From the admin chair
As a guardian of freedom of expression and critical thought, higher education plays an invaluable role in maintaining stable and balanced democratic systems.
We must ensure that elders are integrated into teaching and learning, not separated from it.
It’s not so much about stopping the migration of skills as it is about balancing human capital.
Unpacking the challenge of Indigeneity in higher education.
As an academic community, we have a responsibility to teach this country’s history and invite cordial debate on Indigenous realities.
How the pandemic has highlighted the disparities and knowledge gaps in our institutions and society.
In order to disrupt ongoing gendered discrimination, it is critical that we expose it. This is not always easy.
It takes effort, but as you learn to become more comfortable having these difficult discussions, you become part of the solution.
To get to know an institution, you need to understand its people, place and culture.
Having early discussions about a role change with those close to you is important, so they can grow with your decision.
A new federal charter, with funds to match, will help institutions to identify systemic barriers.
It’s time to stop and rethink what a university should look like, and how education can remain relevant during times of rapid transition.
For lasting transformation to occur, these changes need to be embedded in our administrative and educational structures.
Through my work, I hope I am contributing in a small way to building a more inclusive and equitable society.
There are challenges of course. Inevitably negative messages quickly go viral and it can be difficult to respond.
Be prepared to stand up and speak out when you hear and see things that are inappropriate.
“As a leader, there will be times when you just have to take a leap of faith.”
Administrators are in a unique position to address systemic issues that hinder Indigenous peoples’ success.
“What I’ve found the most rewarding about administration is the opportunity to bring about systemic change.”
“We need to believe in ourselves and what we do, and convince others of its importance.”