David K. Bell

The board meeting featured a student presentation regarding the Skills Ontario competition and success across multiple disciplines. The president's report covered summer enrollment figures, recognition of commemorative months and flag raisings, and highlights from recent awards and convocation ceremonies. The board approved the 2025-26 audited financial statements and the 2026-27 college budget, which accounts for changes in international enrollment and funding models. Additionally, the board approved the 2025-26 annual report for submission to the government. The chair concluded the meeting by acknowledging the contributions of three retiring governors.

This 2026-27 Business Plan outlines Georgian College's commitments as a workforce development partner, socio-economic driver, and regional leader. It advances the institution's five-year strategy, 'Game-changing Innovation: Flourishing Students. Thriving Communities,' through key pillars: Transformative Education, Unrivaled Student Experience, Community Impact, Global Connectivity, and Organizational Excellence. The plan aims to foster innovation, prepare graduates for a future-ready economy, ensure a dynamic talent pipeline, and contribute to a strong and prosperous Ontario.

The board received an education presentation on the role of micro campaigns in the college's innovation strategy. The Chair and President provided updates on recent activities, including the Board of Governors' Awards of Distinction, an inaugural elected officials' breakfast, the success of the spring open house, preparations for the Skills Ontario competition, and the closure and transition plan for the Orillia Campus. Additionally, the board reviewed reports regarding program advisory committee appointments and an equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging report, and received information on the upcoming addition of a new student governor.

This plan outlines Georgian College's strategy to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from 2025 to 2030. Key focus areas include optimizing existing building systems through lighting and electrical upgrades, controls and automation enhancements, HVAC and mechanical improvements, and adjustments to behavior and operational practices. The plan aims to achieve a 12.9% reduction in total college energy use and a 12.5% reduction in total greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, laying the groundwork for the college's long-term Net-Zero emissions goal by 2050.

The meeting included a presentation on student well-being and success supports. Updates were provided regarding recent college activities, including community engagements and government relations. The board reviewed committee reports, including an election workplan for faculty and student representatives. Discussion items covered the college's foundational threads of equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging, Indigenization, and changemaking. The board approved the 2026-27 Business Plan, five additional program-specific ancillary fee proposals, and a 2% increase in domestic tuition for the upcoming academic year.