Board receives updates in preparation for the development of new Strategic Plan
(BRAMPTON/SAULT STE. MARIE/TIMMINS: January 27, 2022): The Algoma University Board of Governors convened virtually this evening for their first regular meeting of the new year. Updates on current student enrolment, new applications for Fall 2022, and other strategic initiatives were shared with those present. The information is timely as the institution prepares for the development of a new Strategic Plan scheduled for adoption in 2023.
Enrolment figures from mid-January indicate a total of 3,157 full-time equivalent students have registered for courses during the current academic year. President and Vice-Chancellor Asima Vezina informed the Board that final enrolment data would be released following the end of the current registration period. “Algoma’s continued growth during the 2021-22 academic year means we have achieved our long-term enrolment target of 3,000 students almost three years ahead of schedule – this is great news,” noted Vezina. “When combined with an almost 19 percent increase in applications for Fall 2022, a figure more than double the provincial average, it is clear that Algoma continues to be a destination of choice for a growing number of learners in Brampton, Sault Ste. Marie and Timmins.”
President Vezina also shared highlights of other key strategic initiatives planned for 2022, including the continued development of the Ontario Mental Health and Addictions Research and Training Institute (OMHARTI). A feasibility study for the new academic teaching, research and training facility is underway with results expected in March 2022. Algoma, along with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sault College and the Sault Area Hospital have partnered on this initiative intended to address the urgent needs in Northern Ontario’s system to support mental health and addictions while being adaptable for broader adoption across the province.
Finally, planning for the strategic expansion of academic programming and facilities at Algoma’s campuses in Brampton and Timmins will continue as the University looks to expand its reach into both communities. Growth in these locations will be further supported by the development and delivery of new micro-credentials, certificates and other upskilling and reskilling training being planned as part of a new Department of Continuing Education. The University expects to announce hiring a director to oversee this portfolio in the coming weeks. This initiative will support Algoma’s ability to further meet the needs of industry and community while providing increased opportunities for lifelong learning.
“The updates provided to the Board this evening reinforce the tremendous progress that continues at Algoma University as we move forward with a range of strategic initiatives to support our long-term goals while expanding our social and economic impact within the communities we serve,” stated Board Chair Shelley Schell. “Although the ongoing pandemic has presented many challenges this past year, prudent planning and an unwavering commitment to the success of our students has allowed Algoma University to build on the positive momentum we have experienced during the past three years and I applaud all members of the Algoma University community for their continued success”.
The next meeting of the Algoma University Board of Governors is scheduled for March 31, 2022.
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