Catherine James

I’m Catherine, and I would love to be your Student Trustee!

Through leadership roles on Imperial Union Council, the British Medical Association, RCPCH and the European Youth Parliament, alongside 7 Imperial Committee Positions over two years, I have developed strong experience in governance, advocacy, and strategic decision making. These roles have strengthened my ability to operate within formal governance frameworks, scrutinise proposals critically and balance competing priorities responsibly. I have chaired meetings, worked with diverse stakeholders, and delivered initiatives with national impact.

As a Student Trustee I will bring strategic oversight, accountability and student-centred leadership to the Board. I am committed to ensuring the Union remains transparent, financially responsible and responsive to student needs. Most importantly I wish to amplify the voices of all students, undergraduates, postgraduates and intercalating students, at the highest level of governance.

Key Issues I Shall Champion:

1. Financial Accessibility: Strengthen hardship funding oversight, keep student activities affordable, and support fair access to on-campus work and employability opportunities.
2. Inclusive Representation: Improve governance structures to better represent postgraduate, international, and underrepresented students, while strengthening inclusive spaces and support pathways.
3. Student Wellbeing: Enhance accessible mental health provision and invest in preventative wellbeing initiatives that reduce loneliness and improve belonging.
4. Financial Transparency: Ensure clear reporting on Union spending and strategic budgeting to build trust and accountability.
5. Sustainability: Embed environmental responsibility into Union strategy and CSP practices, aligning student activity with long-term climate commitments

With my leadership experience and passion for advocacy, I commit to making Imperial better for all students.