Last month, two MRU students walked the halls of Parliament Hill, sat across from Members of Parliament, and made sure your concerns were heard at the highest levels of government.
SAMRU REC President, Tala Abu Hayyaneh, and SAMRU REC Vice President External Mariana Mejia Salazar, travelled to Ottawa for the Canadian Alliance of Student Association’s (CASA)’s Advocacy Week (Nov. 17–21), joining student leaders from across the country to push for change on the issues that matter most to you: housing affordability, student grants, and access to work-integrated learning.
Why this matters
This kind of advocacy has a track record. Over the past decade, CASA’s work has contributed to real policy wins—including the elimination of interest on federal student loans, a 40% increase to Canada Student Grants (now $4,200/year), and federal investment in student housing. These aren’t abstract victories. They show up in your financial aid package.
Advocacy Week is how that work gets done: face-to-face meetings where student leaders present research, share stories, and push politicians to act.
Who they met
Abu Hayyaneh and Salazar met with MPs, ministers, senators, and government staff throughout the week, including:
- MP David MacKenzie (Calgary Signal Hill) — MRU’s own MP, who asked detailed questions about the impact of affordable student housing investment
- Ginette Lavack, Parliamentary Secretary for Indigenous Services Canada, who acknowledged frustration around the Canada Student Grant not keeping pace with inflation
- MP Jacob Mantle (York-Durham) discussed affordable housing funding and stakeholder consultation for apprenticeship programs
- Carina Gabriel, Staff for Women and Gender Equality (WAGE), confirmed ongoing engagement and relationship-building with student organizations
- Minister Patty Hajdu (Jobs and Families), Senator Colin Deacon, MP Leslie Church, MP Greg McLean, and others
A moment of reflection
For Abu Hayyaneh, this was her final Advocacy Week after two years representing students at the federal level.
“I am left with an immense amount of gratitude for the students I’ve worked with, advocating for half a million students across Canada,” she said. “It’s an incredible honour to have been part of this journey.”
Your turn?
REC applications are now open for the upcoming spring election. If you want a seat at tables where decisions get made—and a chance to carry this work forward. You can find more information on the application process and how to apply here!
]]>Whether you’re facing academic or non-academic challenges, it’s good to know you’re not alone. Your Students’ Association has a dedicated resource just for you: the Student Advocacy Resource Centre (SARC) at Wyckham House!
To share everything SARC has to offer in Room Z211, we chatted with Ayesha, the Advocacy Resource and Support Coordinator, to learn about her role and how SARC’s programs support students with a wide range of advocacy concerns.
Keep reading to learn more about Ayesha’s role at the Students’ Association and how SARC provides essential support and guidance for students facing academic or personal challenges.
Tell us about yourself!
I’m Ayesha Khalid, the Advocacy Resource and Support Coordinator here at SAMRU. I’ve been with the team since 2019, focusing on empowering students and helping them build the skills to advocate for themselves. Outside of work, I’m passionate about travelling and enjoy painting in my free time.
What is the Student Advocacy Resource Centre?
The Student Advocacy Resource Centre (SARC) provides confidential services and support to individual students who have academic and/or non-academic advocacy concerns and questions.
What types of services and support do you offer to students?
Some of our services include final grade appeals, requirements to withdraw, incomplete grades, withdrawal with cause, correspondence review and more. We also help students prepare for meetings and accompany them as support people.
A common misconception is that we advocate on behalf of the student, which is not the case. Rather, we empower and help equip students with the skills they need to advocate for themselves.
Lastly, we also provide internal and external resources to students in need so they feel supported on and off campus.
What do you hope students take away from their experience with SARC?
I hope that when students leave the centre, they feel empowered, heard and have adequate resources to take the next steps. I want students to be aware that they are not alone in times of distress, and that SARC is there to support them as they navigate through their academic concerns.
Where can students find the Student Advocacy Resource Centre?
SARC is here to support you on the second floor of Wyckham House in Room Z211. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, and while walk-ins are welcome, booking an appointment helps us to best serve you. To make an appointment, head to the SAMRU website and fill out our online booking form or access the link here. Our team will follow up to confirm a time that works for you – either online or in person.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I am aware that advocacy may seem a bit daunting at times, especially in crisis. However, we try our best to help maintain a welcoming and positive environment while we support students through their journey. We look forward to meeting you!
You can reach Ayesha at [email protected] or book an appointment anytime Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.
For general inquiries, contact us at [email protected].
]]>If you’ve ever grabbed lunch in the food court, attended a club event in the Gallery, or caught a show at West Gate Social, you’ve been part of a legacy that started more than sixty years ago with one simple idea; students should have a space to call their own.
