CUCCJS Executive Elections 2025/2026
Nomination Period: Monday, March 10th to Monday, March 24th at 11:59 pm
Campaign Period: Tuesday, March 25th to Tuesday, April 1st at 11:59 pm
Elections: Wednesday, April 2nd 2025 from 8 am to 11:59 pm
Results Announced: Friday, April 4th 2025
Nominations open on Monday, September 18th 2023 at 9am and close Friday, September 22nd at 11:59pm. All CUCCJS Members in Good Standing (2.4) can run for up to two (2) CUCCJS Executive Positions (9.11(b)(i)). All CUCCJS Members in Good Standing are eligible to stand for election; must be a Carleton University student and have paid the CUSA fees and CUCCJS Membership fee prior to September 22.d, 2023 (9.11(b)(ii)). All Nominees must complete the CUCCJS Nomination Form in its Entirety (9.11(b)(iii)) and submit the completed Google Form. All Nominees will receive a confirmation email by Saturday, September 23rd, 2023. The open positions are as follows: Director of Fundraising; Lower Year Representative, open to 1st and 2nd year students, and Upper Year Representative, open to students 3rd year+.
The CUCCJS Voting Form will be available on Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025 on the CUCCJS website. CUCCJS General members will also receive a link to the voting form by email. Voting members will have from 8 am to 11:59 pm to submit their vote for each executive position. Members can vote for one candidate per position. No repeat voting is allowed. All votes will be verified prior to the results being announced.
Rules:
1. To vote in the executive elections, you must be a member in good standing, as per section 2.4 of the CUCCJS constitution as of Tuesday, April 1st, 2025 at 11:59 pm.
2. All CUCCJS Members in Good Standing (2.4) are able to vote in the CUCCJS Executive Elections (2025/2026) (9.1)
3. All voting members will have one (1) vote per position in the CUCCJS Executive Elections (2024/2025) (2.3(b)).
Nominee Platforms
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Sammy Dettorre
President
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
Being on the Executive CUCCJS team since 2022, I have significant experience running the CUCCJS. I understand how to facilitate events, hold the team accountable, and treat them respectfully. Being the Vice President for this academic year, the position taught me a lot about how to lead society by getting updates on progress from other executive members and helping orchestrate meetings and events. I am very committed to the ventures I am in, very outgoing and friendly, and will always be accessible to anyone who has questions or needs assistance. My strong work ethic will allow me to further my work in the CUCCJS and execute this job faithfully and professionally.
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
The idea I want to implement is to continue creating events with the ICCJ BIOPOC Caucus. The coalition would strengthen events and fundraising efforts by reaching out to more students and creating a more inclusive and fun experience for Carleton students with multiple perspectives and backgrounds. Finally, regarding fundraising, I would be sure the money raised would go to good causes that target the current racial and gender discrimination faced on both school campuses and society, such as in employment, the current gender and racial-based violence in Canada, and the criminal justice system.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
If elected president, I will ensure that the CUCCJS produces multiple quality, interesting events that Carleton University Students can engage in. To the best of my ability, I will actively reach out to students through social media and spread the event throughout the campus to ensure they are as influential as possible. I will always hold myself and the other executives accountable for being as transparent as possible to the entire society.
Liza Marshall
President (1st choice)
Vice President (2nd choice)
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
As the current Director of Events for the Criminology Society, I bring valuable leadership, organizational, and communication skills to the team. My experience in planning and coordinating events has equipped me with the ability to manage timelines, delegate tasks effectively, and adapt to challenges, even when things don’t go all too well. Whether it was handling last-minute changes or working with a team to ensure everything came together, I’ve learned to stay focused and keep pushing forward, even when the unexpected arises. This role has given me a deep understanding of the importance of flexibility and collaboration, skills that I believe will be valuable in contributing to CUCCJS. In addition to my organizational experience, I’m excited to bring my passion for criminology, leadership, and team-oriented mindset to CUCCJS for the upcoming school year. My time in this community allowed me to connect with peers and professionals, and I look forward to leveraging those relationships to help foster a positive, inclusive environment within CUCCJS.
