Dr. Airini's academic and professional background

  • Holds a BA and MEd from the University of Canterbury, an MBA from Massey University, and a Diploma in Teaching from the former Christchurch Teachers College. She completed a certificate in te reo Māori from Te Wānanga o Aotearoa
  • Holds a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of British Columbia.
  • Served as TRU’s Dean of the Faculty of Education and Social Work (2014–2018), where she helped launch the internationally renowned Knowledge Makers program, and the pan-university Coyote Project.
  • Most recently, served as Provost and Vice-President Academic at the University of Saskatchewan, a member of the U15 group of Canadian research universities.

In government and international roles, Dr. Airini has contributed to education reform, equity policy, and Indigenous success strategies. She currently advises the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization on global education access and innovation.

Update from the President #2 — Listening, Acting, and Connecting August 7, 2025

Weyt-kp and warm greetings to colleagues across our community. As we move through summer, I’d like to share updates about recent activities and developments at TRU. I continue to genuinely appreciate the informal conversations we have been having, with some laughter, a lot of listening, and the sharing of encouragement each day as I visit around TRU and online.

Senate Materials

One of the responsibilities I hold is chair of Senate. I believe the deliberations, advice and decisions of the Senate are at the heart of what it means to be, and become, all that we have been called to be as Thompson Rivers University. Thank you to the committee chairs and members, senators, and support team for your vital service to our university.

Recognizing the importance of transparency, I have reinstated early access to Senate agenda materials. Beginning with the first meeting in September, all reports and documents included in the Senate agenda will be made available to the TRU community and the public one whole week in advance.

In addition, prior to Senate, I will be available to the media to discuss items of particular interest to TRU and answer questions. Following the meeting, we will share news on our website about the outcomes from Senate.

This shift supports open governance and increases the opportunity for us all to engage with the ideas, proposals and decisions shaping TRU’s future. I believe transparency further strengthens our connections to parents, caregivers, community members, businesses, students and leaders; and our ability to move forward as One University.

Honours College Update

After careful reflection, I have paused funding for the TRU Honours College for up to two years due to budget reasons. This will enable reflection on how to further strengthen the business model for the TRU Honours College. Pausing now before the program starts minimizes the impact on students.

There is undoubtedly disappointment amongst the Honours College team and the broader community. My reflection from recent meetings with our colleagues is that we all can be impressed by the continuing passion for a unique cohort model geared for exceptional student success. Alongside this is an openness to now adapting to our wider university budget challenges. The commitment remains to an approach to learning that is beyond generic models in Higher Education, and that is inclusive and innovative.

My thanks to the Honours College team, who are already turning their attention to the balance between academic principles, a sustainable business model, and a complementary marketing plan. Planning meetings will begin shortly.

University Relations Reorganization

During July, the University Relations teams have been actively participating in discussions about optimal arrangements to support their talents and contributions to TRU and associated leadership arrangements. I am genuinely appreciative of our colleagues in Marketing, Advancement, Communications, Events, and Government Relations for the open, courageous discussions.

As of August 1:

  • Oversight of the University Relations network is a combined effort between the President and two existing Vice-Presidents.
  • Advancement and Events now report to the Vice-President of Finance and Administration.
  • Government Relations reports to the President.
  • Marketing moves to report to the Vice-President of International.
  • Communications initially reports to the Vice-President International, and will transition to the President’s Office, later this year, once positions in that Office have been finalized.

We expect the ongoing arrangements to be fully operative by November 2025. Updates regarding associated role titles and arrangements will be shared with the university community during this transition period.

TRU’s University Relations services continue to be available through usual channels. The University Relations network will meet regularly, ensuring shared planning, collaboration, and cohesion across unit lines.

Our goal is to further strengthen University Relations services grounded in clarity of purpose, contributing directly and creatively to building our Future TRU, and providing leadership in shared services across our university.

Introducing TRU Talks with President Airini

I’m excited to launch TRU Talks with President Airini — a new series of monthly, informal gatherings open to all students, faculty, and staff. These sessions offer space to ask questions, share ideas, and strengthen our community through conversation. The first session will be held today (Thursday from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Student Street in Old Main, TRU Kamloops).

Today I will be sharing about my vision for Future TRU and seeking input on my initial priorities. For more information on these please do visit here. We’ll also host future sessions at TRU Williams Lake and online. Please feel welcome to stop by today and for future TRU Talks with President Airini. I look forward to meeting, listening and talking together.

