About us

Our Mission

The Students’ Association is dedicated to eleavting the student experience at Red Deer Polytechnic by offering essential services, effective political representation, and impactful opportunities to enrich their educational journey.

Our Vision

The students at Red Deer Polytechnic are empowered to thrive in a learning environment where access and connection inspire transformative discovery, encourage a sense of community, and provide opportunities that foster a memorable experience

Our Values

Affordability & Accessibility: We believe that access to quality education and essential student supports should be barrier free and affordable.

Community & Diversity: We embrace and celebrate the individuality of our Members and foster an inclusive, accessible, and safe community, recognizing that diversity enriches our lives.

Transparency & Accountability: We are accountable to our Members and transparent when making decisions on behalf of our Membership.

Sustainability & Continuity: We are committed to sustaining our organizational continuity by building and maintaining strong relationships, practicing good governance, and prioritizing continuous growth.

Wellness & Inclusion: We invest in the mental, spiritual, and physical wellness of our Members and foster a culture of inclusion, belonging, and growth.

The Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic exists as per the Post-Secondary Learning Act (see Student Affairs section 93: Students association) and plays an important role in student life at our polytechnic. It advocates for and represents students, provides a myriad of important (and fun!) services and events, and is one of the largest employers of students on campus.

But what does that mean to you?

SA Fees Breakdown 2022/23 Annual Report

Your Students’ Association: The 411

Students own and operate the Students’ Association

Red Deer Polytechnic students* are members of the Students’ Association.

* Some exceptions exist. Contact the SA office for details.

The Students’ Association represents Red Deer Polytechnic students on campus, in the community, and with the provincial government.

The Students’ Association offers student advocacy and representation. It also lobbies the government on behalf of students to ensure student interests are met.

You can become involved in student governance through the Students’ Association.

Members of the Students’ Association (most RDP students) can put their names forward to be a part of Students’ Association Council.

You could be the next Students’ Association President, Vice President External, or Vice President Academic.

Elections for the next year’s Executive Council are held each year in February.

The Students’ Association recognizes the importance of mental health and tries to support a supportive, healthy environment at Red Deer Polytechnic through its Mental Health Campaign.

Through its Mental Health Initiative, the SA hosts mental health awareness events each term. The events are designed to give students a break and to help encourage discussion around mental health.

The Students’ Association is proud to offer an Extended Health & Dental plan for all credit students.

Health and dental plans were approved by student referendum making them a requirement of enrolment at Red Deer Polytechnic. The cost of the plans is included in student fees provided you meet the eligibility requirements for enrolment. If you have other extended health and/or dental coverage, you are given one opportunity a year to waive the Extended Health & Dental Plan.

Most student groups at RDP operate under the umbrella of the Students’ Association.

The SA provides banking services, room/table rentals, guidance, and other supports to its student groups.

The Students’ Association offers a wide range of programming for students including New Student Orientation events, Apprenticeship Completion Ceremonies, awareness campaigns, and exciting events.

Events and initiatives include Mental Health Awareness campaigns, Puppy Rooms, Risque Bingo, Free Breakfast Program, 12 Days of Giveaways, cultural events, RDP Pride Week, and so much more!