From Laurel’s Desk – Spring 2017 | Academic Newsletter | Seneca Polytechnic

in the Spring 2017 issue

I hope you enjoy this issue of the Academic Newsletter. At 23 pages, it is pushing the limits of a newsletter and I couldn’t be happier. In this issue, we have a wide range of short articles that I hope you will find interesting, informative, and helpful to the important work you do to support student learning.

Speaking of important work and supporting student learning, Seneca’s impact on our graduates’ lives was front and centre at the recent Academic Forum. The alumni panel, representing different program areas and types of students, spoke about the role faculty played in their success, sharing their knowledge and perspective, supporting them through the tough times, connecting them with their networks and challenging them to excel. Some of the panel members “called out” faculty who were in the audience, identifying them as mentors, teachers, and coaches. Some faculty commented to me that some panel members recounted what we might consider to be minor events, and were surprised that a small gesture made such a difference. The common thread was that of caring.

The Seneca “effect” extends far beyond our campuses. In this issue, you can find out about the work Seneca faculty have done in the Kyrgyzstan and Mozambique. This time it is the faculty who reflect on the impact of the experience and how it has changed their perspective. Seneca will continue to look for international development opportunities that will provide assistance to our partners and professional development opportunities for faculty, as well as international exchanges for faculty and students.

We have no shortage of projects and initiatives – many are highlighted in this issue, but some are not due to timing. We are in the process of negotiating our second Strategic Mandate Agreement with the government. The Strategic Plan, within which the Academic Plan will be nested, is nearing its final draft. Our CQAAP audit went well with positive comments about the quality of our self study and evidence, and even more glowing comments about the faculty, students, program advisory committee members and others who met with the panel. And this just scratches the surface. Every week, there are numerous events showcasing student work and celebrating their achievements, as well as announcements recognizing faculty for their work with professional associations, industry, or the community.

Finally, next month is convocation. I hope you will be able to attend one of the 14 ceremonies. It means so much to the graduates. You’ve made a difference in their lives and just as we want to celebrate them, they want to celebrate you, thank you, and introduce you to their “other” supporters.

And now it is time for me to thank you for another successful Academic year. Have a lovely break. I look forward to celebrating Seneca’s 50th with you!

Laurel

Photo credit: Jordann Rae, second semester student in the Independent Digital Photography Program

View the Spring 2017 issue of the Academic Newsletter.