Back in 1963, nearly 50 years before it became a university, Mount Royal College (MRC) students didn’t have that. At this time, Mount Royal College was located in the downtown core of Calgary.
The Student Council met wherever it could, relying on generosity from the college administration for space, funding, and even permission to operate.
That changed when a young business instructor named Robert Wyckham joined their retreat in Banff; and listened to their frustrations.
“During the retreat, I suggested a way of raising money from the student body on an annual basis which would free the Council to operate in a more independent manner,” Wyckham recounted.
At the time, an idea like this was relatively unheard of, but it paid off.
Within two years, Council members had raised enough to buy a small house just up the street from the downtown campus. They called it Wyckham House, in honour of the instructor who helped them take that first step toward autonomy.
“I didn’t think I deserved such an honour, but I was thrilled to be asked,” Wyckham wrote.
Continued Growth of Wyckham House as Enrollment Rates Sore
Over the next couple of decades, MRC experienced a sharp rise in student enrollment rates.
To accommodate this increase, Mount Royal moved to its current Lincoln Park campus in 1972; students ensured Wyckham House came with it, not just in name, but in spirit.
Dr. Wyckham returned for the sod-turning of the new Wyckham House in 1984 and again for its 10th, 20th and 30th anniversary celebrations. By this time, the Student Council had outgrown a simple house, requiring an entire building for meetings, events and student centres.
The 10th anniversary celebration stands out as a truly special day for Wyckham House.
With former Premier Ralph Klein present, the next stage of development for Wyckham House was announced.
“The building seems always to be a work in progress,” Wyckham wrote regarding the space that keeps evolving with each generation of students.
The Past, Present and Future
Dr. Wyckham went on to earn his Ph.D. from Michigan State University and became a professor of marketing at Simon Fraser University.
His teaching and research have had a profound impact on many students over the years. Yet his early contribution here at Mount Royal remains one of his most enduring legacies: empowering students to manage their own affairs and create their own community.
“Each time I wear the 10th anniversary commemorative t-shirt, I recall the energy and commitment of the students who manage the affairs of Wyckham House,” Wyckham wrote.
That independent spirit continues to guide the Students’ Association of Mount Royal University (SAMRU) today. As outlined in SAMRU’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, one of the Association’s core goals is to make the Wyckham House Student Centre an indispensable part of campus life; a place where every student feels connected, supported, and empowered.
So next time you walk through Wyckham House, whether it’s for a meal, a club meeting, an event, or just a break between classes, take a moment to think of the student leaders and the professor who started it all.
Their vision lives on in every conversation, every idea, and every friendship formed within these walls.
When Alexandra Daignault enrolled in an Indigenous Studies course at Mount Royal University, she didn’t expect it to inspire a social enterprise blending activism, community, and culture, one cup at a time.
Daignault, a former English major with a focus on post-colonial theory, recently returned to campus as a guest speaker.
For her, the trip was more than just revisiting her alma mater — it was a full-circle moment.
To understand why this trip was extra special, we have to go back a couple of years. Daignault was a student majoring in English with a focus on post-colonial theory.
“I was talking to my grandmother (whose family is from Trinidad), who was hugely impactful,” Daignault said. “We talked a lot about our role in post-colonial futures, and how our communities had been complicit in supporting colonial projects.”
Her grandmother’s encouragement led her to take the next step in her education.
“One day, my nan said, ‘If you really want to take this work forward, we have to take an Indigenous Studies class.’” “So I registered in a course led by Dr. Renee Watchman and that’s really where everything started to click.
How One Class Changed Her Life
Daignault recounted her very first class where she met Dr.Watchman. Within minutes, she knew this would be no ordinary class.
“Dr. Renee Watchman walked in with long hair and Fluevog boots and was just the coolest ever,” Daignault said.
She explained the class project: students had to bring activism into their everyday life, a task that would account for 60 per cent of their grade.
Throughout the semester, Daignault studied activist movements like the Oka Crisis, the Occupation of Alcatraz, and the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
“What struck me about this topic was that in my communities, we also have a lot of missing women, a lot of violence towards women and girls, but there was no way of bringing these communities together in conversation,” Daignault said.
From Coursework to Social Enterprise: Building Community Impact
Daignault wondered what could be done. It was at a routine trip to Good Earth Coffee where she would have her “aha” moment.
Daignault looked at her plain Good Earth cup and wondered why there wasn’t any tea that raised awareness on the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
“There wasn’t any tea that raised awareness on the issue and used locally sourced ingredients. I thought, what if there was a tea that did both; and donated part of the proceeds to support missing and murdered women?”
