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2021-2023STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION

TABLE OF CONTENTSEXTENSION OF THE STRATEGIC PLAN TO 2023ORIGINAL INTRODUCTION FROM 2016-2021 STRATEGIC PLANVISION AND VALUESAlgoma University Act, 2008 S.O. 2008, C. 13.VisionValuesSTRATEGIC OBJECTIVESCAMPUS CULTUREVIBRANT PROGRAMSRESEARCH AND INNOVATIONANISHINAABE INENDAMOWIN INSTITUTIONAL EXCELLENCEEQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIONIMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY02030404050507091113151719211

2STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-2023 ALGOMA UNIVERSITYEXTENSION OF THE STRATEGIC PLAN TO 2023As the University approaches the end date of the 2016-2021 Strategic Plan, we have given significant consideration to the path forward. The Board of Governors and Senate Executive held a joint retreat in February 2020 wherein the governing bodies agreed to extend the current plan for two years. An Ad Hoc Strategic Planning Committee of the Board was created to refresh the Strategic Plan to better reflect the current context. A new Strategic Planning process will be underway in the year 2022.

3ORIGINAL INTRODUCTION FROM 2016-2021 STRATEGIC PLANWe are pleased to present Algoma University’s 2016-2021 Strategic Plan. Having recently celebrated our 50th anniversary, this plan is timely as it provides a way to look forward while reflecting on the significant accomplishments of the past and the challenges of the future. This rolling plan will guide us for the next five years, and will be revisited regularly as we develop and refine strategies to meet the strategic objectives and goals set out in the plan.The present time is filled with opportunity for post-secondary institutions in Northern Ontario as the region continues its transition from a resource-based to a knowledge-based economy. Universities are vital in driving innovation and social change to support this transition. Algoma University plays a critical role in supporting sustainable societies and improving quality of life in the Algoma region. These contributions are anchored by the creative ways in which Algoma University partners with other organizations, institutions, and communities.As the smallest university in Ontario, Algoma University has an unprecedented advantage in its ability to deliver excellence in student-faculty interaction, undergraduate research opportunities, and experiential learning. The history and location of the University on the site of the former Shingwauk Indian Residential School provides the foundation for Algoma University to emerge as a leader in Anishinaabe (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) learning, in particular through its partnerships with local and regional Anishinaabe groups.The 2016-2021 Strategic Plan builds on the existing strengths of the University through a series of strategic objectives and goals. This is intended to be an action-oriented plan. There are specific measurable targets associated with each of the strategic objectives and goals against which progress can be measured. This plan is a road map for the significant work to follow over the next five years as the Algoma University community pulls together and engages with community and regional partners to leverage strengths and overcome challenges for the benefit of the Algoma region and Northern Ontario more broadly. We are excited to begin work on the objectives and goals set out in the plan.

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,1. 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, and2. Cultivate cross-cultural learning between Aboriginal communities and other communities, in keeping with the history of Algoma University and its geographic site.4STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-2023 ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

VisionAlgoma University offers a transformative education through a student-centred approach to teaching and learning.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.5

Algoma University values and responds to the unique context and developmental goals of each of its campus communities.Algoma University values the historicalsignificance of the Shingwauk Site. Algoma University values a supportiveexperiential learning environment.Algoma University values community partnerships and intercultural exchange.VISIONAlgoma University offers a transformative education through a student-centred approach to teaching and learning.Algoma University values excellence in scholarship, creative endeavours, and research. Algoma University values and integrates Anishinaabe and Indigenous worldviews.Algoma University values respect, diversity, and adherence to academic freedom.GwekwaadiziwinMnaadendimowinZaagidiwinAakodewewinNibwaakaawinDibadendizawinDebwewinNibwaakaawin (wisdom), Zaagidiwin (love), Mnaadendimowin (respect), Aakodewewin (bravery), Gwekwaadiziwin (honesty), Dibadendizawin (humility) and Debwewin (truth) are the Seven Grandfather Teachings, commonly shared guiding principles of the Anishinaabe.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).6STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-2023 ALGOMA UNIVERSITYDr. Eddie Benton-Banai

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVESOver the next two years Algoma University will focus on six strategic objectives: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.Vibrant Programs: An integrated suite of academic programming that is current, relevant, attractive, and aligned with students’ expectations.Research and Innovation: A culture of research, creativity and innovation that leverages existing strengths and produces an exceptional experience while engaging with our campus communities and contributing to their sustainability.7

