Nominations

Purpose

A Committee on Nominations shall be established for nominating representatives of the Faculty to the Board of Governors, the Senate, the Committee for Selection of the President, Committees on Studies, the Committee on Discipline, the Committee on University Budgets, and to any other group who may wish to seek its assistance.

Meeting Frequency

At least once yearly for the following purposes:

1. a review of the jurisdiction and usefulness of all committees for which it nominates members; and,

2.recommendations to the appropriate bodies of the dismissal of certain committees, or of changes in their jurisdiction.

Workload

Medium for CON Members
High for Chair of CON (can be 15-20 hours per week)

Membership

The Committee shall be composed of seven (7) members from the following categories:

1. One from the lecturer or assistant professor levels
2. One from the associate professor level
3. One from the professor level
4. Four Faculty members at large

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Members of the Committee shall be elected annually by the University Faculty. If there are more nominations than positions to be filled, election shall be by secret ballot

All members shall enjoy two-year terms of office on this Committee and shall not be eligible for immediate re‑election.

The Committee shall elect its own Chair and Secretary each year at its first meeting.

The Chair, the Secretary, and another member shall constitute a quorum.

Normally, notice of positions to be filled shall be given to Faculty seven days prior to the Committee meeting at which nominates will be considered for those positions.

Reports of the Committee on Nominations shall be in the hands of the Chair of the appropriate electing body 48 hours before meetings when elections are to be held.

The Committee on Nominations shall:

a) provide, upon request, names of candidates for election, provided prior approval of these candidates has been obtained;

b) keep a continuing record of all operating committees (sensu lato) with the names of recent and current members.

ELECTED BY: University Faculty
DATE: Second meeting, c. October 15
TERM: Two years
NUMBER: Seven members (one lecturer or assistant, one associate professor, one professor, four members-at-large)
NOTE: Rank limitations etc.

Terms of Reference

The University Budget Committee shall:

A) in Accordance with Part 2, Section 13, Article III(a) of the University By‑Laws, review the University Budget prior to its presentation to the Board of Governors;

B) solicit and receive relevant information on the proposed resource allocation as represented in the budget;

C) provide information through the Chair to members of the Faculty at an information meeting on the University budget and advise the Faculty on changes in proposed resource allocations as reflected in the budget.

TERM OF OFFICE: Faculty representatives on this committee shall be elected annually on a three‑year rotation system.

Meeting Frequency

Quarterly

Workload

Medium

Membership

COMPOSITION

The Academic Vice-President & Provost who shall act as Chair.

Three (3) persons appointed by the President for a term of three years with the possibility of reappointment.

Three (3) faculty representatives to be chosen by the University Faculty from faculty designated in Section 1, Article I(c)(2) in Part I of these By‑Laws, provided that such faculty representatives are members of the Senate at the time of their appointment.

Two (2) student representatives appointed by the President of the Students' Union for a term of one year.

ELECTED BY: University Faculty
DATE: Second University Faculty meeting
TERM: Three years
NUMBER: Three members
NOTE: Nominees must be members of Senate at time of appointment.

The University Faculty supports the the collegial role of Faculty members in the academic governance of the University. The Chair and Secretary host University Faculty meetings regularly throughout the Academic year and discuss and make recommendations on matters impacting the University, facilitate elections, and approve Degrees and Diplomas. 

Meeting Frequency

At least four (4) meetings per academic year and two (2) Special Meetings. The Chair and Secretary meet regularly outside the University Faculty meetings for planning purposes.

Workload

High

Membership

ELECTED: University Faculty
DATE: May 15
TERM: Two years for Chair, one year for Secretary

Purpose

Recommend to the Board the name or names of persons under Section 8 (1) M of the Act of Incorporation, as amended; recommend to the Board the name or names of persons to serve on the standing committees of the Board.

Membership

COMPOSITION
Consists of three members and shall meet at such time and place as it deems convenient.

The Board of Governors is responsible for management and control of the University. The responsibilities of the Board of Governors are set out in the St. Francis Xavier University Act (amended in 2022) with procedural matters being further elaborated in the University’s By-laws. 

Meeting Frequency

Three (3) in-person meetings per year (February, June, and October)
One (1) - Two (2) virtual meetings per year

Membership on the Board also includes committee responsibilities. Each committee meets virtually on a similar schedule. Faculty and student representatives on the Board are not eligible to serve as chairpersons of Standing Committees. Faculty members can serve on the Governance and Nominating Committee, the Finance Committee, the Property and Risk Committee and the Advancement and External Relations Committee. 

Workload

Medium

Membership

COMPOSITION

The Board composition includes: 

• the Chancellor
• the President
• the Vicar of the Founder
• one person appointed by the Vicar of the Founder
• the President of the Alumni Association
• one member of the alumni of the University appointed by the Alumni Association
• two members of the Faculty elected by the Faculty, each having not less than five years’ service to the University
• two persons appointed by the priests of the Diocese
• the President of the StFX University Students’ Union
• one member of the StFX University Students’ Union elected by the students of the University
• 12 governors as may be elected by the Board

TERMS

a)  A member of the Board elected by the students of the University shall hold office for a term of one year, such term to run from the effective date of his election, and shall be eligible for re‑election;

b)  Except as otherwise provided, a member of the Board shall hold office for a term of three years, such term to run from the effective date of his or her election or appointment, and shall be eligible for re‑election or for re‑appointment for a further term of three years;

c)  Except as otherwise provided, a member of the Board who has held office for six consecutive years shall not be eligible for re‑election or re‑appointment until one year has elapsed from the date of termination of said six‑year period.

The Rank and Tenure Committee is a product of Article 2.2.2.2 of the Collective Agreement. Its function, composition and procedures are all specified therein.

The Rank and Tenure Committee is a Standing Committee of the University Faculty charged with the responsibility of making recommendations to the President on: a) the advancement in rank of Faculty members; b) the advancement of Faculty members from Probationary to Tenured Appointments; c) the termination of employment for cause of Faculty members, whether holding Probationary or Tenured Appointments; and d) initial appointments of individuals to the University Faculty at the rank of Associate Professor or above.

Meeting Frequency

This committee will meet at least 5-6 times per term; meetings are normally 1.5 hours.

Workload

The workload for this committee is extremely high; the members can review between 10-15 very large dossiers per year within a very short timeline.

Membership

COMPOSITION

2.1 The membership of the Rank and Tenure Committee shall consist of the Academic VicePresident & Provost, the Dean of Arts, the Dean of Science, the Dean of Education, the Dean of Business and six full-time tenured teaching members of Faculty elected by the University Faculty for three-year terms. While all Deans sit on the committee only two shall vote on each case. On Science cases, the Dean of Science and the Dean of Artsshall vote; on Arts cases, the Dean of Arts and the Dean of Science shall vote; on Business cases, the Dean of Business and the Dean of Arts shall vote; on Education cases, the Dean of Education and the Dean of Arts shall vote.

