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2 3Leading meaningful change for generations to come. Our vision is the engine that powers our Special Mission and drives our choices.Our growth over the past ve years has given us the ability to reinvest in academics and research while supporting the communities in which we’re rooted. This winter, we continue to focus on improved operations, new renovations and infrastructure projects, full-time faculty hiring and deepening our commitment to Algoma U’s unique cross-cultural learning environment. The work we are doing in 2024 will ensure high performing eciency, improved customer service and fewer manual processes, all of which are important aspects to supporting our size. Algoma’s strong nancial health is not a common experience across our sector. Universities in general across the province are facing unprecedented scal challenges. Following the provincial government’s 10 per cent tuition cut in 2018 and subsequent freeze on tuition for domestic students — a freeze that remains in place today — funding for public universities is down dramatically. In fact, universities in Ontario receive the lowest per-student funding in Canada. In 2020-21, while the Canadian average was $12,215 per student, Ontario received just $8,647 per student. Real operating funding per student has declined by 31 per cent since 2006-07. And there are currently about 20,000 Ontario university students who are not funded by the province due to a funding cap on domestic enrolment. According to an in-progress survey of the Council of Ontario Universities, several public universities in Ontario are projecting decit operating budgets with combined gures reaching into the hundreds of millions of dollars. At least 10 Ontario universities are currently projecting an operating budget decit for 2023-24 for a combined total of more than $175 million, growing to $273 million in 2024-25. You will recall that the nal recommendations of the provincial Blue Ribbon Panel supported a modest tuition increase and more reasonable provincial funding levels for public universities. Algoma University is a member of the Council of Ontario Universities, and stands with public universities across the province in lobbying for an appropriate provincial funding framework that ensures the long-term sustainability of our world-class, high-caliber university system. Funding enrolment growth for Ontario students and securing additional nancial resources for the sector will help address the province’s growing labour market demand for highly skilled talent and ensure students have the critical supports they need to be successful. The federal government is also undertaking change. Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Minister Marc Miller has announced a new, temporary cap on international study permits, along with new rules that will prevent students attending institutions who use a public-private partnership model from accessing Post-Graduate Work Permits. In addition, master’s degree and doctoral graduates will receive a new standard three-year work permit. These changes will be in place for two years, until a new Recognized Institution Framework can be put into place. Earlier this winter, IRCC also announced that universities and colleges would be required to verify letters of admission, and that it would raise the minimum nancial requirements to obtain a study permit to $20,635, up from $10,000, in the standard study permit process and Study Direct Stream. In addition, IRCC announced that the waiver on the 20-hour-per-week limit on the number of hours international students are allowed to work o campus while class is in session will be extended to April 30, 2024; but not beyond that. Leading meaningful change for generations to come. Our vision is the engine that powers our Special Mission and drives our choices. And it’s calling on us to not only prepare today’s students to change the future, but to ensure Algoma University’s long-term sustainability and impact generations from now. To bring this to reality, this month we will review 43 submissions from our four faculties through the Academic Strategic Initiatives fund established as part of the University’s Responsibility- Centred Management Budget Model. All proposals were of an academic nature intended to support program development and academic needs of the faculty or program area, its students or prospective future students, as well as innovative future programming that supports students, industry or community needs. Proposals are being assessed on the extent to which the each aligns with the new Strategic Plan, the Special Mission, EDI Strategy and the University response to the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We look forward to announcing the successful proposals in February. Senior administrators are currently meeting with each academic department or school as part of the updated Strategic Enrolment Management (SEM) strategy. The SEM strategy guides the planning and enrolment for the University and takes into consideration the following factors: • Academic programming, existing and new • Space capacity, including new and future additions and enhancements • Student enrolment growth, including prioritization of student diversity • Full-time faculty complement and future hiring • Operations and capital budgetary implicationsFor the 2024-25 academic year, the University will see a planned 25 per cent reduction in intake for the Brampton campus to stabilize Brampton enrolment at 6,500 full-time equivalent students. This will include a rebalancing with further reduction of certicate programming in favour of bachelor’s degree and master’s degree programming (Computer Science, Business, Social Work, Psychology) — all of which is currently underway. Guided by the Educational Consulting Services (ECS) space study, moderate growth and increased diversity in enrolment is expected on the Sault Ste. Marie campus up to a maximum of 3,000 full-time equivalent students.Algoma University’s trademark small class sizes, personalized touch and individualized learning is still foundational to our success. For the winter 2024 semester, our average class size for in-person degree-program classes is 53 students for rst-year classes; 33 students for second-year classes; 24 students for third-year classes and just 14 students, on average, in each fourth-year class. THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Our growth over the past ve years has given us the ability to reinvest in academics and research while supporting the communities in which we’re rooted.
