Arsh Preet Kanda

This strategic plan for the College of New Caledonia aims to foster a vision of 'Learning together, changing lives, creating futures' by focusing on four key priorities: Learning Across a Lifetime, Student Success Focused Education and Training, Organizational Strength and Agility, and Community Engagement and Partnerships. The plan is committed to providing access to lifelong learning, facilitating educational and personal goals for diverse students and communities, and promoting student success through quality programs. A central theme is the full integration of Indigenization, including the implementation of TRC Calls to Action and UNDRIP, across all aspects of the College, alongside strengthening community relationships, ensuring organizational resilience, and adapting to future workforce needs.

The meeting included reports from the President and the Education Council, specifically regarding a course outline update proposal for CHEM 045. Financial and audit matters were a primary focus, including the approval of tuition proposals for the Education Assistant and Integrated Nursing Practice programs, the approval of the audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026, and the designation of operating fund excess as an internally restricted fund balance for campus capital projects and health science initiatives. Additionally, the Board reviewed and considered for approval the 2026-2031 Strategic Plan.

The Youth Initiatives Strategy for the College of New Caledonia aims to strengthen the institution's engagement with and support for youth across the region from 2026 to 2030. The strategy is structured around four key focus areas: Early Awareness & Exploration, Youth Engagement & Experiences, Pathways & Transitions, and Partnerships & Community Connections. The plan's overarching vision is to foster a sense of belonging for youth at CNC, ensure they understand their educational options, and feel confident and supported in exploring post-secondary pathways, ultimately contributing to stronger communities and a skilled regional workforce.

The board discussed reports from the President and the Education Council, including proposals for the Healthcare Assistant Program and the Access to Practical Nursing program. The Finance and Audit Committee presented the budget for the 2026/2027 fiscal year for approval. Additionally, the Governance Committee reviewed the Program Advisory Committee Policy and Procedure. Other action items included a tuition proposal for the Independent Studies course, Communications for Health Professionals.

The College of New Caledonia's Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) Strategy aims to embed EDIB as a core institutional priority across all campuses for students, faculty, leadership, and staff. The plan is structured around six key priorities: Structurally Integrate EDIB into CNC (Foundation), Policy Review & Development (Systems), Indigenous Engagement, Institutional Learning, Intersectionality, and Accessibility. It seeks to foster a culture where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered, ensuring systemic barriers are dismantled and opportunities are accessible to all by celebrating diverse voices, identities, and ways of knowing and being within the college community.