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PRESIDENT’S REPORT SEPTEMBER 2022

THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE With the Fall 2022 academic term now well underway, I am excited to feel the energy once again brought by engaging and vibrant classrooms, student and alumni events, athletic and intramural competition, musical and artistic performances, bustling hallways and lively social spaces. Students and staff from over sixty countries are gracing our hallways this fall and it feels great to welcome such rich diversity. As we look ahead to what we will accomplish this year, I believe much of what we will experience will set the foundation for a wonderful and bright future for our Algoma University community. I look forward to welcoming three new Deans to our University this year, two of which will begin by November 1, 2022. These Deans will bring a wealth of experience and expertise and will work closely with the four faculties and the VPAR as we work to ensure our faculty, programs and research are well supported and resourced. This year will be marked by the creation of a new Strategic Plan that will guide the University beyond 2023. We have a strong steering committee in place that will work with Macphie, a third-party consultant, to support the facilitation of this important process. I am pleased to announce that Dr. Michele Piercy Normore and Dr. Sean Meades will co-chair this important committee and I thank the committee members from across the University and various stakeholder groups who have agreed to serve. Over the next couple of months, Algoma University will begin to embrace its new Brand. After almost a year of consulting stakeholders from across the community, we are excited to launch. Our community (you) guided us to articulate three pillars which make our University unique and special: intimate and LOVE AND KINDNESSRESPECT BRAVERY WISDOM HONESTY TRUTH HUMILITYSeven Grandfather TeachingsWe are back!

personal; cross-cultural leadership; and purpose-driven impact. Over the next year as we launch the brand, I invite all of us to think about the many ways we contribute to these three pillars; we will also consider new opportunities and new ideas to really embrace what is behind each of these pillars. The Thunderbird symbol continues to represent the heart of the Algoma University brand and reminds us of the important connections and responsibilities we have to learn from and support Indigenous organizations and communities. This year, we will continue to move forward with the actions laid out in Honouring our Commitment. As the Fall term commences, we continue to move forward a range of initiatives to support the 2021-2023 Strategic Plan (extension) which guides our efforts. This edition of the President’s Report provides an overview of key achievements since our last report as well as updates on important next steps for each objective outlined within the plan. Chi-Miigwetch to everyone who has played and continues to play a part in this unprecedented and exciting chapter of our history. I extend 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!“We live by each other and for each other. Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – HELEN KELLER

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 AcronymsSuccessful IN-PERSON OrientationMENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS PROGRAMINSTITUTION in CANADA to IMPLEMENT1stALUMNI AND ADVANCEMENT hosts students and alumni at TORONTO BLUE JAYS GAMEBramptonSault Ste. MarieTimmins

• ECS space study complete. Results to help support strategic decision making on future campus development initiatives• First institution in Canada to implement Tailwind mental health awareness programming for students• Successful in-person orientation activities on all three campuses• Varsity athletes participate in annual Terry Fox Run• Thunderbirds women’s varsity basketball team hosts new P.D. Camps to support Alzheimer’s Society• Alumni and Advancement Department hosts students and alumni at Toronto Blue Jays game• Opening of new automated vending area to improve access to food services on Brampton campus• Return of annual Fall Homecoming festivities• First cohort of outgoing exchange students since pre-pandemic begin their studies at partner universities in UK and Austria.• Welcomed 7 incoming exchange students from partner universities in Poland, France, Germany, Spain, and the UK. • Six City Studio projects kick off in the areas of tourism, transit, environment, App Development, and social work connecting students to real life projects in partnership with the City of SSM• Twelve students participated in a short-term mobility experience in which they will travel to Italy to complete a third-year course in Community Economic and Social Development. Funding for this was provided by the Global Skills Mobility Fund.What’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• 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

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 communities 2021-2022 Algoma UniversityTEACHING EXCELLENCE AWARDPROF. THERESA BINDADR. DAVE BRODBECKFACULTY OF CROSS-CULTURAL STUDIESLaunchNEWENROLMENT PROJECTION FOR 2022-23 is 4,400 FTENEW RECORDS1,700+ NEW STUDENTSFOR FALL INTAKE

• With the introduction of Continuing Education, enrolment projection for 2022-23 is 4,400 FTE, a record enrolment for Algoma U• Both the SSM and Brampton campuses continue to grow (7% and 72% respectively)• Fall intake was the largest in history with over 1,700 new students enrolling• Launch of new Faculty of Cross-Cultural Studies• Integration of academic programming with National Day for Truth and Reconciliation activities to support increased awareness and learning• Prof. Theresa Binda and Dr. Dave Brodbeck received the 2021-2022 Algoma University Teaching Excellence Award• Draft website for the New Center for Teaching and Learning and faculty survey completed to assemble the first line-up of educative events for the Center for Teaching and Learning• Senate approves new Bachelor of Computer Science – Co-operative Education; Algoma University’s first degree with an embedded co-operative education componentWhat’s Next?• Advance development and approval of two master’s degrees for Fall 2023 intake of inaugural classes• Concept development for additional graduate programs with community engagement underway• Hiring of the new Director of Teaching and Learning and the Fall 2022 launch of the new Center for Teaching and Learning• Additional full-time faculty to support expansion of academic programming• Completion of the policy, regulatory and student and faculty support framework for Algoma University• Further weaving I-EDI best practices into academic programming and processes

Dr. Brandon Schamp & Dr. Nicolas Rouleauawarded $355,000 NSERC DISCOVERY GRANTWhat 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 3Working group details established INDIGENOUS RESEARCH POLICY DEVELOPMENTTO SUPPORTGovernance structure for a School of Graduate Studies (SGS) under developmentgraduate programs expected to run SEPTEMBER 2023

