Run - Decide - Vote -

Run - Decide - Vote -

SAOC is holding an election for the Board of Directors for the 2026-27 academic year.

Our Board of Directors and Executive Council are Olds College students elected by their peers to serve one-year terms and set the strategic direction for the organization. Board members operate collaboratively with the Executive Director and core staff.

Will you be part of the change? Nominations are open now through September 28, 2026.

DOWNLOAD A NOMINATION PACKAGE

Here’s what you need to know:

Who can run?

Any member of the students’ association.


That probably means you! As long as you’re a student who’s paid their fees and you’re in good academic standing, you’re free to run.

The nomination period is from September 14, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. until September 28, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.

How do I decide?

Get to know the candidates throughout the campaign period! That’s from September 28, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. until October 7, 2026 at noon.

You’ll see posters around campus, candidates might use social media to win your vote, and each nominee will have short bios on our site. Keep an eye on your SAOC newsletter!

We’re also hosting a Candidates Mixer in The Crossing on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Stop by to meet your candidates, ask them about their campaign priorities, and make an informed decision when it’s time to vote!

How do I vote?

As a member of the SAOC, you have the right to vote in any and all of our elections.

Keep an eye on your student email for details, but know now that the voting period is from October 7, 2026 at noon until October 9, 2026 at noon.

All voting is online, so all you need is your phone, laptop, tablet - anything with an internet connection!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes! All current students in good academic standing are eligible to run for a position on the Board of Directors.

  • No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn and represent your peers. Training and support are provided after the election to help you succeed in your role.

  • The Board of Directors represents the student body, makes decisions about SAOC’s direction and budget, and advocates for student needs. It also oversees major initiatives, policies, and long-term planning.

  • Any one you want! It all depends on your interests and your strengths. Review the descriptions of each role or speak to a current board member or elections officer to help you decide.

  • You’ll need to complete a nomination package, submit a 250-word bio, and send us your campaign headshot. Detailed instructions and deadlines can be found in the nominations package, which will be made available on this webpage throughout the nomination period.

  • How you choose to campaign is up to you. Use this opportunity to tell students who you are and why you're running—this could include posters, social media, and classroom visits.

    All campaign activities must follow the guidelines set out by the elections office.

  • Board meetings occur once monthly and are usually three hours long.

    You’ll also need to spend a few hours preparing for them in advance, reviewing the agenda and supporting documents.

    You can also participate in Board committees: committee meetings are about one hour long, usually once monthly.

  • New board members receive orientation and training at the beginning of their term, along with ongoing support from staff and experienced board members. You’ll learn about governance, budgeting, advocacy, and more.

  • No.

    You don’t have to spend any money to run for the Board of Directors. Candidates are allowed to spend up to $100 on their campaign if they choose to, but campaign costs are not covered by SAOC.

  • Many board members successfully balance school, part-time jobs, and their role! It really depends on your lifestyle, the intensity of your academic program, and your priorities.

  • Absolutely. The Board benefits from a range of personalities and perspectives—being thoughtful, a good listener, or detail-oriented can be just as valuable as being outspoken. Everyone brings something unique to the table.

Still have questions?

No worries, we’ve got your back. The Chief Returning Officer who oversees all SAOC elections is the Executive Director, Celia Sutton. Reach out anytime by emailing saoced@oldscollege.ca.