John Gillis

Mount Allison University's new strategic plan, titled "Broad Minds, Bold Futures, Lifelong Connections," builds upon the institution's legacy as a small, immersive liberal arts and sciences university. The plan focuses on providing transformative student experiences, upholding academic excellence and rigor, and fostering a supportive, agile, and future-focused community with students at its core.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of the Investment Committee recommendation to select CC&L as investment managers for Global Equity investments. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Fiscal 2026 Budget, specifically focusing on the development of an operating fund deficit elimination framework, which involves setting targets for revenue allocation and communicating next steps. The Board also approved the draft 2025-26 Budgets, including tuition increases and fee adjustments, contingent upon the Deficit Elimination Framework. Furthermore, the Board accepted the recommendation to appoint Mike Roberts as the interim Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. An update on the CIL Project progress and financial gap was also received, and the Board reviewed the strategic planning process and associated survey results.

The meeting commenced with a territorial acknowledgment recognizing Mount Allison's location within Mi'kma'ki. Key discussions focused on several agenda items. The Audit Committee presented the Annual Financial Report and Draft Audited Financial Statements for the year ended April 30, 2024, which were subsequently approved. The Board reviewed and approved revisions to the Sexualized Violence Policy (Policy 1006), emphasizing ongoing training and cultural change. The Audit Committee also presented the Management Discussion and Analysis Report for 2023-2024, covering various risks and mitigation strategies, which was approved. Updates were provided regarding academic year readiness, including enrollment goals and infrastructure status. The Board approved the framework and budget for the Draft Strategic Planning Process. The President reported on recent relationship building, strategic planning focus, government relations, and the creation of a cabinet performance management program. Other business included discussions on funding for the temporary athletic center and encouraging Regent commitment to the CIL project.

The meeting began with a territorial acknowledgement recognizing Mount Allison's location within Mi'kma'ki. Key discussions on the Issues Agenda included an update on the strategic planning process, noting that environmental scans are complete and the consultation phase has commenced, with deeper review scheduled for the May meeting. The Board discussed the development and approval of the current year's budget concurrently with strategic planning. The Investment Committee review involved a discussion on pausing the responsible investment review to align with the Strategic Plan, considering factors such as Bill C59 and active vs. passive investment management. The Board approved amendments to Article A -- Sections 5, 6, and 9 of the University's By-Laws. The President's report highlighted positive enrolment numbers but noted challenges ahead due to decreased international applications and increased domestic competition, emphasizing the need for a systematic enrolment system. The ongoing deficit remains a focus, with attention on cost savings, revenue generation outside of tuition, and maximizing the endowment fund. Discussions also covered the sustainability of programs and the impact of shifting attitudes toward Liberal Arts and Science.

The meeting began with a territorial acknowledgement. Key discussion items included reports from various Board Committees, such as the Audit & Risk Committee, Finance & Administration Committee, Executive Committee, and Nominating & Governance Committee. An update on the R.P. Bell Library: Centre for Innovation & Learning (CIL) Project was provided for information. The Board reviewed the 2024-2025 Board evaluation results and the results of the Chair Evaluation. Significant action was taken regarding financial reporting, including the approval of the Annual Financial Report and the Draft Audited Financial Statements for the year ended April 30, 2025. The Management Discussion and Analysis for the same period was also approved with an amendment. The Board received and reviewed the draft Strategic Plan, discussing strategic directions, imperatives, and related strategies such as Student Life and Success and Operational and Digital Transformation. The President provided a report covering enrollment trends, priorities, and academic/research portfolios. Finally, the Board appointed George Cooper, K.C. as the new Chancellor for the term of January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2029.