a meeting with Allan Usher, head of maintenance.
Even though I have had no prior working experience within the college exec community, I view this as an asset. The point of a democracy is to bring new people into the spotlight, a new face, someone with fresh, new ideas, and a new agenda. Basically to start something different! And I believe I can offer that difference with my fresh and innovative ideas! That’s the beauty with a democratic system! It inevitably paves the way for change! And as Barack Obama continues to say, “CHANGE IS NECESSARY!” And I personally believe that change is what we need, especially with next year being the Centenary for John’s! There will, with no doubt, be some exciting new developments going on, starting with the introduction of a VP in the exec! It is important for us all to feel excited about the change, and also to feel part of it. Therefore, I believe that as President, I have the capacity to envisage progression. To come up with inspiring ideas and plans to further improve our facilities, making a new and improved looking college! This would enable us all to feel interested and enthusiastic as we plan for the future. So, I hope to take this chance as President to lead this exciting year ahead of us. WE are ALL lucky to be getting this opportunity to experience it, and we must all help each other make it a year we can all remember, and one that is imprinted in the history of our college eternally.
An important issue I must raise is that of the Vac Res! It’s really unfortunate that this year’s livers in are going through the unnecessary stress and confusion over what they should do regarding leaving belongings over the Easter Break! Personally, what has happened is unacceptable. Third years should have been warned last year when signing up to live in college since many purposely stay over the Easter break to work on their finals and dissertations. For the First years, what is more annoying than moving ALL your belongings out of college and back in next term? And what about International Students? What should they do!? I can’t imagine what I would have done since I am an International Student myself! Basically, if things carry on as they are, college should have a Plan B for storage, because what is going on at the moment is a waste of time and stress for all of us. If I were elected President, this would be the first issue I would be working on resolving!
Now we all know about the situation with selling off of the building in Margaret’s which holds the common room and laundry facilities. And I promise that as President I would put my utmost effort to protect the rights of the livers out of Margaret’s to keep these needed facilities, or to establish a new replacement which serves the purpose of having a common room and laundry facilities before anything is done with the old building.
Also, while living out myself, It became evident how much I miss being in college and just simply mingling and chatting with everyone there. St. John’s is a true community full of energy and life, and that’s what I LOVE about it! Therefore, I feel that college needs to hold some extra events, and provide even more awareness and attractions to get ALL Johnians, especially those living out, to want to visit college more regularly throughout the year. It’s a good way to get all year groups to integrate, and just simply have fun and feel like a closer knit community. The recent idea to have quizzes and comedy nights in the bar is a good way to get all members of college to attend, relax, mingle and socialise with everyone in all year groups!
I would also like to take this opportunity to stress on the importance of Welfare in our College. Johnians should continuously be aware of the work and events that Welfare holds throughout the year. We have some of the best people working for Welfare, who provide some of the best assistance to our students to help deal with any problems they may be struggling from. However, I just think that we should do more to get people more aware about what Welfare can provide to them. Maybe through fund raising events, awareness days, or even simple advertisement information. For example, more emphasis should be put on making people aware of the other student-to-student members of the welfare committee. It must be realised that awareness of the welfare’s aims and duties is what will determine how effective it is with regards to helping the students, which will in turn help our community as a whole at John’s
Now with all that said, I will give a brief listing of what I hope to achieve as President in college:
4. To hold art contests on college walls to make it feel more homely, warm and nicer to live in!
So, as I am the last one to speak, I would like to end this speech by firstly wishing all the other candidates the best of luck. And I would like to take this chance to thank this year’s exec for all their hard work, and Becca for guiding us candidates during the past couple of weeks. They have truly left a positive mark that we can all remember and respect in college. And thanks to all of you for attending the hustings tonight. Please think carefully about your votes, because next year is the year for change, SO... as you can see...
I’m making YOU an offer YOU can't refuse – VOTE FOR HADI!
Thank You!
Questions
All questions must apply to all candidates and RON. RON standing for reopen nominations. No stupid questions.
Hannah Shand – if all of you had to vote for someone who would it be other than you?
Tim – can’t talk about other candidates in questions.
Jo Crawford – in what way would candidates seek to attract new students to John’s
BA - Centenary is a really strong opportunity and looking at a college which is celebrating all year is a good start but also welfare
RG - Beyond those points – being in a bailey college other than a hill college – buildings, proximity but also the centenary.
