Alex da Silva has been voted the next University Rector for the 2018-20 term, beating out opponents Afsheen Chowdhury and Jake Roseman for the position. Da Silva will succeed Cam Yung – who has been Rector since 2016 – making her the 36th Rector in Queen’s history.

Da Silva won on the third ballot with 63.6 per cent, gaining 3503 of 5509 votes. Afsheen Chowdhury came in second with 36.4 per cent, or 2006 of 5509 votes. Jake Roseman didn’t qualify for the third ballot.

The Rector — a position unique to Queen’s — is the third officer of the University below the Principal and the Chancellor. Da Silva will be responsible for advocating for all students — both graduate and undergraduate — to the University on all matters of education.

“I wouldn’t be standing here without the people who had the same vision as me,” da Silva said after hearing the results. “I am so happy that I ran alongside Afsheen and Jake and I’m thankful for their support along the way. I’m so excited for the next two years.”

Da Silva ran on a platform consisting of three categories: “The Person, The Place and The Thing.” 

According to da Silva, “The Person” pillar refers to upholding the health and wellness of students on campus; “The Place” refers to creating a positive and welcoming campus that allows students to gain valuable experiences; “The Thing” relates to students’ university degrees and the elements surrounding their academic journey. 

Da Silva believes these three intersecting pillars influence the overall student experience, which she hopes to make both “competitive and interactive.” 

“I have so much respect for the other candidates … and it was such a fun experience,” Roseman told The Journal after hearing the results. “And I have so much confidence Alex will do an amazing job going forward.”

Jake Roseman with his campaign team.

“We’ve got family and that’s all we need,” Chowdhury said after being notified of da Silva’s victory. “I wish the new Rector all the best and hope all goes well. I hope that if [Alex] ever needs anything she feels like she can reach out.”

Afsheen’s campaign team is enjoying themselves as they await results! #RectorVotes2018 pic.twitter.com/IN8XfJLpXW

— Queen’s Journal News (@QJnews) January 31, 2018