Quebec’s universities are facing a difficult time following a series of government budget cuts, and the provincial government has informed us that 2015-16 will be even more challenging than previous years. I know that the uncertainty surrounding McGill’s current financial situation may be a source of anxiety for staff and students alike, and I want to thank all of you for your assistance and understanding as we navigate these challenging conditions together.
I invite all McGill community members to write to us at budgetideas@mcgill.ca to share their suggestions for how to generate new revenues and/or reduce our operating expenses without compromising the University’s academic mission. Your insight and creativity will be invaluable in helping us make the most of McGill’s financial resources. We ask that you send us your feedback by 31 January 2015; we will consider all of your submissions as we finalize budgetary decisions.
Careful budgeting and an abundance of caution have helped McGill weather difficult times so far, and I have every confidence that these same guiding principles will see us through the coming years as a stronger McGill.
I wish you a joyful and peaceful holiday season.
Professor Anthony C. Masi
Provost