Daignault created hand-stitched tea bags and sourced ingredients with help from her aunt’s store. She submitted the project and earned an “A”, but the idea wouldn’t leave her alone.
“I couldn’t stop thinking about it,” she said.
Throughout the next few years, Daignault took business classes and sought guidance from elders. It was after a friendly jokingly said, “You’ll never know if this is a good idea until you actually sell a bag of tea,” that her idea finally became a reality.
Daignault rushed home, got supplies from Staples, put the product together, and launched an Etsy store. Overnight, she sold approximately 200 units.
Things were only up from here. Her company, Sarjesa, has grown into a socially conscious brand found in cafes across Calgary and recently became the tea provider at West Gate Perks in Wyckham House.
Giving Back to the Next Generation
“Coming back to campus and seeing our tea served here feels full circle,” Daignault said. “MRU gave me the foundation to think critically and act with care.”
“I’m proud of all the businesses we work with, but this one is closest to home for me,” she added.
Daignault credits her success to mentorship and self-reflection, particularly lessons from Dr. Watchman on humility and responsible allyship.
“She taught me to ask better questions, to understand my position as a non-Indigenous person, and to learn through listening,” Daignault said. “That’s something I carry into every part of my business.”
Now an established entrepreneur, Daignault encourages current students to explore their ideas.
“If you have an idea that won’t leave you alone, explore it,” she said. “And if you need support, reach out, that’s what alumni are here for.”
“I love MRU; This campus is the place to be,” she said. “It’s the most underrated university experience that actually delivers the most bang for your buck. There are so many resources, and I’m proud to be part of this campus.”
]]>Welcome back to campus! While you were recharging this summer, your elected student leaders on the Representation Executive Council (REC) were busy advocating on your behalf. The team spent the summer focused on affordability, student employment, and making sure your voice is heard at every level.
Meet your 2025–26 REC team
REC is made up of four full-time student leaders elected by peers and appointed by the Student Governing Board. This year’s team includes:
Mariana Mejia Salazar (she/her), REC VP External
Tala Abu Hayyaneh (she/her), REC President
Meekena Erkin (she/her), REC VP Academic
Together, they represent student interests at Mount Royal University (MRU) and advocate to government and external organizations on issues like tuition, academic policies, student rights, and more.
Summer Advocacy Wins
Removing the $1 bookstore bag fee
- Successfully lobbied to eliminate a $1 fee for bags on online bookstore pickups, saving students thousands annually and easing financial pressure.
Advocated for Youth Employment
- Met with government officials (municipal, provincial, federal) regarding youth employment challenges.
Youth employment and co-op placements on the agenda
- Stressed the need to include co-op placements in funding programs to remove financial barriers
You can read their full release on our website here.
Your Vote Shapes Your City
Your vote in Calgary’s October 20 election is your voice on student issues like public transit, housing, and jobs.
To help you get ready, your student leaders (REC) hosted Municipal Mondays to teach you about voting and a Student Connect event where close to 100 students met 33 candidates.
Now, it’s your turn to make a difference. See Election Calgary’s website for a full list of mayoral and ward candidates and to find out which ward you’re in and where and when to vote!
REAC is back
The Representation Executive Advisory Committee (REAC) Ambassadors are students who work directly with elected student leaders on important committees. This is a hands-on way to make a difference on campus.
Committees REAC volunteers are involved with include:
- Tuition & Fee Consultation Committee (TFCC): As a TFCC Ambassador, students represent their peers by reviewing budget documents and providing feedback in meetings to help ensure that financial decisions regarding tuition and fees are fair.
- General Faculties Council (GFC): As a GFC Ambassador, students represent their peers on the university’s main academic decision-making body, ensuring their voices help shape policies that affect their classes and learning experience.
Share your experiences and get involved!
There are many different ways you can voice your opinions and be heard. Here are some of the key things where your input will help your elected representatives in the near future and make a difference.
- MRU’s Indigenous Strategic Plan: MRU is updating its Indigenous Strategic Plan this year and listening sessions will be held for students, staff, and faculty. REC is encouraging students to attend. For those unable to participate in person, we’d be more than happy to offer help preparing written messages or delivering feedback on students’ behalf. Reach out to REC at [email protected].
- Tuition Consultations in October: With tuition consultations scheduled for October, student feedback about affordability and any effects tuition may have is critical in shaping our advocacy efforts.
“Whether it’s about tuition, employment, or campus life, your input drives our work,” REC President Tala Abu Hayyaneh said. “We need to know what matters most to students.”
Students can connect with us throughout the year to share feedback on issues affecting their academic and personal lives at MRU.