Since my last update …

…I’ve had the privilege of listening, learning, and walking alongside many of us — on campus, in community, online and across the province. Highlights include a full-day planning session with the TRU Executive Team, partnership discussions with Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc and T’exelc, and early planning for September’s Senate with our Steering Committee Chair. I also met with Indigenous faculty and staff to discuss future Indigenous leadership roles and took part in an Indigenous citizenship meeting.

On campus, I visited the Andrew Sherry Plumbing Lab and our technology facilities and connected with TRU leaders across key portfolios. I met with Dr. Yasin Mamatjan and students advancing AI research to improve health outcomes, an inspiring example of TRU innovation. I also had the honour of attending the Shad banquet, closing 27 days of learning for young people hosted by the Faculty of Science and School of Trades and Technology. It was a sad honour to join with colleagues and students at the shared funeral where we farewelled two TRU students.

Whether in Victoria for donor meetings, working with colleagues on organisational changes, or chatting together about our summer highlights, gardens, (yes) the weather, and our hopes for our future TRU, I am reminded daily that we come to TRU because we know that ‘we’ is greater than ‘I’. There is so much good that we do through our use-inspired research and education that is applied to challenges in Interior BC and contributes to global futures.

Kukwstsétsemc,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor
Thompson Rivers University

Update from the President #1 — Listening, Acting, and Connecting July 25, 2025

Weyt-kp. Greetings, TRU colleagues,

It has been a meaningful beginning to my first few weeks as President and Vice-Chancellor. During these past 18 working days, there has been so much that affirms how much the potential TRU holds, and how much we can achieve together.

We have faced both joy and sorrow. The tragic loss of students and members of our wider TRU family has been deeply felt. I have seen so much care. Thank you for looking after one another and for being gentle on ourselves in these times.

We have also celebrated acts of generosity, academic excellence, and student success in these past few weeks. TRU is home to remarkable achievements. Three recent philanthropic awards, all significant, signal recognition for TRU’s mission and impact as the university that leads in use-inspired education and research applied to great challenges in B.C.’s Interior and globally.

Perhaps you have seen the news items about our TRU colleague, Dr. Courtney Mason, who was inducted into the Royal Society of Canada, and our Advancement team, led by Kim Cassar-Torregiani, which received international recognition for excellence for the work they do. This world award placed TRU on the podium with Yale University and Columbia University.

We honoured the impact of RBC’s donor support for the TRU Women in Trades Training program at a recent event, celebrating 1,200 WITT graduates to date. I had the privilege of attending both a master’s thesis defence and the completion ceremony for our Health Care Assistant program — moments that speak to the heart of student achievement and excellence of teaching. These milestones reflect the depth of talent in our students and commitment to being relentlessly student-centred across our university community.

I want to acknowledge two leadership changes that have happened since I began. Brian Daly, Vice-President University Relations, and Paul Michel, Special Advisor to the President on Indigenous Matters, have concluded their time in their roles.

Paul’s roles in Indigenous leadership have been the first at a senior level. His guidance helped shape Indigenous engagement across our campuses and strengthened relationships with many communities. Paul led the discussions and proposal development that made the forthcoming Indigenous Centre building possible. Paul’s deep commitment to Indigenous students and Reconciliation within the university has been widely appreciated.

Brian was instrumental in advancing TRU’s interests across a wide array of areas. His work with donors and community partners helped create significant new gifts for TRU, including a $10-million investment from the Gaglardi family in the School of Business and Economics. Brian also led a determined effort to improve our government relations capacities, something especially important to TRU following the announcement of TRU Wildfire in April 2024.

I want to thank both Brian and Paul sincerely for their outstanding work and the significant contributions they have made to TRU’s future. In the short term, Baihua Chadwick will serve as VP of University Relations, and I am currently consulting with the University Relations staff about the future structure. I have initiated discussions regarding future Indigenous leadership at TRU, including with Tk’emlups te Secwepemc and T’exelc.

Partnership agreement meetings between TRU and TteS have been held, and similar discussions with T’exelc are expected to begin this summer. We are genuinely grateful for the openness and generosity from both TteS and T’exelc to these very significant discussions. Engagements with Indigenous faculty and staff have been so appreciated. It was an honour that a colleague came to Kamloops from Williams Lake to join one of the meetings in person.

In these first days, I’ve met with more than 40 university leaders and staff across portfolios, including finance, research, IT, advancement, union leadership, and Indigenous education.

I appreciate the regular contact underway with the Research Universities Council of British Columbia, as well as the Skilled Trades Training Council. I have so appreciated discussions with our municipal leaders. I’ve also met with three local mayors, and this week, I travelled to Victoria to meet with our Deputy Minister and the ADMs for Finance, Post-Secondary and Future Skills, and Infrastructure.

