The McMaster Choirs hosted Emerald Echoes, afundraising concert to support their upcoming travels to compete in at the international Cork Choral Festival
On Jan. 31, 2025, McMaster Choirs held a benefit concert titled Emerald Echoes to fund their upcoming journey to Cork, Ireland for the 70th International Cork Choral Festival. The McMaster Choirs have been accepted to take part in the Fleischmann International Trophy Competition at the Cork Festival on May 3, 2025.
McMaster Choirs consists of around 120 members, including students, faculty and alumni. The organization is divided into two groups and has members from a variety of fields, including music, engineering and science.
Anja Kane, president of McMaster Choirs, explained the choir's structure.
"We have two separate choirs. We have our mixed chorus, which is SATB [soprano, alto, tenor, bass] voices and then a treble chorus which is just sopranos and altos," said Kane. As president, Kane coordinates the executive team and manages the group's administration, including fundraising and social events.
Emerald Echoes featured 21 performances, which included group members from both choirs, as well as solo and small group acts. The setlist spanned the genres of classical, jazz, musical theater and contemporary pop and even featured original compositions by choir members.
Rehearsals for the concert began with auditions where interested choir members submitted video recordings. The final setlist was shaped by these submissions.
"They auditioned with whatever song they wanted to do and we put them in order. The first half was more geared toward classical, musical theater and then the second half was more contemporary pop," said Kane.
Kane detailed the intensive preparation required for such a varied concert. "We had brought back repertoire from last semester, which we haven't sung since November and we rehearsed it . . . a week and a half ago," said Kane.
We had brought back repertoire from last semester, which we haven't sung since November and we rehearsed it . . . a week and a half ago.
Anja Kane, President McMaster Choir
In addition to the musical performances, Emerald Echoes had a silent auction as part of its fundraising efforts. Items were donated by local businesses, with about 32 items in total worth over $1,300.
"[We were] sending probably 20 of our choristers just out into Hamilton and they went door to door, knocking on businesses on Locke Street and in Westdale and in Dundas and Ancaster and just asking for donations," said Kane.
Kane emphasized that these funds are essential for supporting the choir’s international trip. "Honestly, raising funds is so, so incredibly instrumental to this trip as you can imagine. It's truly a once in a lifetime experience to go on this trip, especially for a lot of our choristers," said Kane.
Honestly, raising funds is so, so incredibly instrumental to this trip as you can imagine. It's truly a once in a lifetime experience to go on this trip, especially for a lot of our choristers.
Anja Kane, President McMaster Choir
The choirs' projected fundraising goal is $10,000. "I think from the concert alone we raised probably close to 5,000," said Kane.
The cost of the trip is estimated at $178,000 for 80 participants, with each chorister expected to contribute around $2,100. "Our hope is that we surpass our fundraising [goal] and then we're able to kind of refund choristers some of that money, so that it ends up being a little bit less than that. But you know, we'll see where we end up, I'm still optimistic," said Kane.
Kane also reflected on the highlights of the evening. "I really liked singing with the whole group, as both choirs,” said Kane. She also enjoyed the small group performances, which were arranged by choir members themselves. "It's something really special to watch people organize their own small groups and see what kind of music they like to perform," said Kane.
Looking ahead, McMaster Choirs has more fundraising efforts planned for the trip, including a spring concert in April, a karaoke fundraiser in March and an ongoing donation page through iFund McMaster. As they’ve made great progress, Kane remains confident that the choir will meet its $10,000 fundraising goal.
The event not only raised vital funds for the choir’s trip to Cork but also provided an opportunity to celebrate the talent and enthusiasm of its members. As they continue their fundraising efforts, McMaster Choirs is eagerly looking ahead to competing at the Fleischmann International Trophy Competition. You can stay informed about the choirs' upcoming events and trip through their Instagram page.
After a two-week campaign, Piper Plavins has been elected as the MSU President for the 2025-2026 academic year
Early Friday morning, Piper Plavins was announced as the next president of the McMaster Students Union for the 2025-2026 academic term.
Plavins was elected with a total of 4,860 votes. A minimum of 2,750 votes were required.
Approximately 22.2 per cent of the undergraduate student body voted in this year's election, or 5,783 students.
This is a 35.4 per cent increase in voter turnout from last year’s 16.4 per cent. This is in stark comparison to 2023’s turnout of 10.2 per cent, making this a 117.6 per cent jump in two years.