“Whether it’s about tuition, employment, or campus life, your input drives our work,” Abu Hayyaneh said. “We need to know what matters most to students.”
- Academic Accommodations Policy: We are also preparing for consultations with MRU to participate in the review of the university’s Academic Accommodations Policy, ensuring the process is fair and accessible.
“We want to make sure student voices are heard at the table,” Anita Surujbally, SAMRU REC VP Student Affairs, said. “The best way to do that is by listening to students who have gone through the process themselves.”
How you can help: Students who have used, or tried to access accommodations are encouraged to share their experiences directly with us. Feedback will inform REC’s position in discussions with MRU administration.
Connect with us!
We’re so glad to have students back on campus for the new semester!
It was great seeing so many of you at the New Student Orientation, Campus Carnival and Open House. If you didn’t get to connect with REC, don’t worry! You’ll see the team all over campus this year.
To stay up-to-date on where we’ll be and what we’re working on, be sure to keep an eye on our events calendar and follow us on social media!
- REC BlueSky: @samrurec.bsky.social
- REC Instagram: @samru.rec
If you have any questions or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your representatives at [email protected]. We’re here to represent you!
]]>From its humble beginnings to becoming SAMRU’s biggest, boldest, and most talked-about event, it’s been a wild ride, full of laughter and learning.
Each year, hundreds of students show up not just for the prizes, but for the open, inclusive space to explore topics around relationships, sexuality, and sexual health, all while shouting “BINGO!” at the top of their lungs.
As we get ready for Winter 2026 iteration of Sex Toy Bingo, let’s take a fun little trip down memory lane and see how this legendary event grew from curious concept to can’t-miss campus tradition.
13 Years of Buzz
Early Years: 2015-16
2013 marked the debut of what would become a staple in the student social calendar. Though the early events lacked today’s elaborate themes and sets, they immediately stood out for bringing students together in a fun, judgment-free space to explore sexuality, build community, and learn about consent and the safe, consensual use of sex toys.
Becoming the Premier Event: 2018-19
By 2018–19, Sex Toy Bingo had become one of the most anticipated events on campus, known for its elaborate themes, lively entertainment, and lines out the door.
Bingo Before the Break: Winter 2020
By 2020, Sex Toy Bingo was a must-attend event, with lines forming over an hour in advance. If you didn’t get in, you swore you wouldn’t miss the next one. Little did we know, The Winter 2020 Sex Toy Bingo would be the last for nearly two years as just weeks later, in-person classes were suspended as the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
The Return: 2021-22
After nearly two years, Sex Toy Bingo returned in Fall 2021; not just as a fun, judgment-free space to explore sexuality and consent, but as a celebration of MRU students’ resilience after two challenging years.
Our Biggest Bingo in the Galaxy: 2023-24
The Fall 2023 edition of Sex Toy Bingo quickly became a fan favourite. With its extraterrestrial theme, stunning visuals, and out-of-this-world performances, the event earned rave reviews and cemented its place as one of the most iconic in the event’s history.
Get Ready for Sex Toy Bingo!
Sex Toy Bingo is approaching on February 12th! Doors open at 7:00 pm, and the first game begins at 8:00 pm. Entry is first-come, first-served, and limited seating is available, so be sure to arrive early! If you’re on the reservation list, arrive before 7:45 pm to guarantee entry.
Get ready for a night of laughter and learning, and be prepared to be entertained by our special co-hosts Ivy La Fleur and Janet Miller.
This is an 18+ event, so remember to bring one piece of valid, government-issued photo I.D. and your MRU One Card. See you there!
Explore Sexpo Workshops!
Sexpo Workshops focus on important topics such as safe and consensual sex, effective communication and what healthy sexual relationships look like.
You can find some of our upcoming workshops below:
When: Feb. 10 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: U216A (by MRU Wellness)
Safelink will on campus offering testing for Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis C.
When: Feb. 25 4 – 5 p.m.
Where: The Gallery
The Sexual Health Peer Educators, a sub-team of the Peer Health Educator program at Mount Royal University are hosting a workshop dedicated to making sexual health conversations easier. They’ll break down how to talk to your partners, what a positive test result actually means for you, and the 101 on PEP and PrEP. This is a judgment-free zone, and everyone is welcome to attend!
When: Mar. 25 4 – 6 p.m.
Where: Council Chambers
Learn how to make vulva or nipple ceramics with the help of Firuze Avci from VLV ceramics. Then learn more from local sex educator, Emma Mutch, as she answers your questions on sex ed, pleasure, and more. Space is limited, so be sure to sign up here to register and confirm your spot!