• Dr. Brandon Schamp and Dr. Nicolas Rouleau awarded $355,000 in NSERC Discovery Grant funding• As a result of ongoing research activity in the region, Dr. Sheila Gruner, Mary Wabano-McKay, VP Nyaagaaniid and Jane Omollo, EDI Managaer were . I can do one invited to join Algoma delegation at Colombian Presidential Inauguration• Finalized details to establish working group to support development of Indigenous Research Policy and related framework• Currently developing governance structure for a School of Graduate Studies (SGS) concurrently with two graduate program proposals. The SGS is expected to be finalized by the end of the calendar year. Our first two graduate programs are expected to have their first intake of students in September 2023• Research Advisory Committee (RAC) submission of Strategic Research Plan in final faculty review stage prior to Senate consideration in October What’s Next?• Secure Senate approval of the Strategic Research Plan (SRP, 2022-2027)• Development of an Indigenous Research Policy and framework• Expansion of the Office of Research and Innovation (ORI) to include additional support for AU researchers and research policies and processes• Development of a strategy for additional graduate programs

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 4SUCCESSFUL GATHERING honouringSHIRLEY HORN Past Algoma University ChancellorREUNION& returns in-personwell attendedpartnership for FAITH DAY EVENTS Friday, September 23, 2022Algoma U Honours NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 with scheduled events on all campusesOrange Shirt Day

• Return of in-person Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA) Reunion well attended, furthering dialogue to advance healing and reconciliation• Successful gathering honouring Shirley Horn’s term as Chancellor at Algoma University• Well attended and successful June Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow• National Indigenous History Month/Indigenous Peoples Day activities (June) • Expanded Anishinaabe Student Welcome Week events (September 19-23)• Partnership with Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board for their Faith Day events (Friday, September 23, 2022)• Powley Day sunrise ceremonyWhat’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• Rebrand of the Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre (formerly the Anishinaabe Initiatives Division)• Official launch and delivery of the Gabegendaadowin training program; a targeted awareness and culturally informed skills development seminar.• AARC Outreach to Brampton/Timmins catchment area• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day) Sault Ste. Marie/Brampton/Timmins events (Friday, September 30, 2022)• Resumption of Shingwauk Hall Historic Residential School Tours• Unveiling of the new Ontario Heritage Trust Shingwauk Hall plaque on the Algoma/Shingwauk Site on September 30• The SRSC will also be participating in Doors Open on October 1, to encourage local residents to learn more about the important history of the Shingwauk site

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 5Launch of refreshed brandingEllucian Colleague Student Information System (SIS)CORE TEAM IN PLACE MODULES IN PROGRESSfaculty, staff and administrative hires supporting continued growth 202120202022RECORDNUMBER OF NEW

• Launch of refreshed branding to enhance institutional pride, awareness and support for prospective student recruitment activities• Fall 2022 Algoma U Today magazine released to largest distribution group ever• Project lead secured to support implementation of Responsibility Centred Management (RCM) budget model • Core team for Ellucian Colleague, a student information system (SIS) implementation project now in place, subject matter experts setting up modules • Higher Education Strategy Associates (HESA) study completed to help guide further development of School of Continuing Education• L:aunch of the new employee and family assistance program (EAP)with stronger, more accessible programming and supports for our employees and their families • Record number of new hires; 9 faculty, 11 staff and administration positions to support continued growth and strategic initiatives• Successful completion of two, three year collective agreements for our staff union (OSSTF) and our part-time faculty (OPSEU) What’s Next?• RCM training sessions and stakeholder consultations• Finalizing process and steering committee to lead 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, 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 Brampton and Timmins campus expansion planning• Finalization of Alumni Strategic Plan (2022-2025) and Advancement Department Strategic Plan

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 6in final stages of approval and adoptionALGOMA UBECOMES MEMBER OFCONSORTIUMEVENT to recognizeEDICHAMPIONS OF EDI EFFORTS

Develop an EDI institutional accountability framework• Release of 2021-2022 EDI Annual report• EDI appreciation event hosted at the Brampton Campus to recognize EDI committee leaders who have helped champion this strategic priority• IEDI Resource for Policy Development• HESA presentation of the EDI Climate Study Findings to the Senior Leadership, ALT and the EDI committee• Fall 2022 Cultural Safety Learning Program for both students and employees launched Foster EDI in Research, Teaching and Learning• IEDI Ad Hoc Committee of the Senate first meeting held in August 2022 to begin development of IEDI framework for Senate By-Law review recommendations• EDI Academic Lead in third and final year of contract Commitment to incorporating EDI into policies, processes and procedures• University becomes member of Pride at Work consortium• Name change policy in final stages of approval and adoptionWhat’s Next?• HESA has been commissioned to support the development/ finalization of: ∘ 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 and implement EDI strategies and actions to advance the University’s Special Mission rooted in and informed by EDI principles ∘ a comprehensive review of work to embed EDI in prioritized AU policies and processes ∘ ongoing partnerships for EDI training, education and awareness opportunities with: Pride at Work Canada; Canadian Race Relations Foundation; Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion and Linkedin Learning ∘ Work with EDI professionals to develop AU’s own EDI training (unconscious bias training coming in October and February) ∘ EDI appreciation event to recognize EDI committee leaders who helped champion EDI strategic priority planned for both SSM campus and Timmins campus during the month of October ∘ HESA presentation of the EDI Climate Study Findings to AU Board and the AU students and employees

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