2 3Leading meaningful change for generations to come. Our vision is the engine that powers our Special Mission and drives our choices.Our growth over the past ve years has given us the ability to reinvest in academics and research while supporting the communities in which we’re rooted. This winter, we continue to focus on improved operations, new renovations and infrastructure projects, full-time faculty hiring and deepening our commitment to Algoma U’s unique cross-cultural learning environment. The work we are doing in 2024 will ensure high performing eciency, improved customer service and fewer manual processes, all of which are important aspects to supporting our size. Algoma’s strong nancial health is not a common experience across our sector. Universities in general across the province are facing unprecedented scal challenges. Following the provincial government’s 10 per cent tuition cut in 2018 and subsequent freeze on tuition for domestic students — a freeze that remains in place today — funding for public universities is down dramatically. In fact, universities in Ontario receive the lowest per-student funding in Canada. In 2020-21, while the Canadian average was $12,215 per student, Ontario received just $8,647 per student. Real operating funding per student has declined by 31 per cent since 2006-07. And there are currently about 20,000 Ontario university students who are not funded by the province due to a funding cap on domestic enrolment. According to an in-progress survey of the Council of Ontario Universities, several public universities in Ontario are projecting decit operating budgets with combined gures reaching into the hundreds of millions of dollars. At least 10 Ontario universities are currently projecting an operating budget decit for 2023-24 for a combined total of more than $175 million, growing to $273 million in 2024-25. You will recall that the nal recommendations of the provincial Blue Ribbon Panel supported a modest tuition increase and more reasonable provincial funding levels for public universities. Algoma University is a member of the Council of Ontario Universities, and stands with public universities across the province in lobbying for an appropriate provincial funding framework that ensures the long-term sustainability of our world-class, high-caliber university system. Funding enrolment growth for Ontario students and securing additional nancial resources for the sector will help address the province’s growing labour market demand for highly skilled talent and ensure students have the critical supports they need to be successful. The federal government is also undertaking change. Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Minister Marc Miller has announced a new, temporary cap on international study permits, along with new rules that will prevent students attending institutions who use a public-private partnership model from accessing Post-Graduate Work Permits. In addition, master’s degree and doctoral graduates will receive a new standard three-year work permit. These changes will be in place for two years, until a new Recognized Institution Framework can be put into place. Earlier this winter, IRCC also announced that universities and colleges would be required to verify letters of admission, and that it would raise the minimum nancial requirements to obtain a study permit to $20,635, up from $10,000, in the standard study permit process and Study Direct Stream. In addition, IRCC announced that the waiver on the 20-hour-per-week limit on the number of hours international students are allowed to work o campus while class is in session will be extended to April 30, 2024; but not beyond that. Leading meaningful change for generations to come. Our vision is the engine that powers our Special Mission and drives our choices. And it’s calling on us to not only prepare today’s students to change the future, but to ensure Algoma University’s long-term sustainability and impact generations from now. To bring this to reality, this month we will review 43 submissions from our four faculties through the Academic Strategic Initiatives fund established as part of the University’s Responsibility- Centred Management Budget Model. All proposals were of an academic nature intended to support program development and academic needs of the faculty or program area, its students or prospective future students, as well as innovative future programming that supports students, industry or community needs. Proposals are being assessed on the extent to which the each aligns with the new Strategic Plan, the Special Mission, EDI Strategy and the University response to the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We look forward to announcing the successful proposals in February. Senior administrators are currently meeting with each academic department or school as part of the updated Strategic Enrolment Management (SEM) strategy. The SEM strategy guides the planning and enrolment for the University and takes into consideration the following factors: • Academic programming, existing and new • Space capacity, including new and future additions and enhancements • Student enrolment growth, including prioritization of student diversity • Full-time faculty complement and future hiring • Operations and capital budgetary implicationsFor the 2024-25 academic year, the University will see a planned 25 per cent reduction in intake for the Brampton campus to stabilize Brampton enrolment at 6,500 full-time equivalent students. This will include a rebalancing with further reduction of certicate programming in favour of bachelor’s degree and master’s degree programming (Computer Science, Business, Social Work, Psychology) — all of which is currently underway. Guided by the Educational Consulting Services (ECS) space study, moderate growth and increased diversity in enrolment is expected on the Sault Ste. Marie campus up to a maximum of 3,000 full-time equivalent students.Algoma University’s trademark small class sizes, personalized touch and individualized learning is still foundational to our success. For the winter 2024 semester, our average class size for in-person degree-program classes is 53 students for rst-year classes; 33 students for second-year classes; 24 students for third-year classes and just 14 students, on average, in each fourth-year class. THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Our growth over the past ve years has given us the ability to reinvest in academics and research while supporting the communities in which we’re rooted.