2.2 At least three (3) elected members shall be from the rank of Professor and at least two (2) from the rank of Associate Professor.

2.3 A minimum of at least one elected representative shall be from the Faculty of Science, one from Faculty of Arts, one from the Faculty of Education and one from the Faculty of Business.

ELECTED BY: Faculty
DATE: Spring meeting
MEMBERS: 6 in total
TERM: 3 years, rotating

Purpose

Along with the AVP, Student Union VP Academic, and Past Chair of University Senate, the Officers of Senate serve on the Senate Steering Committee.

Meeting Frequency

Twice monthly (once for Senate Steering, once for University Senate)

Workload

High (~10 hours per month)

Membership

OFFICERS OF SENATE

1. The Officers of Senate (“Officers”) shall consist of: Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Vice-Secretary and Past Chair.

2. The following Officers shall be elected from among the elected Faculty members of the Senate for one-year terms or until their successor is appointed. The Chair and the Secretary are to be elected at the April meeting of Senate. The Vice-Chair and Vice-Secretary are to be elected at the October meeting of Senate. The Vice-Chair and Vice-Secretary will be expected to offer for the office of Chair and Secretary respectively.

3. The terms of office for Officers of Senate begin on May 16.

4. The Past Chair shall take office for a one-year term immediately upon completion of his/her term as Chair.

5. The Committee on Nominations shall provide nominations for vacant Officer positions. Following these nominations the Chair shall call for nominations from the floor. Voting in a contested election shall be by secret and preferential ballot.

6. In the event that an Officer resigns or the position otherwise becomes vacant, the Senate Steering Committee shall recommend to Senate a temporary replacement from amongst the Officers or elected Faculty representatives until the next scheduled election.

7. The Chair provides general oversight of the business of Senate and chairs meetings of Senate and the Senate Steering Committee.

8. The Secretary shall give notice of Senate meetings and record the minutes of these meetings and inform the University Community of the business of Senate by posting the agenda one week prior to each meeting and by distributing, no later than one week after each meeting a report of the motions and announcements made.

ELECTED BY: University Senate
DATE: April meeting
TERM: Chair, 1 year. Secretary, 1 year

The Committee is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and personal growth of students. It reports to the Senate and recommends the development and maintenance of programs and services that foster students’ well-being and a healthy community. The Committee also engages the Director of Student Life on issues of discipline and other relevant matters. 

The Committee shall deal mainly with matters of student life including:
a. The program of extra-curricular activities including athletic, cultural and social events;
b. Student – faculty – administration relationships;
c. The program of student services;
d. The provision of required physical facilities;
e. The inclusion of all students into all facets of campus life;
f. Establishing policies pertaining to student conduct and discipline;
g. Other efforts to promote the physical, mental, spiritual, and social well-being of students.

The Committee may, with approval of Senate, include any other aspect of University life which it sees as affecting the quality of life at St. Francis Xavier University.

In pursuance of its objectives, the Committee shall:
a. Normally be co-chaired by the Head of Student Services and a student;
b. Consult with and advise other committees and officials on matters pertaining to its
objectives;
c. Serve as a forum for suggestions and recommendations from individuals in the university community;
d. Make recommendations to Senate and/or appropriate officials for the implementation of programs, activities or services important to achieving its objectives.

Meeting Frequency

Three (3) - Four (4) times between September and April.

Workload

3-4 hours per month

Membership

The membership of the Quality of Life Committee is as follows:
a. Head of Student Services
b. Associate Registrar, Enrollment (non-voting)
c. Manager, Student Experience (non-voting)
d. Director, Student Life
e. Director, Internationalization
f. Director, Health, Counselling & Accessible Learning
g. Students’ Union Vice-President Academic (SUVP Academic)
h. Three faculty senators elected by Senate
i. Two incumbent student senators nominated by the SUVP Academic, elected by Senate
j. Three other students selected by the SUVP Academic in consultation with the Student Senators’ Caucus

ELECTED BY: Senate
DATE: April and October
TERM: One year (Students); Three years (Faculty)
NUMBER: Three faculty serving on Senate; two student senators; and three other students

Membership

ELECTED BY: University Faculty
DATE: First meeting
TERM: 3 years
NUMBER: 32 elected members of Faculty

Terms of Reference

1. The principal function of the Senate Academic Priorities and Planning Committee is the development of academic policies relative to long term planning. Included in this mandate are: the planning for enrolment; the sub-dividing or creation of new faculties and divisions; the development or termination of academic departments; and the planning for either faculty or student numbers in existing faculties and departments.

2. Sub-committees of and advisory committees to Academic Priorities and Planning Committee shall be employed on an ongoing basis to collect information and advice relative to planning. The work of these committees will be reviewed on an annual basis at the March Meeting of Senate.

3. This committee will initiate and co-ordinate the discussion of proposed changes in academic policy. It may solicit policy reports from related committees and (at the November and March meetings) brings to Senate for its approval any plans which are intended to affect the ongoing conduct of teaching and research at St. Francis Xavier University.

Meeting Frequency

Three (3) - Four (4) times per year

Workload

Medium - High

Membership

COMPOSITION

The membership of the Academic Priorities and Planning Committee is as follows:

• Academic Vice-President & Provost acting as Chair
• Vice-President Finance and Administration (non-voting)
• Associate Vice-President Research and Graduate Studies
• Deans of Faculty
• Students' Union Vice-President or their designate (ex officio)
• University Librarian
• Six (6) Faculty Senators
• Two (2) other Student Senators

(Disbanded March 1998, mandate transferred to Senate Academic Priorities and Planning Committee)

Reactivated October 27, 2014 at APP Committee Meeting

Purpose

To study the short and long‑term needs of the physical facilities at the University and to recommend to the Senate priorities for adoption and for transmission to the Board of Governors for action.

Depending upon the wishes of the Academic Planning and Priorities Committee this committee may serve, as constituted or in altered form, as a sub committee of Academic Planning and Priorities. As a Senate committee its mandate will be recalled automatically once the Academic Priorities and Planning Committee meets and establishes its protocols for the planning of physical facilities.

Meeting Frequency

TBA

Workload

Medium

Membership

The membership of the Campus Planning Committee is as follows: a. University President b. Academic Vice-President & Provost c. Vice-President Finance and Administration (Chair) d. Vice -President Student Experience e. 4 Deans of Faculties f. Registrar & Director of Enrolment Planning g. Director, Facilities Management h. Four faculty members elected by Senate for three year terms on rotating basis i. Four students designated by Student Union (1 year term)

Committee reports to Senate at least once a year through its chair and to the Board as required. Chair appointed by the President.

