The Society of Graduate and Professional Students (SGPS) is the official student government representing over 4,000 graduate, law, medical, and professional students at Queen鈥檚 University. Established in 1981, the SGPS advocates for the needs and interests of its members in areas such as academics, equity, student life, and university policy.
The SGPS provides a wide range of services, events, and support programs, including health and dental plans, grants, and community-building initiatives. The SGPS Council, its main governing body, meets monthly and includes representatives from all member faculties and programs. The Council debates policy, approves budgets, and ensures the SGPS continues to serve and represent its diverse membership effectively.
The Rector serves as a non-voting, ex-officio member of the SGPS Council, meaning they hold this position automatically by virtue of their office, not through election or appointment. The Rector attends monthly Council meetings to stay informed on matters affecting graduate and professional students and to share insights from across the broader Queen鈥檚 community.
At each meeting, the Rector provides a written and/or verbal update on key advocacy efforts, university-wide initiatives, and student concerns brought forward by both undergraduate and graduate students. While the Rector does not vote, they contribute to discussion by offering institutional context, posing questions for reflection, and helping to bridge communication between students and university administration.
Through their role on SGPS Council, the Rector remains actively engaged with the graduate and professional student community and helps ensure its voice is considered in broader university conversations.