Malick Cissé

The board discussed institutional priorities including financial management, philanthropic strategies, and the implementation of significant capital and infrastructure projects. Key approvals were granted for short-term borrowing authorizations, foreign exchange transaction powers, and the accounting methodology for endowment funds. Furthermore, the board authorized the transition to the execution phase for the Passerelle FSE project and the Carrefour international Brian-Mulroney, along with the issuance of a major tender for these construction works. Human resources matters, including retirement policy amendments, the extension of a collective agreement, and various administrative appointments, were also addressed. Additionally, the board reviewed institutional risk reports and audit planning for the upcoming financial year.

The board meeting covered a wide range of administrative and operational topics, including multiple appointments of department directors across several faculties and the appointment of a substitute commissioner for responsible conduct in research. The board adopted a new institutional action plan regarding collaborative work with First Nations and formally adopted the Joyce Principle. The session also included discussions on artificial intelligence strategies, the approval of collective agreements for medical and practical training instructors, and reports from the audit, human resources, governance, and real estate committees. Significant infrastructure project approvals included a new electrical boiler system and the modernization of research assets at the Forêt Montmorency. Furthermore, the board approved technical support and software license updates for the PeopleSoft Finances system.

The Council discussed several key agenda items, including the creation of a specialized graduate diploma in social work and the suspension of admissions for the graduate diploma in creative writing. The meeting also covered the renewal of institutional recognition for the Québec-Océan research center and the periodic evaluation of several academic programs, such as the doctorate in practical theology, sciences of religion, regional planning and development, and anthropology. Furthermore, the Council addressed the periodic evaluations of research centers including the Centre de recherche en infectiologie and the Centre de recherche sur les infrastructures en béton, while adopting transitional procedures regarding the member question period and agenda structure.

The board discussed various items including the update of the multi-year budget, university communications regarding institutional governance, fundraising campaigns, and the Fono festival. Key reports were presented from the committee on real estate and information resources concerning capital budget orientations and renovation projects for the Louis-Jacques-Casault pavilion. The audit committee reported on the 2025-2026 financial year results and the disposal of pension surplus funds. Furthermore, the board approved a 3% indexation for mandatory institutional fees and received the 2026-2027 budget proposal. The philanthropy committee also provided updates on the ongoing policy development for the financial management of endowment funds.

The board meeting covered several significant items, including the presentation of institutional priorities for 2026, the approval of budget parameters for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, and the adoption of an institutional plan for equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) along with an anti-racism statement. Other key discussions involved the salary indexation for university staff, the approval of a financial aid application for the LARSEM facility, the authorization to sell the Pavillon de l'Est, and the initiation of Phase II for university student housing projects. Additionally, the board received reports on information security, IT systems, and the application of new provincial legislation regarding health and social services information.