I would like to thank the students, staff, and faculty who joined me today at the campus forum to discuss issues that are of great concern to our community. For those of you who were unable to attend the forum, a link to the livestream is available below, as well as the PPT presentation and some frequently asked questions related to the budget.
On March 16, the Board of Governors passed the university's budget for 2018-19. The development of that budget involved the consideration of several competing demands and financial challenges that our university faces. Understandably tensions have risen as a result. The tough choices that were made in the budget will directly impact some of our current students as well as faculty and staff; at the same time, they will help to bring our institution into a more sustainable financial position and to ensure its long-term well-being for future generations of students, faculty, and staff.
I was asked today about how our budget decisions will be impacted by the Government of Alberta's Budget 2018, which includes a system-wide 2% increase to the Campus Alberta and system-wide $17 million allocation for tuition backfill. Before senior leaders and the Board of Governors can determine next steps, the Board needs to receive a letter from the Ministry of Advanced Education confirming the specific amount of government funding the University of Alberta will receive. This letter usually arrives in late spring. At that time, the Board will review options. However, it is important to note that neither funding from the Campus Alberta grant nor tuition backfill can be used to minimize cost pressures in international student services or deficits in residence/dining services.
As I have said, these issues concern all of us, and I look forward to working with students, faculty, staff, and the Board, as we continue to seek solutions to the challenges we face.
David H. Turpin
President and Vice-Chancellor
Campus Forum, March 28 - Powerpoint Presentation
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