Presidential Mandate - 2019-2024
In view of the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives represented by the stakeholder respondents, it is heartening to see a very high degree of commonality in proposed priorities for the University over the next 5 years. In addition, a strong sense of pride in the direction and accomplishments of the University under the current mandate is evident.
Based on this input and the Board of Governors' Strategic Objectives (2016-2022) Sustainability, Stewardship and Innovation are the key overarching themes of the new mandate within which we have identified five priority areas of focus.
Sustainability, Stewardship, Innovation
Sustainability refers to ensuring the University meets the needs of the present without compromising its ability to meet future requirements. Stewardship is the careful and responsible management of the University’s valuable assets and strengths. Innovation refers to the necessity for adaptability, change management, and transformation to keep the University not just current, but ahead of, educational trends and expectations.
The Five Priorities:
Academic - The support, integration and enhancement of excellent programs across the arts and sciences; high-quality research and exemplary teaching through
Cultural - The protection and furthering of the University’s unique identity by enhancing and embedding the organizational framework and campus environment
Environmental - The development of a comprehensive vision and approach to environmental stewardship that encompasses the University’s commitment
Operational (Financial and Management) - Management of a process of change, including the establishment of a long-term integrated financial plan
Reputational - The preparation and maintenance of a fluid and comprehensive communications plan
Presidential Mandate 2019-2024
The President is accountable to the Board of Governors and provides operational leadership for all aspects of university affairs, both internal and external, to ensure the performance, societal contribution, and vitality of the institution. Working with many different stakeholders the President is also the main spokesperson and face of the university. The President is accountable for the University’s reputation, partnerships, academic and senior administration, resources, the student experience and academic programming.
Referencing the 2014-2019 Mandate, a President needs “to be highly engaged both externally and internally” to lead the University successfully. With the expectations outlined in the new proposed mandate, a President also requires the support of a highly-skilled, diverse, and inspiring leadership team who are willing and capable delegates.
In today’s climate, the President and leadership team must engage in a multi-stakeholder partnership that includes administration/community/students/faculty-staff/alumni operating in an environment of transparency and openness.The ideal leader will exhibit excellence in:
Vision
- An inspiring trailblazer who can combine the goals, priorities and values of the University into a compelling vision of present and future success that engages all stakeholders.
Communication
- An empathetic, inclusive, collaborative and articulate community builder who is approachable, accessible and able to build relationships with diverse audiences.
Integrity
- A credible, self-motivated and passionate advocate, who exhibits self-awareness, high personal standards and a commitment to community service.
Management
- The ability to: make decisions in an environment of diverse opinions and uncertainty while exercising sound judgement; maintain accountability while delegating authority and; coach and mentor a diverse, highly skilled team.
Perseverance
- A confident, calm, optimistic and determined individual who continues to persevere in a stressful environment and can withstand the physical and mental demands of the job, including domestic and international travel and routinely long hours.
Flexibility
- An adaptable, open-minded, creative thinker who thrives in an environment of constantly evolving issues, influences and uncontrollable external forces
Approved by the Board of Governors – Feb. 2, 2018