For those who have yet to visit our vibrant Pride Centre (Z307), it is located on the third floor of Wyckham House. The centre plays a crucial role on campus by offering a safe, inclusive and supportive space where all students, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or background, can feel accepted and valued. More than just a physical space, it’s a community that brings together connection, education and empowerment. Whether you’re looking for peer support, educational resources or simply need a space to relax and meet new friends, the Pride Centre is here for you!
Drop by anytime from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm on weekdays and meet our Pride and Healthy Relationship Coordinator, Gloria! Whether you have questions, need resources or want to chat, Gloria welcomes everyone to stop by and say hi! To learn more about the Pride Centre, check out our spotlight blog here!
The Pride Centre also hosts ongoing programs throughout the year, such as Crafternoon and Wellness Wind Down. Check out the Pride Events Calendar to stay updated.
Additional Resources:
Below are additional online and off-campus resources to get the education, information, and support you may need.
Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights
Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights is a pro-choice charitable organization committed to advancing and upholding sexual and reproductive health and rights in Canada and globally.
Alberta Health Services – Sexual and Reproductive Health
AHS provides resources and information to Albertans on various sexual and reproductive health topics.
CCASA
Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse provides support to those affected by sexual violence.
Centre for Sexuality
The Centre for Sexuality provides education, training, and counselling services.
Freddie
Freddie aims to revolutionize healthcare for the LGBTQ2S+ community by offering empathetic, inclusive, and expert-driven services that prioritize individual needs, barriers and stigma associated with traditional healthcare experiences.
PRUDEMag
PRUDEmag is a zine that celebrates spinsters, asexuals, relationship anarchists, celibates, and others resisting sex necessarism by reclaiming “prude” as a powerful affirmation of autonomy, boundary setting, and the sacredness of “no.”
SafeLink Alberta
SafeLink Alberta is a crucial resource offering immediate and confidential support to those affected by domestic violence, connecting individuals with services tailored to their needs.
Scarleteen is an inclusive nonprofit providing progressive sexuality and relationship education.
Sensuale Intimate Wellness
Sensuale Intimate Wellness is a sex-positive, body-positive, queer-owned adult store that offers a curated selection of 100% body-safe products, emphasizing radical pleasure activism to help you and your loved ones live your best and healthiest lives.
Sex & U
SexandU.ca provides accurate, credible, and up-to-date information and education on topics related to sexual and reproductive health.
Mariah Caudillo (the creator of Sex-Ed Files) provides inclusive and accessible online sex education through her social media channels.
Multi-award-winning sex educator Dee Whitnell delivers inclusive LGBTQ+ sex-ed through her social media channels and award-winning books.
]]>That something might be the sweet camaraderie of a club! No matter what year of study you’re in, clubs are one of the best ways to make the most of your campus experience!
There are dozens of SAMRU clubs teeming throughout the corridors of MRU. Do you want to establish some fellowship within your program, or are you looking to locate a group that’s into chess as much as you? Look no further than our Club Hub!
But what if there isn’t a club that piques your interest? That’s nothing you and a couple of friends can’t fix! So, whether there’s a club niche you’ve spotted on campus or your peers are primed and ready to make the club of your dreams happen, here’s your guide to ensure you and your group are ready to ratify.
Treading over the basics
Creating a SAMRU club is perhaps the best option to locate your people on campus – with the Clubs Expo serving as a prime facilitator for exposure and recruitment. However, you must officially ratify your club for your group to attend.
Ratification is a relatively short but concise process, requiring you to:
- Gather Your Team: You need at least three (and no more than four) Signing Authorities and 10 members to start.
- Complete the Paperwork:
- Fill out the signing authority agreement.
- Draft and submit your club’s constitution.
- Submit and Obtain Training Information:
- Send in your ratification form and documents.
- Have all Signing Authorities complete the online club training (Our Clubs Coordinator will contact the SAs about training once your forms are submitted).
- Receive Funding:
- Once you ratify, your club will receive $300 in seed funding. Re-ratified clubs get an additional $150 each year.
Additionally, a club can’t overlap too closely with another that’s established and active on campus. While we understand there are crucial differences between different Warhammer franchises, they’d have to fall under an umbrella collective.
Unsure of the conduct you and your members have to follow? Check the Club Hub website for anything and everything you’ll ever need to ratify or re-ratify your club.
What constitutes the constitution?
Hold up! Before you submit your ratification forms, you’ll also need to account for your club’s constitution. While a constitution usually implies weeks of grueling work, this particular process is unanimously considered much less painful than writing a federal one.
To help you along the process, we’ve even got you covered with a template. You’re only a couple dozen fill-in-the-blank answers away from becoming an official SAMRU club. With your members either in a room or Zoom call, you can complete the constitution in less than 10 minutes!
