Meet the Team

Kelowna

  • Ernest Li

    CAMPUS CHAIRPERSON | FEDERATION REPRESENTATIVE

    he/him

    Hello, my name is Ernest. I am a current Mechanical Engineering Technology student with previous experience on the OCSU. I am an expert in the accordion, certified in lifeguarding and am a sleep enthusiast. I understand first hand how stressful college can be, so I would like to focus on stress relief and mental health for students. Allow me to prove my worth. Cheers --Ernest

  • Sana Mwakat

    BOARD REPRESENTATIVE

    she/her

    OCSU would be a great way to connect with my peers and to contribute to the community. I'm extremely passionate about working with students to create an inviting environment, enhancing student life and helping other students develop a sense of belonging. Through my previous experiences, I understand the struggle some students may have with developing a sense of belonging and community. I'm confident I can make a great contribution to your team.

  • Samreet Kaur

    she/her

    Hi, I’m Samreet Kaur, a first-year student in the Associate of Science program. I believe in service and wish to contribute in the projects and services that help in improving the campus life of the students, both domestic and international. By being a part of the Students' Union, I am looking forward to work for progressive initiatives such as fair tuition fees, reduced costs of textbooks and student discounts and promote campaigns for mental wellness.

  • Harjot Gill

    he/him

    Hi, my name is Harjot! I am a second year Computer Information Systems Student. I am passionate about fostering a sense of community among all OC students. A sense of belonging will help students' mental health and the fight for keeping tuition in check. I want students to feel connected through a sense of community among their peers and with the College. It will be a tricky challenge, but I believe it's worth it!

  • Jaycee Gervais

    she/her

    My name is Jaycee Gervais. I was born and raised on a farm in Saskatchewan and am very excited to be in Kelowna. I am enrolled in the Certified Dental Assistant program. I was very involved in my high school and hometown with sports and volunteering. I won the “most school spirit” award in high school. I love planning events and meeting new people. I am very excited to be a student at Okanagan College.

  • Thelma Chinondo

    EQUITY DIRECTOR

    she/her

    My name is Thelma Chinondo and lam from Zimbabwe. Iam in my second year doing the Associate of Arts degree majoring in Psychology.l passionately want to be a part of OCSU because l really love to interact,connect,and listen to other people and their concerns henceforth creating a safe space for students like me and try to provide solutions if possible.

    Thank you,

    Thelma Chinondo.

  • Kailyn Lafrenie

    she/her

    Hello! My name is Kailyn Lafrenie and this is my second year at OC. Passionate about all things nature, I have been involved with initiatives including public speaking on climate change, attending marches, and starting a thrift store at my old high-school. In addition to environmentalism, I hope to help other students reach their goals, whether through advocating for further clubs and services, or even just by offering a helping hand. Thanks for reading!

  • Ben Harris

    he/him

    Hi, I’m Ben! I’m a second-year business student on the Kelowna campus. During my time on the Kelowna council last year, we were able to accomplish so many things from advocating against the tuition increases to putting on an amazing Winter Formal! I am committed to tirelessly advocating for implementing more events that will significantly enrich your college experience and contribute to the betterment of Okanagan College as a whole.

Penticton

  • Aija Otto

    CAMPUS CHAIRPERSON & INTERNAL DIRECTOR

    she/her

    Hi everyone, my name is Aija Otto.

    I am currently a student working on my prerequisites to attain a career in the medical field. As a previous member of last years Council, I gained a strong appreciation for the incredible supports and resources OCSU has to offer. I am passionate to continue expanding my understanding of what students’ needs are, while educating and promoting the resources on Campus.

  • Alex Hoce

    he/him

    My name is Alex Hoce and I am a 2nd year student at Okanagan College. I am currently in the kinesiology program aiming to get my diploma. I love hanging out with friends and doing activities like swimming, hiking, camping etc. I would be the perfect candidate as I'm great to work with others and cheerful to be around anyone.

  • Constantine Morgus

    BOARD REPRESENTATIVE

    he/him

    Hello, my name is Constantine Morgus, and I look forward to being part of the change that OCSU will enact this term. I believe that we, as a student body, should strive for more transparent communication, equity, inclusivity, and fairness in our small community. Together, we can!

  • Sherrah Delubio

    she/her

    Hello! I’m Sherrah, a sophomore rocking the Criminal and Social Justice program. I’m an enthusiast of all things spontaneous and fun.

    I’ve always wanted to step out of my comfort zone and be part of something bigger than myself, so I decided to be part of OCSU. Because, hey, why not sprinkle a little extra awesome on our college journey?

  • Laurel Brodber

    she/her

    My name is Laurel Brodber, I am currently a first year student studying Criminal and Social Justice. I have joined the OCSU so that I may convene a stronger sense of community with all students. Through my life experience and studies in Criminal and Social Justice I have gained insight on marginalized groups and the importance of community development. By joining the OCSU I aim to nester and promote a safe supportive environment for my peers. Additionally, I strive to find better solutions in support of easing the housing hassle for international students and students that have relocated for their studies. My aim is to also incorporate fun initiatives so that our on campus experience is more enjoyable. Let us all bond together so that our academic life can be better.

  • Julia Thompson

    EXECUTIVE CHAIRPERSON

    she/her

    As high school musical once taught me many years ago, were all in this together.

    Hi, my name is Julia. I am a second-year student of the Sustainable Building Technology. I spend my time in nature when not at school, and even initiated an outdoor club at Penticton OC last year. I love taking full advantage of free activities which the college offers and as I’m sure you can guess, come with plenty of ideas.

