Jamie Cassels, President, University of Victoria

Tom Zolnay introduced our speaker.  Jamie Cassels has served as the President of the University of Fictoria since 2013.  He had been a professor of Law and has numerous books, articles and awards. Mr. Cassels gave us a clear picture of the modern university, explaining the many changes since most of us have attended any university. 

 

1. There has been a huge increase in access.  Participation rates have risen from 15% to more than 25% since the 1970's.  The population has increased by 25% but U Vic's has increased by 70% in the same period.

2. Programs are much more student-centred and include athletics, mental health services, co-op work terms and international experiences.

3. Techno;ogy plays a much bigger role.  The digital infrastructure is now as important as the physical plant.  

4. Research is increasingly emphasized.  UVic currently spends 100 million dollars per year.  They boast the world's largest and most powerful microscope, a cabled ocean observatory and a leading centre for climate change research.  

5. Policies and funding have become increasingly transparent and accountable.  UVic is now funded only 30% by taxpayers while it used to be 60%.

 

The new challenges are many.  Our aging population combined with a lower birthrate will create a future tax challenge.  Our average age has risen to 45 from 35.  Health care will be strained.  Canada has a poor record of productivity and innovation.  The global economy is rapidly changing.  Failure to account for external social and environmental factors could be critical.  there are stresses in the Canadian social contract in the areas of inequality, economic prosperity and ,perhaps most importantly , reconciliation with the First Peoples. 

 

The next steps must include partnerships with business and social organizations.  60% of students are now in some kind of co-op or integrated learning.  It will be necessary to increase participation and graduation rate of first nations and first generation post secondary students.

 

Randy Decksheimer thanked the speaker and presented a card and an Operation Eyesight certificate.