ELECTED BY: Senate
DATE: October
TERM: 3 years
NUMBER: 4

Membership

Amanda Cockshutt, the Academic Vice-President & Provost, 
Cathy MacDonald, the Assistant Vice-President (Academic Affairs), 
Tara Buksaitis, the University Registrar,
Jacob Cruchet, the Student Union Vice-President (Academic) 
and four faculty members of Senate representing each of the four faculties as follows:

Faculty of Arts: Nathan Allen
Faculty of Business: Bhavik Parikh
Faculty of Science: Brittany MacDonald-MacAulay
Faculty of Education: Jennifer Mitton

This committee reviews the academic integrity cases that are submitted by faculty and staff. These cases involve students at any level of study (undergraduate to PhD). The infractions range from second offence of plagiarism, to that of cheating, falsification, fabrication, tampering, etc. The committee reviews the evidence, in some cases conducts interviews, makes rulings on the cases, and imposes academic penalties and outcomes which are communicated to all parties.

Described in the Policy on Academic Integrity adopted by the University Senate February 2005-11-03

Terms of Reference

The Senate Committee on Academic Integrity shall:

a) hear such cases that are brought before it; and

b) review annually the regulations with respect to academic dishonesty, making recommendations to the University Senate about possible changes to those regulations.

Meeting Frequency

Every week on Wednesday 12:30-2pm. Depending on the number of cases and interviews, this may be added to or we will skip a week.

Workload

Chair: high; members: medium

Membership

1. The membership of the Committee on Academic Integrity shall consist of five (5) members of the University Faculty, elected by the University Senate, serving rotating but renewable three-year terms.

2. The Committee shall select its chair from among its own members.

ELECTED BY: University Senate
COMPOSITION: Five (5) faculty members
DATE: First meeting (October)
TERM: Three (3) years, staggered terms

Terms of Reference

i)  To ensure the orderly review of Academic Units at least once every six (6) years, and that new Academic Units be reviewed in their fourth (4^th) year.

ii)  To recommend to the University Senate a schedule of Academic Units to be reviewed.

iii) To ensure that any review begins with a Self‑Study. 

iv) To ensure that all academic reviews reflect student input and involvement.

v)  To ensure that all documentation be treated with appropriate confidentiality.

vi) To select and appoint External Reviewers. 

vii) To advise the External Reviewers on the expectations of the review.

viii) To decide on the disposition of the recommendations in the External Reviewers’ Report.

ix)  To report to the University Senate on the reviews conducted on Academic Units.

x)  To review and recommend to the University Senate changes to these Guidelines as needed, and not less frequently than every six (6) years.

Meeting Frequency

Six (6) - Eight (8) times per year

Workload

High

Membership

1. The membership of the Committee on Academic Review is as follows:

a) the Academic Vice-President & Provost,

b) the Deans of faculties, and

c) five (5) tenured Faculty members elected by the University Senate.

2. All Deans of faculties shall be deemed members of the Committee on Academic Review, but only two deans shall vote on each case: Science cases - the Dean of Science and the Dean of Arts shall vote; Arts cases - the Dean of Arts and Dean of Science shall vote; Business cases - the Dean of Business and the Dean of Arts shall vote; and Education cases - the Dean of Education and Dean of Arts shall vote.

3. The terms of the elected Faculty members shall be three (3) years (phased in). The President shall appoint the Chair of CAR for a term of three (3) years. The Chair of CAR may be a faculty member in addition to those named above.

ELECTED BY: University Senate
DATE: The April Meeting of Senate
TERM: Three years
NUMBER: Five Tenured Faculty Members

The purpose of the Senate Honorary Degree Committee is to oversee the nomination of candidates for honorary degrees and to advise Senate on the awarding and revocation of honorary degrees.

Terms of Reference

1. This Committee shall receive names of persons proposed as candidates for Honorary Degrees, and shall present to Senate a roster of candidates for Honorary Degrees to be awarded, at general or special convocations.

2. Senate shall have the opportunity to consider all candidates proposed by the Committee before proceeding to vote on any one of these candidates.

3. Senate will normally consider candidates for Honorary Degrees only if:

a) advance notice is given to members of Senate that this topic is to be considered, and

b) curriculum vitae for each nominee for an Honorary degree is available to members of Senate at least one-half hour in advance of the relevant Senate meeting.

4. Any name duly submitted to the Committee may be included in the review by Senate even though the Committee may not have included it in its list of candidates.

5. Any member of the Senate may nominate for a ballot for an Honorary Degree, any name properly submitted to the Committee, even though the person named has not received the recommendation of the Committee.

6. A separate ballot shall be taken for each candidate, with a two-thirds majority required for approval.

REPORT To the University Senate as required; generally last day of February for May Convocation and September meeting for Fall Convocation.

Meeting Frequency

The Committee typically meets every six weeks during the Sept-May academic year. Meetings are called as nomination files come in and may be more or less frequent
depending on the number of files that require assessment.

Workload

The workload for the Chair is (on average) approximately 16 hours per month. Members spend approximately 4 to 8 hours per month on Committee work and meetings.

Membership

1. The Committee on Honorary Degrees is a Standing Committee of Senate.

2. The Committee shall be composed of four (4) members, two (2) of whom shall be elected by the Senate, the third appointed by the President, and the fourth, a student, appointed by the President following consultation with the President of the Students’ Union.

3. The Committee shall appoint its own Chair.

ELECTED BY: Senate
DATE: October
NUMBER: Two (2) members
TERM: Two (2) years

The principal responsibilities of the Library Committee are:

a) To advise the University Librarian with respect to Library policy on matters that affect the academic life of the University. This could include matters related to library services, acquisitions, staffing, space, and budget.

b) To review the Library year end (March 31) actual to budgeted performance.

c) To provide advice and support to the University Librarian regarding the acquisitions budget if required due to exceptional circumstances.

d) To serve as a liason between the academic community and the library administration and as an advocate for the library within the University.

Meeting Frequency

At least four (4) times per year

Workload

Low (< 1 hour per month)

Membership

COMPOSITION

1. The membership of the committee is as follows:

a) University Librarian as Chair,

b) Two (2) Deans of Faculties appointed by the Academic Vice-President & Provost,

c) Six (6) Faculty Members, two (2) from Arts, two (2) from Science, one (1) from Business, and one (1) from Education, elected by Senate,

d) One (1) Librarian elected by the Librarians,

e) Vice-President Academic of Students' Union,

f) One (1) Student appointed by the Vice-President Academic of the Students' Union.

2. Members' terms are as follows:

a) The Dean Members are appointed for two-year terms, staggered to ensure continuity.

b) The Faculty and Librarian Members are elected for two-year terms, with the option of one renewal. When possible, terms should be staggered for continuity.

c) Student Members are appointed for one-year terms.

3. Quorum is at least five (5) of the elected members.

4. Members do not need to be Senators.

5. The Committee reports, through the Chair, to the May meeting of Senate.

DATE: May Meeting
TERM: Two (2) Years
NUMBER: Six (6) Faculty

The function of the University Council for Research (UCR) is to encourage and to support original research, creative work, reflective inquiry and knowledge translation by members of the faculty. The UCR reviews and approves applications for faculty research grants and research sabbaticals.