I have also learned a great deal from my conversations across campus about your hopes and expectations for TRU, as well as your thoughts on my initial priorities, which I outlined during my installation on June 25. To continue these conversations, I’m pleased to launch a new initiative: a series of monthly 90-minute informal gatherings open to everyone — students, faculty, and staff — to ask me questions, share ideas, or enjoy a cup of coffee/tea/other.

The first session will take place in early August on campus in Kamloops, followed by sessions in Williams Lake. More details will follow on TRU Connect once the events are fully confirmed. I look forward to seeing you there.

TRU is striving ahead. In our future, TRU is one of the most innovative universities in Canada, operating beyond the generic patterns and practices of higher education, and we are resilient and adaptive. We are stepping forward together — strong, brave and caring, committed to place here in Secwepemcúl’ecw and our purpose as TRU.

Thank you for being part of this journey as one university together. I look forward to meeting more of our TRU community, hearing our stories, and creating together a remarkable, unique Future TRU.

Kukwstsétsemc,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor
Thompson Rivers University

Update from the President #3 — Building our future August 14, 2025

Hello colleagues. Weytkp. Bonjour.

Thank you for the encouraging feedback about the updates shared since July. As we approach the fall term, and with many activities underway, I plan to provide weekly updates so that these are as current as possible.

Building our future: data to inform planning and decisions

Our future TRU is one of optimal services for education and research activities. Currently, we lack an understanding of our distribution of administrative services and activities. We need to identify what we are doing well, where we can work to improve services, and what we can learn from other institutions. Having a better picture of what is happening on the ground helps with more informed decision-making.

Starting this week, we have an important initiative getting underway; one that will help expand the information available to inform our university’s planning and decisions. On Aug. 12, we began Thompson Rivers University’s first cycle of data collection for UniForum — an internationally validated program that helps universities better understand how support services enable our academic mission. This is an important step toward building a more informed, coordinated approach to administrative support at TRU.

UniForum is a benchmarking and planning tool used by 49 institutions worldwide, including 10 leading Canadian universities. Importantly, the analysis looks across the university, not within units. The goal is to understand our service landscape and identify ways to strengthen processes and services for everyone.

These data, which we will update every year, give us a clear picture of our strengths and opportunities to improve. This is helpful as well, as we navigate financial pressures.

Most of the work will involve a small group of our colleagues over the next three weeks, mapping service activities. Their efforts will provide a shared foundation for discussion and decision-making in the months ahead. We are all very grateful for this special effort by our colleagues. If you have questions, please connect with your manager or supervisor. I am also available.

We are very grateful to the group of colleagues now fully engaged in this project, along with the project coordination by IPE. Thank you for your time everyone.

Secwépemc Cultural Advisor Appointed

I am pleased to announce that Dr. Garry Gottfriedson (h.c) will serve as the first Secwépemc Special Advisor to the President (August 2025 to 2030). Reporting to the president, this role is crucial to advancing TRU’s relationship with the Secwépemc. This position provides leadership for university relations with the 17 communities of the Secwépemc, and advocacy for tellqelmúcw, those yet to be born.

I am grateful for discussions that informed the creation of this new role and appointment, including with Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and T’exelc, and TRU’s Indigenous faculty and staff. This role reflects our commitment in Envision TRU to “…nurture a flourishing relationship with the Secwépemc people on whose lands we reside. Members of our community will give exceptional consideration to Secwépemc worldview and belief systems. We will support thriving Secwépemc culture through respectful actions in research, teaching and service.”

Garry is already known to many at TRU as he was the first Secwépemc cultural advisor in the Faculty of Education and Social Work, and then took up this role with university-wide responsibilities based in Indigenous Education.

Garry is from Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, is an accomplished Indigenous poet, author of 15 books, and lead author of the Secwépemc Nation Research Ethics Guidelines. He has been awarded two honorary doctorates, including one from our own university.

Garry is a powerful spokesperson for Secwépemc, and a tireless advocate for Secwépemc communities and language preservation. Garry has worked in education for over 50 years, including several years at TRU, as a teacher, advisor, researcher and administrator.

TRU Talks with President Airini

Last week, we launched the first of a series of informal conversations at TRU to allow discussions about topics and issues important to us all. More than 25 people came out to Student Street to chat and have a coffee. Thanks to the TRU communications team for making the arrangements.

In this first conversation time, I invited a sharing of thoughts about the priorities I have identified as critical to the development of our Future TRU. Thank you for the discussion, and I thank everyone who took the time to come out and share.  I look forward to discussions at TRU Williams Lake and online, and the next full round of TRU Talks.

Since my last update . . .

