January President's Report : simplebooklet.com

THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The new year provides a natural starting point for new beginnings, and I hope this new year is everything each and every one of you hopes it will be. My hope for this new year is that Algoma (through the many voices of stakeholders and community) will open a new and exciting, bold, and innovative chapter in its evolution. I am looking forward to a new three-year strategic plan that will guide our future. This year will see continued transformation of our programming and campus spaces with development progressing on a number of related initiatives. In terms of academic programming, faculty from a number of academic disciplines have been extremely busy finalizing required details for our new graduate programs slated for inaugural student intake this fall. Our Academic Senate approved a Master of Science in Biology earlier this month and another in Computer Science is anticipated to be approved shortly. The University continues to move forward with the development of new Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) programming. In December, the School of Computer Science and Technology and PACE launched a new National Centre of Excellence in partnership with Unity Technologies, a global leader in the areas of augmented (AR) and virtual reality (VR). A recent study by PWC noted that by 2030, 23.5 million jobs worldwide will be using AR and VR. By partnering with Unity, the leading platform for creating and operating interactive content, Algoma is upskilling local talent, closing a skills gap, and building a talent pipeline for positive economic growth.From a facilities perspective, this month we opened the latest addition to our expanding campus footprint in downtown Brampton, 28 Main Street. This completely renovated space serves as the new home to Student Success Central, a centralized and very accessible space, which will better support a range of support services including advising, registration, student accounts and student health and wellbeing. In addition, the facility includes a large modern classroom space fully equipped with new technology for our faculty to utilize in supporting class sizes of up to 90 students. This is just the next step in the ongoing development of our campus in the heart of downtown Brampton.In Sault Ste. Marie, Mukwa Waakaa’igan will continue to be a focal point of our capital development efforts. The project has evolved to include phase one of the Mental Health and Addictions Research and Training Institute and will open up space for partnership in this area with the Northern Ontario School of LOVE AND KINDNESSRESPECT BRAVERY WISDOM HONESTY TRUTH HUMILITYSeven Grandfather Teachings

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Medicine University. The design team continues to garner accolades within architectural circles. I am grateful to the various teams across the university who are helping to prepare for all aspects of this centre of cross-cultural excellence for the country, a place that will further support our aspirations to be leaders in cross-cultural teaching, learning and research as part of our commitment to the Calls to Action.The success of these efforts is tied to the support we have received from both the public and private sector. We continue to engage a range of political leaders and other senior government officials to help build awareness and garner support for these initiatives.Over the past several weeks, we have had an opportunity to meet with and congratulate (post-election) Mayor Brown (Brampton), Mayor Shoemaker (SSM) and Mayor of Timmins, Michelle Boileau, where we furthered discussions on university and continuing education programming in the region. At the Provincial level, we welcomed Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance and Prabmeet Sarkaria, President of the Treasury Board in Brampton. In Sault Ste. Marie, we had an opportunity to provide an update on the School of Computer Science and Technology, Mukwa Waakaa’igan and the Mental Health and Addictions Research Institute with the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor). MP Terry Sheehan and the newly appointed President of FedNor, Dr. Valerie Gideon also joined the delegation.These are just some of the highlights underway as we further shape our “new beginning”. Additional examples can be found in the pages of our January 2023 President’s Report. Chi-Miigwetch to everyone who continues to play a part in this exciting chapter of our history. Best, Asima Vezina, President and Vice-ChancellorThunderbirds protecting Thunderbirds - Thunderbirds protecting Communities!“The beginning is the most important part of the work” – PLATO

