IGNITE Election

Each winter semester, IGNITE holds its annual Board of Directors election. This is an opportunity for students to actively shape how their student union represents supports, and advocates for them.

Ten student leaders are elected to represent the four campuses of Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber, forming one unified Board.

The election is open to eligible students, with candidates campaigning during the winter semester and voting taking place shortly after. This process ensures that leadership remains student-driven, with each new Board bringing fresh perspectives and ideas for the year ahead.

See who’s representing you this year!

Meet your 2026-2027 Board of Directors

Take control of the on-campus student experience with IGNITE.

Be part of choosing the student leaders who govern IGNITE, your student union at Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber. IGNITE elections give students a direct role in deciding who provides oversight, accountability, and long-term direction for one of Canada’s largest student unions. Whether you run as a candidate, nominate someone, or vote, your participation helps strengthen student-led governance. 

Why Elections Matter 
IGNITE’s Board of Directors is the highest student-governed decision-making body within the organization. Board Directors are responsible for governance. This means they:

  • Provide oversight of the organization 
  • Approve policies and budgets 
  • Hold leadership accountable 
  • Protect IGNITE’s mission and strategic direction 
     

Students elect these Directors to ensure that IGNITE continues to operate transparently, responsibly, and in the best interests of students. 

How to Get Involved:

Run for a Position

If you care about accountability, ethical leadership, strategic thinking, and making sound decisions that affect students, you may be a strong candidate for the Board of Directors. 

Eligibility Requirements 

  • Full-time student 
  • In good academic standing 
  • Completed at least one semester at any post-secondary institution
  • Must meet nomination requirements in the Nomination Package

Nomination Requirements

Candidates must submit:

  • Transcript
  • Completed Candidate Signature Form
  • Approved photo
  • Two short candidate-focused responses (50 words each) 

How to Apply 

  1. Review the Nomination Package 
  2. Collect campus-specific signatures 
  3. DEADLINE EXTENDED: Submit online before Jan. 30, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.

Once your nomination is verified, you must attend a mandatory Candidate Information Session.

Campaigning

The Campaign Period gives verified candidates the opportunity to show students why they are prepared to serve as Board Directors.
During this time, candidates may: 

  • Share their qualifications and leadership strengths
  • Introduce themselves to students and encourage participation in the election
  • Highlight experiences that prepare them for governance and oversight
  • Campaign in line with all posting, approval, and election policies 

Vote

All full-time fee-paying students may vote for the Director representing their home campus. 

How to Vote 

During Voting Period, eligible students will receive a unique voting link to their email. Voting is online and takes only a few minutes. 

Meet Your Candidates

FAQs:

What is the role of a Board Director at IGNITE?

Board Directors provide governance and oversight for the student union. This includes approving policies and budgets, setting strategic priorities, monitoring organizational performance, and ensuring accountability to students.

Do I need prior governance experience to run?

No. Governance experience is helpful but not required. Directors receive extensive training and ongoing support. What matters most is your ability to think critically, communicate clearly, act ethically, and take governance responsibilities seriously.

How much time should I expect to commit if I’m elected?

The Director role includes Eight Board meetings (approx. 4 hours each), Mandatory Orientation & Training (April 29–May 1), Participation on at least one Board committee, and Monthly governance learning sessions in the summer. The commitment is steady but manageable for full-time students.

Important Dates

  • Nominations Period – Deadline extended: Jan. 12 – Jan. 30, 2026
  • Campaign Period – Feb 2 – Feb 20, 2026
  • Voting Period – Feb 23 – Feb 27, 2026 
  • Results announced – Feb 27, 2026
  • Board Training – Apr 29 – May 1, 2026

Resources

Questions about Elections?

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