Since my last update, continue to drop by around TRU and to learn so much from colleagues and students. School of Nursing instructors Renee and Laura and I talked together about their work this summer with almost 40 students upskilling for nursing in Canada. I also met colleagues in the TRU Sustainability Office who are preparing a very important sustainability pledge for us to take this fall. I chatted with teams advancing our nationally unique LCDES project. I met Samantha at the Faculty of Science, who is supporting the Geneskool team’s Summer Science Program in molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, and genomics; and is a member of the TRU EnviroCollab team.

I met with leadership in the Research Universities Council of British Columbia, and today I will be in Vancouver for government and donor meetings. This evening, I join the TRU Student Experience team in Vancouver, hosting an informal gathering of TRU’s online students, meeting up in person. The Executive Team meets each Monday afternoon, and this week included planning for the upcoming Senior Leadership Team gathering at the end of this month.

TRU's Gaglardi School of Business and Economics has partnered with the Tulo Centre for Indigenous Economics for more than a decade. This remarkable collaboration now includes the University of Canterbury (New Zealand). Dean Mike Henry and Associate Dean Jim Gaisford, TRU world colleagues, and I, along with other dignitaries, joined in welcoming the University of Canterbury to campus this week.

Best wishes for the remainder of your week, everyone, and for the upcoming weekend.

Kukwstsétselp,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #4August 22, 2025

Hello colleagues. Weytkp. Bonjour.

In this update I share about meeting with new faculty colleagues, navigating our campus, a retirement, honouring and respect, and some of the activities that have happened since my last update. Thank you so much for the encouraging words about providing these updates.

New faculty orientation

This week I had the pleasure of attending TRU’s New Faculty Orientation. Many thanks to the CELT team for coordinating this annual event. We welcomed about 25 of all new faculty members: 2 tenured, 12 tenured track, 3 limited term contract, and 8 sessional; joining TRU in the Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics, Faculty of Adventure, Culinary Arts and Tourism, Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Science and the Faculty of Student Development. Garry Gottfriedson, Secwépemc Special Advisor to the President, joined me in welcoming our new colleagues.

I shared about our university’s values, our strengths in use-inspired research and education applied to the challenges of interior BC and contributing to global futures. I also shared about a Future TRU we are building together, encouraged colleagues to identify their priorities for the first months, and then shared my own initial priorities. At this link you can hear about Future TRU and my priorities.

Our campus grounds

Our university is committed to the priority area of environmental sustainability. This summer has been about laying groundwork for our clean-energy system, with pipe installation and retrofits underway. Real change on such a scale can be messy. Thank you everyone for sharing the good news of our continued leadership in sustainability and for our shared effort to support this. TRU is proud to lead the way in sustainability with the Low-Carbon District Energy System (LCDES). This major infrastructure project will eventually connect campus buildings to an innovative heat pump system — replacing natural gas boilers and significantly reducing TRU’s carbon footprint. Learn more about the LCDES project.

Myself, as I zig-zag walking through zones, I have greatly enjoyed stopping to chat with construction team members. Some are quite a distance away from their homes in order to be part of this project. The technical skills and sustained effort even in high summer heat has been outstanding. And now we see completed pipelines being covered over. Our grounds and horticulture team can begin to work on restoration. In large and small ways, we are all part of this extensive change needed for sustainability. We strive ahead as One University. Thank you everyone.

John Sparks’ retirement

From time to time across all units of TRU we have colleagues retire. With mixed emotions, I am sharing that John Sparks, TRU’s General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, will retire from TRU on Aug. 22. This is John’s decision, and while we are saddened to see him leave our university team, we are happy for him as he begins this next well-earned chapter.

Since joining TRU in 2004, John has been the university’s principal legal officer, advising on all matters with legal implications and guiding the work of our University Secretariat. He has been a steady advocate for collegial governance and contributing beyond governance. John played an instrumental role in establishing TRU’s Faculty of Law, helping bring together supporters of the initiative and drafting the proposal that secured government approval. His belief that the Interior of British Columbia should have a law school has left a lasting mark on our region and our university.

John has served all five presidents of TRU. I am grateful for John’s years of service and his dedication to TRU’s mission. Please join me in thanking @John Sparks for his many contributions and in wishing him well for the future. John, thank you.

Flag Lowering for shíshálh Nation

** Please note this section may have challenging content **

Last week, the shíshálh Nation shared the tragic confirmation of an additional 41 unmarked graves at the former residential school in Sechelt, bringing the total number of graves in their community to 81.

