The following statement from University of Regina President and Vice-Chancellor, Jeff Keshen was provided to students, faculty, and staff earlier today (April 2):
I am writing to provide important information regarding the relationship between the University of Regina and the University of Regina Students' Union (URSU).
After reviewing URSU's 2024 audited financial statements, the University raised significant concerns with URSU regarding its financial situation. This is a matter we take very seriously - the University's highest priority is the best interests of our students.
Over the past several months, the University has tried to work with URSU leadership, offering financial and governance assistance. Unfortunately, URSU has not undertaken the steps recommended by the University to improve and address these matters. As a result, the University has lost confidence in URSU's ability to serve and represent the University's students and has made the decision to terminate the agreement pursuant to which the University levies and collects student fees on behalf of URSU, effective August 31, 2025.
The University wishes to assure students that core student services will continue in the Fall 2025 term, as will the collection of student fees that fund those services. The necessary arrangements will be put in place over the coming months.
These are complex situations to navigate, and this is a decision we do not take lightly. We value and respect the independence of student associations. The University remains committed to working in good faith with a student union that demonstrates a commitment to good governance and sound financial management.
We are aware that steps are being taken by URSU's student members that may result in changes to how student views are represented at the University of Regina. It is critical for that process to be driven by and for students and we hope that it leads to a sustainable path forward to an effective and accountable student representative organization.
Yours sincerely,
Jeff Keshen, President and Vice-Chancellor
