Ingenuity and innovation keys to mapping McMaster’s future

McMaster’s future course may be buffeted by some external uncertainties, but the University is well positioned to continue on its path of excellence and growth.

That was Provost David Wilkinson’s message during a wide-ranging State of the Academy presentation and discussion held this week in Convocation Hall.

“There is little doubt we face some uncertainty due to demographic trends, shifts in student interests and changes in provincial funding,” he said. “It will take all our ingenuity to allow us to grow and to thrive, but I have seen this innovation at McMaster first-hand and I know we can continue to maintain and build our position as one of the top-ranked universities in the world.”

As he prepared for his annual presentation, the provost sought suggestions and questions from faculty, staff and students. More than 90 per cent of questions received asked about budgeting and resources.

“Almost everyone was interested in learning how we can continue to make things happen in a constrained world,” Wilkinson said.

The provost updated the transition to the new budget model. He said progress has been made towards the goals of greater transparency and accountability around McMaster’s finances, with more discussion around the budget and a sharing of data and information. He encouraged the community to visit http://budgetmodel.mcmaster.ca/ which is an excellent resource for budget information.

He also previewed some changes to the budget model. There will be increases to the Research Excellence Fund to better support and advance research. The practice of “hold harmless”, where Faculties are shielded from any shortfalls resulting from the change to the model, will be converted to ongoing investments that will support Faculties and encourage investment in strategic priorities. Other changes will provide better alignment between expenditures and income.

The provost said there are clear successes stemming in part from the new model. Several new interdisciplinary programs have been developed including a linked undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences and a new combined program between Humanities and Business. Faculties are also looking at ways of optimizing their use of space.

Looking beyond the campus, he identified several external changes and trends that will have lasting impact. A significant decline spanning decades is projected in the 18-24 year old age group. This means McMaster will be competing for a shrinking pool of prospective students.

The province is reviewing the way it supports universities through the funding formula while the current tuition framework and is also expiring. It is unclear at this time what that could mean for a research-intensive campus like McMaster.

“It is important we continue our advocacy supporting the continued investments in research-intensive, student-centred universities such as McMaster.”

Work will also continue on expanding international awareness of McMaster. In a time of uncertainty and external challenges, the provost said it was never more important to ensure the University continues to advance its reputation nationally and internationally.