Olami Olalere was disqualified from the presidential race due to receiving severe fines as per MSU Elections.
"The Elections Committee has determined that the candidate has received 9 standard violations, 2 severe fines and $42 in poster violations, accumulating a fines amount that exceeds half of the spending limit, leading to an automatic disqualification (Rule 7.12)," stated MSU Elections in an Instagram post.
All candidates may appeal any fines to the MSU Elections committee. They may further appeal to the Electoral Appeal Board consisting of the MSU Speaker, the Secretary of the University Senate and a McMaster community member who does not sit on the Student Representative Assembly.
As such, results are technically not official until the appeal process has been concluded.
Plavins' campaign prioritized improving student life through enhanced advocacy, greater student involvement, expanded MSU services, increased awareness of campus resources, support for student clubs, more accessible classrooms, and initiatives like MSU Week, the Holiday Market expansion and a mentorship program for 2SLGBTQIA+ students. More about Plavins' platform can be read here, as well as the Silhouette's critique on the president-elect.
As for the referenda, the Food Accessibility Initiative has passed. Voter turn out was 13.1%.
The Homecoming and Large Events referendum failed, with voter turnout at 13.6%.
The Engineers Without Boarders referendum was invalidated by the Elections Committee and thus results were not released.
For more information, visit the MSU elections website and stay tuned for our first sit-down with the incoming President.
This is a developing story.
McMaster’s Varsity Leadership Committee's Mental Health Week offers activities for Marauder athletes to connectand discuss mental health and well being
On Jan. 22, 2025, the McMaster Varsity Leadership Committee kicked off their Mental Health Week with a mental health panel. This event took place in the David Braley Athletic Centre classrooms and featured a number of speakers discussing various topics in mental health.
The panel included McMaster athletics alumni Sam Cooper and Brandon Bernard. Current student athletes Jenine Alkhatib and Sammi Slater, as well as a speaker from the student wellness centre, Jin Byun, were also present. The speakers discussed a range of topics including how to take care of your well-being outside of sport and women’s health in sports.
McMaster VLC president Evan Mitchell spoke about his experience in helping to put together the event, “I was able to help create an environment where people could feel like they could share their story and not have any fear about what people were gonna think. It was a really great crowd that we had too and a good audience and some really good questions as well and some real raw emotion that kind of came out of like people just really like going into their story and it's like, like I loved it. I thought it was amazing.”
It was a really great crowd that we had too and a good audience and some really good questions as well and some real raw emotion that kind of came out of like people just really like going into their story and it's like, like I loved it. I thought it was amazing
Evan Mitchell, President McMaster Varsity Leadership Committee
Proceeding the panel event, the VLC hosted a trivia night event at TwelvEighty Bar & Grill on Jan. 23, 2025. The event allowed student athletes from all sports to enjoy a dinner together and partake in trivia. Mitchell was shocked by the number of student athletes who attended.
“So it was special because we kind of knew what we were capable of, but when everyone comes together and is there for that, it's just like it just reminds you of that the sky's the limit with event planning for athletes because word of mouth spreads so quickly and if you catch a buzz like you're gonna get a lot of people to come out which is pretty cool,” said Mitchell.
Going forward, the success of this event may signal even bigger things for the VLC. Their original goal was to give better opportunities for the OUA and club sports at McMaster, compared to the USports teams. Mitchell believes this has been surpassed.
“I've seen so much change in the department with VLC and what we've been able to achieve. Now, our goal is to create a stronger sense of community amongst athletes and get everyone together more. You should be a Marauder alumni and be able to connect with any Marauder alumni. We want to create more opportunities for people to network and connect with one another,” said Mitchell.
I've seen so much change in the department with VLC and what we've been able to achieve. Now, our goal is to create a stronger sense of community amongst athletes and get everyone together more.
Evan Mitchell, President McMaster Varsity Leadership Committee
Mitchell attributes the growth of the VLC and their ability to reach so many student athletes to its wide-reaching executive board, as well as their interpersonal relationships.
“The reason why I think the club has been so successful is because we're all friends. . .It's a big reason why the club is so integrated and we have so many sports like swimming, soccer, basketball, baseball and we used to have a couple others [on the executive board], but even that in itself, four or five sports within your club is huge because you reach like so many networks,” said Mitchell.
The VLC’s mental health week initiatives showcased the team’s commitment to connecting and providing spaces for McMaster student-athletes to make meaningful relationships.