4 5There is much more to learn in terms of the details of these changes. However, Algoma University is taking proactive steps to ensure the shifting political landscape does not adversely impact our SEM plan, and that we’re in compliance with all updated regulations and requirements. About two years ago, Algoma University acted to guarantee the authenticity of our letters of admission by making them digitally veriable. The update to the minimum nancial requirement for 2024 is supportable. And most importantly, Algoma University is maintaining our focus on providing top-notch support to our students, domestic and international, including academic support, support for students’ mental health and emotional wellbeing, and support for healthy, aordable and safe living in Brampton, Sault Ste. Marie and Timmins. In December, we proudly signed the Brampton Charter alongside dozens of others including post-secondary institutions, public sector organizations, social and community service sector partners, industry leaders and the City of Brampton. This charter sets guiding principles for all of us who have obligations to international students, ensuring action and investments continue in order to provide a foundation for their wellbeing. We remain on track to make major housing announcements early this year, revealing a 500-bed residence construction project in Brampton and a 100-bed residence construction project in Sault Ste. Marie; which is a part of our Campus Master Plan and will add to the current 208-bed residence capacity on campus. We are getting ever-closer to a groundbreaking for Makwa Waakaa’igan. In December, we were pleased to announce a $5-million contribution from Canadian Heritage. The immensely successful capital campaign for Makwa Waakaa’igan also includes $13 million from the provincial portion of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program and $600,000 from the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Fund. That means we have now met all funding obligations set out by the Algoma University Board of Governors. At this time, we have one application outstanding, which is with the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation.Our Advancement team is now preparing to move on from the Makwa Waakaa’igan capital campaign to focus on the expansion of the Convergence Centre. Over the next six months, we’ll be working with faculties and the Senate to shape the vision and business strategy for this major step forward in our capacity. In Brampton, our renovations at 145 Queen St. E in Brampton are now underway. Adjacent to the hospital, this physical space will be focused on supporting the expansion of our psychology and social work programs to Brampton, where they’re desperately needed. The building at 145 Queen St. E is also a potential home for a future mental health and addictions research and training institute in the Greater Toronto Area. These expansions of CESD, Social Work and Psychology in Brampton are important pieces of the domestic recruitment strategy — responding to community needs and beckoning smart, caring and impact-driven people to become Thunderbirds. We are preparing to host a graduation ceremony for our rst-ever Learners Early Access Program (LEAP) class, with our second cohort already on campus. I’m thrilled to tell you that many outgoing local Grade 12 LEAP students have already applied to be Thunderbirds in fall 2024 — a wonderful start to fullling this program’s vision of helping students from underrepresented groups picture themselves being successful at university, and showing them they have a place at Algoma U.Finally, I’m thrilled to report that Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig (SKG) and Algoma University have taken a major step forward in the establishment of the Anishinaabe School of Education. We have signed a formal addendum to our February 2023 agreement addressing the establishment, governance, and operation of the institution. Our plan to collaborate on an Anishinaabe School of Education will leverage the strengths of the two institutions in cross-cultural learning, Ojibwe language and Anishinaabe education, and land-based learning. The school will be the rst in Ontario built foundationally from an Indigenous worldview and use both Indigenous and western approaches to education. It gives me great joy to say that wonderful days are ahead for Algoma University and the communities in which we’re deeply rooted. Thank you, merci and chi-miigwetch for all you do for Algoma U. Asima Vezina President and Vice-Chancellor Algoma University
4 5There is much more to learn in terms of the details of these changes. However, Algoma University is taking proactive steps to ensure the shifting political landscape does not adversely impact our SEM plan, and that we’re in compliance with all updated regulations and requirements. About two years ago, Algoma University acted to guarantee the authenticity of our letters of admission by making them digitally veriable. The update to the minimum nancial requirement for 2024 is supportable. And most importantly, Algoma University is maintaining our focus on providing top-notch support to our students, domestic and international, including academic support, support for students’ mental health and emotional wellbeing, and support for healthy, aordable and safe living in Brampton, Sault Ste. Marie and Timmins. In December, we proudly signed the Brampton Charter alongside dozens of others including post-secondary institutions, public sector organizations, social and community service sector partners, industry leaders and the City of Brampton. This charter sets guiding principles for all of us who have obligations to international students, ensuring action and investments continue in order to provide a foundation for their wellbeing. We remain on track to make major housing announcements early this year, revealing a 500-bed residence construction project in Brampton and a 100-bed residence construction project in Sault Ste. Marie; which is a part of our Campus Master Plan and will add to the current 208-bed residence capacity on campus. We are getting ever-closer to a groundbreaking for Makwa Waakaa’igan. In December, we were pleased to announce a $5-million contribution from Canadian Heritage. The immensely successful capital campaign for Makwa Waakaa’igan also includes $13 million from the provincial portion of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program and $600,000 from the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Fund. That means we have now met all funding obligations set out by the Algoma University Board of Governors. At this time, we have one application outstanding, which is with the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation.Our Advancement team is now preparing to move on from the Makwa Waakaa’igan capital campaign to focus on the expansion of the Convergence Centre. Over the next six months, we’ll be working with faculties and the Senate to shape the vision and business strategy for this major step forward in our capacity. In Brampton, our renovations at 145 Queen St. E in Brampton are now underway. Adjacent to the hospital, this physical space will be focused on supporting the expansion of our psychology and social work programs to Brampton, where they’re desperately needed. The building at 145 Queen St. E is also a potential home for a future mental health and addictions research and training institute in the Greater Toronto Area. These expansions of CESD, Social Work and Psychology in Brampton are important pieces of the domestic recruitment strategy — responding to community needs and beckoning smart, caring and impact-driven people to become Thunderbirds. We are preparing to host