Meeting Frequency

Quarterly

Workload

Medium

Membership

COMPOSITION

Academic Vice-President as Chair
Deans of Faculties
Two (2) members of the Faculty of Arts
Two (2) members of the Faculty of Science
One (1) member of the Faculty of Education
One (1) member of the Schwartz School of Business

ELECTED BY: Faculties of Arts, Science, Education and Business
DATE: Spring meeting
NUMBER: 6 in total
TERM: 3 years, rotating

The Animal Care Committee ensures Canadian Council on Animal Care regulations are followed with respect to both animal care and animal use protocols in both teaching and research at StFX.

Meeting Frequency

The ACC meets at least twice per year and conducts site visits of the Animal Care Facility at least annually.

Workload

The workload associated with the Animal Care Committee is variable, depending on the role in the Committee, and both the given year and time of year. For example, the workload during years in which CCAC site assessments occur is greater for some members (Chair, Coordinator) than those in which a site assessment does not occur. Also: the number of Animal Use Protocols submitted for review, and the associated follow-up, in any given year can greatly influence the workloads associated with the Animal Care Committee.

In general, workloads are as follows:

• Regular members - low (not many hours for them, on average, even during inspection years).
• Chair - medium/high
• Coordinator - medium/high

Membership

Minimum membership includes:

1. Two faculty members who use animals in either teaching or research (3 year appointments, renewable once)

2. One faculty member who does not use animals in either teaching or research (3 year appointment, renewable once)

3. One veterinarian

4. One community member not affiliated with StFX and not involved in animal use teaching or research

5. Senior Animal Care Technician

6. Student representative (graduate representative, nominated by the StFX students' society)

7. Animal Care Committee Coordinator

REPORTS TO: Academic Vice-President

To provide guidance on the safe usage of materials which are bio-hazardous and for ensuring adherence to the Government of Canada’s Canadian Biosafety Standards and Guidelines, and to the National Institutes of Health NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules.

The Biosafety Committee reports to the Academic Vice-President.

Meeting Frequency

2-3 times per year, as needed

Workload

Low

Membership

COMPOSITION

The Biosafety Committee members are appointed by the Academic Vice-President in consultation with the appropriate Dean(s) of Faculty. The Committee membership shall be appointed as follows:

1. One Faculty member from each building in which bio-hazardous materials are used;

2. One Science Faculty member who is a non-user and who Chairs the Committee;

3. The University Biosafety Officer;

4. The University Health and Safety Officer.

Members shall be appointed such that the Committee has a broad range of expertise in many types of bio-hazardous materials, techniques and procedures utilizing these materials and infection control.

The term of office for all members shall be three years with the exception of the Biosafety Officer and the Health and Safety Officer who shall be permanent ex-officio members of the Committee. The University Biosafety Officer may not serve as Chair.

The purpose of the CORI is to conduct investigations of research misconduct as outlined in the StFX Policy on Research Integrity.

The responsibilities of the committee are:

(i) The continued development and refinement of policy and procedures relating to ethical issues in research;

(ii) to discuss with any individual within the University community concerns she/he might have about integrity in research;

(iii) to investigate complaints of research misconduct brought to them through the Formal Process;

iv) to maintain strict confidentiality about any ethical concerns brought to them or about any complaint they mediate except that they may discuss these concerns or complaints with the Advisor;

v) upon completion of the formal process, to write a report of each complaint.

Meeting Frequency

Very rarely

Workload

Low

Membership

COMPOSITION

This committee of four members shall be elected by the faculty. It will elect a chair from its members. The members shall be elected for three year terms, except the initial appointment when terms shall be staggered so that two faculty members shall serve two years and two shall serve three years.

ELECTED BY: University Faculty
DATE: 2nd meeting, October 15
TERM: 3 years
NUMBER: Four

The Committee advises on University policy and practices related to research as follows:

• Act as an advisory board for the Associate Vice--‐President Research, including but not limited to advice on evaluation of progress in research and celebration of research
• Develop and support policies and programs that encourage research by St. Francis Xavier University faculty, as well as by graduate and undergraduate students.
• Review, advise and make recommendations to the appropriate academic committees (General faculty, AP&P, Senate etc)
• Advise and make recommendations on research matters referred to the Committee by Senate
• Advise on University Services and overhead in support of research
• Advise on Outward policies of the University regarding research: particularly the Strategic Research Plan
• Review and advise on the creation of new Research Centres and Institutes and the appointment of Directors of these.
• Advise on the disbursement of Research Chairs
• Advise on strategies to attain objectives and maximize funding
• Review and advise on effective communication and dissemination internally and externally about research at StFX, including but not limited to the Research Website.

Meeting Frequency

Quarterly

Workload

Medium

Membership

COMPOSITION

Eight elected members of faculty representing the diversity of the research clusters as outlined in the University’s Strategic Research Plan, at least one member from each Faculty, 1 appointed member, Coady Institute, Ex-officio: Academic Vice-President and Deans of Faculty, University Librarian, and Associate Vice-President Research (Chair).

MEMBERS

Elected
8 Faculty Members

Appointed
Coady International Institute Rep.

Ex‐officio
Academic Vice‐President and Provost
Associate Vice-President Research
Dean of Arts
Dean of Science
Dean of Education
Dean of Business
University Librarian

A standing committee of the Faculty of Arts charged with organizing and conducting the Arts Faculty Lecture Series. We invite faculty to give a lecture on a topic of their choice.

Meeting Frequency

Zero

Workload

Low

Membership

COMPOSITION

ELECTED BY: Faculty of Arts
DATE: Spring meeting
Number: 3 in total
Term: 3 years

A Presidential committee, established January 28, 1992.
See minutes and attachments of the February 12, 1992 meeting of the Committee on Nominations.

Purpose

The Christian Culture Lecture Series is an annual set of lectures by internationally established scholars of religion, scripture, church history, and ethics.

Invited speakers will provide a minimum of two public lectures on topics related to their scholarly expertise and one intensive seminar which will concentrate on their current research, especially unpublished research.

The series will give particular attention to themes highlighted by Vatican II. Although the majority of invited speakers will come from the Catholic tradition, other Christians and non­/Christians would also be invited.

A Presidential Committee, with two members named by faculty, two by the President, and one named by the Students' Union chaired by the President or his/her delegate will determine the scholars to be invited and the general themes to be addressed.

A substantial honorarium, travel expenses, and a reception in honour of the speakers will be the responsibility of the President.

Meeting Frequency

When necessary

Workload

Low

Membership

COMPOSITION

Presidential Committee
‑ President or delegate (Chair)
‑ two members of faculty elected by the Faculty
‑ two members appointed by the President
‑ one member named by the Students' Union

ELECTED BY: Faculty
DATE: October
TERM: Three years
NUMBER: Three members

Purpose

The principal objective of the Chair of Christian Studies is to provide an opportunity for the scholarly exploration of Christianity from all perspectives: artistic; historical, literary; philosophical; social; scientific; and theological.