Garner a following
If you have yet to ratify your club, it can be difficult to get the word out to would-be members.
Unsure of how to spread the word about your club-to-be? Seeking out new members in your classes and at events (including those hosted by your Students’ Association) are both great options to get the ball rolling.
You can link your social media profiles and Discord servers to the Club Hub while you’re ratifying your club! Be sure to check your DMs routinely for messages from future friends.
You’re looking ready to ratify
Looking over this list, does your future club look less like a twinkle in your eye and more like a bunch of completed checkmarks? You might just be ready to ratify!
Once you’ve prepared all your forms, you can submit them on the SAMRU Club Hub page, and our Clubs Coordinator will get in touch within a couple of business days. We can’t wait to see you and your peers together on campus this semester!
Clubs Expo
Now that you’re ratified, you’re all ready to market your club to the campus world at the Clubs Expo. The Winter Clubs Expo will be taking place January 20th and 21th from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm in Wyckham House and is the perfect opportunity to reach students who were unaware of your club, and grow your collective!
Plus, the top display wins a huge prize! Join us for the SAMRU Winter Semester Clubs Expo, mingle with fellow students and connect with others who share your interests. Be sure to join SAMRU’s newsletter to stay updated on all the latest happenings. And if you spot a niche that’s missing, you’ll know just how to fill it!
If you have any club-related questions or would like more information on signing up for this semester’s Clubs Expo, you can always check out the FAQ page on our brand-new Club Hub website!
For general inquiries, you can always send us a message at [email protected].
]]>Let’s be real – September hits different when you’re a university student. One minute you’re living your best summer life, the next you’re trying to remember which building your 8:30 AM class is in while juggling three group chats about textbook swaps.
But here’s what successful students know: these first four weeks aren’t just about finding your classes and surviving on caffeine.
When friend groups form, routines stick, and you figure out how to actually enjoy university instead of just enduring it. The connections you make and habits you build now? They’ll carry you through to April.
That’s why SAMRU has strategically packed September with opportunities to help you thrive. Whether you’re reconnecting with last year’s crew or starting fresh, we’ve designed these events to fit into your life, not overwhelm it. Because the students who love their university experience aren’t the ones who only hit the books—they’re the ones who master the balance.
Event Highlights
From the Campus Carnival to the Wycked House Party, September at MRU is packed with several events to help you make the most of the upcoming school year.
Mark your calendars – these are just a few of standout events that will be taking place.
Week 1: Campus Carnival – Your Launchpad
Everyone’s in the same boat – looking for their people. Grab some free BBQ, play a few games, and start those ‘hey, aren’t you in my stats class?’ conversations that turn into study groups by October.
When: Sept. 4, 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Where: East Gate Lawn
Week 2: SAMRU Open House – Find Your Spaces
By week two, you’re ready to explore beyond your classroom routine. Discover study spots (check out the Wyckham House second floor lounges), club offices, and services you’ll actually use. Plus, there are activities throughout Wyckham House with chances to win prizes. Smart students scout their resources early
When: Sept. 11, 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
Where: Wyckham House
Week 3: Free Stuff Day – Stock Up & Connect
Local businesses bring the goods – practical stuff like school supplies, snacks, and coupons that actually help your budget. We’ll have tote bags while supplies last. Pro tip: This is also prime time to solidify those week-one connections.
When: Sept. 16, 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
Where: Wyckham house
Week 4: The Wycked House Party – Celebrate Your New Rhythm
The event that marks your official arrival at MRU. By now, you’ve found your rhythm – time to celebrate with the epic party that everyone’s still talking about in December. All ages, licensed bar for 18+, and the night where acquaintances become your actual crew
When: Sept. 25, 8:00 pm to 1:00 am
Where: Wyckham House and West Gate Social
One of the best parts about putting these events on year in and year out for the students is seeing the positive impacts they have.
We’ve seen that year-over-year students who engage in these first four weeks report higher satisfaction with university life.
The connections you make with your peers early in the semester can quickly turn into a valuable support system. These connections mean study buddies when midterms hit and having a crew by your side can make all the difference.
Still seeking out more events? We got you covered! Throughout September, we’ll be putting on a wide range of events that will be recurring throughout the school year.
Head over to our website’s calendar to check out the rest of the events taking place in September, and make sure to continually check the calendar, as we’ll be constantly adding events over the next eight months.
The habits you set now. Whether it’s hitting an event or just saying hi to the person next to you, these things will shape your entire year. The connections you make in these first few weeks will become your support system, your study buddies, and your crew for all the adventures ahead.