a graduation ceremony for our rst-ever Learners Early Access Program (LEAP) class, with our second cohort already on campus. I’m thrilled to tell you that many outgoing local Grade 12 LEAP students have already applied to be Thunderbirds in fall 2024 — a wonderful start to fullling this program’s vision of helping students from underrepresented groups picture themselves being successful at university, and showing them they have a place at Algoma U.Finally, I’m thrilled to report that Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig (SKG) and Algoma University have taken a major step forward in the establishment of the Anishinaabe School of Education. We have signed a formal addendum to our February 2023 agreement addressing the establishment, governance, and operation of the institution. Our plan to collaborate on an Anishinaabe School of Education will leverage the strengths of the two institutions in cross-cultural learning, Ojibwe language and Anishinaabe education, and land-based learning. The school will be the rst in Ontario built foundationally from an Indigenous worldview and use both Indigenous and western approaches to education. It gives me great joy to say that wonderful days are ahead for Algoma University and the communities in which we’re deeply rooted. Thank you, merci and chi-miigwetch for all you do for Algoma U. Asima Vezina President and Vice-Chancellor Algoma University
6 7 Gwekwaadiziwin HONESTY Dibadendizawin HUMILITY Debwewin TRUTH Nibwaakaawin WISDOM Zaagidiwin LOVE Mnaadendimowin RESPECT Aakodewewin BRAVERY VISIONLeading meaningful change for generations to come.Algoma University values respect, diversity, and adherence to academicfreedom.Algoma University values a supportive experiential learning environment.Algoma University values community partnerships and intercultural exchange.Algoma University values excellence in scholarship, creative endeavours, and research.AlgomaUniversity values and integrates Anishinaabe and Indigenous worldviews.Algoma University values and responds to the unique context and developmental goals of each of its campuscommunities.Algoma University values the historical significance of the Shingwauk Site.VISION AND VALUESAlgoma University Act, 2008 S.O. 2008, C. 13.The objects of the University are the pursuit of learning through scholarship, teaching, and research within a spirit of free enquiry and expression.SPECIAL MISSIONIt is the special mission of the University to,a) Be a teaching-oriented university that provides programs in liberal arts and science and professional programs, primarily at the undergraduate level, with a particular focus on the needs of Northern Ontario, andb) Cultivate cross-cultural learning between Aboriginal communities and other communities, in keeping with the history of Algoma University and its geographic site.VISIONLeading meaningful change for generations to come.VALUES • Algoma University values respect, diversity, and adherence to academic freedom. • Algoma University values and responds to the unique context and developmental goals of each of its campus communities. • Algoma University values the historical significance of the Shingwauk Site. • Algoma University values a supportive experiential learning environment. • Algoma University values community partnerships and intercultural exchange. • Algoma University values excellence in scholarship, creative endeavours, and research. • Algoma University values and integrates Anishinaabe and Indigenous worldviews.The Seven Grandfather Teachings are commonly shared guiding principles of the Anishinaabe: Nibwaakaawin (wisdom) Zaagidiwin (love) Mnaadendimowin (respect) Aakodewewin (bravery) Gwekwaadiziwin (honesty) Dibadendizawin (humility) Debwewin (truth)
6 7 Gwekwaadiziwin HONESTY Dibadendizawin HUMILITY Debwewin TRUTH Nibwaakaawin WISDOM Zaagidiwin LOVE Mnaadendimowin RESPECT Aakodewewin BRAVERY VISIONLeading meaningful change for generations to come.Algoma University values respect, diversity, and adherence to academicfreedom.Algoma University values a supportive experiential learning environment.Algoma University values community partnerships and intercultural exchange.Algoma University values excellence in scholarship, creative endeavours, and research.AlgomaUniversity values and integrates Anishinaabe and Indigenous worldviews.Algoma University values and responds to the unique context and developmental goals of each of its campuscommunities.Algoma University values the historical significance of the Shingwauk Site.VISION AND VALUESAlgoma University Act, 2008 S.O. 2008, C. 13.The objects of the University are the pursuit of learning through scholarship, teaching, and research within a spirit of free enquiry and expression.SPECIAL MISSIONIt is the special mission of the University to,a) Be a teaching-oriented university that provides programs in liberal arts and science and professional programs, primarily at the undergraduate level, with a particular focus on the needs of Northern Ontario, andb) Cultivate cross-cultural learning between Aboriginal communities and other communities, in keeping with the history of Algoma University and its geographic site.VISIONLeading meaningful change for generations to come.VALUES • Algoma University values respect, diversity, and adherence to academic freedom. • Algoma University values and responds to the unique context and developmental goals of each of its campus communities. • Algoma University values the historical significance of the Shingwauk Site. • Algoma University values a supportive experiential learning environment. • Algoma University values community partnerships and intercultural exchange. • Algoma University values excellence in scholarship, creative endeavours, and research. • Algoma University values and integrates Anishinaabe and Indigenous worldviews.The Seven Grandfather Teachings are commonly shared guiding principles of the Anishinaabe: Nibwaakaawin (wisdom) Zaagidiwin (love) Mnaadendimowin (respect) Aakodewewin (bravery) Gwekwaadiziwin (honesty) Dibadendizawin (humility) Debwewin (truth)
8 9 Cultivate excellence through cross-cultural, equitable and engaging teaching, learning and research environments for all students. Develop compelling, future-focused programs and areas of research that are: - responsive to the interests of students and communities, - community - integrated; and - interdisciplinary Foster and simplify means for connecting community and university partners.KEY METRICSWHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED• In December, we announced a $5-million contribution from Canadian Heritage to support the construction of Makwa Waakaa’igan. The immensely successful capital campaign for Makwa Waakaa’igan also includes a $13-million investment from the provincial portion of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program and $600,000 from the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Fund. • The Learners Early Access Program (LEAP), in partnership with the Peel District School Board and Duerin-Peel Catholic District School Board, is ready to welcome roughly 75 students in February. LEAP gives Grade 11 and 12 students an opportunity to spend a semester at Algoma University, taking a University course in addition to high school courses. The program focuses on students from historically underrepresented groups, including Indigenous and Black students — showing them that they belong, and can thrive, at university. • We hosted literary events to explore three CBC Canada Reads books of 2023 titles, welcoming distinguished authors to lead the conversation. The project is led by Dr. Alice Ridout. This is a student-engaged project that’s open to the community, both in-person and virtual. • In Brampton, our