November President's Report : simplebooklet.com

THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The integration of cross-cultural learning opportunities and EDI into every aspect of our operations is a key differentiator that is beginning to set Algoma University apart from many other universities across the globe. Today, the University has students from more than 60 countries, a strong Indigenous presence, a considerable number of 2SLGBTQQIPA+ students and employees, a sizable number of Black students and employees, a strong contingent of first generation domestic students, multilingual students and employees, and students and employees of many different religious and spiritual faiths. From their interactions, both inside and outside of the classroom, our students and employees are experiencing what it means to authentically engage in cross-cultural teaching and learning. Thank you to those who are making extraordinary efforts to ensure we have opportunities to learn from and with each other in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment. This month student leaders shared and organized Diwali celebrations. We had the opportunity to make ribbon skirts at Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, experience sunrise and water ceremonies through the support of SASA and other Anishinaabe partners, and many of us had extensive training on land acknowledgements. We had students travel to Belgium to participate in research with Health Science students from Thomas More University. We enjoyed stories from students who attended an international food conference in Italy focused on slow cooking and sustainable food traditions from around the world. Thanks to the hard work of many, we signed new agreements in India, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Nigeria and Colombia. We will continue to support our university community, our students, staff and faculty, to participate in these globally and culturally rich life-changing experiences. While in Ottawa at the Universities Canada fall membership meetings earlier this month, the President’s office coordinated meetings with a number of senior government officials to build further understanding and support for the work we are doing. Irene Barbeau, President of the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA), and I were able to meet with the team at the Settlement Agreement & Childhood Claims Branch of the Crown-Indigenous Relations Department. While there, I also met with Northern Affairs Canada, to build understanding and commitments to the Survivor community and Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre in their truth-telling work specific to the Reclamation of Shingwauk Hall Exhibit. With our feasibility study now complete, it was timely to meet with the Senior Policy Advisor and other representatives of the Federal Office of the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health to share our aspirations to build a Mental Health and Addictions Research and Training Institute. Earlier in the month we reconvened with the Canada Pakistan Business Council and the Akhuwat Foundation to further explore how, together, we might provide underprivileged students from Pakistan with an international University learning experience. The Foundation’s vision is to end poverty and they are LOVE AND KINDNESSRESPECT BRAVERY WISDOM HONESTY TRUTH HUMILITYSeven Grandfather Teachings

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creating a de-westernized approach to doing so, building off old and ancient teachings centered in this rejuvenated world-view. We expect the first cohort of students to arrive at Algoma, on our Sault Ste. Marie campus, this Spring. Thank you to the CESD department for providing this experience. In November, we welcomed MPP’s Williams, McGregor, Grewal and Sandhu as well as our new friends from the Sikh Senior’s Group, to our quickly expanding Brampton campus. Our distinguished guests toured, interacted with students and staff/faculty, and shared in the celebration of our growth to 3000 FTE in the city’s downtown core. Hard to believe we had less than 100 FTE only four years ago. November also marked my first visit to India where I was able to connect with select academic institutions as well as other key partners, government officials and media. While there, we signed an MOU with Chandigarh University, one of the best Universities in the region recognized world-wide for their outstanding programming, research and innovation. A highlight of my trip was hosting students and their families in Amritsar and Kerala; learning their stories and experiences. While there, I also made stops in New Delhi and Kochi (Cochin) to strengthen relationships with existing partners while discussing space expansion, academic programming opportunities, and exploring new pathways. India is truly an incredible country and I look forward to continuing to develop and further relationships and our presence over there. As the Fall term comes to a close, momentum continues on the development of our NEW Strategic Plan. As we move into the stakeholder consultation phase, I encourage everyone to find a way to share their thoughts through the planned focus groups, circles, interviews and surveys Co-Chairs - Dr. Meades and Dr. Piercy-Normore are planning. Finally, Algoma Alumni continue to make significant leadership contributions in a range of capacities. I want to personally congratulate Matthew Shoemaker (BA, Poli/Hist), on being elected Mayor of Sault Ste. Marie. At least five members of his Council are also alumni or have completed a large portion of their undergraduate studies at Algoma. I also wish to extend a note of congratulations to Patrick Brown on being reelected as Mayor of Brampton and to Michelle Boileau on becoming the new Mayor of Timmins. Chi-Miigwetch to everyone who continues to play a part in this exciting chapter of our history. I extend best wishes to all for peace, good health, happiness and prosperity as we shift into the traditional Canadian holiday season leading into the new year. Best, Asima Vezina, President and Vice-ChancellorThunderbirds protecting Thunderbirds - Thunderbirds protecting Communities!“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” – HENRY FORD

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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 Acronyms2 THUNDERBIRD WRESTLING medalsmedals earned at the McMaster InvitationalWINNERIncreased student supports through STUDENT SUCCESS CENTRALStudent Success Navigators22++additional advisorsIN-PERSON Trick-or-treatRETURNSRaises $1,500 & 600 non-perishable food items

