June 2022 President's Report : simplebooklet.com

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed. It is the only thing that ever has.” – MARGARET MEADAlgoma University has come a long way in four short years - with record student enrolment, expanding campus facilities, a growing research presence and ever increasing recognition as a national leader within the University sector’s response to the TRC’s Calls to Action – there is no doubting the positive impact our efforts are having on our students, the communities we serve and increasingly, the world.We recently celebrated the academic accomplishments, resilience and success of the Algoma University “Class of 2022” – our largest graduating class ever. It was a true honour to recognize a group of students who successfully navigated two years of pandemic related obstacles to achieve their goals during in-person convocation ceremonies in Timmins, Sault Ste. Marie and Brampton. In my eyes, their spirits, combined with the rich academic knowledge and critical transferable skills they obtained in our classrooms, research labs and experiential learning placements have prepared them well for the exciting next steps in their life’s journey.In preparing for the 2021-2022 Annual General Meeting of the Algoma University Board of Governors, the words shared by Margaret Mead seem fitting in describing our collective success. The tremendous place we find ourselves today is not the result of the past twelve months of hard work but rather, the strong and ongoing foundational commitment taken on over multiple years by a remarkable group of thoughtful and committed faculty, staff, students and community partners. In particular, I want to extend my gratitude to the governance of this organization. The Senate and Board have been instrumental to the success Algoma has and will continue to experience as we move forward.As one of Canada’s fastest growing universities, with overall enrolment tripling since 2018, it is clear that our strategic outreach efforts are producing positive results. Algoma has experienced increases in the number of students pursuing 3- and 4-year degree options, including a 405% increase in domestic degree enrolment in Brampton. We have introduced programming that is attracting new learners from across the globe. In fact, during the past year, we welcomed students from over 60 countries. As such, we continue to ensure I-EDI values and best practices are embedded across the organization to fullfil Algoma’s commitment to undoing systemic and institutional discrimination, ensuring the creation of welcoming, inclusive spaces which embrace multiple world views.LOVE AND KINDNESSRESPECT BRAVERY WISDOM HONESTY TRUTH HUMILITYSEVEN GRANDFATHER TEACHINGS

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Algoma University students increasingly have access to state-of-the-art physical and virtual learning environments tailored to also support our faculty and researchers. This past year, we unveiled newly renovated classroom and research lab facilities in both Brampton and Sault Ste. Marie, including facilities to support our growing School of Computer Science and Technology. We have expanded student spaces in Brampton to support growing enrolment. Major investments by the Algoma University Student’s Union in spaces such as the Speakeasy, further build “Thunderbird Pride”.This past Fall the Academic Senate approved the 2021-2026 Algoma University Academic Plan which provides a framework for the continued development of both academic and continuing education programming over the next five years. Of particular focus will be the introduction of new master’s degrees in areas such as biology and computer science, a further reflection of our maturation as a university. Additional examples of the progress being made to establish vibrant new programming, as well as our expanding research focus, are shared within this report.Given our history and special mission, the University continues to assume a leadership role in addressing truth, healing and reconciliation, including initiatives outlined in “Honouring our Commitment”, an ambitious plan established in 2021 to guide these important efforts.Over the past year, Algoma has continued the important foundational work that will see the establishment of Mukwa Waakaa’igan, a global centre of cultural excellence. We continue to support the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA) in their efforts to complete a culturally appropriate ground search of the Shingwauk site. This is complex work that will take time and we acknowledge the CSAA and their leadership in this work; we are grateful they are here on this site with us during this time of truth telling, providing a place people can learn about the history and legacy of Canada’s residential school system.As June marks our traditional Annual General Meeting, further examples of the amazing progress we have made in support of our strategic priorities this past year are highlighted within the pages of this month’s President’s Report. I expect you will find, as I have, that there was never a “doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world.” Our team is doing this every day and for that I say, “Chi-Miigwetch”.Finally, I extend a sincere note of gratitude to the Board on my recent reappointment. I truly look forward to seeing what we will achieve in the next stage of our collective journey. Best wishes to all for peace, good health, happiness and prosperity as we continue to move forward together.Asima Vezina, President and Vice-ChancellorThunderbirds protecting Thunderbirds - Thunderbirds protecting Communities!

