Candidate Profile

Tell students about yourself

Hi everyone! I’m Josh, formerly a human geography student, and now JCR President up at Butler. During my time in Durham, I’ve engaged with many things, including leadership positions such as Butler Welfare Officer, Nightline Publicity Officer, President of Eurovision Society and Butler Pride Society, as well as taking part in a variety of college sports including hockey, rounders, and volleyball, and getting involved in organizing Fashion Show, Summer Ball, and Butler Day last year.

If elected, what sort of Officer can students expect you be?

As SU President, students can be assured that I’ll represent them at the highest level within the university and will aim to increase direct communication from students to the SU, as well as working closely with Common Room leadership to do this effectively. I would bring expertise here, from my roles as JCR President and Vice/Interim Chair of PresComm this year: taking meetings with senior university staff, working with fellow student leaders, and frequently listening to student feedback and acting upon it. I also vow to continue Abi’s work of raising student awareness of the big issues that affect them.

Why is this role important to you?

I’m passionate about creating a Durham University built for, and inclusive to, all Durham students, both undergraduates and postgraduates. Having been here four years, and working as JCR President this year, I’m acutely aware that this isn’t always the case.

Financially, for instance, prices have increased whilst service level has decreased, meaning that students are paying more, and receiving less. As President, I’d press the university to commit to not cutting student services or raising prices for students beyond inflation, instead encouraging them to seek alternative means to supplement financial deficits.

Meanwhile educationally, students have regularly experienced strikes without financial compensation, whilst our deadlines and extensions policies are harsher than other UK universities. Alongside the Education Officer, I’d advocate for this financial compensation and fair deadline policies. Finally, I’d continue my work for the community, through advocating for colleges and common rooms, and for hate incident support, and SMV prevention.

What is your pitch to students?

I am passionate about advocating for financial inclusivity, social justice, and educational fairness for all students, both undergraduates and postgraduates. I would use my existing experience, connect with student representatives, and increase direct communication with students to do this most effectively.