Meeting Frequency

Once per year

Workload

Medium

Membership

COMPOSITION

A committee composed of the Academic Vice-President as Chair, the Dean of Arts and the Dean of Science, three faculty members appointed by the President, and the Director of Development shall be established to rank the candidates in priority order.

Purpose

The objective of the Dr. W.F. James Chair of Studies in the Pure and Applied Sciences is the promotion of scholarly activity in the pure and applied sciences.

The role of the James Chair Selection Committee is to:

A) to rank the candidates in priority order for the Visiting Chairs Program,

B) to recommend individuals for the Research Chairs Program, and

C) to approve proposals for Research Equipment and Support as budget allows.

Meeting Frequency

Three (3) - Four (4) times per year

Workload

Medium

Membership

COMPOSITION

Academic Vice-President and Provost, who shall chair the committee

Dean of Arts

Dean of Science 

Four faculty members from the Faculty of Science appointed by the President

Terms of Reference

The purpose of the Jules Léger Endowment for the Faculty of Arts is to promote and advance the study of the Humanities and Social Sciences by providing support that engages St. F.X. students and faculty with contemporary scholarship, creative pedagogy, and leadership training opportunities. Support from the Endowment shall take the form of the following five categories:

1. The Jules Léger Lecture Series in the Arts

2. Student Conferences and Colloquia

3. Faculty Development in Pedagogical and Administrative Leadership

4. The Jules Léger Undergraduate Scholarship for Achievement in the Humanities and Social Sciences

5. The Jules Léger Research Chairs in the Humanities and Social Sciences

Meeting Frequency

Three (3) - Four (4) times per year

Workload

Medium

Membership

COMPOSITION

A Selection Committee composed of the Academic Vice-President and Provost as Chair, the Dean of Arts, the Dean of Science, and four faculty members appointed by the President – two (2) from the Humanities and two (2) from the Social Sciences – shall be established to rank the applications in each category.

Terms of Reference

PURPOSE

The purpose of the Hive for Feminist Research Lecture Series is to celebrate and recognize the full range of feminist research at St. Francis Xavier University.

DESCRIPTION

The Hive for Feminist Research Lecture Series will feature a lecture showcasing feminist
research at St. Francis Xavier University during the last week of September. Feminist research is defined broadly as a type of inquiry that is concerned with understanding relations of power, particularly those based on gender as it intersects with race, class, sexuality, and ability.

Feminist research occurs in disciplinary and interdisciplinary contexts, and deploys a wide range of theoretical and methodological approaches.

The selection committee will be elected by the University Faculty, and will seek nominations by March 31, with the goal of securing the speaker by April 30 for the coming fall. The committee will seek nominations for the lecture series based on a three-year cycle, in order to ensure a fair distribution that recognizes the diversity of feminist research at St. Francis Xavier University:

• Year One: Arts/Science/Library
• Year Two: Business/Education
• Year Three: Coady

Membership

COMPOSITION

The University Faculty will elect the committee during a fall meeting. Committee members will be expected to serve a three-year term. The committee will be comprised of six members, and every attempt will be made to achieve the following distribution:

• one member from the Coady Institute,
• one member from the Faculty of Arts,
• one member from the Faculty of Business,
• one member from the Faculty of Education,
• one member from the Faculty of Science, and
• one member from the Angus L. MacDonald Library.

In addition, the Women's and Gender Studies Student Society will elect one student member.

SELECTION PROCESS

The committee shall solicit and consider all nominations primarily based on the three-year rotation, as well as the definition of feminist research outlined in the description above. The committee will be mindful of achieving a balance of early career, mid-career, and established scholars over the years. Some factors that may also be considered include relevance to local, national, or international feminist discourse; upcoming major publications; and other demonstrations of the possibility for the lecture to have a significant impact.

The Committee hears appeals from students who have received an academic dismissal. Using a wholistic approach, the committee takes into account the student’s academic transcript, the details provided in the appeal regarding the reason for lack of academic success, and the details of the student’s plan to support their successful return to their studies.

Committee members may consult and obtain information from Student Services departments, including but not limited to, Residence Life and Student Conduct and The Tramble Centre for Accessible Learning, but excluding Health and Counselling, as part of the review and decision-making process on appeals. Requests for such information would be limited to information raised by the student in the course of their appeal.

Decisions by the Academic Dismissal Appeals Committee are final and cannot be appealed.

Meeting Frequency

Meetings are scheduled every 1 to 2 weeks between May to July, depending on the number of appeals received. 

Workload

Medium. Depending on the number of appeals received, approximately 16 hours total.

Membership

Terms of reference and membership would be maintained by the Committee on Nominations.

COMPOSITION

The Academic Dismissal Appeals Committee will consist of the Assistant Vice President Academic Affairs, the Deans of Arts, Business and Science, the Director of Student Life, and one member from each of the faculties of Arts, Business and Science. Faculty members will be elected by the Committee on Nominations for 3 years terms (note: term lengths should be varied in the first year so as to ensure some consistency from year to year).

The Committee will be Chaired by the Assistant Vice President Academic Affairs who will be a non-voting member except in the case of a tie. All other members will be voting members.

MOTION: That the membership and terms of reference for the Academic Dismissal Appeals Committee be approved.

Approved by Senate Jan 19, 2024 at 4:10

(a) Purpose: to hear appeals from decisions of the Manager, Restorative Practice or an Investigator as it pertains to the Community Code of Conduct. 

(b) The Appeals Committee shall hear an appeal based only on the evidence presented to the adjudicator unless the Chair of the Appeals Committee determines that special circumstances warrant the introduction of new evidence, in addition to the evidence already considered by the adjudicative body.

(c) The standard for appeal is unreasonableness. The Appeals Committee shall only overturn or amend the findings and/or outcomes if it finds such adjudication to have been unreasonable in all of the circumstances. Otherwise, the Appeals Committee shall not substitute its opinion for a reasonable opinion of the Discipline Committee.

Meeting Frequency

As needed

Workload

Variable

Membership

COMPOSITION

The Appeals Committee shall consist of:

• three (3) full time students appointed by the Director of Student Life, in consultation with the Students’ Union, for a term of one (1) year, with eligibility for reappointment.
• two (2) full time Faculty members elected by Senate, for a term of three (3) years. No Faculty members shall serve more than two (2) complete terms consecutively.
• one (1) staff member appointed by the President.

Quorum for any sitting of the Appeals Committee shall consist of four members, which must include two student members. One of the qualifying members shall sit as Chair, if the regular Chair is not present.

The Appeals Committee shall elect a Chair, who shall be a staff member or faculty member of the Appeals Committee.

Except as otherwise noted, the procedural provisions with respect to the Discipline Committee shall apply in like manner to the Discipline Appeals Committee.

An appeal to the Discipline Appeals Committee shall be filed in writing with the Director of Student Life within seven (7) calendar days of the decision or the adjudication under appeal.