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.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.Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: EDI values are embedded across the organization to fulfil Algoma University’s commitment to undoing systemic and institutional discrimination and to be publicly transparent and accountable.8STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-2023 ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

Campus CultureA 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 OBJECTIVE 1.1 Algoma University is a dynamic hub for community and student life• Create space that meets the needs of students, and that supports innovation, experiential learning, and linkages with the community • Co-locate services that are similar in mission to ensure prompt, appropriate, and consistent service to students• Enrich campus life by engaging the community and targeting high-impact practices to enrich the student experience 1.2 Members of the Algoma University and broader community have a strong sense of pride in their institution• Provide regular opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and administration to build authentic connections with each other• Develop and maintain a culture of respect through effective internal communications systems• Link students with employment and entrepreneurship opportunities that contribute to economic prosperity and track alumni career success9

1.3 Members of the Algoma University community are engaged and inspired in their studies, work, and extracurricular activities• Provide a successful transition to university for all students• Identify and utilize expertise to enrich the learning experiences of the Algoma University community• Enhance recreational programming• Provide the supports needed to recruit and retain varsity athletes 1.4 Algoma University promotes a culture of internationalization• Position Algoma University as a globally engaged university• Enhance resources that support international student success• Increase meaningful mobility and exchange opportunities for students, faculty and staff10STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-2023 ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

Vibrant ProgramsAn integrated suite of academic programming that is current, relevant, attractive, and aligned with students’ expectations.#2 OBJECTIVE 2.1 Algoma University is a leader in teaching excellence• Recruit new and innovative faculty, and retain highly-qualified existing faculty at all campuses who have a strong commitment to excellence in teaching• Expand experiential learning resources and opportunities to strengthen career-readiness• Recognize excellence in teaching and learning• Utilize our wealth of resources including archives, research facilities, entrepreneurship and innovation clusters, and networks within the public and private sectors• Launch a Teaching and Learning Center 2.2 Algoma University characterizes and distinguishes itself through the realization of its Special Mission• Support the continued development of Anishinaabe and Indigenous programming• Reaffirm and strengthen partnerships with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig• Utilize the Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre archives in academic programming• Partner with Anishinaabe organizations and Indigenous institutes to deliver programs in ways that meet the needs of, and expand access for Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners• Establish policies and procedures to facilitate decolonization and the inclusion of Anishinaabe and Indigenous teachings, worldviews, research practices, and ways of learning in all disciplines, while minimizing content overlap11

2.3 Algoma University has an integrated suite of relevant programming that is linked to the broader communities• Continue to enhance ways in which programs, courses, and learning experiences are communicated to prospective students• Encourage and support high-demand inter-institutional programming that builds on existing strengths• Develop a relevant suite of contemporary and demand-based master’s degrees and interdisciplinary master’s degrees• Develop strong transition programming to support access for all learners• Research in-demand degrees in emerging fields, particularly in areas that incorporate existing courses• Strengthen and diversify program offerings at all campuses• Establish and strengthen pathways to and from colleges and universities• Increase access to programming through expansion of eLearning and digital learning technologies12STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-20233 ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

Research and InnovationA culture of research, creativity and innovation that leverages existing strengths and produces an exceptional experience while engaging with our campus communities and contributing to their sustainability.#3 OBJECTIVE 3.1 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• Increase institutional research support to students, staff and faculty through the expansion of the services and supports provided by the Office of Research and Innovation• Nurture a culture of research by targeting investments in the four research clusters: Anishinaabe communities; Cultures and Creativity; Life and the Environment; Socio-economic Issues of Northern, Rural, and Remote Areas• Co-develop and promote research initiatives and partnerships with Anishinaabe and Indigenous communities that respond to local community needs13

3.2 Algoma University cultivates a culture of research and innovation among all members of the university community• Promote interdisciplinary research among students, staff and faculty• Leverage targeted regional, national and international partnerships to expand and support collaborative opportunities in research and innovation14STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-2023 ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

Anishinaabe InendamowinA 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.#4 OBJECTIVE 4.1 Algoma University is recognized as a leader in Anishinaabe and Indigenous learning in Canada• Create a national centre of excellence that welcomes international, national and local cultural and spiritual teachings as part of our commitment to create safe and welcoming places for cross-cultural sharing, teaching, learning and healing• The University reflects the Anishinaabe and Indigenous communities and students it serves15Algoma University acknowledges Howard Webkamigad for providing the Anishinaabe word “Inendamowin” signifying thought.