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
As president of CUCCJS, my main goal is to create an inclusive, dynamic, and supportive environment for all criminology students. One idea I’d like to implement is a mentorship program that pairs upper-year students with first-year students. This would help first-years navigate their academic and extracurricular activities while fostering a sense of connection within the Carleton community. In addition to mentorship, I want to prioritize clear and consistent communication within the society. By ensuring that students have access to timely information, we can increase participation and encourage a more active, engaged membership.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
As president, my priority will be to create a well-organized, inclusive, and efficient environment where every student feels empowered. I plan to ensure the CUCCJS is represented at major events like Academic Orientation Day and CUSA Clubs and Societies Day, ensuring that Carleton students are aware of all the incredible opportunities available to them—from workshops and networking events to social gatherings. By showcasing CUCCJS’s activities, we can build a stronger presence within the broader Carleton community. In addition, I aim to foster strong partnerships with CUSA and other student organizations, while also creating more opportunities for academic and career development. This includes working with other executives within the CUCCJS and partnering with other groups to ensure that CUCCJS members are prepared for success beyond university. Above all, I want to maintain a welcoming, supportive environment where everyone feels they truly belong.My commitment is to make sure CUCCJS continues to thrive by building a collaborative, transparent, and ever-evolving community that supports the growth and development of all its members. As well, I’m eager to dive in and contribute to the team, bringing fresh ideas, dedication, and a commitment to making this year one for the books. So the real question is, are you ready for it?
Summer Debus
Vice President (1st choice)
Director of Careers & Volunteers (2nd choice)
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
I will bring my leadership experience from planning career panels in my previous role as the director of careers and volunteers. Having experience in planning these events has given me communication and collaboration skills to support other members of the society in their various roles.
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
As vice president of CUCCJS I have various plans to try and further improve the society for all members. Firstly, in working with the president, I hope to further expand the merch options and give more agency to the members when it comes to designing criminology merchandise. Furthermore, I aim to advocate for more trips and events to strengthen the CUCCJS community.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
I will improve CUCCJS by committing to implementing the changes outlined above where possible. Furthermore, I will support the other executive members within the society as vice president to ensure operations run smoothly which will maintain and improve the functionality of CUCCJS
Elizabeth Zomparelli
Vice President (1st choice)
Director of Travel (2nd choice)
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
As the current Director or Travel I have had the opportunity to build upon my verbal and written communication skills. As well I am a very outgoing person who is always looking to connect with others and aims to create a sense of community. I am very present within campus life, I’ve volunteered during fall orientation, and work on campus as a tour guide. Through these experiences I have been able to improve my organizational and time management skills that I will bring to the team next year.
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
In my role I would like to implement more opportunities for trips both in Ottawa and outside Ottawa and be able to possible plan multiple trips/outings a semester instead of just one. As well as try to interact and take suggestions from the members of the society. Being able to see what events members want to see more of, or information you want CUCCJS to provide. To be able to improve the society and shape the community to be the best space for members, and be a club people want to be apart of. This could include surveys/polls on Instagram or sending out a google
form at the beginning of the year to here from the members of what they want to get out of the society, so we can provide the best experience for members.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
I want the CUCCJS to be a safe and friendly community for all students both within the Criminology at Carleton, and those who are apart from other programs. I want to help improve communication throughout both the executive team and the general members. This way events can run smoothly, and everyone can stay informed about what the CUCCJS are up to for the year. I want to make CUCCJS a great experience for both executive members and general members through continuing events and inclusive initiatives, meaningful networking opportunities, skill-building workshops, and a supportive environment. This way we can continue fostering a learning environment while also creating a social place to meet new people.
Zev Fenning
Treasurer
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
As the current treasurer, I have gained experience in managing budgets and tracking expenses. Over the past year I have been able to ensure that all transactions were properly recorded. I have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and high
accountability to the team. My ability to manage funds responsibly, prepare financial reports, and collaborate effectively with other team members to ensure that financial operations run smoothly. I aim to continue contributing to the success of the team and further enhance our financial management practices.
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
As treasurer, I would like to implement a budget that is brought forward at the beginning of the year with all projected events. In doing so, funds can be allocated to all events and ensure that they, at the end of the year, also have the best success possible. This budget will allow for events to be better managed and give a guideline at the beginning of the year into what the year will look like.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
In order to improve the function of the CUCCJS, I will discuss with the other executives at the beginning of both semesters their plans for events. In doing so, I can plan the budget accordingly and ensure that the funds can be allocated to each event it is needed for. Also, I would discuss with the executive running the next event a week or two in advance of it to ensure they have a rough estimate of the costs involved. In doing so, funds can be tracked and monitored against the account.