OTHER

(a) In the event there are insufficient members available to constitute a quorum for any adjudicative body, the appointing authority may appoint a temporary substitute.

(b) No person shall be eligible to sit on the Discipline Committee at the same time as that person is a member of the Appeals Committee, for the same case.

ELECTED BY: University Faculty
DATE: April
TERM: Three (3) years
NUMBER: 2 Members

Faculty of Arts Officers facilitate discussions pertaining to the Arts faculty.

Meeting Frequency

The Faculty of Arts is obliged to meet at least twice during the academic year.

Membership

a   Quorum for meetings is 15% of the full-time members of the Faculty of Arts.

b  All full-time teaching faculty in the Faculty of Arts are members.

c   It is useful to schedule meetings at times when elections need to be held. Communication with CON, therefore, is useful for scheduling meetings. Typically, a meeting for elections is needed in late April or early May each year.

d  The Secretary’s job is to keep an accurate set of minutes for each meeting; to send out announcements of meetings, with a tentative agenda; to book a room for each meeting; and to consult with the Chair about needed agenda items.

COMPOSITION

- One faculty member as Chair
- One faculty member as Secretary

ELECTED by: Faculty of Arts
DATE: Spring meeting
Number: 2 in total
Term: 2 years

Faculty of Business Officers facilitate the discussion of business pertaining to the faculty.

Meeting Frequency

At least twice per academic year

Workload

Low (~20 hours/academic year), depending on the business before the faculty in any given year

Membership

COMPOSITION

- One faculty member as Chair
- One faculty member as Secretary
 
ELECTED by: Faculty of Business
DATE: Spring meeting
Number: 2 in total
Term: 2 years

The Chair of the Faculty of Education organizes and hosts three faculty-wide meetings per year. The Chair also oversees the election of faculty members to University committees. The Secretary of the Faculty of Education assembles the agenda for each meeting and records the minutes.

Meeting Frequency

Three (3) meetings per calendar year

Workload

Low

Membership

COMPOSITION

- One faculty member as Chair
- One faculty member as Secretary
 
ELECTED BY: Faculty of Education
DATE: Spring meeting
NUMBER: 2 in total
TERM: 2 years

The Faculty of Science meets minimally once per academic term. Meetings provide the opportunity for the Dean of Science to provide Science Faculty wide reports and for the members to discuss issues specific to the Faculty of Science. Adhoc committees can be set up to manage specific issues, with regular reports provided at Faculty of Science meetings.

Meeting Frequency

Minimally twice per year

Workload

Low - Moderate (~10-12 hours/month)

Membership

COMPOSITION

- One faculty member as Chair
- One faculty member as Secretary
 
ELECTED BY: Faculty of Science
DATE: Spring meeting
NUMBER: 2 in total
TERM: 2 years

Terms of Reference

This award recognizes a local, regional, national, or international community partner who has made a significant and sustained contribution to the growth and development of educational (teaching and/or research) opportunities in the StFX University community.

The recipient will be recognized at Fall Convocation. The Award includes a framed certificate and cash award of $2000.

Any faculty, staff or student member of the StFX community may submit nominations for the Community Partner Recognition Award.

Membership

ADJUDICATION COMMITTEE

• Academic Vice President and Provost or designate (Chair of the Committee)
• One member of the Service Learning Advisory Committee
• One student representative (designated by the Students’ Union)
• Two Faculty members (nominated by the Committee on Nominations and elected at a
  faculty meeting) who engage in community based disciplinary teaching, community based research, or collaboration on partnership-based research
• One teaching, non-faculty member such as Coady staff, lab supervisors, clinical nurse associates (nominated by their group and selected by SLAC)
• Non-voting member: Service Learning staff person will serve as staff to the committee

Purpose

a) To adjudicate nominations received from the University Community for Outstanding Teaching Awards.
b) To prepare nominations from this University for external awards in the areas of teaching and instructional development.
In carrying out its duties with respect to the Outstanding Teaching Awards, the Committee shall adhere to the guidelines established in the Policy with Respect to University Research/Publication/ Teaching Awards as established in Article 2.7.1 of the Collective Agreement. The Outstanding Teaching Awards Committee shall be a Standing Committee of the University Faculty.

Meeting Frequency

Four (4) - Five (5) times per year

Workload

Medium/High

Membership

Six members:

- three of whom will be tenured faculty members
- two of whom will be graduating students, and
- one person from the University community (faculty, students or alumni).

The members from the faculty will serve three year terms on an alternating basis, and the new faculty member each year will be elected by the University Faculty at a fall meeting. The two graduating students will be selected by the Students' Union by November 1. The member from the University community will be selected by the Academic Vice-President each year by November 1.

DATE: October
TERM: Three Years
NUMBER: Three Tenured Faculty Members

The purpose of this committee is to review applications for the President's and University Research Award, given annually at Convocation (Spring).

The President's Research Award and University Research Award will be awarded annually at Spring Convocation. The Academic Vice-President's Office will issue an annual call for nominations in December with a submission deadline of January 31st. Nominations will be submitted to the office of the AVP and should include a cover letter, CV or resume of the nominee, and may include additional items such as internal or external letters of reference.

President's Research Award will go to a mid-career scholar/researcher in any discipline. The award may be used for travel, equipment, supplies, student support, books, etc., at the discretion of the award winner.

The recipient of the President's Research Award will normally hold the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor. Nominees will demonstrate from their record of publications, impacts, grants, scholarship, performance, or creativity, as well as their current research program that they are developing as outstanding leaders in the research/scholarship community. Special consideration will be given to nominees who have inspired, encouraged, and collaborated with colleagues and students in their own or other disciplines.

University Research Award celebrates outstanding accomplishments in research by a senior researcher/scholar in any discipline. The award may be used for travel, equipment, supplies, student support, books, etc., at the discretion of the award winner.

Nominees will hold the rank of Professor and will demonstrate a sustained support for research, scholarship, performance, or creativity, by peer-adjudicated granting agencies such as NSERC, SSHRC, or Canada Council and a superior record of publication in peer-adjudicated journals, or publications of monographs, or of public performances, or of creative displays. Special consideration will be given to nominees who have influenced students and colleauges in their research, scholarship or creativity, including an influence and knowledge of the issues that extends beyond one's own discipline.

Meeting Frequency

One (1) - Two (2) meetings per year, prior to Spring Convocation

Workload

Low

Membership

COMPOSITION

Nominations for these Awards will be reviewed by a committee comprised of the following members:

Academic Vice-President and Provost (Chair) 

Associate Vice President, Research, Graduate and Professional Studies (Vice Chair) 

Two Academic Deans appointed by the Academic Vice President and Provost 

Four faculty members elected by the University Faculty; at least one will hold the rank of Professor.