renovations at 145 Queen St. E are underway. This space will be focused on supporting the expansion of our psychology and social work programs to Brampton, where they’re desperately needed. These expansions of humanities and sciences in Brampton are important pieces of the domestic recruitment strategy, responding to community needs. • Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig (SKG) and Algoma University have taken a major step forward in the establishment of the Anishinaabe School of Education. We have signed a formal addendum to our February 2023 agreement to address the establishment, governance, and operation of the institution. Together, the Anishinaabe School of Education we’re developing would leverage the strengths of the two institutions in cross-cultural learning, Ojibwe language and Anishinaabe education, and land-based learning. The School is to be the rst in Ontario built foundationally from an Indigenous worldview and uses both Indigenous and western approaches to education.Transformative, Cross-Cultural Learning in a Quality University ExperiencePRIORITY 1 8WHAT’S NEXT• Our Advancement team is preparing to shift its focus towards the expansion of the Convergence Centre, as laid out in our Campus Master Plan for Sault Ste. Marie. Over the coming months, we’ll be working with faculties, the Senate and other partners to shape the vision and business strategy for this major step forward in our capacity. • At the end of January, we’ll hold a graduation ceremony for our rst-ever cohort of LEAP students. About 50 Grade 11 and Grade 12 students will walk across the stage — and we know many will return to us as full Thunderbirds when they begin university in the fall of 2024 and 2025. • We are extremely excited to unveil a new LEAP Bursary. This will be announced at the LEAP graduation ceremony on Jan. 30. • We’re working to introduce a new Business Transformation Team to formally support continuous improvement and project management across our organization. • We’ll consider opportunities for the building at 145 Queen St. E in Brampton as a potential future home for the mental health and addictions research and training institute in the GTA. • We have concluded a space-usage study on our Sault Ste. Marie campus, and are now in the process of planning and executing space renovations to better serve students, support faculty and accommodate our larger sta. • Five students from a range of disciplines were selected to participate in volunteer projects in Fiji in May 2024 through Algoma University’s partnership with Think Pacic. These students will experience complete cultural immersion in a rural village and work on community-led projects around mental health, youth empowerment, and sports development. • We have kicked o a strategy to redene and enhance Algoma University’s visual arts and music programs as a holistic School of Creative Arts and Technology through the proposed lease of additional land, new partnerships with the Conservatory of Music and Art Gallery and new programming.
8 9 Cultivate excellence through cross-cultural, equitable and engaging teaching, learning and research environments for all students. Develop compelling, future-focused programs and areas of research that are: - responsive to the interests of students and communities, - community - integrated; and - interdisciplinary Foster and simplify means for connecting community and university partners.KEY METRICSWHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED• In December, we announced a $5-million contribution from Canadian Heritage to support the construction of Makwa Waakaa’igan. The immensely successful capital campaign for Makwa Waakaa’igan also includes a $13-million investment from the provincial portion of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program and $600,000 from the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Fund. • The Learners Early Access Program (LEAP), in partnership with the Peel District School Board and Duerin-Peel Catholic District School Board, is ready to welcome roughly 75 students in February. LEAP gives Grade 11 and 12 students an opportunity to spend a semester at Algoma University, taking a University course in addition to high school courses. The program focuses on students from historically underrepresented groups, including Indigenous and Black students — showing them that they belong, and can thrive, at university. • We hosted literary events to explore three CBC Canada Reads books of 2023 titles, welcoming distinguished authors to lead the conversation. The project is led by Dr. Alice Ridout. This is a student-engaged project that’s open to the community, both in-person and virtual. • In Brampton, our renovations at 145 Queen St. E are underway. This space will be focused on supporting the expansion of our psychology and social work programs to Brampton, where they’re desperately needed. These expansions of humanities and sciences in Brampton are important pieces of the domestic recruitment strategy, responding to community needs. • Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig (SKG) and Algoma University have taken a major step forward in the establishment of the Anishinaabe School of Education. We have signed a formal addendum to our February 2023 agreement to address the establishment, governance, and operation of the institution. Together, the Anishinaabe School of Education we’re developing would leverage the strengths of the two institutions in cross-cultural learning, Ojibwe language and Anishinaabe education, and land-based learning. The School is to be the rst in Ontario built foundationally from an Indigenous worldview and uses both Indigenous and western approaches to education.Transformative, Cross-Cultural Learning in a Quality University ExperiencePRIORITY 1 8WHAT’S NEXT• Our Advancement team is preparing to shift its focus towards the expansion of the Convergence Centre, as laid out in our Campus Master Plan for Sault Ste. Marie. Over the coming months, we’ll be working with faculties, the Senate and other partners to shape the vision and business strategy for this major step forward in our capacity. • At the end of January, we’ll hold a graduation ceremony for our rst-ever cohort of LEAP students. About 50 Grade 11 and Grade 12 students will walk across the stage — and we know many will return to us as full Thunderbirds when they begin university in the fall of 2024 and 2025. • We are extremely excited to unveil a new LEAP Bursary. This will be announced at the LEAP graduation ceremony on Jan. 30. • We’re working to introduce a new Business Transformation Team to formally support continuous improvement and project management across our organization. • We’ll consider opportunities for the building at 145 Queen St. E in Brampton as a potential future home for the mental health and addictions research and training institute in the GTA. • We have concluded a space-usage study on our Sault Ste. Marie campus, and are now in the process of planning and executing space renovations to better serve students, support faculty and accommodate our larger sta. • Five students from a range of disciplines were selected to participate in volunteer projects in Fiji in May 2024 through Algoma University’s partnership with Think Pacic. These students will experience complete cultural immersion in a rural village and work on community-led projects around mental health, youth empowerment, and sports development. • We have kicked o a strategy to redene and enhance Algoma University’s visual arts and music programs as a holistic School of Creative Arts and Technology through the proposed lease of additional land, new partnerships with the Conservatory of Music and Art Gallery and new programming.