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What We’ve Accomplished...A dynamic hub for community and student life with spaces and activities that support inspired and engaged learning and a strong sense of pride. This strategic direction will be achieved in close collaboration with student leadership to ensure all decisions reflect students’ needs. 2021-22 Key Metrics/Areas of Focus Algoma University is a dynamic hub for community and student lifeMembers of the Algoma University and broader community have a strong sense of pride in their institutionMembers of the Algoma University community are engaged and inspired in their studies, work, and extracurricular activitiesAlgoma University promotes a culture of internationalizationCampus Culture PRIORITY 1 For a full listing of common University acronyms, please click here: AU Common AcronymsTHE ANNUAL EVENT Shoot for the Cure supports theCanadian Cancer SocietyGlobal Learning Leadership Skills Development ProgramSTUDENTSawarded certificates forWINTER 2023 New Student Orientation a success in Brampton and SSM

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• Successful winter term orientations in Brampton and Sault Ste. Marie welcomed new students into the Thunderbird family• Opening of new Student Success Central and classroom facilities at 28 Main St. in Brampton - official ribbon cutting event being planned• In-person holiday events and socials across our campus communities helped bring new and returning employees back together following two year hiatus • Thunderbird Athletics and Algoma U Alumni and Advancement Dept co-host Annual Shoot for the Cure event supporting the Canadian Cancer Society• Launch of Tailwind providing proactive, free, support to set students up for success as they transition into post-secondary education• Celebration of International Learning recognized accomplishments of faculty and students who participated in international learning experiences in the fall term. Sixteen students were awarded Global Learning Leadership Skills Development Program Certificates• New partnership agreement with Brampton YMCAWhat’s Next?• Official Launch of Algoma Safe App• Increased Wellness support through partnership with Greenspace• Call for applications for Winter 2023 international learning experiences in Guatemala and Colombia• Complete a multi-year, tri-campus master plan to develop, expand and foster a dynamic hub of community and student life informed by Strategic Enrolment Management and academic planning initiatives• Currently finalizing RFP for development of campus master plan in Brampton• Further position Algoma U as a globally engaged university including increasing exchange partnerships (student, faculty, research) and developing a revised Internationalization Strategy• Ski, S’mores and More (Feb 3)

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Vibrant Programming PRIORITY 2What We’ve Accomplished...An integrated suite of academic programming that is current, relevant, attractive, and aligned with students’ expectations.2021-22 Key Metrics/Areas of Focus Algoma University is a leader in teaching excellenceAlgoma University characterizes and distinguishes itself through the realization of its Special MissionAlgoma University has an integrated suite of relevant programming that is linked to the broader communities1st GRADUATE PROGRAMSENATE APPROVEDMaster of Science Biologybecomes member of Business School Association of Canada (BSAC)77% increase School of Computer Science and Technology expansion efforts resulted in aDegree & Graduate Certificate Students since 2021-22

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• Senate approval of inaugural graduate program, Master of Science in Biology, formal launch being planned• Signing of MOU with Trinity Medical Sciences University to support international pathway to medical school• Launch of National Centre of Excellence in partnership with Unity to expand academic and continuing education programming in the areas of augmented (AR) and virtual reality (VR)• Algoma University School of Business and Economics becomes member of Business School Association of Canada (BSAC)• School of Computer Science and Technology expansion efforts have resulted in a 77% increase in degree and certificate students since 2021-22• Fall 2023 applications up 7.6% from last year, more than twice the provincial average of 2.9% (Ontario University Application Centre data, Jan 2023)• New exceptional pathway agreement in Social Work with Northern College in TimminsWhat’s Next?• Continued graduate program development with approval of Master’s of Computer Science anticipated as second offering • Establishing graduate policy, regulatory and student and faculty support framework• Winter 2023 international faculty led learning experiences in Guatemala (Anishinaabe Studies, Dr. Andrew Judge) and Colombia (Community Economic and Social Development and Visual Arts) supported through the Global Skills Opportunity funding• CityStudio Sault Ste. Marie HUBBUB to showcase student projects from the 2022/23 academic year

