Ocad University

The meeting addressed several key topics including an update on the provincial funding announcement, budget efficiencies, and academic restructuring consultation processes. Discussions covered the impact of financial initiatives on curriculum quality, the role of Senate in budgeting, and student concerns regarding course evaluations and studio work deadlines. The Senate also approved academic appointments and emerit status, finalized by-law revisions for committee consolidation, and approved changes to the undergraduate laptop program as well as major modifications to the criticism and curatorial practice graduate program. Additionally, the Senate explored the importance of industry connections and reviewed reporting structures for the Human Rights and Equity Office.

The Board meeting included a report from the President regarding international partnerships and institutional scorecard results. The Audit, Finance and Risk Committee provided updates on financial performance, operating budget assumptions, and undergraduate and graduate enrolment. The Board approved the Facilities Renewal Program list and the purchase of new computer infrastructure. Additionally, the Board approved increases in international student tuition fees, revised Gift Acceptance and Naming Policies, and amendments to the Financial Whistle-Blower Policy. The Investment Committee report led to the approval of amendments to the Statement of Investment Principles and Guidelines and the endowment payout rate. Other topics included the OCAD University workforce composition report, an update on land title and easement matters, a research grant overview, fundraising activities, and a governance report.

The meeting included reports from the Executive Committee on the institutional scorecard and administrative policies, an advancement report, and a comprehensive audit, finance, and risk review covering operating budgets, tuition and ancillary fees, and the awarding of construction and repair contracts. The board discussed enrollment updates, risk management, and the implementation of an accountability fund. Additionally, the agenda covered governance by-law changes, recruitment policy updates, people and culture trends, real estate analysis, and academic matters from the Senate.

The Senate discussed the status of various Senate committee reports, including pilot double-credit courses and the temporary suspension of admissions to the Design for Health program. A presentation was provided regarding the institutional response to the Deloitte Efficiency and Accountability Fund Report, detailing strategies for financial sustainability such as government revenue advocacy, a new Strategic Enrolment Management plan, and institutional efficiency initiatives. Additionally, the Senate approved the rescission of several policies regarding graduate studies and revisions to undergraduate grade appeals and academic calendar principles. Further business included minor revisions to Senate by-laws and an in-camera session concerning an academic administrative appointment.

The Senate meeting included discussions on university funding challenges following provincial announcements and the impact of changes to the Ontario Student Assistance Program. Members reviewed strategies for financial sustainability, the status of the University's AI strategy, and efforts to strengthen the Indigenous Educational Council, including initiatives for mandatory cultural competency training. The Senate approved honorary degree recipients and the Design for Health IQAP final assessment report. Additionally, the Senate discussed an enrolment presentation, which highlighted current challenges in undergraduate application rates and outlined a new five-year Strategic Enrolment Management strategy.