A significant occasion in the history of Portage College and the Students' Association of Portage College (SAPC) on Sept 27, 2023. In the making for years, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed to make the commitment to collaboration and cooperation between the college administration and the student body official.

SAPC Chair and Board of Governors Student Member, Kaylee Weigelt made the following speech for this momentous occasion.

"I stand before you as the Chair of the Students' Association, representing the voices, concerns, and aspirations of our diverse student community. We, the students, are an integral part of this institution, and our collective involvement is essential to the growth and success of Portage College.

This MOU is not just a piece of paper; it is a symbol of unity, understanding, and shared goals. It signifies that we, the students, are not merely passive recipients of education, but active partners in the journey of academic excellence. It acknowledges that our opinions and needs are valued and will be considered in the decision-making processes of this institution.

As the Chair of the Students' Association, I want to emphasize our commitment to working hand in hand with the college administration to create a nurturing and inclusive environment for all.

This partnership is not limited to the student body alone. It extends to the dedicated faculty and staff of Portage College, who play a pivotal role in shaping our academic experiences. Together, we can foster a culture of collaboration, respect, and mutual support that will benefit everyone within our college community.

We have already been working together through enhanced academic resources and the promotion of extracurricular activities that enrich our college experience. This MOU signifies that we will continue to engage in open dialogue, seek solutions to challenges and celebrate our successes together.

To the students, I encourage you to actively participate in the Students' Association and share your ideas and concerns. Your engagement is vital to the success of this partnership. To the faculty and staff, I extend our gratitude for your dedication to education, and we look forward to collaborating with you for the betterment of Portage College.

In closing, let us remember that we are all here for a common purpose: to learn, to grow, and to make a positive impact on our lives and the lives of those around us. This MOU signifies our commitment to achieving these goals together.

Let us embark on this exciting journey towards a stronger, more inclusive Portage College."

Kaylee Weigelt, SAPC Chair and Bev Moghrabi, VP, Student & College Services at Portage College.