The members from the faculty will serve staggered three-year terms, and will be elected by the University Faculty at a fall meeting. The Committee on Nominations will give preference for committee membership to faculty who have demonstrated a strong impact in research, scholarship or creative activities, as well achieving diverse representation across disciplines.

Faculty should send their nominations for one or both Awards, including appropriate supporting material, to the avp@stfx.ca by January 31st.

Purpose

1. To discuss and determine the computer needs for teaching and research on campus with respect to equipment, space, services, and infrastructure

2. To review and make recommendations for purchases related to hardware and software

Meeting Frequency

At least two (2) - three (3) times per year

Workload

Medium

Membership

The committee provides an annual report to Senate and to Faculty to:

(a) Inform and discuss the campus Computing activities of the year with proposed changes for the new academic year;

(b) Receive input and suggestions for changes and improvement of academic computing.

COMPOSITION

- Academic Vice President (Chair)

- Deans of Faculties

- Director, IT Services

- Six faculty members representing and elected by their respective faculties

- Two students (appointed by President of Students' Union)

- University Librarian

- Vice-President, Students

- Registrar

- Vice-President Finance

ELECTED by: Faculties of Arts, Science, Education and Faculty of Business
DATE: Spring meeting
NUMBER: 6 in total - 2 Faculty of Arts, 2 Faculty of Science, 1 Faculty of Education, and 1 Faculty of Business
TERM: Faculty 3 years, Students 1 year

The StFX Art Gallery Board advises and supports the Director/Curator on matters such as programming, policies, collection development, and fundraising.

Meeting Frequency

Minimum twice per year, as needed

Workload

Low

Membership

COMPOSITION

• 5 ex officio members: the Academic Vice-President, Chair of the Art Department, a representative from Advancement, the Director/Curator, and a representative from the StFX Student Union
• 3 faculty members
• 5 members from the surrounding communities

ELECTED BY: StFX Art Gallery Board
DATE: as needed
NUMBER: 3 in total
TERM: 3 years and may be renewed once. One year must lapse before a member may be reappointed.

The programs of the Coady Institute shall be reviewed by an advisory committee to the Director composed of a minimum of nine persons, as follows:

Meeting Frequency

The Committee shall meet twice a year to review programs, but may meet more often at the discretion of the Chair.

Membership

1. The Director;
2. Two staff members named by the staff of the Institute;
3. One member of the University Faculty elected by the Faculty;
4. One member of the University Administration appointed by the President;
5. The director of the Extension Department;
6. A minimum of three persons co-opted by those listed above and selected for their experience with international development programming.

The Committee may select, from time to time persons who will serve as external consultants on an ad hoc basis, relative to selected Coady program areas.

Members in categories 2, 3, 4 and 6 shall serve for three-year terms with initial appointments staggered as appropriate.

The Committee shall select from its University-based members, a chair and a secretary for a two-year period.

Five members of the Committee shall constitute a quorum provided the Coady Institute is represented by the Director and one staff member.

ELECTED BY: University Faculty
DATE: October meeting of Faculty
TERM: 3 years
NUMBER: One

In general, the goals of the Committee are to develop programs for Faculty members who seek assistance in improving their teaching, and to foster a teaching environment which is conducive to learning and encourages excellence, through all stages of an academic career.

A) Initially, and periodically thereafter, the Committee shall undertake a review of Faculty needs related to their teaching development and propose and rank programs for serving those needs.

B) In particular, the Committee should annually develop and revise programs which shall

1. introduce new faculty appointees to the teaching expectations of the University, their Faculty and their Departments;
2. provide multi-media resources for use by Faculty;
3. meet such other faculty needs as may be identified.

The Committee shall develop a rolling budget for the implementation of its programs for each of the ensuing three fiscal years, for discussion with and presentation to the Academic Vice-President. The Academic Vice-President shall then seek approval of the budget through the normal process.

Meeting Frequency

TBD

Workload

Moderate

Membership

COMPOSITION

- Two elected members of the Faculty of Arts,
- Two elected members of the Faculty of Science,
- One elected member of the Faculty of Education
- One elected member of the Faculty of Business.
- One full-time student appointed by the President of the Students’ Union
- AAU representative

ELECTED BY: Faculties of Arts, Science, Education and Business
DATE: Spring meeting
NUMBER: 6 in total
TERM: 3 years, rotating

Terms of Reference

1. Purpose
   1. The overall purpose of the FoSSPAC is to promote implementation of the institutional StFX Strategic Plan (and any associated operational plans) for the Faculty of Science at StFX.
2. Responsibilities
   1. The FoSSPAC is responsible for 
      1. monitoring the status of institutional strategic and operational plans (hereafter, “institutional plans”)
      2. identifying aspects from the institutional plans that are relevant to the Faculty of Science as a whole (i.e., faculty-wide rather than department or program-specific)
      3. determining how relevant aspects will benefit the Faculty of Science
      4. advocating (with the University Faculty, senior administrators, and/or the StFX Association of University Teachers) for the beneficial aspects of the institutional plans within the Faculty of Science 
      5. guiding implementation of the beneficial aspects of the institutional plans within the Faculty of Science 
         1. Normally, at the start of each academic year, the FoSSPAC will prioritize one or two items for action or implementation in that year. Priorities will be adjusted by the committee based on circumstances and feedback from the Faculty of Science.
      6. monitoring advocacy and implementation by gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information and opinion
      7. requesting help from Faculty of Science members or forming working groups or sub-committees as needed to meet these responsibilities
      8. communicating the status, relevance, and implementation of institutional plans to the members of the Faculty of Science
      9. reviewing these Terms of Reference once per year, and recommending changes as needed
   2. The FoSSPAC reports to the Faculty of Science
   3. The FoSSPAC and Dean of Science are collectively responsible for ensuring all members of the Faculty of Science are engaged in strategic planning via deliberative and transparent processes.
3. Accountability
   1. The FoSSPAC is accountable to the Faculty of Science with the exception of financial matters, which are the responsibility of the Dean of Science
4. Membership (see below)
5. Meetings
   1. the committee shall meet at least twice per year
   2. the committee shall report to the Faculty of Science through a standing item on all Faculty of Science meeting agendas
6. Archives
   1. The Dean of Science shall be responsible for archiving all documents and other material used by the committee.
7. History
   1. In March 2015, the Faculty of Science passed a motion to embark on its first Faculty-wide strategic planning process with a goal of establishing a clear direction and achievable action for the next five years. An Ad Hoc Strategic Planning Committee was struck and tasked with developing the plan. Members of the committee began the planning process by consulting with others within the Faculty of Science. Surveys were sent to faculty, lab instructors, and nurse educators, and a focus group was held with administrative assistants and support staff. Senior administrators were also consulted as were several students. The Ad Hoc committee then participated in six workshops organized and facilitated by the StFX Extension Department to analyze the data collected and to draft a strategic plan. The first strategic plan articulated a mission, a vision, a set of values, and a strategic direction for the StFX Faculty of Science for the next five years and was approved by the Faculty of Science at a Special Meeting of the Faculty of Science held December 7, 2015.  On March 3, 2016, the Ad Hoc committee was dissolved and the standing Faculty of Science Strategic Planning Committee was created.
   2. In Oct 2023, the committee proposed a revised Terms of Reference to change the committee’s name, to cease work on Faculty of Science-specific strategic and operational plans, focus the committee’s work on implementing institutional strategic and operational plans, and increase the committee’s membership to include all categories of members in the faculty of science (Faculty, Lab Instructors, Nurse Educators, and Dietetic Educators).  At the Faculty of Science meeting on May 22, 2024, the revised Terms of Reference where accepted. 

