Your Students’ Union works first and foremost to ensure that the interests of students are in the minds of decision-makers provincially and federally, and are central in decisions made here at Thompson Rivers University. These efforts are essential to achieving the purpose of the Students’ Union – creating a universally accessible, affordable and fulfilling university experience for all students. Because the decisions that affect students take place at many levels, TRUSU advocates for members individually, through equity collectives, and through campaigns and government relations.

Individual Advocacy

At the individual level, students have relationships with professors, with the university administration, with landlords, with employers, and so on. To provide each of you with the experiences that you deserve while attending TRU, the Students’ Union has a Student Rights Handbook and a Members’ Advocate to provide information and assistance regarding your rights and responsibilities. From tenants’ and workers’ rights to grade appeals and issues of harassment, TRUSU will always stand with you and help in working towards a just resolution. To find out more about how the Members’ Advocate can help you, or to download the Student Rights Handbook, click here!

Equity Collectives

TRUSU works towards equity for all groups within our membership. This work is done through the Women’s, Aboriginal Students’, and International Students’ Collectives. These collectives allow any student who identifies as a member of these groups to participate in campaigns and events that advance equity on our campus and in our community. To find out more about the Collectives, click here!

Campaigns and Government Relations

Of course, there are many issues that we all face as students. Your Students’ Union and our provincial and national student movement, the Canadian Federation of Students, act as your voice at TRU and at all levels of government.

At the institutional level, students have specific interests in how the university is governed. TRUSU works to coordinate and provide support to student representatives on committees of the Senate and the Board of Governors. Representing students is no small chore, and your Students’ Union works to help your representatives speak for you with confidence and skill. TRUSU also advocates for you at TRU through well-researched policy submissions, lobby meetings with administrators, and local campaigns that you can get involved in!

At the levels of municipal, provincial, and federal government, your Students’ Union participates in and leads lobby efforts for better support for students, be it increased funding, more affordable tuition fees, or more reliable public transit. Our campaigns shape the face of post-secondary education, and just as we achieved free Adult Basic Education in BC, we will achieve justice for all students!

Students need a voice. We have rights and interests that are unique to us and deserve recognition. Your Students’ Union is dedicated to ensuring that they are recognized and respected wherever and whenever they may be affected. Your membership in TRUSU adds your voice to the collective effort to create an accessible, affordable, and high-quality system of higher education!