10 11Learn From, In and With CommunityPRIORITY 2 Grow and nurture strong and responsible relationships locally and globally based on the foundational values of respect, reciprocity, and relationality. Integrate and welcome diverse worldviews and cross-cultural perspectives into all aspects and areas of the university. Enhance eective communication and connectivity across campuses. Advance Indigenization and cross-cultural learning, within the spirit of our Special Mission.KEY METRICSWHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED• In December, the Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre (AARC) hosted a land camp titled “Waawaaskonwe Niigaan” (there is a light ahead). The AARC welcomed 30 Indigenous youth between the ages of 12 and 18 to the Sault Ste. Marie campus for four full days of Indigenous STEAM programming in partnership with the Algoma District School Board Sault Ste. Marie Indigenous Friendship Centre. • We’ve issued a request for proposals to build a new mobile application and intranet for students, faculty and sta, taking a leap forward in sharing the information that helps bind and build our community; and giving students, faculty and sta more convenient and accessible tools. • In December, we proudly signed the Brampton Charter alongside dozens of other post-secondary institutions, social and community service organizations, public sector bodies, industry partners and the City of Brampton. This charter sets guiding principles for supporting a safe, healthy life for international students in Brampton.WHAT’S NEXT• We have closed the request for proposals for the rst phase of our major signage and waynding project and are now in the process of selecting a proponent. The project will start with external signage to make Algoma University’s presence stand out in Brampton’s downtown, and continue on in subsequent phases to introduce a waynding system that focuses on decolonizing spaces and honouing our historical context, Special Mission and unique character. • We’re in the process of making major improvements to our internal and public-facing directories, making it easier to identify and contact individual faculty and sta members.Degree Programs3,500 +Graduate CerticatePrograms3,500 +2024 WINTER TERMNumber of Students Enrolled by Program Type (as of Jan 4th)
10 11Learn From, In and With CommunityPRIORITY 2 Grow and nurture strong and responsible relationships locally and globally based on the foundational values of respect, reciprocity, and relationality. Integrate and welcome diverse worldviews and cross-cultural perspectives into all aspects and areas of the university. Enhance eective communication and connectivity across campuses. Advance Indigenization and cross-cultural learning, within the spirit of our Special Mission.KEY METRICSWHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED• In December, the Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre (AARC) hosted a land camp titled “Waawaaskonwe Niigaan” (there is a light ahead). The AARC welcomed 30 Indigenous youth between the ages of 12 and 18 to the Sault Ste. Marie campus for four full days of Indigenous STEAM programming in partnership with the Algoma District School Board Sault Ste. Marie Indigenous Friendship Centre. • We’ve issued a request for proposals to build a new mobile application and intranet for students, faculty and sta, taking a leap forward in sharing the information that helps bind and build our community; and giving students, faculty and sta more convenient and accessible tools. • In December, we proudly signed the Brampton Charter alongside dozens of other post-secondary institutions, social and community service organizations, public sector bodies, industry partners and the City of Brampton. This charter sets guiding principles for supporting a safe, healthy life for international students in Brampton.WHAT’S NEXT• We have closed the request for proposals for the rst phase of our major signage and waynding project and are now in the process of selecting a proponent. The project will start with external signage to make Algoma University’s presence stand out in Brampton’s downtown, and continue on in subsequent phases to introduce a waynding system that focuses on decolonizing spaces and honouing our historical context, Special Mission and unique character. • We’re in the process of making major improvements to our internal and public-facing directories, making it easier to identify and contact individual faculty and sta members.Degree Programs3,500 +Graduate CerticatePrograms3,500 +2024 WINTER TERMNumber of Students Enrolled by Program Type (as of Jan 4th)
12 1313WHAT’S NEXT• We’re watching closely the development of the federal government’s proposed Recognized Institutions Framework, as well the implementation of a series of recent changes by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and executing a robust government relations strategy to ensure our position is well-represented in Ottawa, as well as taking internal actions to ensure the stability of our strategic enrolment management plan. • We’re recruiting in-market representatives in Pakistan and Nigeria to help further diversify our international student body. The pace of growth from non-Indian international markets is expected to accelerate as more resources are dedicated to this priority. • We’re breaking down the success of our recruitment marketing campaign to create detailed reports on how and where this campaign worked. Celebrate and share Algoma University’s impact. Promote unity by articulating and representing the Special Mission in a way that resonates across campuses and in the communities we serve. Execute a comprehensive student enrolment strategy to ensure the prosperity and creativity of the University into the future.Share Our Stories: Past, Present and FuturePRIORITY 3 KEY METRICSWHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED• As of early January, over 7,000 students have registered in degree and graduate certicate courses for the winter 2024 semester. This is the largest term enrolment in Algoma University’s history, up by about 100 students