On March 31, 2021, the Algoma University Board of Governors received a status update by President and Vice-Chancellor Asima Vezina on key university initiatives that will help guide the institution's continued growth and development over the next several years. As optimism grows for the eventual end to the current global pandemic, the University is setting its sights on recovery and return to campus activity while continuing to pursue its goal to grow to 3000 students by 2023.
Following recent discussions, the Board, Senate Executive and Senior Administration have agreed to extend the institution's current Strategic Plan to April 30, 2023. An ad hoc committee is in the process of reviewing and refreshing the plan to ensure relevance within the University's current context. Following last week's provincial budget announcement, the University continues to move forward with significant investments in infrastructure, technology upgrades, and the modernization of classrooms, along with new programming and research initiatives.
"Algoma University appreciates the support outlined in last week's provincial budget. Investments in higher education will help advance our long-term planning and the vital role Algoma University plays in the social and economic recovery efforts within the communities and regions we serve," noted Vezina. "Specifically, as announced by MPP Ross Romano, Minister of Colleges and Universities, Algoma University will invest $4.8M into COVID-19 recovery initiatives to prepare all three campuses for increased on-campus activity while supporting program and infrastructure development related to growth and sustainability."
At their meeting, the Board learned that Algoma is one of only seven Ontario Universities experiencing growth in secondary school applications for the Fall 2021 term and a 65% increase in overall applications (domestic and international) at its campus in Brampton.
During the meeting, Board members also received an update from Board Chair, Shelley Schell, and Chair of the Nominations and Governance Committee, Elaine Pitcher, on a planned review of Board member composition and nomination processes and bylaws. The two Chairs are looking to ensure the composition and skillset of the board will fully support Algoma's Special Mission and Strategic Plan, the rich diversity of the University community and the regions it serves.
"Although we have faced many challenges this past year, I know I speak on behalf of the entire Board when I say we appreciate the continued community effort to move forward our strategic initiatives," stated Schell. "The success the University is experiencing would not have been possible without the unwavering commitment, resilience and innovation of the faculty, staff and, most importantly, students who make up the Algoma University family."
The next meeting of the Algoma University Board of Governors is scheduled for April 29, 2021, where the University will present its 2021-22 operating budget.
