Executive Director of External Affairs

Executive Director of External Affairs -

Saravanan Ganesan

Roles & Responsibilities

The Director of External Affairs is responsible for the day-to-day activities of the Graduate Students’ Union, including operating services and implementing campaigns and advocacy work.

The Director of External Affairs is an ex-officio member of all standing and ad-hoc committees of the GSU. Coordinating the actions of the academic and facility divisions of the Graduate Students’ Union, the Director of External Affairs is one of the GSU’s representatives on the University’s Senate and Academic Council. The Director of External Affairs guides and oversees the affairs of the GSU.

External Relations:

1. Canadian Federation of Students (CFS)

2. National Graduate Caucus (NGC) of CFSNL.

3. Provincial Executive Committee (PEC)

4. School of Graduate Studies (SGS)

5. Memorial University of Newfoundland Students’ Union (MUNSU)

6. Senate

7. Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty Association (MUNFA)

8. Teaching Assistants’ Union of Memorial University of Newfoundland (TAUMUN)

9. Graduate Student Development Fund (GSDF)

About

Dear Students,

I am Saravanan Ganesan, (you can address me as SUNNY) and I am thrilled to begin my journey with you as the newly elected Executive Director of External Affairs at GSU. With a background in Artificial Intelligence and a passion for fostering inclusive and dynamic communities, I am excited to bring my vision to our Graduate Students' Union.

Our union stands at a pivotal point where we can truly redefine the meaning of community and collaboration at Memorial University of Newfoundland. My experiences—from leading the social media team for Youth 2.0 during the challenging times of the pandemic to organizing the Heartful Cricket Tournament—have shown me the incredible strength that lies in unity and diversity. These experiences have prepared me to lead with empathy, innovation, and a deep commitment to inclusivity.

I look forward to enhancing our academic environment and extracurricular engagement, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has opportunities to grow, contribute, and excel. My focus will be on increasing on-campus employment opportunities, enriching our academic facilities, and fostering a holistic environment where every voice is heard and valued.

As we anticipate the re-opening of Britters Pub and the unification of ratified clubs, I aim to make MUN a beacon of inclusivity, academic excellence, and holistic development. I am dedicated to building bridges across cultures, disciplines, and ideas, enhancing our vibrant community.

Please feel free to reach out to me at external@gsumun.ca for any suggestions, concerns, ideas, or assistance. Together, we will shape a future where our union is more connected, inclusive, and vibrant than ever before.