Looking forward, the VLC looks to continue its growth, hosting a number of events including Marauder Momentum, a series of career development workshops. Information can be found here.
Marauders women's volleyball opens year with back-to-back games against Windsor and Toronto Metropolitan University, picking up four wins in four games
Despite losing the last four games of the 2024 portion of the season, the Marauders women’s volleyball team has kick-started 2025 with four consecutive wins in their first four games. Their current record has the team sitting with 10 wins and four losses this season.
The Marauders lost to the Western University Mustangs on Nov. 15 and Nov. 16, 2024 and lost again to the Brock University Badgers on Nov. 22 and Nov. 23, 2024. The Mustangs sit just below the Marauders in the U Sport rankings at eleventh place, while the Badgers are ranked eighth.
With two tough opponents out of the way, the Marauders entered the season with matchups against the University of Windsor Lancers at home on Jan. 10 and Jan. 11, 2025. The Lancers are ranked twentieth in USports rankings.
The Marauders went on to sweep the Lancers in their first match, with a decisive three to zero scoreline. Outside hitter Emma McKinnon led the team in kills with 11 in total, while setter Chayse Victoria led in assists with 24 in total.
The Marauders went on to sweep the Lancers in their first match, with a decisive three to zero scoreline.
The two teams' second meeting was closer in score, ending with a three to two scoreline. Outside hitter Maddy Lutes stepped up, leading the team in kills with 16 total and Victoria continued leading in assists with 40 total.
The team then took on Toronto Metropolitan University on Jan. 17 and Jan. 18, 2025. Similarly to their first game against the Lancers, the Marauders swept TMU in their first match. The second game was decisive as well, as the Marauders won with a score of three to one.
As the Ontario University Athletics season continues, the Marauders will face the University of Ottawa on Jan. 24 and Jan. 25, 2025, at home in the Burridge Gym, where the volleyball team will hope to continue its recent success.
Explore a range of scholarships designed to support and uplift BIPOC students in their pursuit of higher education and academic success
At McMaster University, BIPOC students have access to a variety of scholarships aimed at reducing financial barriers and fostering academic achievement. These scholarships not only provide crucial financial support but also recognize the unique experiences of BIPOC students and the perspectives they bring to campus.
Discussed below are accessible and impactful scholarships available to help BIPOC students succeed in their educational journey. Whether you’re a first-year student or well into your studies, these opportunities can make a significant difference in your academic path.
RBC Capital Markets Pathways Diversity Award Program
The RBC Capital Markets Pathways Diversity Award Program includes a $10,000 award, a 2026 summer internship, an executive sponsorship for career guidance and networking opportunities. This program is available for full-time Black or Indigenous undergraduate students that will graduate between December 2026 and June 2027. The application deadline is Feb. 9, 2025.
Applicants must have a strong academic record, actively participate in extra-curricular activities and demonstrate a genuine interest in pursuing a career in finance after graduation. Additionally, candidates must be available to join a full-time summer internship program running from May to August 2026.
To apply applicants must also be Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada or legally eligible to work in Canada for any employer up until August 2026. This unique opportunity is designed for students from all academic programs who are committed to both their academic growth and a future in the finance industry.
RBC Indigenous Development Program
The RBC Indigenous Development Program is a two-year, nationwide rotational initiative designed for college and university graduates who self-identify as Indigenous people of Canada. The application deadline is Jan. 31, 2025.
This program offers four work rotations: three focused on a specific business area and one dedicated to a charitable organization or qualified non-profit. The charitable rotation provides meaningful work experience, allowing you to apply your skills while expanding your professional network in the non-profit sector.
Upon applying, applicants must be recent university graduates and be willing to commit to the program for the full two years. Applicants must also reside in close proximity to an RBC Branch or RBC location and be willing to commute on a regular basis.
This program aims to help participants develop essential skills and build valuable networks to support their career growth at RBC.
Blackspace Scholarship
The Blackspace Scholarship is an annual scholarship launched by the MSU club Blackspace in partnership with the Royal Bank of Canada. The scholarship is awarded to Black-Identifying women and nonbinary McMaster students. The application deadline is Feb. 1, 2025.
The application is open to both McMaster undergraduate and graduate students. Applicants for this scholarship must answer several questions that demonstrate a strong sense of self-awareness and personal growth.
They should highlight their educational aspirations and how their academic pursuits align with the broader goal of contributing to their community or society. Applicants are also expected to showcase resilience through past experiences, particularly how they've overcome adversity.
