Senate Policies - Community Feedback and Engagement
2025/2026 Academic Policies under review
Review Consultation - Senate Policy 112: Development of New Graduate and Undergraduate Programs - Procedure modification
Summary
Toronto Metropolitan University currently provides proponents wishing to develop new academic programs with a process (under Policy 112) that includes a Letter of Intent, community feedback sessions, guidelines for a formal program development proposal, as well as the necessary compliance measures to meet the Quality Council’s Appraisal Committee requirements.
The committee is proposing a revision of the Letter of Intent (LOI) process that would allow for a preliminary review that is not as resource demanding. We propose to revise the Letter of Intent requirements to remove duplication of requirements that are found in the full proposal (without undoing any of the critical proposal elements in later stages) that would allow an opportunity to first assess the viability of and demand for the proposed program before proceeding with a full proposal. By briefly consulting and investigating the area of development, proponents could develop a Notice of Intent (NOI), a streamlined approach, that would engage with the critical offices around the University without burdening them with requirements for in-depth program development and assessment of resources, as the current Letter of Intent process requires.
(google doc) Full Revised Draft of Policy 112 (external link)
The Notice of Intent appears under Procedures and is covered under 1. Notice of Intent starting on p.7. and ending on p.10 (comprised under 1.1 - 1.3 inclusively).
Key Components of the new Notice of Intent (NOI):
- Streamlined Approach: The NOI will provide all collaborating offices supporting the development process of a new program with critical elements in a streamlined approach.
- Early Consultation: Involving all necessary parties early in the process to help in a faster assessment of the proposed program ahead of the full development stage.
- Collegial Review: The new NOI process allows for innovation and opportunities to be discussed with the Provost early on in the process.
- Opportunity for Feedback: The proposed NOI will provide community members with an accessible document highlighting the critical themes and resource implications. The NOI would encourage proponents to consider the feedback in this early stage of development.
Questions for feedback:
- How well does the NOI process address issues of timeliness, resource implication, and community involvement?
- Does the NOI present an easier approach to program development in the early stages?
- Does the policy adequately address the needs and expectations of colleagues hoping to develop new program opportunities?
Please send any feedback to: Policyreview@torontomu.ca
or complete this short survey at (google form) Policy 112: Notice of Intent Process in Policy 112 (external link)
Thank you
Policy review committee members:
Sean Kheraj, Vice-Provost, Academic (Chair)
Stephanie Walsh Matthews, Director, Curriculum Quality Assurance (Co-chair)
Carl Kumaradas, Vice-Provost and Dean, Yeates School of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies.
Kimberley McCausland, Vice Provost, University Planning.
Janet Koprivnikar, Associate Dean, Programs, Yeates School of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies (interim)
Shari Hodges , University Registrar (interim)
Carolyn Posa, Associate Registrar, Policy and Academic Engagement.
Daniel Amin, Senior Research Analyst, University Planning Office.
Dan Tassie, Senior Research Analyst, University Planning Office.
Donna Bell, Secretary of Senate.
Victoria Madsen, Senate Policy and Appeals Specialist.
Nick Duarte, Academic Administrator, Curriculum Quality and Assurance.
Michael O'Leary, Undergraduate Publications Editor.
NEW Senate Policy 176: Non-Credit Programs - Consultation and Feedback
Summary
A consultation committee consisting of a broad group of university constituents, was convened to develop a comprehensive policy for the creation and management of non-credit studies at TMU and make recommendations on revisions to any existing policies that are relevant to non-credit studies. This includes post-graduate certificates, executive learning, and other learning or development opportunities that lead to a credential that does not bear degree credit. The policy will facilitate rapid program development and innovation while ensuring transparency, quality assurance, and effective communication.
The primary deliverable of the committee is a draft policy on non-credit studies to be presented to the Academic Governance and Policy Committee by April 22, 2025
The Policy Development Committee is seeking you feedback on this policy. Please review the (google doc) Link to Policy 176: Non-Credit Programs Draft here (external link)
Questions for feedback include;
- How well does the draft policy ensure that non-credit programs complement the university's academic mission while providing flexibility to innovate?
- Are the proposed governance and oversight mechanisms adequate to ensure the quality of non-credit programs?
- Does the policy adequately address the needs and expectations of learners in terms of quality, service, and accessibility?
