Brenda Bender

The meeting covered several key updates and initiatives. The Pow Wow event was reported as successful with high praise for the food. Key discussions included increasing the use of Indigenous languages in official communications, focusing on Indigenous Food Sovereignty, and receiving updates on Conestoga College renovations and art installations in partnership with Highness Global. Plans for the Indigenous Knowledge Symposium, scheduled for April 30 - May 1, were detailed, including keynote speakers and focus areas such as Indigenous Knowledge as Pedagogy. A pilot Indigenous Book Club featuring Leanne Simpson's work was discussed. Progress on the Indigenous Student Success Strategy, expected for release in September 2024, was noted, alongside discussions concerning the incorporation of Indigenous elements into new Indigenous Classrooms. A presentation was given on Wiijindamaan: An Indigenous Land-based Futurity, emphasizing land restoration and traditional practice training. Finally, steps for IEC expansion and the hiring process for the new Indigenous Relations Coordinator were reviewed.

This strategic plan outlines Conestoga College's direction from 2025 to 2028, focusing on resilience and commitment to quality programming, capacity building, and sustainability. It aims to empower graduates for future success and meet evolving workforce demands, particularly in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, engineering, information technology, and trades. The plan is structured around three core goals: Sustainability, Capacity, and Quality, with an emphasis on addressing financial challenges, expanding enrolment opportunities, strengthening partnerships, and delivering high-quality learning experiences.

The event served as the 51st convocation for Conestoga College, acknowledging the traditional territory of the Annishnabeg and Haudenosaunee and neutral peoples. A significant portion involved the confirmation of graduation status for candidates, particularly those from Engineering programs, Engineering Technology programs, Bachelor of Interior Design Honors, Civil Engineering Technology, Civil Engineering Technology Environmental, and Computer Engineering Technology programs. The convocation speaker, alumna Yumna Nasser, shared three key lessons for graduates: the importance of self-sufficiency, utilizing inherent tools for success irrespective of background, and viewing death as a motivation by valuing time and fostering connections. The event also included the presentation of academic awards and scholarships.

Key discussions included noting the low attendance and the ongoing support staff labor disruption affecting participation. The resignation of a member representing the Catholic School Board prompted an action item for recruitment. The committee reviewed a semi-final draft of the Terms of Reference update. An update on Indigenous Services highlighted a 14% increase in identified Indigenous Students for 2025/2026, noting enrollment trends and ongoing work to refine self-identification verification processes with OCAS. Other topics included sharing information regarding the First Nations Resource Development Scholarship, reviewing the IPEC CCVPA Colleges Survey Analysis 2025 to assess progress on the Indigenous Action Plan, and discussing the allocation of unused RBC Co-op funding toward potentially building a Teaching Lodge. Furthermore, the committee reviewed updates on the Facilitated Admissions Process, including the formation of a Substantiation Sub-Committee and mandatory training requirements. Finally, the committee agreed to appoint a member to attend IPEC meetings and actioned an invitation for a student to share feedback on campus resources.

This plan outlines Conestoga College's strategic direction for sustainability for the years 2025-2029, building upon existing initiatives to achieve a more sustainable future. It integrates sustainability across four key domains: Operations, Academics & Research, Community, and Leadership. The plan aims to embed a sustainability mindset, take meaningful action to improve environmental health, social equity, and economic prosperity, and foster a resilient campus community.