Officer Blog – August 2026 - Meet Your 2026/27 Sabbatical Officers
Meet Your 2026/27 Sabbatical Officers!
A new academic year is almost here, and whether you're joining us for the very first time or returning to campus, there's one team that's here to make your university experience the best it can be, and that's your Students' Union Sabbatical Officers!
They're elected by students, for students, meaning everything they do is focused on improving your time at university. From representing your voice in meetings with senior University staff to running events, supporting campaigns and simply being somebody you can chat to around campus, they're here for you.
Meet Aidan - Wellbeing Lead Officer
If you've been around campus before, there's a good chance you've already met Aidan. Returning for a second year as Wellbeing Lead Officer, he's on a mission to make the Students' Union more visible, more welcoming and even more fun than before.
Aidan studied Fine Art at Brampton Road, where he spent his time creating films, costumes, sets and makeup looks. Outside work, you'll usually find him at the gym, creating social media content, playing video games or searching for his next favourite East Asian meal!
His biggest focus this year? Giving students more opportunities to switch off from the pressures of university life through creative wellbeing events, workshops and spaces where everyone feels welcome.
When asked what makes him right for the role, his answer was simple:
"Approachability. I always want students to feel comfortable chatting to me about anything, whether it's something small or something really important."
Quick Fire with Aidan
What's your favourite hobby?
"Going to the gym, followed closely by food."
Where is your favourite place on campus?
"The canteen, because burgers!"
What are your favourite places in the world?
"Japan and the Netherlands."
Give us a fun fact!
"In 2012, I performed in the Olympic Torch celebrations, dancing through the streets of Appleby-in-Westmorland alongside the torch relay!"
Who is your dream dinner guest?
"Drag performer Bailey J Mills, or Henry VIII, just to show him the Horrible Histories song."
This year Aidan also hopes to create more dedicated social spaces for students and continue bringing people together through regular events across every campus.
Meet Haroon – Academic Lead Officer
Haroon also returns for his second year as Academic Lead Officer after spending the last year representing students in University committees, championing academic improvements and ensuring student voices are heard where decisions are made.
His biggest takeaway from year one?
Student representation isn't just about speaking in meetings; it's about listening first, building relationships and making sure every campus has a voice.
This year, Haroon wants every student, across every campus and online, to feel equally represented, while making it even easier to share feedback and see the difference their voices make!
He's particularly passionate about improving communication, increasing visibility across campuses and helping students navigate university life with confidence.
One thing Haroon says he's learned?
"Every day is a new opportunity to improve."
Quick Fire with Haroon
Give us three words to describe your plans this year?
"Progress. Students. Precision."
What keeps you motivated?
"Knowing even one student's experience can be improved through the work of the Union."
What is your biggest goal?
"Making sure every campus feels represented, and not just the easiest one to reach."
Expect to see more campus visits, more student conversations, and regular updates explaining what the Union is doing behind the scenes!
Meet Ligia – Institute Officer
Joining the Officer team for the first time is Ligia, who is currently studying an MSc in Occupational Therapy.
She's passionate about creating communities where students feel welcomed, supported and represented. Having experienced the value of a strong student community herself, she wanted to help make that experience possible for others.
Over the next year, Ligia will be working closely with Class Reps and students to ensure concerns are heard, ideas become reality and everyone has opportunities to get involved.
She describes herself as supportive, determined and warm, and that's exactly the environment she wants to help create across every campus!
Quick Fire with Ligia
What is one thing that people might be surprised to know about you?
"Despite being from the Philippines, I can't handle spicy food!"
Where is your favourite place on campus?
"The Learning Gateway at Fusehill Street, it's saved me more times than she'd like to admit."
Who is your dream dinner guest?
"Meryl Streep, I think she'd have some amazing stories and advice to share. Plus, I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't ask a few questions about Miranda Priestly!"
Why did you stand for election?
"I wanted to run because I'd love to help create more opportunities for students to connect, make friends, and make sure their voices are heard."
Her biggest goal this year is simple: helping make university feel more welcoming for everyone.
Come and Meet Us!
The best way to get to know your Officers is in person.
You'll find us across campus throughout Welcome Week, whether we're handing out free refreshments, running quizzes, giving away freebies or simply introducing ourselves.
Here are just a few events to look out for this September:
- 👋 Hey, Hi, Hello! – 13 September (all campuses)
- 🍔 Burger & Quiz Night – 13 September, Fusehill Street
- 🎉 Freshers' Fairs – Across all campuses from 15–23 September
- 👕 Vintage Fashion Fair – 16 September
- 🛍️ Carlisle Market Day – 18 September
- 🎪 School Fair – 20–21 September
- 🗣️ Representation Tuesday – 22 September
- 🌈 Cumbria Pride – 26 September
We can't wait to meet you. Whether you need advice, want to get involved, have an idea to improve student life, or just fancy a chat, come and say hello to our Officers and Staff Team!
See you in September!
If you have any questions, ideas, or comments about the Union or our Officers, please email us at studentvoice@cumbria.ac.uk or pop into one of our offices on Campus!
