News & Updates
Northern College Unveils New Strategic Plan
Northern College is pleased to announce the completion of its five-year strategic plan and the implementation of a new set of strategic goals.
The strategic plan outlines specific objectives for the institution, providing both detailed benchmarks and more aspirational goals which serve to ensure the constant evolution of the institution leading into 2030.
“These guiding directives are a reflection of community consultation, employee input and a broader understanding of the direction in which we wish to take the institution,” stated Mitch Dumas, President & CEO of Northern College. “The implementation of a strategic plan allows us to remain focused in our mission and vision for the institution, with checkpoints along the way to ensure that we’re on track.”
An invigorated Senior Management Team is ready to lead a new strategic plan for the next five years, with the new plan having a new set of strategic goals that has been co-developed with MNP through consultation and collaboration with Northern College staff and various sectors across all communities in the region.
Before moving forward, Northern would like to recognize the accomplishments of the previous 2020 – 2025 Strategic Plan. The plan had three strategic directions, with twelve objectives that were focused on Indigenous Education and Empowerment, Innovative Approaches to Access and Invigorating Northern Experiences. As this plan is sunset, the college feels a sense of accomplishment, even through difficult times during the covid epidemic and the ever-changing post-secondary landscape due to the restrictions with international recruitment from the IRCC.
“Our goals are foundational in nature, representing our commitment to returning to our roots as a community college,” stated Dumas. “We are placing focus on community, industry and business needs, partnership and growth opportunities that allow our region to grow together for the betterment of all involved.”
Specifically, these goals are to strengthen community sense of belonging, to strengthen ties with Indigenous communities, become the destination of choice for students and employees, expanding industry partnerships and modernizing operations and infrastructure.
“The central pillar of this strategic plan is building,” stated Jaret Dicks, Director of Marketing, Communications and External Relations. “Building relationships and partnerships, reinforcing existing connections and bolstering our role as a regional post-secondary institution and hub for innovation, growth and opportunity in our communities and for our community partners.”
As part of the implementation of the new strategic plan and Northern’s focus on continuous improvement and community service, Northern will be issuing a community climate survey. The survey allows the college to gauge our role within our region; it also allows to further refine institutional goals and ascertain areas of focus when it comes to improving and building relations with residents and industry across the Northeastern region.
“We enter this new chapter in our operations with optimism and enthusiasm,” stated Dumas. “We are excited about what we hope to build in the north, rooted in our mandate as a community college.”
Those wishing to participate can find the survey here.