Chair of Senate’s message

Don Cyr, Chair of Senate, Brock University

The academic year 2022-23 marked the return of students, faculty, and staff to the campus as pandemic restrictions were lifted, resulting in increased engagement and vibrancy. In August 2022, the institution happily announced Dr. Lesley Rigg as the new President and Vice-Chancellor of Brock University. Her appointment followed a diligent and successful search conducted by the Advisory Committee. The reappointment of Brock’s Chancellor, Ms. Hilary Pearson, was also strongly endorsed by the University Senate.

Although students were back on campus, there are ongoing discussions about which aspects of online teaching and service delivery should be retained in the future. Many institutions are navigating this evolving landscape. This year, the Senate endorsed the purchase and implementation of an updated Learning Management System, which could provide greater flexibility in course delivery. These questions align with the priorities and initiatives outlined in Brock University's newly approved Academic Plan (20232028), which was endorsed by the University Senate in January 2023. The plan identifies specific actions under five thematic academic priority areas:

1. High-quality and meaningful educational experience

2. Accessible, flexible, and customizable education

3. Supportive and student-centred approach

4. Equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment

5. Future-oriented focus

Despite the sense of return, renewal, and new leadership, the University still faces financial challenges due to the continuing tuition freeze combined with rising inflation. Significant efforts have been made to ensure Brock remains financially stable. The University Senate collaborated with the administration and the Board of Trustees to pass a motion endorsing the University's 2023-24 budget, aligning it with the institution's academic policy. Brock University’s Senate maintains its commitment to rigorous program review, ensuring the quality of its programs and providing an excellent education across all levels. This year, several new and ongoing agreements were approved for collaborative programming and transfer credits with various Ontario colleges. These agreements offer innovative pathways for students to transition from college programs to degree programs at Brock.