Voices of Past and Current Leaders
Information about the SAGBC
The Student Association at George Brown College proudly connects with other unions across various institutions, embracing the power of unity. We maintain both formal and informal partnerships with student unions at the local, provincial, and national levels. Our most significant connection is with the Canadian Federation of Students, which we joined in 1997 following a decisive vote by George Brown students. This affiliation underscores our commitment to collaborative strength and advocacy within the larger educational landscape in Canada.
The Student Government at George Brown College has witnessed some significant transformations in recent years, with the most notable being the evolution from the George Brown College SAC to the Student Association of George Brown College. This pivotal change has granted the Student Association increased autonomy from the College, enabling unprecedented freedoms and responsibilities.
1995
Student Centre Construction Begins
Construction on a new Student Centre at the St. James campus started in May 1995, after years of planning. In the late 80s, a study found that student success depended on quality student services. GBC lacked such spaces, leading to a feasibility study published in 1993 showing 86 per cent student interest in a centre. It cost $2.5-million, partly funded by student fees. The St. James Centre, a joint effort between the college and students, helped improve services and campus community.
1995
Students Propose Radical Changes to SA
In late 1995, The Student Association of George Brown College faced a proposal from the Casa Loma Campus’ S.R.C., which suggested a radical restructuring of student government and budget cuts. The proposal was presented at the Annual General Meeting and was backed by 100 student signatures. It aimed to reduce student leader numbers, cap full-time staff salaries, involve students in major financial decisions, limit spending on social events, and redefine the board’s composition. While the S.R.C.’s proposal required refinement, collaboration, and formal recognition, it reflected the evolving dynamics of student governance at George Brown College.
1998
Students Vote on CFS
In 1998, students at GBC were facing a referendum on whether to join the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS). The CFS was lobbying for student aid, tuition freezes, and grants for post-secondary education. However, concerns existed about representation for Ontario colleges within CFS, with only a few represented. The SA was officially against joining CFS, citing concerns about effective representation and the financial impact on students. They urged students to research CFS’s benefits and drawbacks before voting. The decision would have affected funding and advocacy for GBC students within the larger Canadian student body.
Students voted to join the CFS.
1998
Health Benefits
The Student Association began to offer a comprehensive health and dental benefits plan that has been a significant asset to student health. This plan has undergone various modifications over the years, characterized by a history of consistent improvements when Gallivan and Associates were appointed to manage the plan’s administration.
2001
Enabling agreement
The establishment of an Enabling Agreement between the College and the Student Association facilitated the construction of the Student Centre.
Timeline from SA milestones
Over the last 30years, the SAGBC has worked to fulfill our mission and serve the students at George Brown College.
Today the SAGBC represents over 24,000 active students and offers over 10 services & programs.
SAGBC opened a satellite Student Centre at the new Waterfront-Daphne Coxwell campus
The Student Association and George Brown College were one of the first post-secondary institutions – along with several other Toronto-based student unions and a few private corporations – to participate in thenew TTC pilot project.
Designed a proposal to introduce a student-based “Safe Walk” program. SA administers and operates the Safewalk Program
SAGBC began construction of the Student Center at Casa Loma Campus and opened it for students' use in 2003.
SAGBC began construction of the Student Center at Casa Loma Campus and opened it for students' use in 2003.
SAC becomes a member of the Canadian Federation of Studen
The Student Association of George Brown College was founded this year after students amalgamated the separate campus-based Student Administrative Councils (SAC) that served students since the founding of the college in 1967
Making Health Affordable
The Student Association of George Brown College serves more students every year, bringing affordable healthcare to students and their families.
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