MH - Best thing is to put all of the information into the website as that is a really good way to advertise.
HM - Centenary and bailey but also organising more events and attract people to come to college for things like bake sales etc.
Sammy Hicks - If the candidate was a member of college staff which would they be and why?
Hadi – Howard – he is such an enjoyable person to talk to.
MH - Sue Hobson – willing to have a laugh but als
RG - Alan usher – great guy and also an honorable mention to Anita and Margaret.
BA - One of her cleaners in first year – June – so tolerant of all the mess and the 6 foot narnia.
Helen Loxley – what is your opininon on getting college fairtrade status?
RG – keen on fair trade – works in fair trade shop. Not totally sure what it involves but wholely in favour.
MH – good idea but what is important is that college talk to JWS and students as they have a lot of experience.
HM – represents who we are as John’s so very important.
BA – we shine as a beacon regarding fair trade and we can be a good example to those wanting to follow in our footsteps. Also, toastie bar – good effort to be fair trade.
Richard Kelly – targeted by university to increase postgrad community – they are a little odd and older and people who have been there before and know things about the subjects we are studying. What practical ideas would you have to increase practical participation?
MH – the experience these can bring is good and integration and involvement is crucial, including working JWS, attend formals and listen to what they say so integrating halls would be very important.
HM – organising events for the centenary we will need all the halls to pull together. It doesn’t matter what
BA – in favour of reserved places at formal. Would want to leach off postgrads for information, including welfare and socially.
RG – social events inc. Bailey ball, JWS, toastie bar and also possibly academic links for postgrads to have undergrads who could ask them questions?
Antoni Otulokowski
HM – important to show that John’s is independent but don’t know about the charities act but would work with the rest of the exec on it.
BA – have experience working with a board of trustees – our independence is key but within this we should look at getting people who could help who have this expertees within college.
RG – have had the pleasure of writing an essay on the charities act – maintaining college independence is paramount. The charities act need not pose a massive difficulty.
MH – John’s doesn’t yet need to conform to it due to our annual turnover but with reference to our independence need to think about the benefits we can get from other colleges while maintaing our independence especially when forming board of trustees.
Becca Davies – what do you think I have done badly this year?
MH – Becca has been a really good figure head and has been good at getting out and being known by everyone but what has been more difficult has been managing beaurocracy is something which could be improved on.
RG – becca has been an excellent president. Difficult as haven’t had a permenant senior tutor so has had to take on a lot of extra responsibility – not Becca’s fault.
BA – done a great job and has put into motion lots of things that BA would want to continue. Lonliness is an issue so could have worked harder at being seen more.
HM – has been really hard working and not up to Hadi to say but up to Becca to say this. No one is perfect.
Ester James – want 3 common rooms to come together. What are the priorities for john’s not including party organisation.
RG – working with senior tutor
BA – promoting the value of chaplaincy – letting people know how important it is and good it is to be able to talk to the chaplain.
HM – social events and mobilising the other two commonrooms.
MH – relationship between JCR and college so that increasing the number of meetings the president has with the principal
Alex Davis – if you get the presidency what other commitments will you have?
BA – wedding. Lots of people say this is stressful but not yet.
HM – orchestra and sports but also staying with friends and socialising
MH – friendships and ensuring he keeps those up. Also keeping place on finance and services committee on DSU as this benefits John’s too.
RG – History of Art soc etc and social life and all other commitments.
Nick Robson – one of the biggest and most successful parts of Becca’s term has been her social inteaction – how would you aim to better her?
HM – don’t know but what she showed was how you can get involved with all of college making freshers feel part of all years.
MH – difficult to better Becca esp the amount she is seen in the bar – possibly greater attendance at meals as that is also when second years come in.
RG – being seen down the bar more than becca would be hard but will try. Try to implement many new ideas.
BA – maintaining what becca does is hard and the social side should be looked forward to. President sponsored bar event where president is more visable.
Peter Mead – time involved being a president. Why voted for JHJCR to have a vice-president.
BA – none of us deluded about the amount of time but VP will help. JJCR not detached from JHJCR so will have more time to dedicate time to that.
RG – two men are better than one. More things will get done.
MH – will give up lots of things. Will be a huge commitment. The job of VP will centralise things and will do one2ones taking off responsibilities of meetings so president will be able to dedicate more time.