Kayla Williams
Director of Events (1st choice)
Secretary (2nd choice)
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
Come next fall I will have been involved with CUCCJ for 3 years now. As someone who has spent most of the time as a regular member, I understand the wants and needs of members, as I have been on the receiving end of CUCCJ services and events. With that in mind, communication is one of my top skills. When looking at events for next year, student input is critical to me. I am always seeking feedback and recommendations to improve my own services, so if students are advocating for certain events I will always give 110% to make that happen! Additionally, I was always in charge of keeping my nephew entertained at home, so if I can keep him engaged, I can definitely do the same for you! In all seriousness, I have extensive work and volunteer experience involving social engagement, administrative tasks (emails, phone calls, etc.), as well as leadership positions as a victim support worker and teacher for Cadets Canada. While these rolls may seem like they have nothing to do with events or secretary, these skills have allowed me to become the bubble and outgoing person I am today!
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
As director of events I would love to implement new events that haven’t been done before! As director, I am looking to do some more concentration focused events such as a mock trial or a case study for forensic psychology. As director my goal is to work with students to create events that will be fun and educational, and can contribute meaningfully to your experience at Carleton! Moreover, I would love the opportunity for criminology students to get out and about Ottawa. As director, I am seeking to book more fieldtrip like events so you can gain a sense of what the city has to offer, and get us off campus more. I would also like to do more events that are in appreciation of our students and faculty, and host higher profile events like a crim gala or end of year banquet to appreciate student involvement in CUCCJS.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
I will improve the CUCJ by fostering a more inclusive environment. By focusing on having more vents per semester, I aim to give more opportunities for students to participate in CUCCJ as schedules may not always align with the few events hosted. By becoming director, I hope to give the CUCCJ a fresh perspective as someone who has spent most of her time in CUCCJ as a traditional member. Additionally, as an executive member, I will collaborate more with other Carleton clubs to build connections with other areas in the university, and open new opportunities for criminology member interested in other areas the school offers. Overall I believe I will contribute positively to the Criminology Society and am very excited to represent our program!
Lacey Stenson
Director of Education (1st choice)
Director of Careers and Volunteers (2nd choice)
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
As the previous Director of Education for the 2024-2025 year, I bring grounded experience within the role to the team. Through this, I have experience designing study sessions, and guided study workshops. As well, through this prior experience I bring skills of event coordination and consistency. Additionally, outside of CUCCJS I actively participate in research and volunteering. These external experiences have led me to develop research skills and identify potential ideas for workshops which have broader applications to criminology and our club members! With these experiences, I have also developed strong communication tools and motivational tools which I think will benefit the team strongly!
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
In my role I would like to continue the monthly study sessions in addition to the new workshops with further incorporation of student feedback. By implementing a Director of Education “message box” club members can
engage with our society further and provide their opinion on the kind of workshops they want to see. The message box would be opened at the end of the last session/by beginning of the month and remain open for 1 week with the option to submit multiple ideas. Then the top 3 would be posted to our Instagram story for voting! Seeking direct input from students will also ensure the workshops provided are best suited for club members and can apply to the courses they are taking. Further, I would like to implement a once per semester debate night focusing on criminology issues voted on
during the semester.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
Through frequent engagement and feedback from club members, I will improve CUCCJS by making it more engaging and easier to access. By hosting monthly study sessions and workshops, events will be frequent and provide club members and the Carleton criminology with opportunities to engage critically with studies in peer settings. Implementing the message box will lead me to improve CUCCJS by facilitating direct feedback to the director of education improving event participation and accuracy. Further, I seek to improve CUCCJS by providing a welcoming space to all individuals attending events. All sessions I host are open to everyone and value fostering positive inclusive relationships between club members. I hope to improve CUCCJS by providing a welcoming and warm setting to motivate our current members and new members!
Megan O'Grady
Director of Media
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
Through my experience as the CUCCJS Director of Media during the 2024-2025 school year, I have been able to develop skills that I will continue to refine if elected again. I have lots of experience in using Canva to create aesthetically pleasing Instagram posts which is essential to the role. I enjoy collaborating with other executive members to ensure CUCCJS initiatives are engaging and inclusive. If elected, I will continue to be committed to the overall success of the CUCCJS.
