Mayes Rihani

The Board of Regents meeting agenda included discussions on personnel matters, campus access and security modernization, and board appointments and membership for the 2026-2027 period. Key agenda items featured the review and proposed approval of the 2026-2031 Strategic Plan, revisions to the Statement of Adoption of the University of Toronto Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment, the Policy on Policies, and the Responsible Investment Policy. Additionally, the meeting covered an annual update on fossil fuel divestment and various committee reports.

The meeting featured a presidential update on the university's strategic plan, campus master planning, and response protocols following a fire incident. A strategic presentation on alumni affairs and advancement highlighted fundraising successes and future engagement initiatives. The Board approved the 2026-2027 non-academic ancillary fee schedule. Student representatives reported on financial planning for campus events, scholarship development, and student society activities. Committee reports provided updates on property leases, capital projects, procurement policy revisions, and progress toward divestment goals. Additionally, the Board approved the appointment of a new Chancellor for a three-year term.

The meeting includes reports from the President and the Chair, an assessment of the University Financial Accountability Framework, and the review of the Emmanuel College tuition fee schedule and incidental service fees for the upcoming academic year. Additionally, the agenda covers the approval of the consolidated operating budget, reports from various student councils and board committees, and recommendations for appointments to the Gardiner Museum Board.

The committee reviewed the Net Zero 2050 development plan, which focuses on operational emissions and institutional sustainability goals. Members discussed participating in the University of Toronto residence sustainability competition and reviewed best practices for waste reduction, including waste diversion strategies and student-led initiatives like campus gardens and item-sharing programs. The meeting also addressed environmental concerns such as microplastic pollution from laundry facilities and water heating issues in residence buildings. Furthermore, the committee evaluated food service programs, including composting efforts, eco-friendly container usage, and initiatives to support student affordability and sustainable nutrition.

The meeting covered several key areas including President's remarks and updates on Presidential Priorities, strategic planning, and accounting mechanisms. The Campus Master Planning process is underway, with Phase 1 continuing until April 2026 and Phase 2 until January 2027. The Strategic Plan 2026-2031 draft is being developed. The President also discussed external matters such as declining public views on universities, federal budget themes, and engagement on emerging technologies and data privacy. A strategic presentation detailed student numbers, needs, and services, noting stable admissions for Vic One despite slight application declines, and increased demand for advising and housing affordability concerns. Highlights of 2026-27 Deferred Maintenance and Capital Renewal Projects were presented, focusing on modernization of elevators, roofs, HVAC systems, and fiber infrastructure upgrades. Reports from the VUSAC President focused on improving access to campus spaces and student event pricing. The ECSS Chair reported plans for upgrading the student coffee room. Committee reports included the Investment Committee approving endowment draw amounts for 2026-2027 and meeting with consultants regarding divestment strategy. The Finance and Audit Committee reviewed deferred maintenance projects. The Property Committee noted progress on the Lillian Massey Building and infrastructure challenges. In camera, the 2026-2027 Deferred Maintenance and Capital Renewal Projects were approved.