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What We’ve Accomplished...A culture of research and innovation that leverages existing strengths and produces an exceptional student experience while engaging with our campus communities and contributing to their sustainability.2021-22 Key Metrics/Areas of Focus Algoma University capitalizes on scholarship, research and creative production to enhance student learning, support faculty growth, and contribute to local and regional social, cultural and economic developmentAlgoma University cultivates a culture of research and innovation among all members of the university communityResearch and Innovation PRIORITY 3American Library Association names the bookThe Indigenous Paleolithic of the Western Hemisphere by Dr. Paulette SteevesOUTSTANDING ACADEMIC TITLE CYBERSECURITY STRATEGY WORKSHOP organized by the Experiential Learning team in partnership with the Rogers Cybersecure Catalystand Sault Ste. Marie PUC Free Your GeniusAlgoma University1stEvent Hosted

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• Successful hosting of student and faculty led TedxAlgoma U - Free Your Genius event• Cybersecurity Strategy Workshop organized by the Experiential Learning team in partnership with the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst (Toronto Metropolitan University) and the Sault Ste. Marie PUC helped support framework for a Northern Ontario Cyber Security Strategy (Dec 7)• Dr. Paulette Steeves book, ‘The Indigenous Paleolithic of the Western Hemisphere,’ has been named an outstanding academic title by the American Library Association• Multidisciplinary working groups established to support the development of the Indigenous Research Policy and Framework• Numerous faculty publications, research papers, presentations and other scholarly activity in a range of subject areasWhat’s Next? • Expansion of the Office of Research and Innovation (ORI) to include additional support for AU researchers and research policy and process development• Further development of an Indigenous Research Policy and Framework• Development of a strategy for additional graduate programs• Planning for Annual Research Awareness Week currently underway

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What We’ve Accomplished...A recognized leader in cross-cultural sharing, healing and learning through collaborative efforts in decolonizing the university’s policies, procedures, pedagogy in fulfilment of our Special Mission. 2021-22 Key Metrics/Areas of Focus Algoma University is recognized as a leader in Anishinaabe learning in CanadaWe are responding to the Calls to Action with strategic focus in curricula, policies, research, cross-cultural teaching and learning, community partnerships, health, land stewardship, and governanceAnishinaabe Inendamowin PRIORITY 4RELEASE OF SECOND QUARTER UPDATE Honouring our Commitment - Beyond Good Intentions ON TRC CALLS TO ACTION PROGRESSMEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDINGfinalized betweenAlgoma U & Mattagami First Nation to support new training initiativesrecognized by Shingwauk Anishinaabe Students’ Association and Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre January 4th, 20231st National Ribbon Skirt Day

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• Patricia Ningewance, former Algoma U language professor and Survivor of Shingwauk Indian Residential School, appointed to the Order of Canada (Dec 2022)• Release of “Honouring our Commitment - Beyond Good Intentions”, winter 2023 update on progress in addressing identified TRC Calls to Action • MOU between AU and Mattagami First Nation finalized to support new training initiatives• Finalization of new Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre Viewbook and other promotional assets• Expanded outreach in Timmins including District School Board Ontario North East• SASA and AARC recognize first National Ribbon Skirt Day (Jan 4)• Neveah Pine, youth from Garden River First Nation, shared teachings with students about the jingle dress and Every Child Matters movement• Continued support for Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association site search activityWhat’s Next?• Mukwa Waakaa’igan - detailed functional design, pre-construction planning and budget development • Announcement of new Director of Mukwa Waakaa’igan • Brampton campus AARC Recruitment Day in partnership with Peel District School Board and Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (Feb 9)• Timmins campus AARC Recruitment Day in partnership with Mattagami First Nation• Expanded Brampton community outreach (Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Indigenous Network-Peel)• Expanded Ontario FNMI community outreach (James Bay)• Official launch of Shingwauk Voices Podcast (Feb 2023)• Promotion, outreach and delivery of the Gabegendaadowin Training program• Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow (March 4-5)

