The past six months have gone by quickly since I joined the ASPA team, and the experience has been both energizing and meaningful. Supporting members through difficult situations has shown me, time and again, the resilience, commitment, and strength that define our community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to do this work and have genuinely enjoyed my time so far. Continue reading
This member highlight was written by Mariam Alaverdashvili, ASPA Communications & Public Relations Committee member
Lecia Ellis currently serves as an Admissions and International Education Officer with the International Students and Study Abroad Center (ISSAC) and the Admissions and Transfer Credit Department since October 2023. Her journey is made even more inspiring by the perspective she brings as an international student from the vibrant island of Jamaica and as a PhD candidate in USask’s College of Education, where her studies are expected to conclude in 2026.
Recognition for Lecia has been earned through her thoughtful support of university-wide initiatives designed to encourage and uplift the international student community, including programs that respond to food security concerns. A spirit of welcome and care has been felt by many students, who have affectionately come to know her as “Ma,” reflecting the appreciation for the nurturing presence she offers beyond her official responsibilities. Continue reading
The end of the 2025 calendar year is approaching, and it’s a good time to review your benefits. Remember, some of your benefits are “use it or lose it” and reset in January, while some unused benefits stack year-to-year. See the quick overview below: Continue reading
Holiday greetings to all ASPA members! My name is Rob Procyk, and I am the new president of ASPA. I joined the ASPA Executive as a vice-president in May 2025, and I assumed the role of president in November after our former president, Adi Manek, stepped down from the role after obtaining a new position at the university. I would like to personally thank Adi for his exemplary work ethic and enthusiasm as president.
His strength, wisdom, and innate kindness are the hallmarks of a great president, and we wish him the best in his new position. Luckily, Adi will remain as a member of the ASPA Executive, and I look forward to continuing working with him this year! Continue reading
On December 6, we pause to remember the 14 women whose lives were violently taken at École Polytechnique in Montréal in 1989.
This act of callous misogyny shook our country and led Parliament to designate this day National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Thirty-six years later, it continues to serve as a solemn reminder of the devastating impact of gender-based violence and the ongoing need for collective action. Continue reading
Each year on December 3, the United Nations marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities—a global observance dedicated to advancing the rights, dignity, and inclusion of persons with disabilities across all dimensions of society.
At ASPA, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering equitable workplaces where accessibility, respect, and opportunity are not just ideals but everyday realities. We recognize that… Continue reading
The previous bargaining co-lead, Alexis Dahl, and former bargaining team member, Ken Glover, were more than informative when providing ASPA with their bargaining process Lunch & Learn. This session was held October 28, 2025. Continue reading
Brought to you by your friendly neighbourhood MSO, Shayne Meggs
In my short time here, I’ve already come across a few members who discovered that the employment status they thought they had didn’t match what the university had on record—for example, thinking they were permanent when the university had them listed as term.
If you’re unsure or believe your status might be incorrect, I encourage you to check. You can verify your employment status by: Continue reading
Abstract
Shayne Meggs, ASPA’s Member Services Officer, shares highlights from his first few months in the role, supporting members through workplace challenges, labour relations issues, and collective bargaining preparations. His work includes attending meetings with the employer, participating in joint committees, and negotiating settlements on behalf of members and the union.
My First Few Months at ASPA
By Shayne Meggs, Member Services Officer
It’s been an amazing start to my time at ASPA. The Presidents, Executive, and members have all been incredibly welcoming and supportive. I want to extend a special thank you to Angeline, our Financial and Administrative Assistant, who has been instrumental in onboarding me to ASPA and helping me navigate the university more broadly. Continue reading
Andrea Eccleston works as the Operations Manager in the International Office. She has been a dedicated member of ASPA for over 18 years. In addition to her professional role, Andrea has volunteered with Huskie Football for 26 seasons as Team Manager.
Her longstanding commitment to amateur football in Saskatchewan was recently recognized with the Roughrider Recognition Award, honouring her outstanding contributions and dedication to the sport. Continue reading