President Eddy Campbell presented to the university community an update on current and future projects in his address, Building a Brighter Future. The presentation took place on the Saint John and Fredericton campuses and was followed by a period of discussion and conversation.
The presentation began by highlighting many of the research and teaching successes of the past year at UNB, including the university’s work to help make New Brunswick Canada’s top destination for experiential education.
Experiential education has long been an integral part of UNB’s academic offerings. Internships and co-op programs allow students to gain valuable experience and practical skills directly related to their academic studies. UNB is working to enhance current offerings to provide students with even more pathways and opportunities.
As UNB enters a new period of strategic planning, Campbell formally announced that this will be his last term as president. The strategic planning process will be led by George MacLean, vice-president academic (Fredericton).
The strategic plan will be a key guiding document for the university, and one which welcomes the insight, perspectives and expertise of the entire community. Because if this, and to launch discussion and debate, Campbell shared what he hopes the community will consider to be focal points for the next strategic plan. These include a strengthened commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, specifically as the university moves to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action; a further expansion of knowledge mobilization to harness the potential of social enterprises, government engagement and policy or industry solutions; and the growth of our campuses student populations and research capabilities.
"At UNB, we are fortunate to have a community that is passionate about our institution and its purpose. Together, we are providing an exceptional, transformative experience for our students and standing tall as leaders in discovery, innovation and entrepreneurship. As we do this, we’re committed to achieving financial resilience and responsibility – all in pursuit of an even better university." -- President Eddy Campbell
The 2016-17 Annual Report shares a few stories of how UNB is making an impact in New Brunswick, in Canada and around the world.