FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2003

FROM THE TRENT UNIVERSITY BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING – FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2003

Report on Appraisal of Graduate Programs

Professor Chris Metcalfe, Dean of Research and Graduate Studies, presented highlights of the Report on Appraisals of Trent University’s Graduate Studies Programs prepared by the Ontario Council on Graduate Studies (OCGS).

The report rated the Applications of Modeling in the Natural and Social Sciences (M.A./M.Sc.) as a good quality program that fully met its academic objectives. Native Studies (Ph.D) and Anthropology (M.A.) were designated as quality programs where the academic objectives of the program are generally being met, but the University must provide a progress report to the Ontario Council on Graduate Studies. The Theory, Culture and Politics program (M.A.) received conditional approval with the proviso that a progress report on specific issues of concern cited in the report be submitted to the OCGS by November 30, 2005.

Professor Metcalfe detailed how the University is responding to the report including additional teaching stipends, a proposal to enhance financial resources for a guaranteed level of support for Masters and Doctoral students, improvements to graduate student space, a proposal to increase operating funds to graduate programs, and Trent University’s on-going program of faculty renewal.

Equipment Purchase Approved

The Board approved a request to purchase both a gas and liquid chromatograph tandem mass spectrometer for measuring various contaminants in water, soils, biota, etc. The equipment will add to the capabilities of Trent University’s Water Quality Centre that is focusing on the development of analytical techniques to assess water quality and to assess toxicological effects in aquatic organisms.

Honorary Board Member Appointed

Approved, the nomination of former Board Chair Gary Wolff as an Honorary Member of the Board. The nomination is retroactive to July 1, 2002.

Sabbatical Report

Approved, the Sabbatical Report for 2001-02.

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For more information contact:
Don Cumming, Senior Director, Public Affairs, (705) 748-1011, ext. 1224