At the President's request, this committee has been formed to assist in the coordination of activities designed to promote a respectful work and learning environment at the University of Manitoba. Activities of the committee will be directed to the entire university community; faculty, staff and students. The committee should focus on the promotion of respectful, collegial and civil behavior among members of the university community, as well as encouraging inclusion and diversity.
The committee is seen as an important mechanism to help the university achieve a number of goals described in Taking Our Place: University of Manitoba Strategic Plan 2015-2020 (the "Plan").
Relevant concepts such as "respect", "integrity" and "equity and inclusion" are listed in the Plan as among the core values of the university.
The Plan goes on to list five strategic priorities for the institution. The work of the committee will touch on each of these priorities to varying degrees. With reference to the five priorities, some of the relevant goals are described as follows:
Inspiring Minds
Driving Discovery and Insight
Creating Pathways - to Indigenous achievement
Building Community - that creates an outstanding learning and working environment
Forging Connections
The committee may consider pursuing one or more themes or projects through its work. Without limitation, some of the themes it may consider include:
The committee will be co-chaired by the Associate Vice-President (Human Resources) and the Vice-Provost (Students). The co-chairs may recommend to the President members for the committee, who will invite such members as he/she deems desirable. The membership should represent a diversity of viewpoints relevant to faculty, staff, and students.
Sub-committees and working groups may be formed at the discretion of the co-chairs, and include members from the committee, as well as other members of the university community.
Meetings will be held at the call of the co-chairs, and are expected to occur at least monthly. The President will be invited to committee meetings, although will only attend occasionally.
The co-chairs will report on progress to the President periodically. At appropriate times, the co-chairs will provide a written report to the President outlining the major initiatives undertaken, and making relevant recommendations.
The committee is advisory to and accountable to the President.