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What We’ve Accomplished...CAMPUS CULTURE - 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. #1 PRIORITY 2021-22 Key Metrics/Areas of Focus Algoma University is a dynamic hub for community and student life Members of the Algoma University and broader community have a strong sense of pride in their institution Members of the Algoma University community are engaged and inspired in their studies, work, and extracurricular activities Algoma University promotes a culture of internationalization1,000+ INTERNATIONAL STUDENTSUTILIZECAREER SERVICES$500,000 FOR STUDENT MOBILITYGIVESFor a full listing of common University acronyms, please click here: AU Common Acronyms ALGOMA U’S LARGEST GRADUATING CLASSCLASS OF 2022CLASS OF 2022CLASS OF 2022

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• Return to in-person activities, including; ∘ Welcoming the “Class of 2022” during convocation ceremonies in Brampton, Sault Ste. Marie and Timmins – AU’s largest graduating class ∘ Varsity competition for all Algoma U Thunderbird student-athletes ∘ Opening of new or renovated spaces (Speakeasy, Brampton campus student lounge and other student-facing facilities)• $500,000 in funding secured for student mobility through the Government of Canada’s Global Skills Opportunity program• AU becomes member of Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Canada providing students opportunities to address some of the world’s most complex problems• New partnership agreements signed in Spain and Belgium to support student mobility• More than 1,000 international students actively using career services provided through partnership with Devant• Welcomed 11 interns from five different countries through the Mitacs Globallink Research Internship Program• Algoma University Partners with the Canada Pakistan Business Council to create the Program for Women’s Advancement• Student housing study for Brampton and Sault Ste. Marie underwayWhat’s Next?• 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• Further position Algoma U as a globally engaged university including increasing exchange partnerships (student, faculty, research) and developing a revised Internationalization Strategy

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What We’ve Accomplished...VIBRANT PROGRAMS - 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 excellence Algoma University characterizes and distinguishes itself through the realization of its Special Mission Algoma University has an integrated suite of relevant programming that is linked to the broader communities#2 PRIORITY NEW RECORD ENROLMENTSURPASSED long-term goal of 3000 FTERIBBONCUTTINGSchool of Computer Science and Technology$1.98M FACILITY2021-2026Academic PlanNEWSENATEAPPROVED

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• Approval of new 2021-2026 Academic Plan• Senate and Board approval in place for new academic structure – multi-dean model to support new faculties and schools• Planning underway for creation of a national Unity Centre of Excellence• School of Business and Economics (SchoolBE) introduces: ∘ Aviation Management Programming ∘ The Business of Esports certificate and BBA specialilzation in partnership with Amuka Esports ∘ Altitude Accelerator partnership in Brampton• Design underway for new SchoolBE (Sault Ste. Marie) facility, construction slated for 2023 • Ribbon cutting for $1.98M School of Computer Science and Technology facility expansion• Two new master’s programs (Biology and Computer Science) preparing for launch, Fall 2023• Launch of new CityStudio initiative in partnership with the City of Sault Ste. Marie• Engagement with Timmins community stakeholders on possible future program expansion• Dr. Olibanji Akinola posthumously awarded 2022 Distinguished Faculty Award• Achieved record enrolment, surpassing long-term goal of 3000 FTE• Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) initiative expanded to 8 academic coursesWhat’s Next?• Advance development and approval of select master’s degrees in time for Fall 2023 intake of inaugural classes• Concept development for additional graduate programs with community engagement is underway• Enhanced student supports developed through the library and experiential learning• Additional full-time faculty to support expansion of Brampton programming• Further weaving I-EDI best practices into academic programming and processes

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What We’ve Accomplished...RESEARCH AND INNOVATION - 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.#3 PRIORITY 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 development Algoma University cultivates a culture of research and innovation among all members of the university communitySUCCESSFULLYHOSTED5th BIENNIALANISHINAABE INENDAMOWIN RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM“Biskaakonjigedaa Dibaajimohiing” (Igniting our Sacred Fire through Storytelling)DR. NIROSHA MURUGAN RISING STARAward of ExcellenceMinister of Colleges and Universities AWARDSTri-Agency Funding for INTERDISCIPLINARY & SCIENCE RESEARCH$740K+SECURED