HM – will be more efficient.
Graham Smith – biggest strength and biggest weakness?
MH - Contacts made within university and John’s – experience will prove invaluable. Can be a perfectionist and will like things just so so will put everything into it so will end up frustrated if things don’t go perfectly.
HM – like socialising like getting to know people. Too diplomatic – could be more direct.
BA – open minded. Willing to hear and respect what everyone has to stay. Can give people too much time and get bogged down in it.
RG – put many people’s ideas into practice. Inability to distance self from those delegating.
Hannah Brock – great to hear how you love Johns but have to represent those that don’t like it. What do you not like about John’s?
HM – Size as could expand leading to greater facilities.
MH – claustrophobia – speed at which John’s gossip can spread leads to it being difficult to escape.
RG – Christian ethos was difficult to acclimatise to but likes it now.
BA – agree and disagree with RG – Christian ethos is great but don’t like the fact that the stereotype of a John’s person is so strong.
Charlotte Ramsbotham – the position of president often requires a lot of time. What experience do you have of responsibility that is very time consuming and being able to continue to give this amount of time over a prolonged period.
MH – Main thing is exec work which you may not see so much – a lot of budgeting and accounts which takes a lot of time on top of a degree and producing a play and being involved in John’s. Ability to judge when I have meetings and when I can go out is key.
RG – week before bailey ball is fairly time pressured.
BA – Biggest time commitment is John’s Hall chapel Warden – many services in chapel each week and on duty for three nights a week.
HM – trick is to be patient and organised. Been on Hill orchestra exec, captain of swimming team and head boy especially.
Rob Feakes – which DSU campaigns do candidates have particular interest in?
RG – keep the cap campaign – if people can’t afford to be a student all else disappears but also societies campaign.
BA – keep the cap – have a big voice and therefore a voice which will speak the views of the students.
HM – stop funds to physics departments. Should increase funds as physics is important.
MH – welfare campaigns run throughout the university. Alcohol awareness, sexual health – at least one affects every single person.
Katheryn Sleight – what do you fear about becoming president?
BA – lonliness which she wouldn’t deal well with
HM – people doubting him but it is about representing everyone’s opinions not just his.
MH – leavers formal speech – getting names of everyone into a speech esp as many will be the year below. Being around more will enable him to say something for that speech.
RG – losing friendships and also maintaing tidiness of the flat.
Jude Robertson – what does the religious ethos of college mean to you and how would you handle it.
RG – not a bad thing and to lose that should not be contemplated. While there is that provision there for Christians make the benefits extend to the entire college.
MH – diversity is very important but embrace love, compassion and friendship are the things that characterise this so it should be a strength if done in the right way.
HM – never learned about this until he came here but just represents diversity and helps learn about life. Lebanon has 17 different religious views so makes life interesting.
BA – Christian ethos is not one of the most important thigs but what is this? Embracing everyone so shouldn’t be a difficult thing to work with if taken as being inclusive.
James Rayner – How would you help improve efficiency within exec?
MH – really important! Ensuring knowledge is spread so all people know how to fill out forms etc.
HM – Very important – just increase awareness.
BA – knowledge is power – for the person doling out the cheques – be honest if we are falling behind.
RG – Really clear simple meeting between treasurers to say how the thing will be run – it doesn’t need to be difficult.
Luke Wells – What is your view on the decision taken by last year’s exec to shut facilities?
HM – Was a fresher too and found it funny as going against opinion of other members of college. Went against whole policy of keeping facilities open to all of John’s. If you want to try and get something into people’s minds have to…sorry…
BA – a sign of how high expectations are in college. JJCR didn’t take the decision lightly and it was a real last resort so it was tough but should aim for that not to happen.
RG – angry about it as it was an inappropriate way of dealing with apathy as it is treating people like school children.
MH – transparency has improved nature by which it happened – important for people to make decisions that may be unpopular if they are the right decision, not that that was.
Victoria Justice – How will you maintain accessability and authority.
RG – accessability – be seen about. Authority – be good at the job will lead to respect.
MH – accessibility is really important and be available to be spoken to by all. By treating others with respect will lead to respect so won’t have problems with authority.
HM – accessibility by being at social ents and by talking to people respectfully will lead to respect.
BA – knowledge is power so drop in hours are important but be around college too. Authority comes with respect so earn it.