This scholarship application seeks to understand how applicants’ identities, particularly as Black women or nonbinary individuals, have shaped their academic journey, along with their perspectives on diversity and inclusion.
The Edgar Lee Ware Memorial Award
The Edgar Lee Ware Memorial Award, established in 2022 by Syrus Marcus Ware, recognizes undergraduate students enrolled in the School of the Arts who identify as Black, Indigenous and/or racialized with a $3,000 award. The application deadline is Apr. 29, 2025.
The award honours students who demonstrate significant community involvement and leadership potential. Applicants for the Edgar Lee Ware Memorial Award must be undergraduate students currently enrolled in the School of the Arts, pursuing a Bachelor's, Co-op, Honours Co-op, or Honours program.
Applicants must self-identify as a racialized or Indigenous person, have completed at least 18 graded units in the current year and maintain a minimum average GPA of 9.5 on the McMaster 12-point scale. Additionally, applicants must meet eligibility requirements for in-course awards. Graduating students are excluded from consideration. McMaster students can apply through the AwardSpring website.
The Adella Margaret Bragg Scholarship
The Adella Margaret Bragg Scholarship is a merit-based award valued up to $12,000, available to female students from the Six Nations of the Grand River territory enrolled in any undergraduate program at McMaster University. The scholarship is renewable for up to three years, with a maximum annual value of $4,000. The application deadline is Apr. 29, 2025.
To qualify, applicants must be an undergraduate student, enrolled in a Bachelor's, Co-op, Honours, Honours Co-op, or Year 1 program. Students must have completed the Indigenous Ancestry Verification process and have approved proof of Indigenous Identity in Mosaic. Additionally, applicants must have a minimum of 24 graded units and a sessional average of 9.5 or higher. This scholarship is not available to graduating students or those enrolled in Nursing Consortium Programs at Mohawk or Conestoga.
For consideration, applicants must agree to the Student Declaration and self-identify as Indigenous on the Mosaic Indigenous Ancestry Verification System. Proof of Indigenous identity is required prior to the deadline. McMaster students can apply through the AwardSpring website.
The CIBC Future Technology Leaders Black & Indigenous Scholarship
The CIBC Financial Technology Award is a $10,000 scholarship, typically awarded to 10 students, for undergraduate students enrolled in Level 2 of a Faculty of Engineering co-op program at McMaster University. Applicants must self-identify as Black and/or Indigenous and express an interest in working in the financial technology industry. The application deadline is Apr. 29, 2025.
To be eligible, students must meet the following requirements: be registered as an undergraduate student, have a minimum of 18 graded units in the current academic year and maintain a sessional average of 9.5 or higher. Applicants must also be eligible for in-course awards. The award is not available to graduating students or those pursuing a second degree.
Additionally, applicants must self-identify through the Indigenous Ancestry Verification System on Mosaic and students from racialized or Indigenous backgrounds are encouraged to apply. McMaster students can apply through the AwardSpring website.
These programs offer not only financial assistance but also mentorship and real-world experience to help students thrive in their chosen fields. By exploring and applying for these opportunities, BIPOC students can gain tools and networks to help them succeed in their educational and career journeys.
By actively seeking out and applying for these scholarships and work opportunities, BIPOC university students can help bridge the gap in representation within various industries. Students can discover additional scholarship opportunities through university resources, including the Black Student Success Centre's Instagram, the Indigenous Student Services Instagram and AwardSpring on Mosaic.
Combining art and coaching on fostering positive mindset change, McMaster's Museum of Art workshop offers a unique perspective on future-focused thinking
On Jan. 23, 2025 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., the McMaster Museum of Art hosted Reimagining Mindsets for the Future, an interactive workshop designed to help participants explore new ways of thinking and approaching challenges. By blending visual arts, group coaching and education, the event aimed to inspire personal growth and equip attendees with tools and strategies to stay positive and navigate uncertainty in today’s world.
Co-created by executive, leadership and team coach, Amanda Calzolaio, alongside Nicole Knibb, a senior educator at the McMaster Museum of Art, the workshop took place in the museum’s gallery space. Attendees were invited to engage with art, participate in discussions and reflect on how mindset shifts could shape their perspectives on the future.
Calzolaio and Knibb, drawing on their experience in coaching and arts education, designed the workshop to integrate three core elements: visual arts, group coaching and education. According to Calzolaio, this blend creates a “dynamic interplay” that deepens awareness and fosters connection.