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• Dr. Vivian Jiménez-Estrada, receives 2022 Research Excellence Award• Successfully hosted 2nd annual Research Week• New book by Dr. Paulette Steeves, Canada Research Chair (CRC), The Indigenous Paleolithic of the Western Hemisphere, garners considerable interest in her ground breaking research• SSHRC Funding - $402,805 ∘ Dr. Vivian Jiménez-Estrada - Partnership Grant ∘ Dr. Nirosha Murugan - New Frontiers Research Fund-Explore ∘ SSHRC Institutional Grants (SIG)• NSERC Funding - $340,000 ∘ Dr. Nirosha Murugan, NSERC Discovery ∘ Dr. Yujie Tang, NSERC Discovery• NOHFC- $126,000 ∘ Dr. DiSanto, Dr. Foote, Dr. Molina (CRC), Dr. Murugan, Dr. Rebek• OMAFRA - $110,363 ∘ Dr. Pedro Antunes (CRC)• Dr. Nirosha Murugan awarded Minister of Colleges and Universities Rising Star Award of Excellence• 5th Biennial Anishinaabe Inendamowin (Thought) Research Symposium) hosted in partnership with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig (SKG) and Shingwauk Anishinaabe Students’ Association (SASA)• Awarded $55,728 in SSHRC Institutional Grants over a 3 year period What’s Next?• Secure Senate approval of Research Strategic Plan (2022-2027)• Develop an Indigenous Research Policy• Expand faculty supports in the Research Office• Develop a Graduate Studies Office with policies and procedures

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What We’ve Accomplished...ANISHINAABE INENDAMOWIN - 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 Canada We 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 governance#4 PRIORITY Gabegendaadowin Training programSUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHEDNATIONAL INDIGENOUS HISTORY MONTHREINSTATED TRADITIONAL IN-PERSON CULTURAL EVENTS16th Annual Pow WowGATHERING the RAPIDSShingwauk Residential Schools CentreCity of SSMMEDAL OF MERITRECEIVESFOR EXCELLENCE IN A CULTURAL OR ACADEMIC FIELD

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• Ongoing partnership development with SKG, CSAA, ONWAA, NALMA, Indigenous Clean Energy, Oshki-Pimache-O-Win: The Wenjack Education Institute, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and others• Programming to recognize 1st annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation draws community to Shingwauk Site• Mukwa Waakaa’igan, centre of cultural excellence: ∘ design concept by Moriyama & Teshima Architects Inc. and Smoke Architecture nominated for Rethinking The Future 2022 Award ∘ new Director in place to lead project and programming development• New Gabegendaadowin, interactive learning program that bridges the understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities successfully launched• National Indigenous History Month – Reintroduction of traditional in-person cultural events including the 16th Annual Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow • Record investment to support initiatives within Honouring our Commitment• SRSC receives City of Sault Ste. Marie Medal of Merit for its standard of excellence in a cultural or academic field• Restructuring of Anishinaabe Initiatives into Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre – new staffing, new initiatives• SRSC launches online Healing Through Education project aimed at teaching the legacy of Residential Schools, colonialism, and reconciliationWhat’s Next?• Continued implementation of Calls to Action identified in Honouring our Commitment• Finalization of community facing publication outlining comprehensive decolonization efforts within the University• Further Development of research framework and programming for Mukwa Waakaa’igan• Mukwa Waakaa’igan – detailed functional design, pre-construction planning and budget development

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What We’ve Accomplished...INSTITUTIONAL EXCELLENCE - 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.#5 PRIORITY 2021-22 Key Metrics/Areas of Focus Community: People and Culture Organizational Alignment Generation of New Revenue Streams Increase Brand AwarenessBOARD APPROVES $89.6$89.6MM2022-23 operating budget$89.6MSTRATEGIC ADVANCEMENTTOTAL GIFTS FROM NEW DONORS NEW DONORS34%226%$99MUniversity’s economicimpact toSAULT STE. MARIE & REGION

