Morgan Bender

The Board of Governors discussed several key administrative and financial topics. The President provided a report on university achievements, including green employer recognition and impact chair program updates. The board approved the MAPP Policy on Responsible Investing, revisions to investment policies for various portfolios, the 2026-2027 university operating and capital budgets, and budget allocations for student-fee funded units. Additionally, the board addressed reports on campus safety, employee well-being, committee memberships, and the introduction of a new Doctor of Health Sciences degree program. The meeting also included approval of a public report on forced labor and child labor in supply chains, and the rescission of a policy regarding university chaplains.

The Board of Governors meeting focused on several key items including the President's report covering anti-racism initiatives, campus events, and university rankings. The agenda also included reports from various committees: Property & Finance, Senior Policy & Operations, Governance & By-Laws, and Audit. Significant actions involved the approval of revisions to the Policy on Gender-Based and Sexual Violence, the renaming of academic chairs, and various committee appointments. Additionally, the Board reviewed investment performance reports and received updates on university scholarship and award terms.

The board meeting included a report from the President regarding international research funding, upcoming student recruitment events, and alumni participation in the Olympics. The Property and Finance Committee presented the Key Financial Indicators report and secured approval for a new Climate and Sustainability Strategy, as well as revisions and rescissions related to various research and administrative policies. The Fund Raising and Donor Relations Committee obtained approval for updates to policies concerning advertising, commercial activity, and fundraising. Additionally, the Board received reports on scholarship awards, operating and ancillary budget updates, and an annual report from the Office of the Ombudsperson, and discussed the ongoing consultation process for a new responsible investing policy.

This document introduces the Research Program Canvas, a tool designed to assist researchers with strategic planning for their programs. The canvas supports building and maintaining impactful research programs by helping articulate attributes and benefits, formulate a guiding vision, and operationalize the program. Key areas include identifying required resources, fostering partnerships, integrating program evaluation, and ensuring sustainability and success. It further aids in scaling research programs through grant funding and strategic investment.

This newsletter provides an update on the institution's strategic plan, highlighting progress across several key initiatives. It details advancements in establishing a new School of Public Health, growth in research programs and grant activities, and the development of an academic health sciences network with community hospitals. Furthermore, the plan includes efforts to restructure the school for optimized service delivery and a strong focus on global health and internationalization through expanded international collaborations, healthcare assistance in developing regions, and strategic partnerships with specific geographic and institutional areas.