May 22, 2024

Meeting Frequency

Twice a year or more as needed

Workload

Low-Medium

Membership

1. Dean of Science (ex officio)
2. Chair of the Faculty of Science (ex officio)
3. Six Faculty of Science members
   1. 2 year terms, with elections for members set to create staggered terms
   2. at least one Faculty member shall be part of a professional program
   3. at least one Faculty member shall be part of a natural sciences program
   4. if one can be recruited, one member shall be a Lab Instructor
   5. if one can be recruited, one member shall be either a Nurse Educator or Dietetics Educator
4. Additional members can be added on an ad hoc basis
5. Chair of the committee for the following academic year shall be elected from among the elected committee membership on or before May 1 each year
6. Quorum shall be 4 members (as per Rules of Procedure for the University Faculty that indicate quorum must be a majority of the members)

Purpose 

The Advisory Board’s main purpose is to assist the Director in carrying out the mandate of the Centre. It is not meant to be a management committee nor is it an implementing body. The Director is responsible for Centre leadership and management. The Director reports to the Academic Vice President. Because the McKenna Centre for Leadership is helping students discover and develop their leadership capacity, many people on the Advisory Board may also be involved in a variety of collaborative activities with the Centre.

PREAMBLE & NOTES

• Created in September 2015
• Student members normally serve 2-year terms to ensure continuity and to allow for substantive contributions and involvement
• Following the Board’s start-up phase, during which members are recruited for staggered terms (2/3 years) to manage succession and to ensure continuity and protect organizational memory, faculty members will normally serve 3-year terms.
• Other members will remain on the Advisory Board for as long as they hold their designated positions.
• Depending on workload, the Board may decide to create ad-hoc sub-committees to focus on and quickly address specific tasks.
• This document is designed to function as a working description of the Board and of its basic functions and operations. As such, it is intended to be optimized and revised as the Board continues to operate.

ROLE 

The role of the Advisory Board is to: 

• Provide the Director with a sounding board for new ideas and future directions for the Centre 
• Offer feedback on and ideas for the Centre’s performance and operations on a year to year basis.
• Serve to connect the Centre with other related programming and resources on campus and off.

Specifically, the Board offers advice and feedback on:

• Academic planning
• Programming and events
• Selection of speakers
• Adjudication of proposals for collaboration and co-hosted events
• Adjudication of applications for grants or fellowships for visiting scholars

Membership

COMPOSITION

• The Advisory Board is composed of the following: 
• The Director of the McKenna Centre
• The Academic Vice President & Provost
• Four students: VP Academic (Student Union) and three students at large, elected through the SU’s regular processes
• Four faculty members – one from each Faculty; elected by each faculty via CON  
• The Director of Advancement
• The Director of Development 
• The Director of Communications 
• The Director of Student Life 
• The Chair of Service Learning 
• The Director of the Coady International Institute 
• The Director of the Mulroney Institute
• The Director of Athletics 

This committee will be responsible for the development of policies regarding the service learning program at StFX.

This committee will advise the co-ordinator of service learning and the academic administration as to the implementation of such policies.

Membership

COMPOSITION

• Academic Vice-President (or designate) [Chair]
• Co-ordinator of Service Learning
• representative from Coady Institute (appointed by Director)
• representative from Department of Extension (appointed by Director)
• four faculty members (elected), including one from each of the humanities depts., the social sciences depts., the natural sciences depts., and professional depts.
• a final, fifth member of faculty, (elected by Faculty)

ELECTED BY: University Faculty at October meeting
APPOINTED BY: Directors of the Coady International Institute and Extension Department
TERM: 3 years
NUMBER: 5 members

Committee on Reconciliation Academic Program Circle:

Proposed Terms of Reference

1.  Proposed Terms of Reference for the Committee on Reconciliation’s Academic Program Circle (note: it is expected that confirming the ToR, and membership, will be one of the first tasks of the newly formed committee)

a. To aid in developing a decolonizing strategy for the University that is aligned with the Equity Pillar in the Strategic Plan

b. To review university academic policies and processes related to decolonization/reconciliation and make recommendations to the AVP regarding meeting recommendations of TRC

c. To help create spaces for Indigenous ways to come together with current academic practices

d. To organize gatherings of faculty members (in cooperation with the faculty development committee, CABSS, University Equity Officer) and provide education/training around issues related to decolonizing classrooms, creating culturally sensitive spaces for students.

e. To make recommendations to Joint Committee on Studies/AVP regarding new academic initiatives aimed at Reconciliation/decolonization

f. To work with other circles of the University Committee on Reconciliation on campus-wide initiatives that extend beyond the academic circle.

Membership

2.  Proposed membership (terms for first official committee of 1-3 years, staggered)

a. One faculty member from each of the 4 faculties

b. The Dean of whatever faculty is acting as the Chair of the Academic Programming Circle of the Univeristy wide-CoR. (Chair)

c. Knowledge-Keeper in Residence* (standing member)

d. Elected Aboriginal Representative on Student Union (standing member)

e. Aboriginal student society representative (standing member)

f. Member of Student Services (appointed, rotating)

*Note: the title “Elder in Residence” has been changed to “Knowledge-Keeper in Residence”, following consultation with Community members.

Other suggested members might include a member from Coady/Extension, a librarian and/or a member of the (to be formed) Centre for Teaching and Learning, and potentially 2 members at large.

3.  The Committee would be elected by General Faculty, and report to/make recommendations to the Academic Vice President (who would in turn report to General Faculty and Senate).

Purpose

To promote educational and workplace equity across the University, including specific actions as a committee of equity allies;

To maintain communication between the various University constituency groups and the Committee;

To advise and assist the Coordinator in formulating annual work plan, policies and program development;

To provide information and guidance to the Coordinator on issues of relevance to the mandate of the Equity Office;

To assist with ongoing equity awareness, education and training programs among all University constituencies;

To support the work of the Coordinator.

EXPECTATIONS OF EAC MEMBERS

To treat each other with respect; to endeavour to work as Allies; to incorporate the vision and practice of equity in our dealings with others across the University; to participate in ongoing Committee meetings and activities, for example, ally education and team-building sessions; to hold in confidence any discussion or business of the Committee as may be; required to protect rights to confidentiality or privacy

Meeting Frequency

TBD

Workload

TBD

Membership