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• President Vezina reappointed to second term• Chief Lyle Sayers receives Honorary Doctor of Letters at Spring 2022 Convocation• Board approved $89.6M 2022-23 operating budget – injects record investment in academics, research and other strategic initiatives• Strategic advancement efforts have resulted in: ∘ Over $3M revenue secured in 2021-22 ∘ 201 gifts secured ∘ 34% increase in new donors ∘ Total gifts from new donors up 226% ∘ 2021-22 Advancement Department ROI of 6.1 to 1 • Renewed focus on alumni outreach and development included 7 new events, significant increases in engagement via social media and creative outreach strategies• New software platform has generated 3000 new alumni contacts• Launch of new Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) • Implementation of new integrated Ellucian Student Information System (SIS) underway• Total economic impact of University to Sault Ste. Marie and region valued at $99M• Shannon Brooks (VP, Finance and Operations) and Dr. Michele Piercey-Normore (VP, Academic and Research) join senior leadership team What’s Next?• Development of new Algoma University Strategic Plan• Functional space analysis for Brampton and SSM campuses• Further expansion of Professional and Continuing Education portfolio including development of suite of programming and operational structure• Development of new multi-year marketing strategy• Launch of refreshed branding and website on track for release prior to recruitment season • Updated Brampton economic impact analysis• Develop framework for People Strategy including implementation strategy • Next phase of Brampton and Timmins campus expansion planning• Finalization of Alumni Strategic Plan (2022-2025) and Advancement Department Strategic Plan

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What We’ve Accomplished...EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION - 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.#6 PRIORITY 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 procedures Develop an EDI institutional accountability framework• EDI Climate Study, facilitated by Higher Education Strategy Associates (HESA), presentation of Phase II Report recommendations • I-EDI Ad Hoc Committee to review Senate By-Laws approved (February), membership finalized• Launch Social Innovation Lab to advance decolonization efforts• Joined other institutions in its commitment to endorse and sign the Scarborough Charter on Anti-Black Racism and Black Inclusion in Canadian Higher Education• 250+ students, staff, and faculty completed the Cultural Safety Learning ProgramALGOMA UNIVERSITY becomes employer partner with the250+ STUDENTS,STAFF & FACULTYCOMPLETE

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• Employer Partner of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion and LinkedIn Learning providing accessible education and training resources to AU community• Hosted over 27 events, reaching over 800 members of the Algoma U community, (Indigenizing the Academy, Queer 101, Sexual Identity Training, Anti-Black and Anti-Asian Racism, etc.)• Ongoing communication to raise awareness of I-EDI related initiatives and milestones (memos, website, social media, newsletters, stakeholder presentations, town halls, etc.) • Advances in addressing 2SLGBTQQIPA+ issues including installation of permanent signage for universal washrooms, supporting inclusive use of pronouns Foster EDI in Research, Teaching and Learning• The Research Office facilitated the submission of AU’s EDI Stipend grant. The EDI office successfully obtained $50,000 to advance the public accountability and transparency requirements of the Canada Research Chairs Program. This includes developing institutional Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Action Plan • The Algoma University Senate passed a motion to create an Indigenization, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (I-EDI) Ad Hoc Committee charged with developing an I-EDI framework to enable revision of the Senate By-Laws from an I-EDI lens • Senate approval of a new Faculty of Cross Cultural Studies (FCCS), signals AU’s commitment to invest in academic spaces where students and faculty from a variety of backgrounds, without exclusion, intentionally work across disciplines and explicitly in responding to the TRC Calls to Action and I-EDI Commitment to incorporating EDI into policies, processes and procedures• Approval of I-EDI Guidelines for Policy Development • Ongoing work with the Vice President Finance and Operations (VPFO) and across different units to provide an EDI lens on key policies (Workplace Violence and Harassment Prevention Program and Code of Conduct-Respectful Workplace Policy; Ceremonial Use of Sacred Medicines and the The Indigenization – Equity, Diversity And Inclusion (I-EDI) Resource For Policy Development) • EDI work has also included ensuring participation of Equity deserving representatives on all AU committees and revised the commitment to equal opportunity diversity statement on job postings to encourage equity deserving groups to apply What’s Next?• Finalizing extension of HESA’s support to deliver the following: ∘ A tri-campus EDI Strategy and multi-year Action Plan to support EDI requirements of the Canada Research Chairs program ∘ Collaborative creation of EDI framework guide and resources for individual units to tailor EDI strategies and actions to advance the University’s Special Mission rooted in and informed by EDI principles ∘ Comprehensive review work to embed EDI in prioritized AU policies and processes ∘ Ongoing EDI education and awareness including commitment to support and promote the important work of Pride at Work Canada

June 2022 President's Report

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