“Art allows for expression of values, perspectives and identity. Education invites new knowledge. And coaching deepens the awareness of self, others and the world. So, collectively, these components shift mindsets and inform how we see ourselves and the world,” explained Calzolaio.
Art played a significant role in fostering self-awareness and connection during the workshop, with the museum environment enhancing the experience.
“Being in the gallery, surrounded by artwork, creates a unique space for reflection and connection. It’s a really great way to get to know yourself, your place in the world and be with other people in the same space,” said Knibb.
The workshop also placed a strong focus on the concept of futures thinking, a creative and analytical approach to envisioning what the future could look like and how to shape it positively.
“Artists are really good at seeing things others might not. They spot signals that help us think about what might happen and how to prepare for it,” said Knibb. “Futures work offers hope and optimism and encourages us to imagine better possibilities rather than focus on dystopias."
Artists are really good at seeing things others might not. They spot signals that help us think about what might happen and how to prepare for it.
Nicole Knibb, Senior Educator: Academic & Professional Engagement McMaster Museum of Art
The workshop also emphasized the importance of building momentum as part of future thinking, a concept central to the coaching process.
“In coaching, our goal is to move from the present into the future. Future thinking is about creating forward-facing momentum that’s relevant to each participant, helping them build a vision of what’s possible,” said Calzolaio.
For many participants, the workshop offered a chance to engage with new perspectives and rediscover creativity. “We want participants to leave with a sense of curiosity and connectedness—with themselves, others and the world. It’s about tapping into something they didn’t know was possible or maybe forgot about,” Calzolaio said.
We want participants to leave with a sense of curiosity and connectedness—with themselves, others, and the world.
Amanda Calzolaio, Leadership and Team Coach
Knibb added that the museum's central location on campus makes it an ideal setting for such an event. “It’s accessible for students and others and it’s a great way for young people to spark creativity, imagination and optimism about the future,” she said.
As the second workshop in what the McMaster Museum of Art hopes will become an ongoing series, Calzolaio noted, “This is just the beginning. We hope to continue this work and bring it to even more people in the future." Reimagining Mindsets for the Future reflects the museum's commitment to blending arts-based education and group coaching to foster growth and collaboration.
Details about upcoming workshops and events can be found on the McMaster Museum of Art's social media and website.
McMaster karate instructor Sensei Phil McColl inducted into the Canadian Black Belt Hall of Fame, following years of significant contributions to martial arts in Canada
At the end of 2024, McMaster karate instructor Sensei Phil McColl was inducted into the Canadian Black Belt Hall of Fame. Sensei McColl has been an influential figure in the martial arts program at McMaster for over forty years, displaying unwavering amounts of commitment and dedication to his students.
Sensei McColl's journey began in 1975 at the age of 24 where he began training under the guidance of Sensei Don Warrener in Goju Ryu karate. He has since then expanded his skill set and become proficient in other martial arts such as Kobudo, Jujitsu, Muay Thai and other styles of karate.
After countless years of training, he earned the title of ninth-degree black belt (Kudan) in January 2023. Kudan is the second highest black belt rank in Goju Ryu.
Sensei McColl started teaching at McMaster in 1984. Over the past forty years he has been encouraging students to study karate, citing valuable skills such as resilience and diligence that come with learning a martial art.
Ever since he started, Sensei McColl has been dedicated to building an environment which spreads the shared values of martial arts. He has been largely responsible for fostering a supportive martial arts community at McMaster that allows students to not only prosper in karate, but their day-to-day lives as well.
Sensei McColl has been dedicated to building an environment which spreads the shared values of martial arts.
Heidi Obrien, instructional programs coordinator at McMaster University, has previously expressed her gratitude for Sensei McColl's work at McMaster. She maintains that Sensei McColl has been an invaluable mentor for students of diverse backgrounds. His approachable and passionate teaching style have made him a valuable figure in the McMaster community.
His approachable and passionate teaching style have made him a valuable figure in the McMaster community.
In addition to teaching, Sensei McColl participated in the World Karate Organization World Championships in 1994. There, Sensei McColl was able to showcase his proficiency in Goju Ryu on the international stage. There, he also coached the McMaster women's kata team to a first place finish.
Sensei McColl still holds classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, welcoming participants from all skill levels.
