On October 26 we are launching a demographic survey that I am asking all staff and faculty to participate in. This survey is a key part of MacEwan’s commitment to creating and sustaining equitable practices and policies that foster a welcoming, inclusive and diverse teaching, learning and working environment.

Why do we need to know?
MacEwan University is committed to a set of beliefs that guide our approach as an exceptional undergraduate university. This means that we encourage creating and sustaining equitable practices and policies that foster a welcoming, inclusive, and diverse teaching, learning, and working environment. We are demonstrating this commitment in our new strategic framework, to be released in the coming weeks, and through our commitment on a national stage by joining universities from across the country in signing the Universities Canada’s Inclusive Excellence Principles. Our actions to deliver on this commitment must be guided by learnings and reflections gained from persons most impacted by non-inclusive practices that impede access and success within our community. To do this effectively, we need to understand the people who make up MacEwan and the barriers experienced by different groups.

An important element in moving forward to create a more inclusive community is to better understand the diversity of our employees so that we are able to support the diverse students we serve. Data and metrics are needed to assist us with meeting this important objective. For example, better data would assist to better understand and identify gaps in faculty and staff retention, promotion and compensation, as well as student recruitment, programming, scholarship opportunities and service needs. Without baseline data, such comparisons are challenging and systemic barriers are more difficult to uncover and address. This survey is an important part in putting our commitment to these principles into action.

How are we going to collect the information?
The survey will be administered by Institutional Analysis and Planning, who will compile the data and provide a summary report. Survey results will be aggregated at the group level and your participation is confidential and voluntary.

How will my privacy be protected?
I recognize that some of you may feel apprehensive about disclosing personal and sensitive information. You can learn more about the survey administration, along with what we will be asking and why, on the portal under Human Resources > Information for Employees. I encourage you to review this information and ask questions if you have concerns.

How can I participate?
When you get the email about the survey on October 26, I encourage you to take the five minutes needed to complete it.

Collecting and analyzing appropriate equity data is a key priority and first step in order to advance informative and meaningful EDI initiatives. I thank you for your support in this important work.

Sincerely,

Dr. Annette Trimbee

President and Vice-Chancellor

Originally sent via GlobalMail on October 19, 2021