Jennifer Chai

The Downtown Investment Plan is an industry-led initiative aimed at revitalizing Downtown Edmonton over the next decade. It outlines short, medium, and long-term strategies focused on residential attraction, improving infrastructure and servicing, fostering business retention and the local economy, and enhancing placemaking and programming. The primary objective is to attract more people back to the core, restoring its vibrancy and economic contribution, through targeted investments from all levels of government.

The University of Alberta's strategic plan, 'Shape: A Strategic Plan of Impact (2023-2033)', outlines a ten-year vision and is operationalized through three-year implementation plans. This document details the renewal of the implementation plan for 2026-2029, focusing on three transformational priorities: organizational effectiveness and institutional sustainability, enrolment growth for access, impact, and sustainability, and research and partnership impact. The plan aims to achieve ambitious goals across education, research, and engagement, supported by key metrics and deliverables, while adapting to a changing environment.

The meeting included the presentation of Management's Annual Audited Financial Statements for decision, a report from the Audit and Risk Committee, and an opportunity for members to declare any conflicts of interest. The agenda also featured opening remarks and an in-camera session.

The board discussed several key items, including the University of Alberta's 2026-27 consolidated budget, tuition proposals, and recruitment policy drafts. The meeting also addressed revisions to the naming and donation acceptance policies, the renewal of a three-year strategic implementation plan, and capital planning projects including a South Campus modular data centre. Additionally, the board reviewed various committee reports covering human resources, finance, audit, risk, and governance matters.

The meeting included a presentation on research and its impact on diabetes, a report from the President regarding the implementation plan, and a discussion on a long-term strategic plan. The interim report on changing the story was reviewed, along with the University of Alberta Annual Report which was submitted for decision. Various administrative actions were processed, including the approval of an archives policy, tuition for the Bachelor of Health Sciences program, and standing committee terms of reference. Additionally, the Board received reports from multiple standing committees, such as Audit and Risk, Finance and Property, Governance, Human Resources and Compensation, Investment, Learning Research and Student Experience, and Reputation and Public Affairs.