Candidates highlight key campus issues, outlining platforms on transparency, resource allocation and student engagement
The 2025 McMaster Students Union presidential debate took place on Jan. 28, 2025, in the McMaster University Student Centre atrium from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event coincides with the voting period, taking place from Jan. 28 to Jan. 30, 2025.
This year's debate saw three presidential candidates, Simon Mills, Olami Olalere and Piper Plavins, answer questions about key issues ranging from club sustainability to general awareness of services offered by the MSU.
The debate provided insights into how each candidate plans to shape the future of the MSU and ensure the well-being of McMaster students. Each candidate was given the opportunity to speak on their platform and respond to questions from both the moderators and the audience, with a chance for rebuttals to further clarify and defend their positions.
For added context and clarity, the Silhouette has fact-checked and provided commentary on the candidates' responses.
Awareness of Student Services
Regarding this topic, Plavins called for more awareness campaigns, noting that students need to know about the available support systems. She suggested her platform promise of "MSU Week", separate from Welcome Week, to highlight MSU services and engage the campus community. It is worth noting that Plavins has not presented a plan to fund this proposed initiative.
Mills echoed that promoting services by leveraging existing resources, like the Silhouette and social media, could help increase overall awareness of the MSU.
Olalere argued that the MSU shouldn't wait for students to approach them. Instead, the MSU should be more proactive, engaging students through platforms such as his proposed "MSUTV" initiative and highlighting services regularly.
Olalere has not presented a plan to fund "MSUTV" nor has he indicated how this will operate alongside existing campus-media, including the Silhouette and 93.3 CFMU.
It is also worth referencing the Campus Media Merger that was unanimously passed by the Student Representative Assembly on Jan. 12, 2025. This will promote more cross-collaborative video, print and broadcast initiatives by merging the Silhouette under CFMU Radio Incorporated.
There is currently no information if "MSUTV" would be a part of this newly-merged campus-media department.
2025 Referenda
Mills supported the Homecoming and Large Events referendum, as well as the Food Accessibility Initiative referendum, emphasizing their importance for student life and mental health. However, he opposed the Engineers Without Borders referendum, citing concerns about how funds are allocated, stating that he believes the fee should not be kept in place.
Olalere also supported the Homecoming and Large Events and Food Accessibility Initiative referenda, but opposed the EWB one, stressing the need for transparency in MSU leadership.
Plavins was also in favour of the Food Accessibility Initiative referendum but opposed the Homecoming and Large Events referendum, suggesting that the funds could be better used for other campus initiatives. It is worth noting that this referendum specifically states that the money can be used for other campus initiatives, not just homecoming.
Plavins also criticized the EWB referendum, questioning the proper use of MSU funds.
It is worth noting that Engineers Without Borders is outside the purview of MSU leadership, as it is a Bylaw-9 group that is "administered by non-MSU, non-University bodies".
Presidential Platforms
When asked about their platforms, Olalere reiterated his focus on identifying what hinders students and designing his platform around addressing these challenges.
Plavins emphasized that her platform was driven by student feedback, suggesting that many students were unaware of the MSU's existing services and programs.
Mills focused on the 30 consultations he claimed to have conducted with McMaster faculty and MSU officials. In regards to increasing MSU club engagement, he referenced his proposed club matchmaking system. Mills also discussed the importance of addressing mental health issues and improving student engagement.
The candidates also criticized each other's platforms.
Plavins criticized Olalere's proposal for not offering enough detailed solutions, emphasizing that platform promises should be executable with a clear plan and not just vague promises. It is worth noting that the Silhouette stated in Plavins' critique that she also lacked detailed solutions and funding models for her platform. According to a Silhouettecritique, Mills also lacked detailed solutions and funding models.
Mills argued that the role of Olalere's proposed "MSUTV" should be clearly defined and that new initiatives might be redundant when existing platforms already serve a similar purpose. The Silhouette also identified this in Olalere's critique, citing a similarity to the initiatives that both the Silhouette and 93.3 CFMU have already been working on.
Olalere and Mills criticized Plavins' idea to include an ice rink at the MSU Holiday Market, questioning its feasibility and the need for such a large expenditure. There is currently no estimate into how much the proposed rink would cost students, nor where the money to fund such a project would come from.
Advocacy Amidst An Incoming Provincial and Federal Election
The debate also delved into how the candidates plan to engage with government and advocate for students.
Mills focused on increasing mental health funding and reducing wait times for services, as well as advocating for broader government support for student mental health initiatives.
