After two years of significant change, including shifts in enrolment, financial pressures and internal restructuring, the Lethbridge Polytechnic Board of Governors has approved a balanced operating budget for 2026-27 and reviewed projected balanced budgets for 2027-28 and 2028-29.
"We have moved through a period of challenge and into one of stability," says President and CEO Dr. Brad Donaldson. "It has not been easy, but the pressures of the past two years have ultimately strengthened our focus, helped clarify our priorities and reinforced our commitment to students, employees, partners and our community."
With a multi-year budget approach providing a predictable and sustainable foundation, Donaldson says the polytechnic is moving forward with confidence by building on its strengths - increasing student enrolment through recruitment and retention, introducing new industry-driven programming, modernizing the campus and strengthening community relationships.
"These are not separate efforts," says Donaldson. "They are connected and guided by our vision of preparing learners and shaping communities and by clear strategic imperatives that help us move forward with focus and purpose."
While the balanced budget reflects careful financial management, Lethbridge Polytechnic is also continuing to invest in areas that support future growth and sustainability.
The institution recently announced the launch of a Pre-Veterinary Medicine diploma. At the same time, several new and wide-ranging programs are being explored and developed, with potential launches anticipated over the next one to two years. Among them is a proposed Dental Assisting certificate, which has received strong support from the southern Alberta dental community. Work with industry and other stakeholders is ongoing as the polytechnic pursues approvals, partnerships and investments required to move the programs forward.
"Because of the collective effort of our campus community, we are moving ahead with momentum, growing with intention and building a future that is full of opportunity, possiblity and pride," says Donaldson.
