Kristin Smith
Having spent most of my time as a student union executive online, Kristin Smith and I have never met in person, though we work together almost daily. Leading a federal advocacy organization virtually has been no easy feat. Between scheduling a national lobby week, meeting with decision-makers, and working to formalize this loose coalition of student unions, we have had our work cut out for us.
However, despite the workload, Kristin has been a rock at UCRU through this year. She volunteers for tasks others cannot do and participates in every corner of the organization – there is no committee or working group that she does not have her hand in. She remains actively engaged while leading significant advocacy efforts on her campus, including dealing with a faculty strike at the University of Manitoba, which luckily was averted.
Though she is one of the youngest board members at UCRU, it doesn’t show. Kristin is only in the 3rd year of her studies at the University of Manitoba but has advocacy intuition beyond her years. Her ability to speak to government officials double her age with poise and confidence impresses even seasoned staffers. She asks critical questions on the spot and knows how to blend statistics and personal anecdotes into the perfect blend of persuasive advocacy.
Even with our differences in time zones, Kristin is always ready to take an early morning meeting. She often sends me emails before I wake up in the morning (and she is one time zone behind!). Kristin does this while taking courses at the University of Manitoba and studying for the LSAT in her free time. Talk about a powerhouse.
This year has been a challenging one: online meetings are stressful and making connections with new people through a screen is difficult. Through all this, Kristin has thrived and proves everyday that hard work, diligence, and passion will improve our student advocacy efforts despite the barriers. She inspires me to work harder and dream bigger. Her bright demeanour lightens up our online meetings. I am lucky to be working with Kristin on such a large project. She is a valued colleague and friend who has not only given me a reason to visit Manitoba but pushed me to be my best during a whirlwind of a year for student advocacy.