Why voting in the IGNITE Election matters

Voting is around the corner! Here’s why you should be the first in line.

In the past few weeks, you might have heard about the nominations for the IGNITE Board of Directors—or you might have even applied as a candidate.

The Board of Directors is made up of 10 students who mediate communication between you, the student body, and IGNITE.

As you can see, this is a crucial role, and choosing the right candidate will dictate many decisions affecting student life—which impact every student at Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber.

So, let’s dive into the reasons why you should be the first to participate in this election!

Your vote, your voice

This is your time to decide what you want to see on campus—remember, every vote counts!

The candidate you vote for represents what you stand for. Plus, you can advocate for a candidate from your community who you believe can be a changemaker!

Voting is also a chance to encourage your peers and friends to get involved. The more students vote, the bigger the impact.

How your vote shapes campus policies

University of Dayton campus life Gif — *Via GIPHY*

Your vote influences what campus life will look like in the next school year.

It impacts important decisions such as budgeting, strategic planning and new campus initiatives.

Elected student representatives advocate for a better day-to-day student experience, including policies that affect financial security, career success and equity and inclusion.

This means voting gives you a direct say in policies that benefit the campus community.

Empower yourself through leadership

"You Have The Power" Gif from The Natural Resources Defense Council — *Via GIPHY*

Don’t wait for change—be part of it!

Through the IGNITE Election, you can take an active role as a student. Whether you’re the one being nominated or casting your vote, getting involved is already a form of leadership.

Think about how powerful it feels to know that your actions, no matter how small they may seem, make an impact. Especially when you’re advocating for better student resources and inspiring others to do the same.

Ready to meet the candidates?

IGNITE Election representatives — *Picture by IGNITE*

The nomination period is over and now it’s time to discover who might be part of the Board of Directors!

The campaigning period will take place from Feb. 4, 2025, to Feb. 13, 2025. And you’ll even have the chance to meet the candidates in person.

Save the date and time for your campus to stay informed and find out which candidate stands out to you:

North Campus: E Concourse, Feb. 10, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Downtown Campus: 4th floor, Feb. 11, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Lakeshore Campus: L Building, 2nd floor, Feb. 12, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
UofGH Campus: Atrium, Feb. 13, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

When and where to vote in the IGNITE Election

Students voting at IGNITE Election — *Picture by IGNITE*

Now, the real deal: Voting Week!

You’ll have the chance to participate in Voting Week and support a candidate from your campus—if you attend Lakeshore, you vote for a candidate from Lakeshore, and the same applies to each campus.

All fee-paying students from Humber and UofGH can vote from Feb. 24, 2025, to Feb. 28, 2025. There will be voting booths all around campuses, and you can also vote online!

These are just a few reasons why you should participate in Voting Week for the IGNITE Election.

The Board of Directors is composed of students who, just like you, want the best for the community and represent shared values within the student body.

Remember, the main purpose of voting is to be part of the change and advocate for what YOU want in your student life.

So, get your ballots ready because you and I are going to be the first ones in line!

Feature image via IGNITE.

Need more reasons to vote? Check out why you should participate in the IGNITE Election!