Please send any feedback to: Policyreview@torontomu.ca
or complete this short survey at Policy 176: Non-Credit Programs. (external link)
Policy Development Committee members
Sean Kheraj, Vice-Provost Academic (Co-Chair)
Stephanie Walsh Matthews, Director of Curriculum Quality Assurance (Co-Chair)
Sari Graben, Associate Dean: Research and Graduate Studies, Lincoln Alexander School of Law
Teresa Chan, Dean: School of Medicine
Linda Koechli, Dean: The Chang School of Continuing Education
Seung Hwan (Mark) Lee, Associate Dean: Engagement & Inclusion, Ted Rogers School of Management
Robert Ott, Associate Dean: Strategic Projects, The Creative School
Janet Koprivnikar, Associate Dean: Programs (interim) Yeates School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
Donna Bell, Secretary of Senate
Victoria Madsen, Senate Policy and Appeals Specialist
Carolyn Posa, Associate Registrar: Policy and Academic Engagement, Office of the Registrar
Stephen Onyskay, Senior Research Associate, University Planning Office
Aubrae Wilson, Program Director: Continuing Education, The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education
Review Consultation - Senate Policy 45: Governance Councils
Summary
In November 2023, a Policy Review Committee was struck to review the current policy and make recommendations for improvement and clarity where needed. A full review of the policy was completed, resulting in a first draft for community consultation.
The new first (google doc) draft of Policy 45: Governance Councils can be found here (external link)
Highlights of the changes include;
- formatting to align with the Senate approved policy framework including; broadened definitions, alignment of Values and Principles with the TMU 2025-2030 Academic Plan,
- a new Procedures section has been recommended to replace the current “Appendix A” section of the policy
- added Procedures (Section 7) for the Dispute Resolution process.
- the committee is also recommending that Faculty Councils be formalized with guidance on timelines to achieve formalization
The committee is now asking the Toronto Metropolitan University community to review and comment on the draft policy before February 14, 2025. This will allow feedback to be reviewed and if needed incorporated into a final draft of the Policy for Senate approval. A combination of consultation options are available to the TMU community.
A Google survey form is available to collect community feedback. Please access the survey form here (external link)
Comments and feedback can also be provided by email to policyreview@torontomu.ca
Thank you
Committee members
Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano, Provost and Vice-President, Academic (Chair)
Sean Kheraj Vice-Provost, Academic (Vice chair)
Donna Bell, Secretary of Senate
Carl Kumaradas, Vice-Provost and Dean, Yeates School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
Stéphanie Walsh-Matthews, Associate Professor; Director, Curriculum Quality Assurance
Andrew MacWilliams, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs & Student Affairs, Faculty of Science
Dimitri Androutsos - Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs and Student Affairs, Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science
Debbie Wilk, Director, Client and Program Services, G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education
Ben Samms, Manager, Accreditation & Governance, Ted Rogers School of Management
Victoria Madsen, Senate Policy and Appeals Specialist, Senate Office
Review Consultation - Senate Policy 158: Program Advisory Councils
Summary
In November 2023, a Policy Review Committee was struck to review the current policy and make recommendations for improvement and clarity where needed. A full review of the policy was completed, resulting in a first draft for community consultation.
The new (google doc) first draft of Policy 158: Program Advisory Councils can be found here (external link)
Highlights of the changes include;
- the Policy has been drafted using the Senate approved policy framework for consistency with all TMU academic policies.
- “Values and Principles” have been added to this Policy to align with the TMU 2025-2030 Academic Plan as well as new definitions for key terms related to this Policy
- a new Procedures section has been recommended to replace the current Guidelines for the Establishment of Program Advisory Councils (PAC’s)
The committee is now asking the Toronto Metropolitan University community to review and comment on the draft policy before February 14, 2025. This will allow feedback to be reviewed and if needed incorporated into a final draft of the Policy for Senate approval. A combination of consultation options are available to the TMU community.
A Google survey form is available to collect community feedback. Please access the survey form here. (external link)
Comments and feedback can also be provided by email to policyreview@torontomu.ca
Thank you
Committee members
Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano, Provost and Vice-President, Academic (Chair)
Sean Kheraj Vice-Provost, Academic (Vice chair)
Donna Bell, Secretary of Senate
Carl Kumaradas, Vice-Provost and Dean, Yeates School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
Stéphanie Walsh-Matthews, Associate Professor; Director, Curriculum Quality Assurance
Andrew MacWilliams, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs & Student Affairs, Faculty of Science
Dimitri Androutsos - Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs and Student Affairs, Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science
Debbie Wilk, Director, Client and Program Services, G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education
Ben Samms, Manager, Accreditation & Governance, Ted Rogers School of Management
Victoria Madsen, Senate Policy and Appeals Specialist, Senate Office
Summary
Consultations have now concluded. This Policy is scheduled to move to the Senate on March 25th, 2025
In October 2024, the Senate Office in partnership with TMU Global, initiated a cyclical review of Policy 95: The Development and Approval of International Partnerships and International (and National) Mobility Programs as this Policy had not been fully reviewed since 2010. The Responsible office(s) for this policy are the Provost and Vice President Academic, Vice President, Research and Innovation; and TMU Global.
A Policy Review Committee was struck to review the current policy and make recommendations for improvement and clarity where needed. The committee met several times over the following months and a full review of the policy was completed, resulting in a first draft, on December 18, 2024.
Some key recommendations for policy changes that were identified by the committee include:
- A change to the name of the policy that better reflects the scope and purpose of the policy.
- The responsible office will now be Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Global with oversight by the Assistant Vice President, International.