Olalere emphasized the need for improved access to MSU services and better student education on electoral processes. He also noted the importance of building stronger relationships between MSU leadership and the student body.
Plavins stressed the importance of voter turnout and educating students about provincial and federal issues. She also focused on advocating for marginalized communities within the university.
However, neither Olalere nor Plavins directly addressed how they would engage with the government to advocate for students.
Campus Protests and the McMaster Apartheid Divest
When asked about supporting student movements like McMaster's ApartheidDivestment, Mills noted that while he may not be an expert on every issue, he would support student movements by being well-informed and disclosing all relevant information to students.
Olalere proposed more consistent engagement with students through town halls, ensuring they are aware of the actions the MSU is taking.
Plavins emphasized the need for an open-door policy and a commitment to listening to students and supporting advocacy efforts across campus.
None of the candidates clearly gave their position on this specific matter.
Transportation
Regarding transportation, Mills proposed working with parking services to improve parking availability as well as his platform promise to combat what he claims to be predatory enforcement and issuing of parking fine around McMaster. He also suggested a need to push for more HSR routes.
Olalere also argued that HSR services must expand, especially in areas "up the mountain", to accommodate students better. He also suggested pushing for more GO transit initiatives and adding more routes westward from Hamilton.
Plavins focused on transportation issues related to the provincial and federal governments, advocating for better access to transportation to ensure students can attend classes without worrying about their commute.
None of the candidates clearly identified who they would specifically work with to ensure their goals were achieved.
Peer support services
Lastly, the candidates discussed expanding peer support services, especially for at-risk and marginalized students.
Plavins pointed to the importance of recognizing barriers faced by marginalized students, such as those in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and making sure they feel safe and supported on campus.
Mills emphasized peer support and peer mentorship to help students navigate challenges, believing that speaking with peers and engaging with the community was often more effective than formal support. Mills cited the need to ensure we are utilizing resources effectively, instead of having redundancies, or things that these communities would not utilize.
Similarly, Olalere proposed improving peer support services and ensuring they are well-supported and visible to the student body, mainly through town halls and engagement efforts.
Olalere stated that "one of the biggest peer-support services" was the Emergency First Response Team. However, as defined in MSU Operating Policy 2 — Services, EFRT is a student-life enhancement service that primarily provides emergency medical assistance rather than peer support. Other student-life enhancement services include the Maroons, Spark, Macademics, Food Collective Centre and the Student Walk Home Attendant Team.
The MSU’s dedicated peer-support services, which focus on supporting at-risk and marginalized students, include the Diversity and Equity Network, Maccess, the Pride Community Centre, the Student Health Education Centre and the Women and Gender Equity Network.
Students will have the opportunity to cast their votes on the three presidential candidates and the three concurrent referenda during the 2025 MSU presidential election period. Voting will occur online via the SimplyVoting platform from Jan. 28 to 30, 2025.
A look at what sports will run this winter through the intramurals program, and how its programming supports equity, diversity and inclusion for all participants
The McMaster athletics and recreation department has just kicked off the winter league for intramural sports. This semester features a variety of sports to participate in, including indoor cricket, dodgeball, innertube water polo and many others.
The leagues began as early as Jan. 12, 2025, giving McMaster students a space to play as the semester began. McMaster’s intramurals offer a variety of categories for participants of different skill levels. These range from PlayFun, for which cooperation and learning of the sport is the main focus, along with PlayCompetitve, for which, as the name would suggest, scoring and winning is the main focus.
There are also open, co-recreational, women’s and men’s leagues for participants to choose from. Open leagues have no gender-based roster requirements. Co-recreational leagues allow players of all gender identities to share a roster, while women’s and men’s leagues provide spaces specifically for women-identifying and men-identifying players to form their respective teams.
These league styles and rosters are just one way Andrea Maxwell, the inclusion and gender equity advocate for McMaster Intramurals, has aimed to make intramurals more inclusive.
Maxwell creates programming in which all players feel welcome.
“So my role is fairly new. It focuses on creating a welcoming an actively inclusive environment within sports and I really aim to increase participation particularly among groups who have been discouraged from playing sports like marginalized groups such as people with minority gender identities, disabilities, sexualities, other cultures or races,” said Maxwell.
One of the main aspects of providing a welcoming space has been the introduction of the aforementioned open league. Providing a league with no gender-based requirements has opened the door to more people to enjoy intramurals at McMaster.
