Top Ten
May 10, 2018
Report on sexual violence policies calls for change
A report authored by student organizations across Canada is calling for better sexual violence policies and “adequate prevention and response mechanisms” by university administrators. The report addresses the challenges and opportunities specific to each individual province, while maintaining that sexual violence on campus is a nationwide problem. “This publication sheds light on the challenges students are facing, what gaps currently exist, and how we can strengthen efforts to combat sexual violence as a country and in our communities,” said Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance Board Member Stephanie Bellotto.
Provincial cuts leave MUN on the hook for $8.9M
CBC reports that Memorial University must cut $8.9M from its base budget for the 2018-19 academic year. The university has reportedly slashed $30M from its budgets over the last seven years by deferring maintenance work as the provincial government has continued to impose cuts. “We really haven't addressed the long-term infrastructure issue,” said MUN President Gary Kachanoski. “Tearing down those buildings because they are simply not cost-effective to fix, I think, is a process that we are looking at now.” Kachanoski also told CBC that deficiencies in the university’s pension plan will be addressed in next year’s budget.
Seneca, IBM sign MOU for skills hub
Seneca College and IBM have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish the IBM Skills Academy Hub. According to Seneca, the Academy is a professional certification program for IT professionals that will be delivered in an accelerated format. “Collaborating with IBM furthers our work in advancing Seneca graduates as experts in high-tech fields, allowing them to bring sought-after industry skills and knowledge to businesses both locally and around the world,” said Seneca VP Academic Laurel Schollen. Cloud technology will reportedly provide students with 24/7 access to the Academy’s virtual learning lab.
CNA changes program offerings in response to student, industry demands
The College of the North Atlantic has announced that it will be making changes to its programming in response to labour market demands and student demands. As a result of the change, 14 full-time and six contract faculty will be laid off from the college, the Western Star adds. The announcement came as a result of CNA’s annual strategic enrolment management process, which measures market demand to assess program offerings for each academic year. “We want our graduates to have meaningful employment opportunities based on relevant program selections and current market trends,” said CNA President Bill Radford. “To achieve this balance, CNA must continually examine its operations and respond accordingly.”
WLU pilots mental health app
Wilfrid Laurier University has partnered with a private company to develop and pilot an app that provides digital therapy for students who struggle with mental health issues, the Waterloo Region Record states. According to Laurier VP of Student Affairs David McMurray, the pilot was offered to a target group of students over the winter semester, and the university will reportedly invest in the service if the pilot sees continued use. “We have to be more proactive,” said McMurray, who explained that mental health is the next priority after teaching, learning, and research.
Aurora announces nursing, early childhood care programs
Aurora College plans to introduce new diploma programming in practical nursing and early childhood care & learning for the 2018-19 academic year. “We know that there’s a lot of demand for practical nurses, there’s a lot of trying to get people who would be able in the care facilities, keep elders closer to home and to really help bolster that part of the work force,” said Aurora Director Sarah Tilley. The program also aims to keep more nurses in the region, CKLB News adds, with priority given to Gwich’in and Inuvialuit applicants.
Carleton denies plans to lockout faculty
In light of a recent message from the Carleton University Academic Staff Association, Carleton University states that the university does not plan to lock out faculty. The Ottawa Citizen, the CUASA has accused Carleton of trying to rush a deal, stating that “based on the employer’s behaviour, your team has reason to believe that the employer is preparing for an unnecessary lock out.” The university claims that it sought conciliation to bring the current round of bargaining to an end, and remains committed to resuming talks as soon as possible. “Raising the possibility of a lockout, when none is planned, increases tensions unnecessarily,” the Carleton release states.
Northern Lakes, Lakeland partner on academic upgrading
Northern Lakes College and Lakeland College have announced a partnership that will facilitate academic upgrading at Lakeland’s Lloydminster campus. The initiative targets adult learners with a grade 4-9 education seeking a high school diploma, employment, or career training. “We’re excited that we’re able to collaborate with Northern Lakes College to bring their program to Lloydminster and help people in our community get the education they need to improve their lives,” said Brad Onofrychuk, Dean of Business and Continuing Education at Lakeland. The colleges will reportedly offer courses in communications, science, social studies, and math.
Laurentian, SGA announce contractor for $10M student centre
Laurentian University and the Student General Association have announced that they have awarded a $10M contract for a new student centre at Laurentian University. The building will reportedly include spaces such as an atrium with study and lounge facilities, an open concept games room, space for clubs, student association administration offices, and several retail areas. “We're thrilled the contractor has been selected and that we are ready to break ground on this much needed student centre,” stated Tommi-Lee Gauthier, incoming President of Laurentian’s Student General Association. The centre will reportedly open in 2019.
Advice for non-traditional presidents
College presidents from outside the academy need to listen to administrators, faculty, and other stakeholders as they take on their new position, writes Lee Gardner. “A college president’s job is unique and challenging — it demands the zeal of an inspirational leader, the acumen of a corporate executive, the folksy touch of a small-town mayor,” the author states, adding that new leaders also need to engage with communities beyond campus to foster local partnerships. Gardner also says that non-traditional presidents must also adjust to shared governance, an institutional norm that is uncommon beyond the academy.
Chronicle of Higher Education (subscription required)