- Formatting to align with the Senate approved policy framework for consistency with all TMU academic policies. Policy is the "what" (as in what does this policy do?). Procedures are "how" it will be done. The existing content in Policy 95 has been arranged to be consistent with these principles.
- Broadened definitions
- Values and Principles have been modified to align with the new TMU 2025-2030 Academic Plan.
- The addition of a Roles and Responsibilities section that provides guidance for implementation of International Partnerships and Collaborative Activities.
- A new comprehensive Procedures section.
- Signatories for International Institutional Agreements are now covered under the Execution of Contracts Policy.
The committee is now asking the Toronto Metropolitan University community to review and comment on the draft policy before January 31, 2025. This will allow feedback to be reviewed and incorporated into a final draft of the Policy for Senate approval.
- A list of 8 questions has been provided via Google form to help collect and incorporate community feedback. Please access the Survey Form here. (external link)
- Additional comments and feedback can also be provided by email to policyreview@torontomu.ca
- Town Halls have been scheduled for the following dates and times:
January 28th, 4:00 - 5:00 pm via Zoom
January 30th, 12:00 - 1:00 pm via Zoom
To register for participation in either of these town hall meetings, please access the link and register here (external link)
The Committee would like to thank all members of the community for your participation and support in this Policy review process.
Committee Members
Sara Berman (Chair), Director, TMU Global
Naomi Adelson, Associate Vice-President, Research and Innovation
Crystal Kim, Legal Counsel, Office of General Counse, TMU (Outgoing)
Rose Sandino, Director, Projects and Operations, Office of the Provost and Vice President, Academic
Darren Finlay, Associate Director, Transnational Education Partnerships, TMU Global
Donna Bell, Secretary of Senate
Victoria Madsen, Senate Policy and Appeals Secialist
Yvonne Leung, Global Partnerships Officer, TMU Global
Jessica Hupalo, Operations and Administrative Coordinator, TMU Global
Policy Review Committee
Sean Kheraj, Vice Provost , Academic (Co-Chair)
Allyson Miller, Director, Academic Integrity Office (Co-Chair)
Natalie Bulzan, Administration and Appeals Coordinator - Academic Integrity Office
Catherine Ellis, Interim Chair, Professor, Department of History, Faculty of Arts
Eric Da Silva, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics (Designated Decision Maker DDM)
Chris MacDonald, Interim Graduate Program Director, MBA, Associate Professor Ted Rogers School of Management
Donna Bell, Secretary of Senate
Graham Hudson, Interim Dean, Lincoln Alexander School of Law
Jason Lisi (Replacement to be determined)
Leslie Sinclair, Student Representative, Journalism, Yeates School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
Nancy Walton, Associate Dean, Student Affairs, Yeates School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
Victoria Madsen, Senate Policy and Appeals Specialist
Kasha Visutskie, Academic Integrity Specialist, Academic Integrity Office
Kateryna Metersky, Assistant Professor, Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing
Donatus Oguamanam, Chair, Mechanical, Industrial and Mechatronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science
James Nadler, Associate Professor, Media Production & Chair (Interim), RTA School of Media, The Creative School
Justin Murgai, Student Representative, Chang School of Continuing Education
Linda Koechli, Interim Dean, G. Raymond Chang School
Sophie Campbell, Student , Lincoln Alexander School of Law
Aisha Rehman, Student Representative, Undergraduate,
2024/2025 Academic Policies - Approved
UPDATE Policy 135 - Final Examinations approved at Senate May 7, 2024
The policy review committee presented Policy 135: Final Examinations policy on May 7, 2024. The final Policy was approved by Senate on that date and is now effective for Fall 2024. Policy 135 can be found on the Senate website under the Policies page.
Policy 135: Examinations Policy Committee members:
Michelle Green (Co-chair) Manager, Policy Implementation and Engagement
Stephanie Goetz, Acting Manager, Digital Media Projects, Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching
Brian Williams, Acting Director, Academic Accommodation & Learning
Daniel Elacqua, Manager, Program Support and Logistics, G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education
Victoria Madsen, Senate Policy and Appeals Specialist, Senate Office
Andrew McWilliams, Associate Dean, Faculty of Science
Carolyn Posa (Co-chair) Associate Registrar, Policy and Academic Engagement
Donna Bell, Secretary of Senate
Debbie Wilk, Director Client and Program Services, G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education
Kateryna Metersky, Assistant Professor, Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing.
Malka Daniels, Student Senator, Law and Business, Ted Rogers School of Management
Nancy Walton, Associate Dean, Student Affairs, Yeates School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
Mansa Trotman, Logistics Specialist, G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education
Kasha Visutskie, Academic Integrity Specialist, Academic Integrity Office
Boza Tasic, Associate Professor, Global Management Studies, Ted Rogers School of Management
Graham Hudson, Interim Dean, Lincoln Alexander School of Law
Jason Lisi, Executive Director, Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching
Sara Afshar, Student Senator, Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & Architectural Science
