The fall has been an exceptionally busy period for member services. Much of my time has been spent supporting members through workplace concerns, assisting with collective bargaining preparation, and working with the University on a variety of employment and labour relations matters.
As is often the case, the majority of member contacts do not result in formal grievances. Many concerns… Continue reading
This member spotlight was written by Madiha Rizki, ASPA Communications & Public Relations sub-committe chair
For ASPA member Guillermo Galvan Gracia, the journey from Monterrey, Mexico, to Saskatoon, has been shaped by curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. What began as an international exchange opportunity in 2003 grew into a life and career spanning countries, cities, and experiences, ultimately leading him to USask, where he now works as a Digital Marketing Specialist in University Relations.
Guillermo’s Canadian story began when he arrived at the University of Toronto through an international marketing exchange program. He quickly fell in love with Canada, returning in 2011 and building his career in Ottawa and Montreal before making Saskatoon his home in 2018. Along the way, each move brought new opportunities, perspectives, and connections, reinforcing a lesson that continues to guide him today: “We don't always know where an opportunity might lead,” he says. Continue reading
Written by: Candice Pete-Cardoso and Darla Read, ASPA Executive
In 1876, First Nations and the Crown entered into Treaty 6 at Fort Carleton on August 23.
To commemorate the 150th anniversary of Treaty 6, hundreds journeyed to Fort Carleton Provincial Historic Park from August 20 to 23, 2026, including ASPA Executive members Candice Pete-Cardoso and Darla Read.
The two were… Continue reading
September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to pause and reflect on the enduring impacts of residential schools and honour the strength and resilience of Indigenous survivors, families, and communities. We remember the children who never returned home and stand in solidarity with those who continue to carry the weight of that loss. As highlighted… Continue reading
This lunch and learn was hosted on September 22, 2026, via Zoom and in the Agriculture building, room 2C71. It was facilitated by one our your current Vice President's, Darla Read.
If you missed the session and are curious about what your expierence or responsibilities will be as an Executive member, you can catch the recording here as well as… Continue reading
Greetings ASPA Members,
Welcome to September! I hope you all enjoyed some time away this summer doing the things you love. In spite of traffic snarls, the last-minute pivoting inherent in each new academic year, and the even earlier than usual encroachment of the pumpkin spice season during the last days of summer, this is an exciting and vibrant time of year, and my wish is for a successful year for our members both personally and professionally. Continue reading
As we enjoy a day off this Labour Day, let’s remember to reflect on its powerful legacy and continued relevance. The Toronto Printers’ Strike of 1872 was a pivotal moment in Canadian history—igniting the movement for fair working conditions and laying the foundation for the rights we enjoy today.
More than 150 years later, Labour Day continues to remind… Continue reading
Your ASPA Executive and Bargaining Committee have been hard at work over the past several months preparing for this round of collective bargaining.
The Bargaining Committee is made up of the following members, who are responsible for developing proposals and making decisions on behalf of the committee:
Supporting the committee throughout the bargaining process are ASPA's Member Services Officer, Shayne… Continue reading
This presentation was facilitated by Shayne Meggs, ASPA's Member Services Officer, August 24, 2026. It was presented over the lunch hour and was delivered in person and online via Zoom. Here is the recording along with the PowerPoint presentation. Continue reading
Saskatchewan Federation of Labour's (SFL) Executive Director Nathaniel Cole was one of four University of Saskatchewan alumni who were selected to attend the 2026 Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference.
Reflecting on the experience, Cole said:
"I was honoured and surprised, knowing how many people apply and never make it. I know great leaders in the labour movement and across the… Continue reading