By Graham Cook
Report on U of A shooting suggests changes to emergency response
The University of Alberta’s response to the HUB Mall shootings that occurred in June has been reviewed, and 19 recommendations have been made to improve the institution’s emergency response system. The review was carried out by Risk Management Services and includes eight ways that the Crisis Management Team at the university could be improved, as well as 11 suggestions for upgrading the university’s communication processes. The suggestions in the review include increasing the dispatch staffing for UAPS (University of Alberta Protective Services), and recognition of U of A’s Interfaith Chaplains Association as a key player on the CMT. For the latter, chaplains would be trained on the operating and functioning of both the CMT and Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).
With files from The Gateway
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UPEI washes off pro-life chalk campaign
The chalk messages written along walkways at the University of Prince Edward Island were power-washed by crews from the university’s Facilities Management. The illustrations and written communications were made by anti-abortion group Students For Life, in an apparent attempt to advertise their views to students. The decision was made by George Clayton, the institution’s director of Facilities Management, citing that authorization had not been given to use the walkways for that purpose and that the actions taken did not have anything to do with the message itself. According to The Cadre, Students For Life president Shannon Moore wished to apologize to the campus, stating that she was unaware that such actions were not permitted.
With files from The Cadre
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Concordia to become first Quebec university to offer indigenous studies degree
Concordia University plans to become the first Quebec university to allow students to obtain a bachelor’s degree majoring in First Peoples studies by fall 2013. Students have been able to major in the subject since September of 2010, but have not been able to graduate, as approval from the Ministry of Education, Leisure and Sport is required. The major is made available by the School of Community and Public Affairs at Concordia. The school also offers a minor, which is already available and officially sanctioned. The school’s current principal, Daniel Salee, has been working towards implementing the major and minor programs since the 2001–2002 school year.
With files from Canadian University Press
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Bullying continues in higher education and the workplace
Education professor and director of the Saskatchewan Justice Institute has asserted that bullying continues out of elementary and high schools partially because society continues to oppress minority groups without realizing it. These cases, called “normalized oppressions,” were discussed at the University of Regina’s Pride’s National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11. At this event, many students of the LGBTQ community in Regina spoke out their experiences and fears related to coming out. According to The Carillon, many of those present stated that they felt they had to look out for “troublemakers” when discussing their sexuality with coworkers, friends, and family. In addition, international students disclosed fears about their orientation being found out at home, including concerns about violence. Many students that attended felt that the negative labels they are given by others are a major issue.
With files from The Carillon
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