Insights from your Representation Executive Council (REC)
Back-to-school season can bring a mix of emotions, and it’s completely normal to feel a bit of everything from excitement, nerves, and even anxiety as your routine shifts.
Anita Surujbally, SAMRU’s REC Vice President of Student Affairs, knows this feeling well. Now in her third year as a journalism and digital media student, she remembers her first year at MRU and the “growing pains” that came with it.
Her advice for all students, new and returning, is simple: “explore the services offered by MRU and the Students’ Association. Knowing what’s available can make your university journey smoother and more rewarding.”
During her term, Anita is focused on strengthening mental health services for students. For a full list of student services, including health and wellness supports, visit the SAMRU website and look for the “What We Do For You” tab.
“My advice is to explore the services offered by MRU and the Students’ Association,” Surujbally said. “Knowing what’s available can make your university journey smoother and more rewarding.”
For Anita’s upcoming term as SAMRU REC VP Student Affairs she will be working diligently to protect student rights, drive positive change on campus, and strengthen the mental health services for her fellow students.
SAMRU also has additional resources on our website and in all classrooms with both on- and off-campus resources available to you.
Your Four-Week Success Strategy
With summer wrapping up, students have a chance to start fresh, and kick off the school year on the right foot.
Back-to-school is more than picking up supplies and registering for classes. It can also serve as a great way to build a new schedule, form positive habits and create a new routine that can set the tone for the following months.
SAMRU has you covered with a four week plan to help students make the most of the new academic year.
Weeks 1-2: Discovery Mode
- Hit the major events, say yes to invites, explore campus. Your future self will thank you for being open these first two weeks.
Weeks 3-4: Find Your Groove
- Lock in your study spots, join that club, establish your coffee crew. This is when random connections become real friendships. Own your routine.
Plus the Essentials:
- Book that advisor meeting early (avoid prerequisite panic)
- Grab used textbooks before they vanish
- Dr. Janet Miller’s Wellness Wind Down: Thursdays, 2:30 PM – because balance isn’t optional
Welcome Back
Here’s the truth: Your September shapes your entire year. These aren’t just random events – they’re strategically timed opportunities to build the connections and patterns that make university amazing instead of just survivable.
The most successful students aren’t grinding 24/7. They’re the ones who show up – for classes AND for the moments that make university more than just a degree. They know that a Tuesday study session is so much better when it’s with friends you made at Campus Carnival.
Save this guide, share it with your group chat, and remember: you’ve got four weeks to set the tone for an incredible year. Make them count. Questions? Drop by the Student Centre or email [email protected]. We’re here to help you build a university experience worth remembering.
]]>As we embrace the heat of August, it won’t be long before classes, socialization, and club events start to pop up again in and around Wyckham House! And with the launch of SAMRU’s revamped Club Hub Website, we sat down with Amy, SAMRU’s Clubs Coordinator, to hear all about everything new this fall semester!
Keep reading to learn more about Amy and everything you need to know about joining and ratifying a club on campus this year!
Tell us about yourself!
I’m Amy. I’m the Clubs Coordinator, and I’ve been working at SAMRU for two years now!
Why is it important to have clubs on campus?
Clubs are so important for fostering community, providing opportunities for extracurricular involvement, and promoting personal development among students. They also promote personal development for club leaders through organizing events and recruiting members.
We have different types of clubs on campus: academic, representational, and social, which will host different kinds of events that are beneficial to students, including networking, workshops, and social events to cater to all students’ needs.
For students looking to start a club, how can they get started?
We welcome all students to start new clubs! The process is fairly simple, but a reminder is that a club must be unique and cannot overlap with any existing clubs.
The requirements are three Signing Authorities and 10 members – all of which are credit students. After that, you need to submit a ratification package which includes the Ratification Form, Constitution, and Signing Authority Agreement. This is all prepared on our website. If you have any questions about it, just feel free to ask me!
What are the best resources for students to join a club?
If students want to look at what clubs we currently have, they can look up the Club’s Directory on the SAMRU website and find which club they may want to join.
Students can also go to the Clubs Expo! We have two per year, one for each semester. Here, we invite all clubs to join, do some promotion, and have some activities.
Plus, our new Club Hub website is a platform designed for students to get all the information they need..
You’ve been hard at work on the Club Hub website that launches this fall! What can students find on this site?
Everything related to SAMRU Clubs is on this website. We will be putting clubs news and events here for when students want to know what events are happening and how they can join.
Additionally, clubs can find all the resources they need on the website, including form templates, the Clubs Handbook, space booking details, and other useful information.
A FAQ will also be on the website for common clubs questions, including the ratification process and how to host events.
