Thursday 02-07-2026 - 11:30

 

It’s time to introduce the FTOs looking out for you next academic year.

 

 

Last week, we said goodbye to our 2025/26 Full-Time Officer (FTO) team. Rory, Leah, Liz, and Emily (kind of) bid you farewell as they venture onto the next steps of their journeys. But for your new FTOs, the journey is just beginning.

 

Why not get to know them ahead of the new academic year?

 

 

President: Kate Bracewell (she/her)

First up—your new President!

 

Previously Lonsdale’s JCR President, Kate knows a thing or two about the student experience. As LUSU President, Kate wants to make Lancaster safer for students and provide better transport and campus accessibility. She also hopes to push for employer-led projects in degrees, and more recognition for Execs.

 

Kate’s other pledges:

• Reducing cost of living through LUSU Food Bank
• Transparent communications with LUSU finance

 

 

 

 

Education Officer: Niamh McAuley

And now onto your Education Officer, Niamh McAuley!

 

For two years, Niamh has represented students at Senate and across university committees, including as the Undergraduate Faculty Representative for the Faculty of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (FHASS). As Education Officer, Niamh wants to focus on a student-focused AI policy, a fairly balanced assessment schedule, and improved communication and support on the Curriculum Transformation Programme.

 

Niamh’s other priorities:

• Protecting campus learning spaces for both undergrad and postgrad students
• Ensuring optional modules tailored to student priorities in degrees
• Embedding sustainability in education policy
• Strengthening and celebrating Academic Reps

 

 

Wellbeing Officer: David Grice (he/him)

Next is your Wellbeing Officer!

 

As the university transitions into a new curriculum, David says now is the best opportunity for student voices to be heard. Previously the International Student Forum’s Vice-Chair, David wants to address cost of living and rents. He also hopes to ensure protection for students in town and incorporate welfare accessibility for societies and JCRs.

 

David’s other pledges include:

• Training students activists to empower their campaigns
• Providing free period products for students

 

 

Activities Officer: Emily Houston-Woods (she/her)

Finally, let’s welcome back a familiar face.

 

In 25/26, Emily has loved supporting students as Activities Officer—and she’s excited to do it all over again! As your Activities Officer, Emily secured £150,000+ for an access fund ensuring accessibility of sports and societies for students. She also delivered a historic Roses tournament, with Lancaster winning for the fifth time in a row!

 

What Emily hopes to achieve this time:

• Increased funding for societies and sports
• Support new society affiliations
• Re-negotiate kit contracts to improve flexibility and affordability
• Campaign to reduce student parking costs
• Work towards free Wednesday afternoons
• Increase space capacity for student groups

 

 

You can read all of the FTOs’ complete Manifestos here.

 

We’re so excited to welcome your new Full-Time Officers into LUSU, and we hope you are too! Keep your eyes peeled as your FTOs begin their own introductions throughout the holidays.