University Watch
(Gazette, Jan. 9, 1997)
Arbritration meeting scheduled
TORONTO, ONT. -- University of Toronto's The Bulletin (Dec. 9, 1996), reports that members
of the U of T Faculty Association and members of the university's administration will meet with
an arbitrator -- former Quebec chief justice Alan Gold -- Jan. 13-15 to discuss 1996-97 salaries
and benefits for faculty and librarians. Contract talks have been on hold since June when the two
parties failed to reach an agreement with the assistance of a mediator.
Downey delivers rousing speech
WATERLOO, ONT. -- The president of the University of Waterloo, Dr. James Downey,
delivered a strong message to members of the campus community at UW's "first annual general
meeting." The University of Waterloo Gazette (Dec. 4, 1996) reported that Dr. Downey's speech
touched on many topics, including the loss of faculty and staff through early retirement programs,
and uncertainty about government funding levels. "We are weaker than we were a year ago," Dr.
Downey said. "The speed and pervasiveness of change across campus give rise to feelings of
helplessness and exasperation..." The challenge, he said "is to sustain the spirit of radical
adventure."
Handy guide offers answers
WINNIPEG, MAN. -- After answering umpteen questions about university life for her sons, the
director of University Teaching Services at the University of Manitoba decided to write a guide
for other students and their parents. Going to University: A Canadian Guide for Students in
Grades 9 to 12 and their Parents, was published recently by Going to Press, a company set up by
author Beverly Cameron especially for this project. According to the University of Manitoba
Bulletin (Dec. 5, 1996), the book made the best seller list in the local McNally Robinson Book
Sellers trade/ paperback section within its second week on store shelves. The softcover book
begins with a section titled Thinking About Going to University, then guides readers through
sections on planning ahead, identifying interests and career options, and selecting a university.
Amalgamation legislation passed
HALIFAX, N.S. -- Legislation to amalgamate the Technical University of Nova Scotia (TUNS)
and Dalhousie University was passed by the provincial legislature on Dec. 13. The legislation
outlines the institutional structure and responsibilities of the new university, which will be known
as Dalhousie University. The amalgamation is expected to occur on April 1 of this year, according
to the Dec. 11, 1996, issue of Dalhousie News. The act of legislation states that TUNS will
become a college of the new university, and will have a unique name, a college board, an
academic council, and a principal. The act also allows Dalhousie to grant degrees, diplomas and
certificates with the TUNS designation to students who have been enrolled in TUNS programs
prior to April 1, 1997.