The Fanshawe Student Union (FSU) is focused on improving student life. It is run by students for students and aims to empower them, help them connect, and advocate for their needs. The FSU manages student health plans and bus passes, negotiates fees with the college, and represents students in government. It also runs businesses like the Out Back Shack and organizes community events. Through various programs, the FSU creates a supportive environment where all students can succeed. By encouraging participation and teamwork, the FSU makes sure every student’s voice matters.
Decisions at the FSU are made with students in mind. If student fees need to go up by more than 5%, students get a chance to share their thoughts. If it’s more than 10%, the FSU takes it to a vote. When it comes to service-related fees, they work closely with the college through specific committees. Keeping track of everything can be tricky, especially since leadership changes every year, but having solid data helps keep things on track.
A lot of students don’t realize just how much the FSU offers. For example, there’s free legal help through Community Legal Services – covering things like tenant disputes, speeding tickets, and some criminal matters. They also step in when students face academic penalties, helping them prepare statements for appeals. Since Fanshawe has a big international student community, the FSU also focuses on job and networking opportunities. More than 70% of the people working at the FSU are students, giving them part-time jobs and experience along the way. “A lot of students don’t know about the resources available to them, and we’re constantly working to improve awareness,” an FSU representative said.
The FSU operates separately from Fanshawe College, which allows it to advocate for students without any conflicts of interest. Most of its funding comes from student fees – about $81 per semester per full-time student – but it also earns money through food and hospitality services, event sponsorships, and rental spaces like the campus hair salon. A big part of what the FSU does is putting together events that help students feel part of the community. March alone has more than 20 events happening across different campuses. “Our goal is to create a vibrant campus life where every student feels engaged and included,” said an FSU official.
Candidates for the Fanshawe Student Union Presidential election sit on stage at Fanshawe College during debate (Credit: Dan McCracken)
For students who want to get involved in leadership, there are plenty of opportunities. Being a class rep is a great first step, and from there, students can work their way up to executive roles like Vice President or President. The Board of Directors is also made up entirely of students, giving them hands-on experience in leadership and decision-making. “Student leadership is about making an impact—whether it’s improving policies or creating new opportunities for students,” an FSU leader emphasized. Seeing real changes happen, knowing that student voices are being heard, and building a stronger community makes the effort worth it. The FSU keeps growing and adapting, making sure it meets the needs of students while creating a supportive and lively environment at Fanshawe College.