4.2 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• Implement our recommitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action• Provide education on the history of the Shingwauk site to all members of the Algoma University community and the general public• Enhance cross-cultural competencies of faculty, staff, students, and administration• Implement a formal process to study the concept of Indigenization that will lead to formal recommendations for action• Continue fostering and strengthening the sacred relationships being developed alongside Anishinaabe and Indigenous partners• Continue to develop and foster relationships with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig through the Covenant, and the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association16STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-2023 ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

Institutional ExcellenceInstitutional 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 OBJECTIVE 5.1 Community: People and Culture• Ensure the grandfather teachings (respect, truth, honesty, love, bravery, wisdom, humility) are valued and woven throughout all facets of the University experience• Align structures and succession planning to nurture talent and foster leadership and personal development from within• Prioritize EDI in recruitment, hiring and retention of under-represented groups reflective of the students and communities we serve• Ensure EDI education for all members of the AU community• Continue to invest in the right tools and resources for high performance resulting in an exceptional workplace 5.2 Organizational Alignment• Align institutional planning and resourcing with the Strategic Objectives of the University• Value and utilize stakeholder consultations in institutional planning and decision-making processes and implementation17

5.3 Generation of new revenue sources• Apply for new funding streams in priority areas as identified in the strategic objectives of the University• Develop and market new programming in response to societal needs related to social, economic and technological contexts• Through strategic advancement identify and establish new funding sources and partnerships to support capital planning and programming priorities tied to the growth and needs of the communities 5.4 Increase Brand Awareness• Develop a clear brand identity• Promote the University through strategic marketing and communications• Enhance outreach and promotion to Anishinaabe and Indigenous communities through engagement18STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-2023 ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

Equity, Diversity and InclusionEDI 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 OBJECTIVE 6.1 Develop an EDI institutional accountability framework• Embed an evidence-based EDI framework across the university to address barriers to inclusion, access and success 6.2 Foster EDI Research, Teaching and Learning• Advance cross-cultural teaching and learning grounded in equity, diversity and inclusion, multiple ways of knowing and social justice advocacy19

6.3 Commit to incorporating EDI into policies, processes and procedures• Develop ongoing strategies, policies and processes to address barriers and gaps for equity deserving groups of the AU community20STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-2023 ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGYThe Strategic Plan Extension is intended to be a living document and a rolling plan that is subject to regular review and against which forward progress is measured. While each strategic objective has multiple measurable outcomes to track progress, there are several broad-based indicators that will be used to assess the success of the university community in the realization of the strategic plan. These indicators are tools to use in planning and will help the community be proactive in responding to emerging trends, opportunities, and challenges.Broad-based planning indicators include:• Increased enrolment through strategic enrolment management• Improved retention rates• Improved graduation rates• Higher levels of alumni engagement• Greater student satisfaction and student engagement• Continued strong employment outcomes following graduation• Generation of ongoing reserves• Results of program and administrative reviews• Increased number and diversity of experiential learning opportunities • Increased diversity of the student body and personnel reflective of the populations we serve• Improve benchmarking against comparable universities and external rankings• EDI is included as an institutional priority across the organization• Phased Campus Master Plan implementation• Continued development of partnerships • Extent to which performance metrics are used as a basis for decision-making in pursuit of improvement goals• Foundation for decolonizationThe President is responsible for operationalizing all aspects of the plan. The President will lead the integration of the strategic objectives and goals into regular reporting and planning mechanisms.21

STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSION 2021-2023 ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

2021-2023 STRATEGIC PLAN EXTENSIONFOLLOW US @algomauALGOMA UNIVERSITYSault Ste. Marie Campus1520 Queen Street East, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 2G41.705.949.2301 1.888.ALGOMAUE. info@algomau.caW. algomau.caBrampton Campus24 Queen Street East, Brampton, ON L6V 1A31.905.451.0100 E. brampton@algomau.caW. algomau.ca/bramptonTimmins Campus4715 Highway 101 East, South Porcupine, ON P0N 1H01.705.235.3211, ext. 2175 E. timmins@algomau.caW. algomau.ca/timmins