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• First university in Canada to launch Tailwind, a health and wellness transition support that aims to prepare incoming and returning students for the mental stresses of their academic journey and enhance the 24/7 holistic student wellness approach model• Return of in-person counselling sessions in Brampton and Timmins• Increase investment in direct student support through Student Success Central with additional advisors and two new Student Success Navigators• Successful Diwali celebrations in both Brampton and Sault Ste. Marie, draws over 400 total participants• Return of in-person community trick-or-treat event results in the donation of over 600 non-perishable food items for Student Food Pantry and approximately $1,500 in donations for the CSAA and the Pantry• Thunderbird wrestling team brings home two medals at McMaster Invitational• Successful Alumni Celebrations in Timmins and Brampton further build relationships between the University and its growing alumni familyWhat’s Next?• Launch of Algoma Safe App• Increase wellness support through a partnership with Greenspace• 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

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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 communitiesNEW ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS WITHSocial Service Worker (Indigenous Specialization) diploma program to the Bachelor of Social WorkSocial Service Worker diploma program to the Bachelor of Social WorkManager, Experiential Learning and Strategic Initiatives and Coordinator, Career Development HIRED TO ENHANCE EL PROGRAMMINGNEWApproved NEWBachelor of Social Work degree program onsite at OSHKI WENJACK Indigenous Institute in Thunder BayBeginningMAY 2023

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• Approved articulation agreements with Sault College in the following areas: ∘ Social Service Worker (SSW) diploma program to the Bachelor of Social Work ∘ Social Service Worker (SSW - Indigenous Specialization) diploma program to the Bachelor of Social Work• Approved the delivery of the Bachelor of Social Work degree program onsite at Oshki Wenjack (Indigenous Institute in Thunder Bay, Ontario) beginning in May 2023• Approved the removal of the professional years admissions process (from year 2 to year 3) of the Bachelor of Social Work program, leading to an anticipated increase in enrolment and improved access to higher years of the program• Approved the offering of the Bachelor of Arts in Community Economic and Social Development (3 and 4 year) degree program for direct from high school students in Brampton for the next academic year (2023-2024), thereby increasing access to the program and potentially contributing to an increase in program enrolment• New Manager, Experiential Learning and Strategic Initiatives and Coordinator, Career Development in place to enhance EL related programmingWhat’s Next?• Creation of retention dashboard for reporting relevant term-over-term and year-over-year data for planning purposes and improved decision making• Establishing training framework for front-facing staff to further support diverse student groups• Advance development and approval of two master’s degrees for Fall 2023 intake of inaugural classes• Hiring of the new Director of Teaching and Learning in preparation for the Fall 2022 launch of the new Centre for Teaching and Learning• Additional full-time faculty to support expansion of academic programming• Establishing graduate policy, regulatory and student and faculty support framework• CityStudio Sault Ste. Marie HUBBUB Virtual Project Showcase (Dec 8)

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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 3Dr. Rose Ann Torres SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK SSHRC Insight Development GRANTawarded$62,900.00 STRATEGIC RESEARCH PLAN 2022-2027 APPROVED BY SENATE DR. NIROSHA MURUGAN AWARDED $674,984appointed Tier II Canada Research Chair in Tissue Biophysics in new developments for cancer therapy obtained a Canada for InnovationJohn R. Evans Leaders Fund for lab infrastructure+

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• Dr. Nirosha Murugan has been appointed Tier II Canada Research Chair in Tissue Biophysics to support her innovative research program that invites new developments for cancer therapy. She was also successful in obtaining a Canada for Innovation - John R. Evans Leaders Fund for infrastructure for her research lab. With both of these designations, Dr. Murugan will be awarded a total of $674,984 from the Government of Canada.• Strategic Research Plan (SRP, 2022-2027) approved by Senate (Oct 2022)• Multidisciplinary working groups established to support the development of the Indigenous Research Policy and Framework• Dr. Rose Ann Torres, Director and Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work awarded a SSHRC Insight Development Grant in the amount of $62,900.00 for her study on “Examining Access to Mental Health Care Service: The Impact of COVID-19 on Filipino Health Care Workers in Northern Ontario”• Researchers from the School of Life Sciences and the Environment have recently applied for three NSERC RTI, two CFI-JELF, two NSERC Discovery grants, one Canada Research Chair (Tier II) grant, one SSHRC Institutional Grant, one CIHR Project Grant, one Society of Experimental Biology grant and one Ontario Stem Cell Network Grant. All projects are currently under review• 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 policies and processes• Further development of an Indigenous Research Policy and Framework• Algoma U Professional and Continued Education and School of Computer Science and Technology to launch National Centre of Excellence in partnership with Unity (Dec 2)• Algoma U, Toronto Metropolitan University, the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst and the PUC to host cybersecurity talent strategy workshop (Dec 7)• Dr. Nirosha Murugan and student leaders to host “TEDx Algoma U- Free Your Genius” event (Dec 7)

