Bryce Neufeld

The board reviewed the spring enrolment projections and their impact on the budget, noting challenges with international study permit approvals and domestic enrolment trends. A multi-year integrated resource plan and budget were approved, alongside adjustments to tuition, course fees, and student parking rates. Updates to policies regarding professional development conference attendance were adopted. Capital projects were discussed, with approval granted for the roof replacement at the Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts and additional funding for the Greenhouse Research Facility. Additionally, the board received a report on the provincial budget implications for nursing programs, lobbying efforts for tax waivers, and updates regarding leadership succession planning.

The board discussed and approved funding for the MICA West Wall restoration project. Key organizational developments included the establishment of a Board Operations Modernization Committee and the approval of its terms of reference and membership. Updates were provided on college-wide cyber security training and financial stewardship targets, with the board approving new annual and cumulative targets for the balanced scorecard. Additionally, the board reviewed financial statements for the period ending January 31, 2026, which showed a favorable balance, and received updates on the college rebranding project and the Prairie Innovation Project.

The Board discussed and approved the updated policy regarding the approval and monitoring of the President's expenses, including new transparency measures. Key reports included the endorsement of four attendees for the CiCan Conference, development of an ad hoc Governance Modernization Committee, and the endorsement of board members for re-appointment. The Finance Committee reported on the appointment of BDO as the external auditor for the 2026-2030 fiscal years and the review of financial statements. Additionally, the college report covered the status of the Prairie Innovation Centre, renovations for upcoming allied health programs, impacts of international student caps, and updates on faculty awards and leadership tenure.

The Board of Governors meeting included approval of the agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting held in October 2025. Key discussions involved general updates, such as reminding the Board about the upcoming CiCan Conference and congratulating a member on a recent award. The Board reviewed and approved minor edits to the President's Expenses policy. The Finance Committee report indicated a $5.5 million favorable variance in the financial statements ending September 30, 2025, which the Board approved. Furthermore, the Board approved the transfer of $15,029,800 from unrestricted net assets to various internally restricted areas for redevelopment and renewal projects. The 2024-25 Balanced Scorecard was approved based on the Planning Committee's recommendation. Finally, the Board approved up to $23 million for the complete renovation of Room 504 at the Victoria Avenue East Campus to support new provincially funded programs. The 2025 November College Report was received, covering updates on the Prairie Innovation Centre and the decision to host a separate convocation ceremony in Winnipeg starting Fall 2026. The meeting concluded with a closed session.

The event marked the grand opening of the Creative CoLab space, intended to foster collaboration, experimentation, and creativity within art, technology, design, crafting, and business development. Discussions highlighted the significance of this space as a hub for industry professionals and a complement to the adjacent Center for Creative Media. Key partners recognized for their contributions include the Government of Canada through Prairie Canada. The session also outlined five main avenues for community engagement through the Creative CoLab: Creative Industries group, Creative Entrepreneur pathway, Creative Freelancer support, Creative Connections, and Creative Maker initiatives.