Where can students find the Clubs Office and Clubhouse?
The Clubs office is in Wyckham House in Z304. Clubs office hours are from Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. Students can feel free to come by my office, but I will ask them to schedule a meeting before stopping by, because I may be busy with other clubs.
The Clubhouse is also located in Wyckham House at Z306. It is a space for students to relax and connect with others. There are also lots of clubs and social events there, so feel free to chat and find out if there are events or clubs you want to join. Be sure to check the Clubs Event Calendar on the Clubs website for updates.
Is there anything else important clubs and their members should know as the fall semester approaches?
We are looking to collaborate with different clubs at SAMRU! These collaborations will be hosted in West Gate Social. There will be events trivia nights, DJ nights, poetry slams, and talent showcases. If clubs have different ideas and want to host events, just reach out to us!
You can reach Amy at [email protected] or book a consultation appointment during Clubs Office hours from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm on weekdays (excluding holidays).
For general inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected].
While National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous People’s Day in June provided important opportunities for recognition, their significance extends throughout the year. To honor these observances, we sat down with SAMRU’s Cultural and Indigenous Inclusion Programmer, Cory Cardinal, to delve into the Cultural Inclusion Centre (CIC) and explore the importance of having cultural and Indigenized spaces on campus.
Keep reading to learn about Cory’s history with your Students’ Association and how the CIC has worked to Indigenize and collaborate with all cultures on campus.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Cory Cardinal, and I’m the Cultural and Indigenous programmer with the Students’ Association, and I’ve been here for 22 years. I’m Plains Cree and Tsuut’ina, and I grew up on Tsuut’ina on a little ranch— now it’s a freeway. I was a student here at Mount Royal in the 90s, and I got involved with the Indigenous Student Club. When the club was formed, we asked the students to write on Post-It notes the top three things they wanted to accomplish as a club. The main thing they wanted was to develop an Indigenous student centre, so as a club, we worked on things like developing the Powwow and the Native Centre.
What is the importance of having cultural and Indigenous spaces on campus?
It all goes back to history and things like residential schools, where western institutions weren’t so welcoming. So developing these cultural and Indigenized spaces just gives students opportunities to connect with the community, create a sense of home, and have a place to build and create awareness and share culture. Indigenous [peoples] have been displaced, unheard, and devalued for so long that having these spaces creates a welcoming environment.
What does Indigenization mean to you?
In my personal way of looking at it, it’s creating an educational system that helps both Indigenous and non-Indigenous rebuild a relationship where there’s less bias.
We have students who will go on to become lawyers, police officers, nurses, social workers, and other professionals in prominent positions. These are future leaders will help create a better environment for the Indigenous community. Issues such as the number of children in care and the high incarceration rates must change – and we can start making those changes at the post-secondary level.
What can non-Indigenous students do to work towards reconciliation?
It’s totally up to them on what level they want to Indigenize. There’s tons of history to read, and there’s the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. That’s when Canada decided they were going to build reconciliation. Students can look at that and try to understand the underlying issues [that led to] the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
There is a system that does not work in Indigenous favour. Students should look at what could be changed and what doesn’t seem to be right and look into making those changes.
Do you have any recommendations for resources or readings for students to research?
There’s the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. You can easily search for and obtain a copy on the Internet.
Mount Royal signed Universities Canada’s commitments to truth and reconciliation.
Once the Office of Academic Indigenization here on campus gets rolling, that will have a great positive effect for everybody.
How can students get to know you and the Cultural Inclusion Centre (CIC)
The Cultural Inclusion Centre is located in Z203 in Wyckham House, and what we do has a lot to do with what the students want to do. We encourage students to come talk to us and see if there’s anything they’d like to get involved in. If there’s a new idea and we have the capacity to help them we’ll develop that idea or help support in other ways.
The one thing I like about my job is that everything is open and available to try. We’re not just focusing on Indigenous culture — we’ve got the whole world to play with!
What are the events you look forward to every year?
We have an annual Powwow we do in partnership with the university. It’s always fun to have the local Indigenous community come visit and be a part of the celebrations. In the past, a lot of our students have come to MRU because, as children, they came to the Powwow, and they felt like it was home.
I really enjoyed Black History Month, working with the students on that and some of the awesome entertainment we have here on campus. The cultural performers are amazing.
I also like working with Mount Royal on the Cultures of MRU and creating new programming with the university.
To get in touch with Cory, you can email him at [email protected] or come to the Cultural Inclusion Centre (CIC) in room Z203 in Wyckham House from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm on weekdays (excluding holidays).
For general inquiries, you can reach us at [email protected].
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