—From the desk of Taya Whitehead, Vice-President, Education & Students

As we come together to start another term and a new year, the college continues to navigate the impacts of changes to federal immigration policy. 

We recognize that the past 15 months have been a prolonged period of anxiety for our college community. We remain focused on addressing the impacts of declining international enrolment while building long-term stability, guided by our strategic plan. 

Collectively, we have made adjustments to meet the new fiscal reality, including suspending some programming, implementing strategic hiring, optimizing space utilization and rolling out spending restrictions.  

We have been through two phases of labour adjustments. Phase three will begin in early 2026, as the current cohort of international students completes their education. 

This phase will start with SCFA and BCGEU employees. Prior to any layoff notices being issued, all members of SCFA as well as BCGEU instructors in the School of Hospitality and Tourism, Student Access and Support, and Academic Upgrading and Development will be canvassed from January 16 to 30, 2026, to see if we can find volunteer solutions to help us reduce or potentially even avoid the need for layoffs. The collective agreements provide a menu of strategies that will be considered, including workload reduction, unpaid leave of absence, voluntary severance and early retirement. 

Deans and directors will be meeting with individuals who may be impacted by labour adjustments in advance of the canvass.  

The college continues to work closely with union executives as we navigate this financial reality. The Executive Leadership Team is focused on continuing to offer high-quality, accessible programming that aligns with labour-market needs for generations to come. 

Thank you for your patience and compassion during this time.