2026 Board of Governors Alumni Representative Election

Meet the candidates

Voting is open from April 9, 2026 until May 11, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CDT

  • Jessica Floresco [B.Env.St.(Maj.)/08]

    Jessica Floresco

    [B.Env.St.(Maj.)/08]

  • Aitesam Kashmiri [BA/22]

    Aitesam Kashmiri

    [BA/22]

Biographies

* indicates those who have been nominated by the Alumni Association Board of Directors.
† indicates those who have been nominated by alumni.

Jessica Floresco [B.Env.St.(Maj.)/08] *

My connections to UM since graduation have been through my professional roles, previously as the General Manager of Mother Earth Recycling, currently as the Chief Operating Officer at The Forks, and through various boards and advisory groups I volunteer with. Through the recycling community, I would meet regularly with the UM sustainability team to discuss projects, process efficiencies, and research alternative recycling in Winnipeg. I also consulted for UM's Extended Education department, developing content for a Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility Program. I have also had the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with various classes in the Asper School of Business and Department of Indigenous Studies (and Indigenous Business Education Partners), on topics such as Indigenous business, social enterprise, reconciliation through business, and corporate social responsibility. Most recently, I was asked to join a panel at the announcement for the Chiu Centre for Business Serving Community. 

 
I bring experience in business management and process optimization, strategic planning, and organizational leadership, along with a strong understanding of fiduciary responsibility and collaborative decision-making. I am accustomed to balancing long-term vision with practical execution, and I value transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership. 

 
I want to serve on the Board of Governors because I deeply believe in the transformative power of higher education and in UM’s role in advancing research, innovation, and social impact. Serving on the Board would allow me to contribute meaningfully to ensure the University remains accessible, financially sustainable, and academically excellent. 

 
I consider myself a strong candidate due to my continued connection to UM, my professional expertise, and my genuine commitment to public service. I bring a thoughtful, collaborative approach and a willingness to dedicate the time and energy required to serve the University community with integrity and care. 

Aitesam Kashmiri [BA/22] †

I am a proud graduate of the University of Manitoba and a finance professional with a strong interest in responsible governance and long-term institutional sustainability. My time at UM shaped how I approach responsibility, decision-making, and service, and it left me with a lasting commitment to contribute meaningfully to the institution that supports students and communities across Manitoba. 
 
I work as an Account Manager at La Salle Insurance, where my role involves managing financial risk, working within regulatory requirements, and advising senior stakeholders on complex matters. This work requires careful judgment, attention to detail, and an understanding of how financial decisions can have lasting consequences. These are skills that translate directly to board-level oversight, particularly in an environment where public accountability and financial stewardship are essential. 
 
As a student, I served on the University of Manitoba Students’ Union 2019 Budget Committee, where I participated in oversight of a $20,000 annual budget supporting scholarships, student services, and campus programming. I supported disciplined financial management while also emphasizing the importance of allocating resources in ways that reflected student needs, including mental health supports. This experience gave me early exposure to governance decision-making and reinforced that budgets are a reflection of institutional priorities. 
 
Since graduating, I have remained connected to the UM community. I have mentored students as they navigated academic and professional decisions and contributed to efforts to revitalize the Pakistan Students’ Association by supporting leadership continuity and stronger alumni involvement. I believe alumni engagement plays an important role in sustaining UM’s vitality over time. 
 
I am seeking election to the Board of Governors to contribute informed financial oversight and an independent perspective shaped by both professional experience and student leadership. I would approach this role with care, objectivity, and a long-term view, supporting UM’s ongoing responsibility to students, faculty, and the public. 

Submit your vote

Voting is open to University of Manitoba alumni only, beginning April 9, 2026. Please vote for ONE candidate from the list below.

* indicates those who have been nominated by the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Your information

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