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What We’ve Accomplished...Institutional excellence is a university-wide commitment involving students, employees, communities aligned in the spirit of continuous improvement, institutional effectiveness, organizational resilience and strong leadership resulting in long term financial sustainability.2021-22 Key Metrics/Areas of Focus Community: People and CultureOrganizational AlignmentGeneration of New Revenue StreamsIncrease Brand AwarenessInstitutional Excellence PRIORITY 5“Giving Tuesday” campaign raises$30,700 for the Crying Rock Project $22,420 for Student Relief Fund 1st annualBRIANNE PRINGLEthe Business Administration Industry Award Strive Young Professional Algoma Visionary Awards Gala receivesDirector of People and Culture EMILENE DUMOULIN recognized as 2022 Thunderbird Award Winner

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• Stakeholder feedback gathered via online survey to support Algoma University Strategic Plan development• 2022 Thunderbird Award Winner, Emilene Dumoulin, recognized alongside long-standing employees during virtual service awards celebration• Brianne Pringle, Director of People and Culture, received the Business Administration Industry Award at the recent Strive Young Professional Algoma Visionary Awards Gala• Jane Omollo receives BlackNorth Initiative Lifetime Achievement Award sponsored by HSBC, monetary prize of $15,000 donated to the ACCANO AU scholarship Fund• To date, the first annual “Giving Tuesday” campaign (Nov 29) has raised $30,700 for the Crying Rock Project, including support from the Hellenic Heritage Foundation along with a matching gift from the Kanellopoulos Family, and $22,420 for Student Relief Fund • Update on strategic initiatives presented to the Rotary Club of Sault Ste. Marie with future engagement sessions scheduled with the Chamber of Commerce and other stakeholder groups• Deputation to Brampton City Council on campus development progress by Vice-President of External Relations and Growth• Finance and Facilities completed the LEAN pilot continuous improvement training project• Alumni Strategic Plan (2022-2025) finalized• First meeting of renewed Alumni Council, including representatives from all three campusesWhat’s Next?• Development of 2023-2024 operating budget for considered approval in April• Showcase of results from LEAN continuous improvement training pilot program to other academic and administrative departments • First annual Brampton Campus Gala (May 12, 2023)• Employee onboarding module complete, being uploaded to ADP payroll system• Launch of Professional and Continuing Education website currently in beta version• Development of new multi-year marketing strategy • Next phase of Timmins campus expansion planning

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What We’ve Accomplished...EDI values are embedded across the organization to fullfil Algoma University’s commitment to undoing systemic and institutional discrimination and to be publicly transparent and accountable.2021-22 Key Metrics/Areas of Focus Develop an EDI institutional accountability framework Foster EDI in Research, Teaching and Learning Commit to incorporating EDI into policies, processes and proceduresEquity, Diversity and Inclusion PRIORITY 6Higher Education Strategy Associates (HESA)presents EDI Climate Study findings to AU communityFEBRUARYAlgoma University celebrates with many Educational and Social ActivitiesBlack History Month253 Students100 EmployeesCOMPLETE

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Develop an EDI institutional accountability framework• HESA Town Hall presentation of findings of the EDI Climate Study to AU students and employees• EDI Climate Study Summary Report available on EDI website Foster EDI in Research, Teaching and Learning• $50,000 received through Canada Research Chairs (CRC) EDI program funding to support the development of the CRC’s EDI Action Plan• Cultural Safety Learning Program (CSLP) has now reached 253 students and 100 employees since Winter 2021 Commitment to incorporating EDI into policies, processes, and procedures• Name Change Policy submitted for review by Sr. ExecutiveWhat’s Next?• EDI Strategy and Action Plan Development 2022-23 in progress• Annual recognition of Black History Month (February) - hosting of a number of educational and social activities and events. • Finalization of policy review including gap analysis and policy updating based on IEDI lens• HESA and People and Culture working collaboratively on review of AU policies and procedures from an EDI lens• Anti-Racism training workshops facilitated by CRRF (Winter and Spring semesters)• Onboarding to include EDI mandated training to start in January 2023• Ongoing EDI training and webinars through AU partnership with Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI); Pride at Work and Linkedin short courses Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

January President's Report

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