from fall 2023; and an increase of more than 50 per cent compared to winter 2023 enrolment. • Algoma University has increased degree program enrolment for this semester by 1,000 additional students compared to fall 2023, an increase of more than 40 per cent. • Our eorts at diversication continue, with students enrolled in degree or graduate certicate programs for winter 2024 semester coming to us from 62 dierent countries. • An interim enrolment strategy has been developed, reflecting a plan for moderated growth, and ambitious domestic recruitment and diversication targets — including welcoming more First Nations, Métis and Inuit students. • We celebrated the achievements of 56 students at the 2nd Annual Celebration of International Learning. These students shared stories of their international learning experiences ranging from short-term faculty-led courses to international internships with destinations in ten dierent countries. Over 50 percent of participating students identied from an underrepresented group (Indigenous, low-income, or student with disabilities), demonstrating the impact of the Global Skills Opportunity Fund in expanding access to international learning. • $33,500 in funding has been secured for outgoing exchange students through the North 2 North program. North 2 North is the mobility program of University of the Arctic, allowing students to study in dierent institutions across the circumpolar north with a particular focus on Indigenous communities and Arctic issues.2019-20202020-20212021-20222022-20232023-2024 (to date)05001,0001,5002,0002,5003,000BRAMPTONSAULT STE.MARIETIMMINSAU CAMPUSEnrolmentUndergraduate Degree Program Enrolment by Academic Year & Campus (5-year trend)
12 1313WHAT’S NEXT• We’re watching closely the development of the federal government’s proposed Recognized Institutions Framework, as well the implementation of a series of recent changes by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and executing a robust government relations strategy to ensure our position is well-represented in Ottawa, as well as taking internal actions to ensure the stability of our strategic enrolment management plan. • We’re recruiting in-market representatives in Pakistan and Nigeria to help further diversify our international student body. The pace of growth from non-Indian international markets is expected to accelerate as more resources are dedicated to this priority. • We’re breaking down the success of our recruitment marketing campaign to create detailed reports on how and where this campaign worked. Celebrate and share Algoma University’s impact. Promote unity by articulating and representing the Special Mission in a way that resonates across campuses and in the communities we serve. Execute a comprehensive student enrolment strategy to ensure the prosperity and creativity of the University into the future.Share Our Stories: Past, Present and FuturePRIORITY 3 KEY METRICSWHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED• As of early January, over 7,000 students have registered in degree and graduate certicate courses for the winter 2024 semester. This is the largest term enrolment in Algoma University’s history, up by about 100 students from fall 2023; and an increase of more than 50 per cent compared to winter 2023 enrolment. • Algoma University has increased degree program enrolment for this semester by 1,000 additional students compared to fall 2023, an increase of more than 40 per cent. • Our eorts at diversication continue, with students enrolled in degree or graduate certicate programs for winter 2024 semester coming to us from 62 dierent countries. • An interim enrolment strategy has been developed, reflecting a plan for moderated growth, and ambitious domestic recruitment and diversication targets — including welcoming more First Nations, Métis and Inuit students. • We celebrated the achievements of 56 students at the 2nd Annual Celebration of International Learning. These students shared stories of their international learning experiences ranging from short-term faculty-led courses to international internships with destinations in ten dierent countries. Over 50 percent of participating students identied from an underrepresented group (Indigenous, low-income, or student with disabilities), demonstrating the impact of the Global Skills Opportunity Fund in expanding access to international learning. • $33,500 in funding has been secured for outgoing exchange students through the North 2 North program. North 2 North is the mobility program of University of the Arctic, allowing students to study in dierent institutions across the circumpolar north with a particular focus on Indigenous communities and Arctic issues.2019-20202020-20212021-20222022-20232023-2024 (to date)05001,0001,5002,0002,5003,000BRAMPTONSAULT STE.MARIETIMMINSAU CAMPUSEnrolmentUndergraduate Degree Program Enrolment by Academic Year & Campus (5-year trend)
14 15 Invest in and rene our systems and processes to support growth and prioritize - intimate and personal learning experiences, - cross-cultural leadership; and - purpose-driven impact Implement the Algoma University Equity Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy and Action Plan. Develop and implement a robust people and recruitment strategy with a focus on equity, diversity and inclusion. Continue to invest in student-centric infrastructure that provides supports for all learnersContinue to Build Inclusive and Inspiring Teaching, Learning, and Working EnvironmentsPRIORITY 4 KEY METRICSWHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED• As we built this winter’s cohorts, we continued to hold tight to the small class sizes and individualized learning that makes Algoma U special. For the winter 2024 semester, our average class size for in-person degree-program classes is 53 students for rst-year courses; 33 students for second-year courses; 24 students for third-year courses and just 14 students, on average, in each fourth-year course.• The EDI strategy and action plan are complete and are being rolled out in the months ahead. The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) team has lmed a new video-based EDI training program for all sta and faculty.