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
I would like to make the CUCCJS social media accounts more interactive. I think that general members should have more of a voice in deciding what events the society runs. As Director of Media, I would use social media to ask members what events they are interested in to increase participation and ensure that CUCCJS events reflect the interests of its members.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
As Director of Media, I would improve CUCCJS by giving members more of a voice in deciding what events the society runs. By using Instagram polls and Q&As, I would turn the social media accounts into a more interactive platform for
suggestions from CUCCJS members. Overall, I would work to turn CUCCJS social media platforms into a space where members are able to share their ideas and feel heard and valued.
Banan Abulaila
Director of Media
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
I have experience in social media management and content creation that I believe will be valuable for CUCCJS. As the social media coordinator for Emile Furniture in Jordan, I developed creative content and engaged with our online
audience, helping to grow the brand's digital presence. I also run a public account where I create visually appealing posts, which has sharpened my design and branding skills. A couple of years ago, I took photography classes, which helped me improve my ability to capture great visuals for online content. With these skills in graphic design, photography, and strategic planning, I’m excited to help enhance CUCCJS’s media presence and connect with more students.
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
In this role, I’d focus on improving regular event updates through social media to keep students informed and engaged. I’d create a simple, consistent posting schedule for event reminders and society updates, making sure everyone is aware of upcoming opportunities. I’d also like to stream or share recaps of events for those who can’t attend in person and create recap reels to highlight the best moments from our events. These changes would help create a more connected and informed student body.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
In this role, I plan to improve CUCCJS by enhancing our online presence and making communication more effective. I will ensure regular and engaging updates about events, meetings, and opportunities through social media and recap reels of events to keep students informed and involved. I’ll also focus on creating a more interactive experience by incorporating polls, Q&As, and event reminders that keep the community engaged. Additionally, I aim to highlight CUCCJS’s events in a way that attracts more students and ensures that everyone feels included and up to date. These efforts will help strengthen our community and increase participation in CUCCJS activities.
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
Being apart of the Media team has been nothing but fun. Utilizing Canva, Wix and LinkTree has honed my technology skills greatly, which will be SO beneficial for both the positions I’m applying for!
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
I’d love to receive more feedback from club members! Posting polls, surveys, doing Q&A’s etc. I think it will be greatly appreciated and important for the executives, current club members, and future club members!
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
Providing a “spotlight” on students allowing them to have a say in what they’d like to see in the upcoming school year! Whether it be event ideas, media promotions, or collaborations with other clubs, it is SUPER important we continue to make
CUCCJS a welcoming space for everyone:)
Emily Ukena
Upper Year Representative (1st choice)
Director of Media (2nd choice)
Brianna Broersma
Upper Year Representative (1st choice)
Secretary (2nd choice)
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
Keeping track of deadlines is very important in the school itself, and keeping track of tasks, deadlines, and responsibilities supports different directors. Historically, I have been good with collaboration on group projects as well, helping the executive team to execute initiatives successfully.
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
I would try to promote events by using social media and posters to increase participation and attendance. I would gather input from students about their interests and expectations for CUCCJS to help tailor events and opportunities that align with their academic needs. I would also work closely with the secretary, director of fundraising, membership, careers, volunteers, and events to ensure all activities run smoothly and receive adequate promotion.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
I would act as a liaison between the executive team and the criminology student body, ensuring that important information is effectively shared. Assist in the organization and execution of events, including fundraising initiatives,
career-related opportunities, and volunteer efforts. Utilize diverse promotional methods, including word-of-mouth and social media engagement, to increase awareness of CUCCJS activities. I would also work closely with executive members to streamline event planning and help ensure tasks are efficiently completed. I would also continue attending meetings and events regularly to support the club initiatives and be an approachable representative for students.
Charita Ponnada
Director of Fundraising
What skills and/or experience will you bring to the team?
I bring a variety of skills and experiences to the team. I have previously volunteered to raise funds for events like Relay for Life, which has helped me develop strong fundraising and promotional abilities. Additionally, I have experience working in customer service, where I honed my interpersonal communication skills. I’ve also worked in sales which has further strengthened my ability to engage with people and work effectively in dynamic environments.
What ideas would you like to implement in your role?
I would love to repeat the events from the current year such as the clothing drive, and sticker sales. Other events I’d like to implement are silent auctions, and raffles.
How will you improve CUCCJS in your role?
My aim is to bring new ideas, not explicitly fundraising events but for other parts of the society such as field trips and events. I also hope to increase the number of people signing up for the society!