“We also have an open league where you don't have to identify with any gender identity at all, which is really a step forward. I know a lot of other universities don't really have that at any level of their sports, but this is an opportunity. You don't have to fit in a box to be able to play and be welcomed with our program,” said Maxwell.
We also have an open league where you don't have to identify with any gender identity at all . . . You don't have to fit in a box to be able to play and be welcomed with our program.
Andrea Maxwell, Inclusion and Gender Equity Advocate McMaster Intramurals
In addition, Maxwell has helped to facilitate single-day tournaments which provide a space for marginalized groups. These events also aim to provide a space for people who may not be signed up for intramurals and who may want to try a new sport.
“We have a wheelchair basketball tournament coming later in the semester. We have an International Women's Day tournament coming up, a Black History Month tournament; We have a lot going on just trying to reach as many different groups on campus as possible just to encourage them to play. We want you here, you're welcome here, it's a safe space,” said Maxwell.
We have a wheelchair basketball tournament coming later in the semester. We have an International Women's Day tournament coming up, Black History Month tournament . . . We want you here, you're welcome here, it's a safe space.
Andrea Maxwell, Inclusion and Gender Equity Advocate McMaster Intramurals
Maxwell's efforts are aimed at making members of the McMaster intramurals community feel more welcomed, as well as to decrease any nervousness preventing people from joining. For Maxwell, the rewards of joining intramurals are immense.
“I know some people may be nervous to play intramurals, but I would say if you can go for it, it's a fun time. We have prizes, of course, but I guess the real prize is, you know, the friendships, the time and space to get active. It's a rewarding experience,” said Maxwell.
McMaster intramurals has aimed to provide a space for everyone to participate. Anyone can play and enjoy their time while doing so. If you are interested in participating in any of the single day tournaments, information can be found on the intramurals leagues' website.
As McMaster's student population continues to grow, limited parking infrastructure creates mounting challenges for both commuter and resident students
By: Ardena Bašić, Opinion Contributor
McMaster University's parking situation has reached a critical point, with demand for parking spaces significantly exceeding the available supply. This shortage affects not just commuter students, but also off-campus residents who keep their vehicles on university grounds, creating a complex challenge that requires immediate attention.
The current parking system at McMaster is characterized by waitlists for parking permits, forcing students to seek alternatives that often compromise their time, safety or finances. For example, many students park on side roads, local businesses or other areas where parking can be under strict time limits, unsafe and potentially more costly than campus options.
While the university has implemented a tiered pricing system offering various rates for different time periods, the impact of these measures appears minimal in addressing the core issue of capacity.
One of the most significant challenges is the limited availability of parking spaces near core campus areas. In a recent study of students in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, 41 per cent of students reported that long commutes discouraged them from coming to campus more often, with parking challenges being a significant factor in this decision.
41 per cent of students reported that long commutes discouraged them from coming to campus more often, with parking challenges being a significant factor in this decision.
The financial burden of parking adds another layer of complexity to the issue. Current parking fees represent a substantial expense for students already managing tuition, textbooks and other educational costs. While the university's tiered pricing system again attempts to distribute demand across different time slots, the number of students able to take advantage of reduced pricing after 4:00 p.m. is likely minimal due to rigid class schedules.
The parking challenge extends beyond just commuter students. Many students living off-campus in nearby neighbourhoods rely on their vehicles for work commitments, grocery shopping or family obligations. These students often need long-term parking solutions that the current infrastructure struggles to provide.
Looking ahead, several potential solutions could help address these challenges. While constructing new parking facilities would be the most straightforward solution, space constraints and environmental considerations make this option complicated.
Alternative approaches might include implementing smart parking systems to optimize space utilization, developing partnerships with nearby private parking facilities, expanding shuttle services from remote parking locations, creating designated carpool parking areas with incentivized rates and introducing flexible permit options that align with hybrid learning schedules.
However, immediate actions are also necessary. McMaster should conduct comprehensive surveys to understand parking usage patterns and student needs. This data could inform more effective short-term solutions while longer-term infrastructure plans are developed.
The university should also consider how parking policies intersect with its sustainability goals. While addressing parking needs is crucial, solutions should align with environmental responsibilities and encourage alternative transportation methods where feasible.
McMaster's parking challenges represent a significant infrastructure issue that affects the daily lives of numerous students. As the university continues to grow, finding innovative solutions to address parking capacity while balancing accessibility, affordability and sustainability will be crucial for maintaining its reputation as a student-centered institution.