• We’ve completed a successful request for proposals for a new residence in Brampton, and will soon be in a position to make an announcement about a 500-bed investment in our Brampton campus. We’re also looking forward to announcing more about a residence space build project on the Sault Ste. Marie campus.• Our continuing education division is reinvesting in new programming. New dedicated streams in project management — construction project management and IT project management — are already accepting applications. • “Biigwebshkun Miikana” - Breaking Trail describes our journey to decolonization at Algoma University. The Indigenous Knowledge Systems Lab (IKS Lab) at Makwa Waakaa’igan will host a series of ongoing Innovation Labs called Ji-misawaabandaaming (positive window shopping for our future) to explore innovation at the intersection of Indigenous ways of knowing, complexity and design. The IKS Lab will also host an institutional Systems & Complexity Community of Practice (CoP), a safe space, to explore the adjacent possibilities of Indigenization. The IKS lab launched in December. • In celebration of Giving Tuesday, we raised more than $120,000 to support food security, particularly to ght student hunger. To kick o the campaign, Algoma University donated $50,000 to AUSU.14WHAT’S NEXT• Our student food-sovereignty eorts are student-led, with AUSU taking the lead. We have announced our intention to work with AUSU to expand the food pantry in Sault Ste. Marie, and establish a new food pantry in Brampton.• We’re moving forward on implementing our new Student Information System, which will allow better access to information and more self-serve options for students and faculty. • We’ve registered a third cohort of leaders in the Ivey leadership training program.• Within our continuing education division, an exciting new Unity Certied Game Developer Program is in development now, with in-market courses targeted for fall 2024.• An interim Student Information System is in place to support Professional And Continuing Education (PACE) students, easing pressure on OASIS in the nal months before it is replaced.144th Year average course sizeSTUDENTS24STUDENTS3rd Year average course size33STUDENTS2nd Year average course size1st Year average course size53STUDENTSAverage winter 2024 in-person degree-program class-sizesALGOMA UNIVERSITY
14 15 Invest in and rene our systems and processes to support growth and prioritize - intimate and personal learning experiences, - cross-cultural leadership; and - purpose-driven impact Implement the Algoma University Equity Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy and Action Plan. Develop and implement a robust people and recruitment strategy with a focus on equity, diversity and inclusion. Continue to invest in student-centric infrastructure that provides supports for all learnersContinue to Build Inclusive and Inspiring Teaching, Learning, and Working EnvironmentsPRIORITY 4 KEY METRICSWHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED• As we built this winter’s cohorts, we continued to hold tight to the small class sizes and individualized learning that makes Algoma U special. For the winter 2024 semester, our average class size for in-person degree-program classes is 53 students for rst-year courses; 33 students for second-year courses; 24 students for third-year courses and just 14 students, on average, in each fourth-year course.• The EDI strategy and action plan are complete and are being rolled out in the months ahead. The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) team has lmed a new video-based EDI training program for all sta and faculty.• We’ve completed a successful request for proposals for a new residence in Brampton, and will soon be in a position to make an announcement about a 500-bed investment in our Brampton campus. We’re also looking forward to announcing more about a residence space build project on the Sault Ste. Marie campus.• Our continuing education division is reinvesting in new programming. New dedicated streams in project management — construction project management and IT project management — are already accepting applications. • “Biigwebshkun Miikana” - Breaking Trail describes our journey to decolonization at Algoma University. The Indigenous Knowledge Systems Lab (IKS Lab) at Makwa Waakaa’igan will host a series of ongoing Innovation Labs called Ji-misawaabandaaming (positive window shopping for our future) to explore innovation at the intersection of Indigenous ways of knowing, complexity and design. The IKS Lab will also host an institutional Systems & Complexity Community of Practice (CoP), a safe space, to explore the adjacent possibilities of Indigenization. The IKS lab launched in December. • In celebration of Giving Tuesday, we raised more than $120,000 to support food security, particularly to ght student hunger. To kick o the campaign, Algoma University donated $50,000 to AUSU.14WHAT’S NEXT• Our student food-sovereignty eorts are student-led, with AUSU taking the lead. We have announced our intention to work with AUSU to expand the food pantry in Sault Ste. Marie, and establish a new food pantry in Brampton.• We’re moving forward on implementing our new Student Information System, which will allow better access to information and more self-serve options for students and faculty. • We’ve registered a third cohort of leaders in the Ivey leadership training program.• Within our continuing education division, an exciting new Unity Certied Game Developer Program is in development now, with in-market courses targeted for fall 2024.• An interim Student Information System is in place to support Professional And Continuing Education (PACE) students, easing pressure on OASIS in the nal months before it is replaced.144th Year average course sizeSTUDENTS24STUDENTS3rd Year average course size33STUDENTS2nd Year average course size1st Year average course size53STUDENTSAverage winter 2024 in-person degree-program class-sizesALGOMA UNIVERSITY
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