Salmon Arm

  • Brianna Congdon

    she/her

    Hi, my names Brianna, but most people call me Bri. I’m in my first year in of the Associates of Science program here at Okanagan College. When I’m not at school, I’m usually at the rink coaching ringette. I love playing sports and being around teammates. I love getting to work with the other OCSU girls to provide fun and informative events to our campus.Hi, my names Brianna, but most people call me Bri. I’m in my first year in of the Associates of Science program here at Okanagan College. When I’m not at school, I’m usually at the rink coaching ringette. I love playing sports and being around teammates. I love getting to work with the other OCSU girls to provide fun and informative events to our campus.

  • Brynn Gowen

    she/her

    Hello, I am Brynn Gowen, a first-year student at Okanagan College. I just started my first semester in the associates of science program offer at the college. One of my favourite pass times besides school is dance. I am a highland dancer and i've been doing it for 11 years. I plan to continue my adventures in dance throughout the next chapter of my life, preforming, competing and teaching.

  • Chelsey Simmons

    CAMPUS CHAIRPERSON

    she/her

    Hey my name is Chelsey, I’m a 2nd year business Student working toward my degree with a specialty in Management. This is my 2nd year being a part of the OCSU, I have a lot of leadership experience through 4H, sports teams, and volunteering throughout the community. I love to hike, kayak, and play soccer. I’m excited to provide awesome services to the students of Salmon Arm this year.

  • Katie Thielman

    BOARD REPRESENTATIVE

    she/her

    Hi, my name is Katie Thielman and I’m running for re-election this year as a member of OCSU! Last year, I was the Chairperson of Salmon Arm campus for the Student Union. If I’m not attending classes for my Associate of Arts degree, you would find me helping with the Student Union events at Salmon arm campus or attending Board Meetings. I am very passionate about improving the student experience and helping advocate.

  • Taylor Dueck

    she/her

    I'm a soft spoken, outgoing Human Service Worker student with a passion for helping those around me. My goal after school is to work in social justice, or as a support worker wherever I can. Last year I learnt so much in my time with OCSU, I attended the skills symposium and learnt lots that I am eager to put to use this year.

Staff

  • Megan Gray

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    Megan (she/her) has been with the OCSU since 2016 when a chance employment opportunity reignited her passion for social justice. She is an alumnus of Okanagan College and a graduate of the Writing and Publishing program. Her studies were in both Vernon and Kelowna. With OCSU, she has worked in Penticton and Kelowna in a variety of capacities and on projects ranging from tuition fee issues, to consent culture, to government relations. She has a well-rounded understanding of the needs of members across the valley, and is passionate about ensuring all folks have equitable access to post-secondary education.

  • Maxine Cristobal

    ORGANIZER - KELOWNA

    Maxine (she/her) began her involvement with the OCSU in 2021 and served two terms as a student representative at the Kelowna campus. Her dedication lies in promoting equity practices during year-round events and fostering inclusive environments where members can thrive on their educational journey. Don't hesitate to connect if you spot her on campus! Maxine loves meeting new people and listening to the voices of fellow students.

  • Alana Day

    ORGANIZER - PENTICTON

    Alana (she/her) has been with the OCSU team since 2021 and loves her role as an Organizer on the Penticton campus. She is very passionate about building Community and Safe Spaces on campus and loves connecting with students on the daily and at events! When not at work you can find Alana sourcing out good eateries, mocktails and music around town.

    Make sure you pop into the office and say hello!

  • Lindsey Loftus

    ORGANIZER - SALMON ARM

    Lindsey (she/her) has been a part of the OCSU team since 2015, serving as the organizer for the Salmon Arm campus. Salmon Arm is her favorite place and she is passionate about helping grow the community and helping the people who call it home, reach their full potential. When not at work you will find Lindsey spending time with her husband and two sons.

  • Gabby Urban

    COMMUNICATIONS & STRATEGIC PROJECT COORDINATOR

    Gabby (she/her) has been with OCSU since 2018. Serving many roles within the OCSU, she is now our Communications & Strategic Project Coordinator. She has a passion for the on-campus community and running all things social media. When not at work you will find gabby spending time with her two kids and husband in the outdoors.

  • Kristen Lang

    HEALTH & DENTAL COORDINATOR | BOOKKEEPER

    Kristen (she/her) manages the health and dental plan. She works with Green Shield to process the health and dental opt-outs and other plan inquiries. The deadline to opt out is 30 days after your program’s start date.

  • Jennifer Gullins

    PANTRY COORDINATOR

    Jennifer (she/her) has been with OCSU since 2019 where she initially served as a rep. She is passionate about sexual violence prevention, food security and accessibility at the post secondary level. In her free time she enjoys her numerous tropical plants and her tuxedo cat named Jacob.

  • D'Arcie Knoll

    HARBOUR COORDINATOR

    D’Arcie (she/her) is the Harbour Coordinator at the Penticton Campus. She prioritizes making a positive impact on those around her, with a strong focus on 2SLGBTQIA+ issues. When she's not working, she enjoys listening to music, attending concerts, camping, Geocaching, and spending as much time outside as possible with her dog, Jason. Drop by PC213 and say hello!

  • Kristina (Krissy) Laitinen

    MEMBER SERVICES COORDINATOR-KELOWNA

    Krissy (she/her) has been with OCSU since Fall 2018. Drop her a line if you have questions about anything the OCSU does, such as events, advocacy work, or any of our services. She is perhaps best known in the campus community for her red hair and dad jokes.

  • Millie

    THERAPY DOG

    Hi I am Millie and I am a certified therapy dog in Salmon Arm. Come see me in the Salmon Arm OCSU office or at any event on the Salmon Arm campus! When not coming to work with my mom to see all the OC students I enjoy long naps, swimming in the lake and daily hikes.