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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 4National Day for Truth and Reconciliation(ORANGE SHIRT DAY) WAS A SUCCESS & WELL ATTENDEDSEPT.30NEWONTARIO HERITAGE TRUST PLAQUE NEW HIRE!Anishinaabe Student Success and Cultural and Social Events Program Coordinator

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• Expanded AARC outreach in Timmins region (Mattagami, City of Timmins, District School Board Ontario North East)• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day) events in Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton and Timmins very well attended (Sept 30)• Unveiling of new Ontario Heritage Trust plaque at Shingwauk Hall first of many across the province to be updated to reflect Indigenous history• Resumption of Shingwauk Hall Historic Residential School tours• Hiring of Anishinaabe Student Success and Cultural and Social Events Program Coordinator• Successful Anishinaabe Student Welcome Week (Sept 19 - 23)• Faith Day – Huron-Superior District Catholic School Board partnership (Sept 23)What’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• Brampton campus AARC Recruitment Day event in partnership with Peel District School Board and Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (Nov 30)• Expanded Brampton community outreach (Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Indigenous Network-Peel)• Official launch of Shingwauk Voices Podcast (Dec 2022)• Development of expanded AARC Viewbook• Promotion, outreach and delivery of the Gabegendaadowin Training program (Timmins, Brampton, Sault Ste. Marie)

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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 5Finance Facilities& achieves LEAN STATUSTEE KOMSANAMED NEW CHAIR Algoma University Alumni Council$50,000RECORDraised during SOLD OUT 2022 John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner honouring Diane Marshall

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• Successful launch on refreshed branding during Ontario University Fair - record 1,600+ leads generated from prospective students• LEAN status for Finance and Facilities• Administration employee benefit refresh to better support mental and physical health• Algoma U joins organizations across Canada, benefiting from Perkopolis - providing 5000 different discounts for all of our employees• Tee Komsa appointed new Chair of the Algoma U Alumni Council• Record $50 thousand raised during sold out 2022 John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner honouring Diane Marshall and this year’s scholarship recipient, first-year Sociology student, Abigail Hamilton What’s Next?• For the first time ever, Algoma is participating in the Giving Tuesday movement (Nov 29). The Department of Advancement and Alumni Affairs has organized an internal campaign to support a newly created student relief fund. • Roll out of next phase of RCM budget model (training sessions and stakeholder consultations)• Hiring of Director of Institutional Effectiveness to further support data informed decision making across the University• Stakeholder consultations to support development of new Algoma University Strategic Plan to commence in late November• Development of Brampton Campus Master Plan• Further expansion of Professional and Continuing Education portfolio including development of suite of programming, marketing strategy and operational structure• Development of new multi-year marketing strategy • RFP for consulting services to finalize development framework for People Strategy including implementation strategy • Next phase of Timmins campus expansion planning• Finalization of Alumni Strategic Plan (2022-2025)

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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 61st of three CANADIAN RACE RELATIONS FOUNDATION (CRRF) Anti-Racism Training WORKSHOPS COMPLETEDUnconscious Bias Workshops helping to inform Algoma’s specific EDI TRAINING STRATEGYCOMPLETED 4 PILOTHigher Education Strategy Associates HESApresents EDI Climate Study findings to ALGOMA UNIVERSITY’S BOARD OF GOVERNORS

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Develop an EDI institutional accountability framework• Higher Education Strategy Associates (HESA) presentation of the work plan within the EDI Strategic Plan to both the EDI committee and Senior Executive teams• HESA presentation of the EDI Climate Study Findings to the Board• EDI appreciation event hosted at the Sault Ste. Marie campus as well as appreciation for members from the Timmins campus• Completed the first of the three workshop series of the Anti-Racism Training facilitated by the Canadian Race Relations Foundations (CRRF)• Completed four pilot Unconscious Bias Workshops that will inform Algoma’s specific EDI training strategy Foster EDI in Research, Teaching and Learning• IEDI Ad Hoc Committee of the Senate updates Commitment to incorporating EDI into policies, processes, and procedures• Name Change Policy to be reviewed by SEWhat’s Next?• Refining of AlgomaU specific EDI foundational training (unconscious bias training module; Anti-Racism training module and Human Rights training module)• Upcoming Anti-Racism training workshops facilitated by CRRF in the Winter and Spring semesters• Official launch of the EDI training deepeed unconscious bias training HESA’s ongoing work on the development and finalization of:• 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 and implement EDI strategies and actions to advance the University’s Special Mission rooted in and informed by EDI principles• Comprehensive review of work to embed EDI in prioritized AU policies and processes• Ongoing EDI education and training in inclusive pedagogy and awareness including commitment to support and promote the important work of Pride at Work Canada

November President's Report

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