The 2025/26 academic year marked a period of strong progress and measurable impact for the Office of the SUO Vice President External. Under the leadership of VP External Olivia Lai, the portfolio delivered results across food security, transit advocacy, mental health and community well-being, and provincial‑level policy advocacy, which are all rooted in direct student needs.
This report highlights the key outcomes achieved to date.
Improving Student Food Security
Ensuring students have consistent access to nutritious food remained a top priority. This year, the Smart Meals program was re‑launched as SUO Community Meals, removing financial barriers and improving meal quality.
“Food security is foundational to student success — one free meal can make a real difference.”
Key outcomes:
- Two free meals per week (breakfast and lunch)
- Vegan and meat‑based protein options
- Elimination of the $5 meal fee
- Continued support through the SUO Food Pantry and food hampers
Impact highlight: $40,000 in sponsorship funding secured, exceeding the original $35,000 goal by 14% — achieved before the first EXPO of 2025.
Transit Advocacy and Government Engagement
Student transit concerns — particularly route frequency and reliability — remained a central advocacy issue throughout the year.
“Sustainable transit is not optional for students — it’s essential access to education.”
Advocacy milestones include:
- Meetings with the Mayor of Kelowna and City Councillors
- Coalition‑building with MLA Gavin Dew and BC3
- A confirmed meeting with Provincial Ministers to present student priorities
- Ongoing advocacy for increased frequency on Route 84 (Academy Hill)
Mental Health, Belonging, and Community Care
Recognizing that well-being extends beyond clinical services, the VP External portfolio advanced community‑based mental health initiatives focused on connection, inclusion, and belonging.
“Belonging is a powerful form of mental health support.”
The highlight of this goal was the launch of the Spiritual Wellness & Multifaith Fair in collaboration with campus chaplains and community partner which garnered an impressive student turnout. Other initiatives included the Term 2 Spread the Love Campaign in partnership with PICNIC and Resource Centres.
Provincial Advocacy & Systemic Change
Beyond campus, the Office of the VP External played an active role in advocating for long‑term post‑secondary funding reform. A key goal was contrbuting to the efforts being made to challenge a post‑secondary funding model of over 20 years which is now out of date. Some of the outcomes include the ongoing collaboration with the BC Federation of Students (BCFS), direct engagement with local and provincial representatives, and reinforcing the lobbying presence at the upcoming BC Legislature in Victoria.
Summarily, the 2025/26 year demonstrates the Office of the Vice President External’s commitment to measurable outcomes, student‑focused advocacy, and system‑level change. From securing record sponsorship funding to advancing transit and provincial advocacy, these achievements reflect a portfolio dedicated to both immediate impact and long‑term progress.
Policy focus:
