2026/2027 Executive Nominees

Josephine Tunison

• Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of serving on BUGS as both Event Coordinator and General Student Representative. In these roles, I’ve built many meaningful relationships with other students, gained a strong understanding of how BUGS operates, the needs of our members, and how we can continue to grow as a club. BUGS has been one of the most rewarding parts of my undergraduate experience. I have helped organize social and educational events, represented undergraduate students, and promoted initiatives within the Department of Biology. Serving in multiple roles motivates me to want to create more opportunities for students to connect, learn and have some fun! Beyond my experience, I bring enthusiasm, approachability, and a genuine passion for BUGS. I am committed to expanding membership, increasing engagement, and supporting the continued growth of our student society. 

• Josephine has been involved with BUGS for two years. She is committed to BUGS, seen through her encouragement to others to participate in BUGS events and her active participation in meetings. Through her time at BUGS, she has gained extensive knowledge about how this club is run and can use her knowledge to create exciting events for biology students! Having already done previous projects and classes with her, I can attest that she is well organized, creative, and detail-oriented. 

Alternatively Running For: Vice-President, Event Coordinator

Josephine Tunison

• Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of serving on BUGS as both Event Coordinator and General Student Representative. In these roles, I’ve built many meaningful relationships with other students, gained a strong understanding of how BUGS operates, the needs of our members, and how we can continue to grow as a club. BUGS has been one of the most rewarding parts of my undergraduate experience. I have helped organize social and educational events, represented undergraduate students, and promoted initiatives within the Department of Biology. Serving in multiple roles motivates me to want to create more opportunities for students to connect, learn and have some fun! Beyond my experience, I bring enthusiasm, approachability, and a genuine passion for BUGS. I am committed to expanding membership, increasing engagement, and supporting the continued growth of our student society. 

• Josephine has been involved with BUGS for two years. She is committed to BUGS, seen through her encouragement to others to participate in BUGS events and her active participation in meetings. Through her time at BUGS, she has gained extensive knowledge about how this club is run and can use her knowledge to create exciting events for biology students! Having already done previous projects and classes with her, I can attest that she is well organized, creative, and detail-oriented. 

Alternatively Running For: Vice-President, Event Coordinator

Vanna Hung

• I have been a BUGS General Student Representative for a year now. Through my time on the executive team of BUGS, I had the opportunity to give advice to first year biology students at events and volunteer to help ensure BUGS events are running smoothly. In addition, I’m currently the secretary of the science student society, documenting meeting details and helping plan fun events for the science students at the University of Regina. Lastly, for two years, I’ve been a University of Regina Ambassador Leader where I coordinate teams of volunteers at First-Year Housing Move-In Events, Open Houses, Orientation Days, and smaller events throughout the year! Through all of these experiences in executive positions or as a leader, I’ve accumulated years of experience in creating/planning events, coordinating teams, and fostering connections within the University of Regina. I’ve developed leadership, teamwork, communication, project-planning/event-planning, and organizational skills. I will be able to draw upon these skills to assist me in my position within BUGS! As a current executive member of BUGS, I learned the importance of creating a safe and fun environment for biology students. I enjoyed getting to know many of the first and second year students at our BUGS Mixer and providing them with advice as they go through post-secondary education. I can understand how challenging it can be to navigate post-secondary education and personal life, and I aim to create a space where students can relax and unwind. I plan to continue to create and promote exciting opportunities for Biology students to get to know each other and to learn from each other’s experiences! 

• Vanna has been a part of the BUGS executive team for a year and has been involved with many other volunteer based leadership roles on campus. She served as an Ambassador Leader with the Centre of Experiential and Service Learning for two years and is also an active member of the Science Students Association. Given all her experience within and outside of BUGS, I am certain she will make a great candidate for the vice-president's role. 

• Vanna is one of the most hardworking and dedicated people I know, consistently giving her best in everything she takes on. Her commitment to student involvement makes her an excellent candidate for Vice President of BUGS. Vanna has demonstrated academic excellence throughout her undergraduate studies is now working towards her Masters degree. Through her involvement with the URegina Ambassador Program, the Science Students’ Society, and BUGS, she has demonstrated strong leadership and a desire to build a supportive and inclusive community for students. I am confident she will bring enthusiasm and initiative to this role. 

Alternatively Running For: Secretary, Event Coordinator

Chanchal Mitruka

• If I had to describe my journey in Biology using a kingdom, I would probably say protists, still adapting, not fitting neatly into one category, figuring out where I belonged. Coming into university, there were moments where I felt out of place academically and socially. But biology has taught me something powerful: the organisms that don’t “fit” perfectly into boxes are often the most adaptable and essential. That idea reflects my growth as a student and leader. Outside the classroom, I currently serve as the lead of the UR Food Project, where I help coordinate initiatives that address food insecurity and build community support.Through RPIRG, as a board member, I always look forward to creating new opportunities for student engagement, including organizing upcoming period packages for International Women’s Day to promote health equity and accessibility. These experiences have strengthened my organizational skills, initiative, and ability to turn ideas into tangible action. What makes me stand out is not just involvement, but intention. I don’t join spaces passively. I look for ways to improve them. I understand what it feels like to be balancing academics, leadership, and work, while still trying to find your place. Because of that, I value inclusivity deeply. If elected to the BUGS Executive Committee, I would bring empathy, reliability, and follow-through. I want BUGS to feel like a space where every biology student , whether they feel like they fit in immediately or are still adapting, knows they belong and have opportunities to grow. Biology teaches us that diversity strengthens ecosystems. I believe the same is true for our department, and I would be committed to helping cultivate that environment. 

Alternatively running for: Event Coordinator, Student Club Liaison

Mohammed Abdul Samad Quraishi

• I have been the Treasurer for mulitple student and non-profit organizations both currently and in the past. I've been the BUGS Treasurer for the past 2 years 

Alexander McMurchy

• Biochemistry, pre-med student. In high school, took AP Biology, was the president of the Students Against Drinking & Driving (SADD) Campbell Collegiate chapter, and vice president of Newspaper club. Currently vice president of UofR SADD, member of Science Students Society, Biochem/Chem Students society, and Pre med club. Has experience with organizing funds, leading and planning meetings, club members, and events, and has a strong interest in human/cell biology. 

• Alex, though in just his first year of university, has been an active member of the student body through the Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD) initiative and consistently demonstrates a positive and collaborative attitude. He is a well rounded person who values hard work and communication, he would represent BUGS well and make a great addition to the team! 

Alternatively running for: IT, Student Rep

Vanna Hung

• I have been a BUGS General Student Representative for a year now. Through my time on the executive team of BUGS, I had the opportunity to give advice to first year biology students at events and volunteer to help ensure BUGS events are running smoothly. In addition, I’m currently the secretary of the science student society, documenting meeting details and helping plan fun events for the science students at the University of Regina. Lastly, for two years, I’ve been a University of Regina Ambassador Leader where I coordinate teams of volunteers at First-Year Housing Move-In Events, Open Houses, Orientation Days, and smaller events throughout the year! Through all of these experiences in executive positions or as a leader, I’ve accumulated years of experience in creating/planning events, coordinating teams, and fostering connections within the University of Regina. I’ve developed leadership, teamwork, communication, project-planning/event-planning, and organizational skills. I will be able to draw upon these skills to assist me in my position within BUGS! As a current executive member of BUGS, I learned the importance of creating a safe and fun environment for biology students. I enjoyed getting to know many of the first and second year students at our BUGS Mixer and providing them with advice as they go through post-secondary education. I can understand how challenging it can be to navigate post-secondary education and personal life, and I aim to create a space where students can relax and unwind. I plan to continue to create and promote exciting opportunities for Biology students to get to know each other and to learn from each other’s experiences! 

• Vanna has been a part of the BUGS executive team for a year and has been involved with many other volunteer based leadership roles on campus. She served as an Ambassador Leader with the Centre of Experiential and Service Learning for two years and is also an active member of the Science Students Association. Given all her experience within and outside of BUGS, I am certain she will make a great candidate for the vice-president's role. 

• Vanna is one of the most hardworking and dedicated people I know, consistently giving her best in everything she takes on. Her commitment to student involvement makes her an excellent candidate for Vice President of BUGS. Vanna has demonstrated academic excellence throughout her undergraduate studies is now working towards her Masters degree. Through her involvement with the URegina Ambassador Program, the Science Students’ Society, and BUGS, she has demonstrated strong leadership and a desire to build a supportive and inclusive community for students. I am confident she will bring enthusiasm and initiative to this role. 

Alternatively Running For: Vice-President, Event Coordinator

Vamshi Vakulabharanam 

• I would love to spread the love of science to other people and be the helping hand to 1st year students in biology. Be that friendly person to come to to get info and help them meet people in science, build connections. The science gala and the wetlands fest along with trivia nights 

Alternatively Running For: Student Rep, Student Club Liaison

Elianna Hay

• I am currently a third year biology student and have been a member of bugs for the past year and have attended some of the events that bugs has put on. I want to become even more involved in the biology society by being part of the executive team. I am a great team member and work well with others. I am passionate about biology/science and want to share that with others. 

Alternatively Running For: Student Rep, Event Coordinator

Josephine Tunison

• Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of serving on BUGS as both Event Coordinator and General Student Representative. In these roles, I’ve built many meaningful relationships with other students, gained a strong understanding of how BUGS operates, the needs of our members, and how we can continue to grow as a club. BUGS has been one of the most rewarding parts of my undergraduate experience. I have helped organize social and educational events, represented undergraduate students, and promoted initiatives within the Department of Biology. Serving in multiple roles motivates me to want to create more opportunities for students to connect, learn and have some fun! Beyond my experience, I bring enthusiasm, approachability, and a genuine passion for BUGS. I am committed to expanding membership, increasing engagement, and supporting the continued growth of our student society. 

• Josephine has been involved with BUGS for two years. She is committed to BUGS, seen through her encouragement to others to participate in BUGS events and her active participation in meetings. Through her time at BUGS, she has gained extensive knowledge about how this club is run and can use her knowledge to create exciting events for biology students! Having already done previous projects and classes with her, I can attest that she is well organized, creative, and detail-oriented. 

Alternatively Running For: President, Vice-President

Elianna Hay

• I am currently a third year biology student and have been a member of bugs for the past year and have attended some of the events that bugs has put on. I want to become even more involved in the biology society by being part of the executive team. I am a great team member and work well with others. I am passionate about biology/science and want to share that with others. 

Alternatively Running For: Student Rep, Secretary

Vanna Hung

• I have been a BUGS General Student Representative for a year now. Through my time on the executive team of BUGS, I had the opportunity to give advice to first year biology students at events and volunteer to help ensure BUGS events are running smoothly. In addition, I’m currently the secretary of the science student society, documenting meeting details and helping plan fun events for the science students at the University of Regina. Lastly, for two years, I’ve been a University of Regina Ambassador Leader where I coordinate teams of volunteers at First-Year Housing Move-In Events, Open Houses, Orientation Days, and smaller events throughout the year! Through all of these experiences in executive positions or as a leader, I’ve accumulated years of experience in creating/planning events, coordinating teams, and fostering connections within the University of Regina. I’ve developed leadership, teamwork, communication, project-planning/event-planning, and organizational skills. I will be able to draw upon these skills to assist me in my position within BUGS! As a current executive member of BUGS, I learned the importance of creating a safe and fun environment for biology students. I enjoyed getting to know many of the first and second year students at our BUGS Mixer and providing them with advice as they go through post-secondary education. I can understand how challenging it can be to navigate post-secondary education and personal life, and I aim to create a space where students can relax and unwind. I plan to continue to create and promote exciting opportunities for Biology students to get to know each other and to learn from each other’s experiences! 

• Vanna has been a part of the BUGS executive team for a year and has been involved with many other volunteer based leadership roles on campus. She served as an Ambassador Leader with the Centre of Experiential and Service Learning for two years and is also an active member of the Science Students Association. Given all her experience within and outside of BUGS, I am certain she will make a great candidate for the vice-president's role. 

• Vanna is one of the most hardworking and dedicated people I know, consistently giving her best in everything she takes on. Her commitment to student involvement makes her an excellent candidate for Vice President of BUGS. Vanna has demonstrated academic excellence throughout her undergraduate studies is now working towards her Masters degree. Through her involvement with the URegina Ambassador Program, the Science Students’ Society, and BUGS, she has demonstrated strong leadership and a desire to build a supportive and inclusive community for students. I am confident she will bring enthusiasm and initiative to this role. 

Alternatively Running For: Vice-President, Secretary

Chanchal Mitruka

• If I had to describe my journey in Biology using a kingdom, I would probably say protists, still adapting, not fitting neatly into one category, figuring out where I belonged. Coming into university, there were moments where I felt out of place academically and socially. But biology has taught me something powerful: the organisms that don’t “fit” perfectly into boxes are often the most adaptable and essential. That idea reflects my growth as a student and leader. Outside the classroom, I currently serve as the lead of the UR Food Project, where I help coordinate initiatives that address food insecurity and build community support.Through RPIRG, as a board member, I always look forward to creating new opportunities for student engagement, including organizing upcoming period packages for International Women’s Day to promote health equity and accessibility. These experiences have strengthened my organizational skills, initiative, and ability to turn ideas into tangible action. What makes me stand out is not just involvement, but intention. I don’t join spaces passively. I look for ways to improve them. I understand what it feels like to be balancing academics, leadership, and work, while still trying to find your place. Because of that, I value inclusivity deeply. If elected to the BUGS Executive Committee, I would bring empathy, reliability, and follow-through. I want BUGS to feel like a space where every biology student , whether they feel like they fit in immediately or are still adapting, knows they belong and have opportunities to grow. Biology teaches us that diversity strengthens ecosystems. I believe the same is true for our department, and I would be committed to helping cultivate that environment. 

Alternatively running for: Vice-President, Student Club Liaison

Jocelyne Taylor

• I would love to come back to the board again next year! I had a lot of fun being on board and help organize, plan events and advocate for our club. As a general representative, I made sure to advocate for the students I represent, and would like to bring more ideas and fun into next year! 

Alternatively running for: Student Rep

Alexander McMurchy

• Biochemistry, pre-med student. In high school, took AP Biology, was the president of the Students Against Drinking & Driving (SADD) Campbell Collegiate chapter, and vice president of Newspaper club. Currently vice president of UofR SADD, member of Science Students Society, Biochem/Chem Students society, and Pre med club. Has experience with organizing funds, leading and planning meetings, club members, and events, and has a strong interest in human/cell biology. 

• Alex, though in just his first year of university, has been an active member of the student body through the Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD) initiative and consistently demonstrates a positive and collaborative attitude. He is a well rounded person who values hard work and communication, he would represent BUGS well and make a great addition to the team! 

Alternatively running for: Treasurer, Student Rep

Note: The undergraduate nominee with the most votes and the graduate nominee with the most votes will each be elected to a position. The remaining two positions will be filled by the next highest vote-getters, regardless of whether they are undergraduate or graduate students. If no graduate students apply, all positions may be held by undergraduate students.

Jocelyne Taylor -- Undergraduate

• I would love to come back to the board again next year! I had a lot of fun being on board and help organize, plan events and advocate for our club. As a general representative, I made sure to advocate for the students I represent, and would like to bring more ideas and fun into next year! 

Alternatively running for: IT

Vamshi Vakulabharanam -- Undergraduate

• I would love to spread the love of science to other people and be the helping hand to 1st year students in biology. Be that friendly person to come to to get info and help them meet people in science, build connections. The science gala and the wetlands fest along with trivia nights 

Alternatively Running For: Secretary, Student Club Liaison

Jack Piasta -- Undergraduate

• I have attended multiple BUGS events and would be interested in helping out the committee and joining, as University clubs are important and fun to take part in, and be a part of. I have been a member of multiple school committees before post-secondary, and would be interested in joining one once more. I’m definitely able to show up when needed, work as part of a team, and give my own insight and input into any areas that need improvement.

Elianna Hay

• I am currently a third year biology student and have been a member of bugs for the past year and have attended some of the events that bugs has put on. I want to become even more involved in the biology society by being part of the executive team. I am a great team member and work well with others. I am passionate about biology/science and want to share that with others. 

Alternatively Running For: Event Coordinator, Secretary

Alexander McMurchy

• Biochemistry, pre-med student. In high school, took AP Biology, was the president of the Students Against Drinking & Driving (SADD) Campbell Collegiate chapter, and vice president of Newspaper club. Currently vice president of UofR SADD, member of Science Students Society, Biochem/Chem Students society, and Pre med club. Has experience with organizing funds, leading and planning meetings, club members, and events, and has a strong interest in human/cell biology. 

• Alex, though in just his first year of university, has been an active member of the student body through the Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD) initiative and consistently demonstrates a positive and collaborative attitude. He is a well rounded person who values hard work and communication, he would represent BUGS well and make a great addition to the team! 

Alternatively running for: Treasurer, IT

Anneka McLaren

• I have extensive connections to the other clubs at the U of R including the BCSA, CCSU, Champions of Change, and more. I am very passionate about school community and biology. 

Chanchal Mitruka

• If I had to describe my journey in Biology using a kingdom, I would probably say protists, still adapting, not fitting neatly into one category, figuring out where I belonged. Coming into university, there were moments where I felt out of place academically and socially. But biology has taught me something powerful: the organisms that don’t “fit” perfectly into boxes are often the most adaptable and essential. That idea reflects my growth as a student and leader. Outside the classroom, I currently serve as the lead of the UR Food Project, where I help coordinate initiatives that address food insecurity and build community support.Through RPIRG, as a board member, I always look forward to creating new opportunities for student engagement, including organizing upcoming period packages for International Women’s Day to promote health equity and accessibility. These experiences have strengthened my organizational skills, initiative, and ability to turn ideas into tangible action. What makes me stand out is not just involvement, but intention. I don’t join spaces passively. I look for ways to improve them. I understand what it feels like to be balancing academics, leadership, and work, while still trying to find your place. Because of that, I value inclusivity deeply. If elected to the BUGS Executive Committee, I would bring empathy, reliability, and follow-through. I want BUGS to feel like a space where every biology student , whether they feel like they fit in immediately or are still adapting, knows they belong and have opportunities to grow. Biology teaches us that diversity strengthens ecosystems. I believe the same is true for our department, and I would be committed to helping cultivate that environment. 

Alternatively running for: Vice-President, Event Coordinator

Vamshi Vakulabharanam 

• I would love to spread the love of science to other people and be the helping hand to 1st year students in biology. Be that friendly person to come to to get info and help them meet people in science, build connections. The science gala and the wetlands fest along with trivia nights 

Alternatively Running For: Secretary, Student Rep