A Message from the President (April 11, 2022)

Posted on Monday, April 11th, 2022

April 11, 2022

Dear Colleagues and Learners,

Reading the news and watching the daily disturbing images and videos coming out of Ukraine has been deeply unsettling. It is difficult to comprehend the sheer horror and destruction, and how this once peaceful country has been shattered, with so many lives forever altered or lost.

I know that many in our College Community are impacted by these events, in some cases on a personal level, and there is a strong desire to help. Knowing that we have learners directly impacted by the tragedy in Eastern Europe, we have been working right from the start of the conflict to help those most affected – those who may be struggling financially. In addition, today I am announcing a series of enhanced initiatives to offer further direct support to those learners in need, and also help with the humanitarian crisis:

  • Donation to support Ukrainian crisis fund

Algonquin College has partnered with a number of colleges across Ontario to make a joint donation of $210,000 to UNICEF’s Ukraine emergency fund. Donations to the Ukraine emergency fund will support the organization’s ongoing programs and response to the escalating need in Ukraine by providing communities with safe water, urgent medical aid and health-care services, child protection and education. Algonquin College is contributing $10,000 to the effort.

  • Current Students (Ukrainian, Russian, Belarusian) – Access to Emergency Funding

The College has identified $50,000 toward emergency relief. Current eligible international students from Ukraine, Russia, Belarus or related may contact Salma Yarjani, Manager of International Student Integration: yarjans@algonquincollege.com.

  • Current Students (Ukrainian, Russian, Belarusian) – Deferral Upcoming Terms of Study Payments

Tuition fee payment deferrals for up to two upcoming terms for international students affected by the crisis; outreach will be to identified students through the International Education Centre. Students not contacted but who may be experiencing delayed access to funding as a result of the crisis may contact Salma Yarjani, Manager of International Student Integration: yarjans@algonquincollege.com to ascertain eligibility for deferral.

  • Prospective Students (Ukrainian) – Scholarship Opportunity

As a part of a pan-Canadian initiative coordinated by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) – though funded independently by institutions – Algonquin College is setting up an opportunity for a scholarship to support a displaced Ukrainian student aiming to temporarily or permanently relocate to Canada. The scholarship will cover the cost of two terms of tuition during the 2022-2023 academic year. The application is scheduled to open May 15, 2022; at that time more details, including eligibility criteria and the application, will be posted to Financial Aid – Financial Aid & Student Awards (algonquincollege.com)

I would also like to acknowledge some other initiatives taking place at the College to support the situation in Ukraine. The School of Hospitality and Tourism’s culinary and baking students prepared more than 2,600 perogies for a Ukrainian-inspired food sampler fundraiser that was a huge success. Pembroke Campus professor Bo Stelmach was overwhelmed with his own perogy fundraiser, using a ’secret recipe’ handed down from his mother. The College’s Volunteer Centre has also initiated a fundraising campaign, and the Students’ Association Food Cupboard is always available to support students in need.

Finally, I know this unfolding tragedy is distressing and difficult. If you or someone you know needs assistance – counselling services and supports are available. Requests for academic support are being accommodated on a case-by-case basis, with Student Support Services, Faculty, Program Coordinators and Chairs all playing a role. Please reach out to this link to find College resources for both learners and employees and the Government of Canada information page. AC Resources and Supports | Student Support Services (algonquincollege.com)

Thank you, and stay safe.

Claude Brulé
President and CEO


Comments

Comments are closed.