Ancillary Services launches staff appreciation video

This summer, Ancillary Services took a moment to celebrate the people who keep campus life running smoothly — from the Bookstore to Campus Service Centre, Parking, Residence and beyond.

A new video, now available on YouTube, showcases the units that make up Ancillary Services and highlights the essential role they play in supporting students, faculty, and staff every day.

“Ancillary Services touches nearly every part of the campus experience,” says Harriet Boston, marketing manager for Ancillary Services. “Whether it’s finding a parking spot, buying a UCalgary hoodie or obtaining a Unicard, our staff are behind the scenes making it all happen.”

The video features staff members from across the portfolio, sharing their passion for service and their commitment to the campus community. It also invites viewers to consider how they can support Ancillary Services, not just as users but as partners.

Departments across campus can help by purchasing custom goods through the Bookstore, keeping university dollars within the university. Faculty and staff are also invited to volunteer during Residence Move-In Day, Ancillary’s biggest day of the year, where over 1,000 students arrive to begin their campus journey. By helping spread the word about Events, Conferences and Accommodations services, departments can further support a portfolio that reinvests in the student experience.

Susan Austen, director of business operations, Ancillary Services, is one of the voices featured in the video. With 40 years of service at UCalgary — and having once lived in Residence herself as a student — Austen brings a unique perspective on the evolution and impact of Ancillary Services.

“Our work is woven into the everyday lives of students, faculty and staff,” Austen says in the video. “We’re proud of what we do, and we’re proud of the people who make it happen.”

Ancillary Services gives back in direct and meaningful ways 

The Bookstore’s Book Loan Program provides essential textbooks to 40 students in financial need each year — 20 in the Fall and 20 in the Winter semester. Ancillary Services supplies two refugee students annually with free textbooks, housing, and a meal plan at The Landing. Additionally, proceeds from the Bookstore’s Perfectly Imperfect Sale and Parking’s Fines for Food program are donated to the SU Food Bank, helping address food insecurity on campus.

More information about the work Ancillary Services does across campus can be found in the 2024/25 Ancillary Services Annual Report. 

Showcasing Ancillary Services

The video was produced in-house by Zach Degerness, marketing specialist with Ancillary Services, who captured the energy and dedication of the team through interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.

The video is part of a broader effort to build awareness about Ancillary Services across campus.