Patris Aghakian

The board discussed multiple program developments including the 3-Phased Indigenization Framework initiative and new diploma and certificate programs in 2D Animation, 3D Animation, Art Foundation, and Construction Engineering Technology. Constituency reports from CUPE Local 4627, SUVCC, and VCCFA were presented. Financial matters, including the 2025/26 actuals to budget, audited financial statements, and the overall operating and capital budgets, were reviewed. Governance and human resources committee updates were provided, alongside a presentation on the Strategic Innovation Plan.

The Board of Governors discussed several strategic topics including indigenization efforts, constituency group reports, and various program revisions and tuition adjustments. New programs such as the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Foundation Certificate and the Wind Turbine Technician Certificate were approved. Several Continuing Studies and ABE programs were discontinued. The Board reviewed the Finance and Audit Committee report concerning the 2025/26 budget forecast and approved new policy frameworks for contract administration and admissions. Additionally, the Board received updates from the VCC Foundation and reviewed upcoming events.

The Integrated College Plan for Vancouver Community College outlines a strategic roadmap to deliver high-quality, innovative, and experiential learning. The plan focuses on enhancing educational quality through relevant and career-oriented programming, achieving operational excellence with efficient systems and a safe environment, ensuring financial stability and sustainability via integrated planning and diversified revenue streams, managing reputation by strengthening its brand, and fostering business development through new partnerships. This comprehensive approach aims to adapt to evolving demographics and technology, expand domestic and international enrollment, and advance Indigenous education, preparing graduates for future workforce demands.

The board discussed several operational and strategic initiatives, including the installation of an Indigenous Story Booth, reports from various constituency groups, and the approval of new credentials, such as the Automotive Electronics Repair Certificate and the Automotive Parts, Service Advising and Collision Estimating Certificate. The meeting also addressed the renaming of the Clean Energy Technology Diploma to the Construction Electrician and Clean Energy Diploma. Furthermore, the board reviewed the 2026-27 Enrolment Plan, which projects a decline in enrolments due to international student trends, and evaluated budget forecasts and committee reports from Finance, Audit, Governance, and Human Resources. Additionally, the board considered the Education Council's advice regarding enrolment planning and program reduction impacts.

The meeting focused on strategic priorities, including financial sustainability and the potential impacts of a provincial post-secondary sector review. Key agenda items included discussions on Indigenization efforts, updates from various constituency groups, and the approval of several program changes, including name revisions, tuition adjustments, and new program implementations such as the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Foundation Certificate and Wind Turbine Technician Certificate. Additionally, the Board approved the discontinuance of several programs to streamline offerings. Financial and policy matters were addressed, including a review of the 2025/26 forecast to budget, the approval of a new Contract Administration policy, and revisions to admissions-related policies. The meeting also featured updates from the VCC Foundation regarding fundraising efforts.