News
Board of Governors Update
Feb. 24, 2025
In a message from Algonquin College President and CEO Claude Brulé on Feb. 11, it was indicated that recommendations concerning mitigation measures would be brought before the College’s Board of Governors for a decision yesterday (Feb. 24). These included recommended program suspensions, the transfer of programs from the Perth Campus to the Ottawa Campus and the closure of the Perth Campus by the end of August 2026.
The Board of Governors approved the following:
- 37 academic programs, including 31 program suspensions and six campus-specific program offerings, will be suspended effective Fall 2025. Currently enrolled and Spring 2025 learners in these programs will be given the opportunity to complete their studies.
- The Perth Campus will cease operations by August 2026, with its three programs being relocated to Ottawa. Learners currently enrolled in these programs will be given the opportunity to complete their studies and graduate as per Ministry of Colleges and Universities’ guidelines.
As referenced in the President’s message – without interventions, Algonquin College is projected to incur a budget deficit, on a cash flow basis, of at least $60 million in 2025-2026, rising to $93 million by 2026-2027.
The College continues to review its operations to ensure a strong and sustainable future. These are difficult decisions, and efforts will be made to mitigate impacts on employees and learners as the institution addresses this unprecedented fiscal situation. Updates will continue to be provided, and appreciation is extended to all employees for their dedication during this challenging time.
Message from the President – Financial Challenges and Mitigation Measures
Feb. 11, 2025
Dear colleagues,
Our College community is built on the dedication and hard work of our employees; the steps we are taking now are not a reflection of that commitment, but rather a response to the changing environment in which we operate.
As discussed in my previous messages and at our January 16 Town Hall, Algonquin College, along with the entire post-secondary education sector, is facing unprecedented financial challenges. This is due in part to a prolonged and ongoing provincial government tuition freeze, chronic underfunding, and recent federal government immigration policy changes that negatively impact international enrolments.
The College needs to take immediate and substantial action to address this perilous fiscal situation. Without intervention, Algonquin College will incur a budget deficit, on a cash flow basis, of at least $60 million in 2025-2026, rising to $93 million by 2026-2027.
To ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the College, we are implementing mitigation measures immediately and taking decisive steps to reduce expenses, optimize resources, and explore new revenue opportunities. Note that while the measures announced this week will make an important contribution to closing the financial gap, it will not completely eliminate the projected deficit. Therefore, a Phase 2 is in progress to explore additional measures. This includes an Efficiency and Accountability Initiative undertaken with the Ministry of Colleges and Universities to identify further mitigations that will help restore the College’s long-term fiscal health.
Read the full message (Feb. 11)
Message from the President – Fiscal Sustainability Update
Jan. 9, 2025
Dear learners and colleagues, In my message of November 7, I referenced Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and provincial funding shortfalls that have created unprecedented financial challenges for the entire post-secondary sector, including Algonquin College.
Since issuing that message, the College’s Executive and Leadership teams have been undertaking a further thorough review of operations, and the following has become clear:
- A projected $32 million loss in revenue in the current fiscal year 2024-25.
- Without mitigation measures to change course – on a cash flow basis – the College anticipates a deficit of $60 million for 2025-26, increasing to $96million for 2026-27.
Given this situation, the College is developing plans to address this difficult fiscal reality. I would like to update you on our approach to managing these challenges.