[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Popham_John02.jpg” caption=”John Popham, MSU president (2006-07) Photo credit: Deborah McIvor”]John Popham can't believe it has already been over a month since he has officially taken over the role of McMaster Students Union (MSU) president from Tommy Piribauer. His day-to-day schedule has become more challenging, filled with responding to hundreds of emails in his inbox, attending regular events and meetings, and strategizing how to put his platform promises to the McMaster student body into action.

While it may seem surprising to some that this recent McMaster graduate of Theatre & Film Studies would find politics appealing, Popham says he has made a natural progression, moving from one stage to another. Theatre, not unlike politics, is a communal experience, where the voices of many are often represented by the voices of a few. Popham hopes to represent the voice of the MSU with a commitment to student satisfaction and an agenda that will build on future opportunities in areas such as undergraduate awards and bursaries.

Popham, 23, came to McMaster in 2001, intending to pursue kinesiology, however, the theatre beckoned and his love for working with others was nurtured by his decision to join the Theatre & Film Studies program. “Actually, my first visit to the campus was during my last year of high school, on my March Break,” says Popham. “I had a friend in Whidden Hall who showed me around and I was instantly hooked. I loved the beauty of a campus surrounded by nature and a friendly community. From my few days of interacting with McMaster students and staff, I was left with the strongest sense of community I had experienced over all of the other schools I had toured. I knew I belonged here right away.”

After his first year as a floor representative for the Inter-Residence Council (IRC), Popham had the desire to become even more engaged with the University and looked for opportunities to participate in student life beyond just taking classes. He continued in his IRC commitments, moving from programming representative, to vice-president programming and eventually to the role of Inter-Residence Council president in his fourth year.

Having volunteered for many MSU events, Popham joined the MSU executive in 2005 as vice-president administration. He has also sat on the Student Representative Assembly. His continued deepening commitment to McMaster's students has carried him to this point, where he is able to take on a role that will allow him to demonstrate his vision through action.

“It's a dual role as the chief spokesperson for the MSU, on behalf of the undergraduate students,” says Popham. “As well as the role of chief executive officer of MSU Incorporated, as a business entity – somewhat like the traditional CEO role in terms of management responsibilities.”

I'm amazed at the scope of ideas and issues that come my way in this role. I have worked in various capacities with past MSU presidents Tommy Piribauer (05/06), Shano Mohan(04/05) and Sam Minniti (01/02), and witnessed the balancing act an MSU president must maintain, however, there is nothing to compare with taking on the role first-hand,” says Popham. “I'm so glad that I've had the opportunity to learn from them, as there is so much more to the job than anyone can imagine – however – I am excited to take on the challenge.”

Popham plans on taking cues from his predecessors and asks, “Why reinvent the wheel?” Like Minniti once did, Popham intends to offer outdoor office hours, during which students will be able to approach him for questions and discussion. “Often students, especially those coming into first year, don't realize how approachable the MSU president can be and some are not even sure where to find the MSU office. This way, I'll bring the MSU to them – for as long as the weather permits, of course,” he says with a smile.

While taking on the role of MSU president may take some time away from Popham's ability to participate in some student activities, he intends on keeping in touch with what's going on by getting involved in whatever he can.

“Well, I don't want to spoil the surprise,” laughs Popham. “But if students want to see what I'll be up to the week of July 21 to 29, they can check out the Summer Drama Festival production of 'Body and Soul' directed by Laura Pomeroy. I won't say any more – but it will be an amusing experience, both for me and for audience members.”

What else does Popham love about Hamilton? Football. 'I'm originally from Oshawa, where we didn't have a CFL team and since I've been here I've become a big Tiger-Cats fan. But I love Marauders games even more; I really love supporting McMaster's athletes.”

So, if you're looking for someone to hear your thoughts on how life at McMaster can be improved for students, keep an eye out for John Popham. He may just be sitting next to you at a campus event or setting up shop in the student centre courtyard.