Karen Foullong, University of Western Ontario Staff Association (UWOSA) president, is stepping down from her role to pursue a new position in the Faculty of Social Science.
“I am excited to start this new chapter,” Foullong said. “I began my career at Western 11 years ago in the Faculty of Social Science, in the History department, and it was such a friendly introduction to our campus. I am looking forward to working in an academic department again.”
She deflected any speculation the timing of her decision was related to the ongoing situation surrounding Western President Amit Chakma.
“My decision to accept the position in Social Science was a personal one,” Foullong said. “The recent events at Western were not a factor, at all.”
Foullong, who first became involved in UWOSA activities in 2006, will start a new role as faculty coordinator in the dean’s office in May. Current UWOSA Vice-President Boun Thai will take the bargaining unit’s top position on May 1. An appointment for the vacant vice-president post will be held at the Stewards Council meeting on May 20.
Foullong is grateful for the opportunity to work in the UWOSA office for the last three years and will continue to serve as past president in an advisory capacity at Stewards Council and Executive meetings.
“I have every confidence that Boun will be able to serve the UWOSA members as our president and rise to the challenges of the office,” Foullong said.