Board unanimously adopts Academic Plan

At its January 12 meeting, Concordia’s Board of Governors unanimously approved a five-year Academic Plan intended to improve the university’s reputation.

Provost David Graham outlined how the plan will enhance the university’s reputation by improving its research strength. The plan will also support student success by expanding teaching and learning services, and will increase funding for library acquisitions. In addition, there will be greater opportunities for experiential learning, “which is part of Concordia’s DNA.”

The plan supports the university’s Strategic Framework, Reaching Up, Reaching Out, adopted in 2009. “This plan is intended to make real our aspiration to be one of five top-level comprehensive universities in the country,” said Graham.

Several Board members praised the extensive and thoughtful consultation process that led to the Academic Plan. The Board’s endorsement gives the green light to the recently created Senate Academic Plan Coordinating Committee to begin implementation.

Graham explained that implementation will require a $25 million investment over the five-year period. Graham has been working closely with Chief Financial Officer Patrick Kelley to identify sources for the funds.

President’s Remarks
The Board acknowledged the legacy of Concordia’s first rector John O’Brien, who passed away December 16, 2011, with a minute of silence. President Fred Lowy, who spoke briefly about O’Brien’s contributions, invited Board members to a memorial service January 20, at 1 p.m. in the 11th floor Atrium of the Engineering, Computer Science and Visual Arts Integrated Complex.

Lowy also announced that he, along with Vice-President, Services, Roger Côté and Associate Vice-President, External Relations, Russell Copeman, recently met with Montreal Mayor Gérald Tremblay. The mayor reaffirmed the city’s commitment to Quartier Concordia, noting that work will resume in the spring on improvements along De Maisonneuve Boulevard West.

The president also announced that enrolment figures were up 1.56 per cent overall for the current academic year.

Graduate Student Association Motions
The Executive Committee reviewed three motions, which were brought forward by the Graduate Students Association in November 2011 regarding Board meetings. The committee’s review included related documents, and a report on practices of other Boards and a legal opinion on broadcasting of meetings.

The Executive Committee recommended that the Board not approve the GSA motions related to broadcasting Board meetings, establishing a 20-minute question and answer period, and ensuring closed sessions of the Board be limited to confidential matters. The Board concurred, defeating the first two motions while the GSA withdrew the motion with respect to closed sessions.

Chief Financial Officer’s term extended
The Board approved a recommendation from President Lowy to extend Patrick Kelley’s term as Chief Financial Officer for an additional year. Kelley’s term will now end in December 2013, instead of December 2012. The extension will help ensure a smooth transition for Lowy’s successor.

The next meeting of the Board of Governors is Friday, February 10, 2012.

Related links:
•   Academic Planning
•  “Senate Approves Academic Plan” – NOW, November 7, 2011
•  “Revised Academic Plan Ready for Review” – NOW, September 6, 2011
•  Board of Governors 
•  Board of Governors, January 12 Meeting Materials