In response, the provincial government lowered flags at the Parliament Buildings in Victoria until sunset on Sunday, Aug. 17. This half-masting was not required of other public institutions. At TRU, we chose to lower our flags for the same period.

We did this to respect and show solidarity with the shíshálh Nation and with all Indigenous communities and families who continue to grieve the loss of children to the residential school system.

Here in our own community, the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc confirmed the presence of unmarked graves, a truth that continues to resonate across the country. The discoveries in Sechelt and in Kamloops are reminders of the history survivors have carried for decades, and the call for all us to remember, learn, and act. By lowering our flags, TRU affirmed our commitment to reconciliation and to standing with Indigenous peoples as we continue this work together and be changed.

Since my last update …

Many thanks to the Student Experience team who created two wonderful in-person gatherings in Vancouver and Victoria for TRU OL students to gather. I was so pleased to be able to join the Vancouver event, with AVP Students Sara Wolfe and team members. The stories of grit and motivation from the students were inspiring. This was a reminder to me of our uniqueness as a university — to be committed to academic excellence in education and research and to accessible higher education. These students are exceptional in their drive and success.

As well, I have so appreciated meetings with colleagues: Faculty of Student Development, University Library, IT leaders. With thanks to Steve Pottle and the emergency operations team I was briefed on our policy and procedures. Please everyone do upload the TRU Safe app, and register there for alerts. I connected briefly with paramedics training at our Nursing and Population Health building and very much enjoyed meeting with colleagues in Science, notably Dean Greg Anderson and Associate Dean Vivek Kumar on the priority area of technology fluency. Thank you Jeneen for the beautiful plant gifted to me, grown from seeds planted at the time of the announcement of my appointment.

Today I join TRU colleagues heading north to Williams Lake to meet with T’exelc to discuss the creation of a partnership agreement. Next week the TRU Senior Leadership Team meets for two days for planning for the years ahead.

Best wishes for the weekend ahead everyone.

Kukwstsétselp,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #5August 29, 2025

Hello colleagues. Weytkp. Bonjour.

To those returning from summer vacations and study leave, welcome back. To all, please do enjoy this forthcoming long weekend. While this is a cherished holiday time in Canada, its origins remain in the recognition of the fundamental role of workers in society and acknowledge the ongoing efforts to ensure fair treatment and dignity for all.

Today I am sharing a leadership announcement, insights into this week’s Senior Leadership Team gathering, and progress with UniForum data gathering.

Leadership Announcement

I am pleased to share that Scott Blackford has been appointed Interim General Counsel following John Sparks’ retirement. Scott brings extensive legal expertise and an understanding of TRU’s governance and operations that will serve us well in this period of transition.

Safe in all seasons

We have four distinct seasons in Interior BC, and it is important that we are prepared to be safe year-round. Recent tragic news from our summer months has raised concerns about student safety, especially for newcomers to Canada and those unfamiliar with local waterways.

While TRU provides water safety information at orientation and offers safety awareness education year-round, we want to ask if more is needed. The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority. We are committed to strengthening how we prepare students for the realities and potential dangers in the outdoor environments around us throughout the year.

This week, TRU World provided enhanced water safety education for international students arriving here for the start of the academic year and the remaining summer weeks. Our immediate goal is to ensure that new students have critical safety knowledge from the outset of their time at TRU.

More broadly, we want to ensure that we are doing all we can throughout the year. I have asked our senior leaders to launch a 100-day initiative to strengthen student safety education further. This will include the creation of a season-focused safety think tank — All Seasons. All students. Safe.

The group will bring together TRU faculty, staff, and students, along with regional safety partners, to identify existing support, evidence-based measures, and make recommendations to the TRU executive team. Thank you, Sara Wolfe (Associate Vice-President, Students) and Reuben Onyango (Director, International Student Services, TRU World), for co-leading this initiative.

Senior Leadership Gathering

Earlier this week, I convened all members of the TRU Senior Leadership team for two full days. We met with openness and resolve to come together as one university, building our Future TRU. Anchored in our academic priorities in use-inspired research and education, we began preliminary planning for the actions needed to address TRU’s budget challenges.

There is an ambitious goal: to turn our university's unprecedented financial challenges into a strategic transformation, positioning TRU for success for decades to come.

The latest financial report for the current financial year was released this week and shows we continue to face difficult realities, including an immediate budget shortfall. We also have the prospect of larger deficits ahead if we do not act. This context will require difficult decisions.

Planning is underway to begin sharing the latest information starting next week, and then through to Senate committees and the Senate itself. I acknowledge that the timing is not ideal, given the start of the fall term. I remain committed to being open and transparent. Options will be built in so that information is available both in-person and online, as well as synchronously. We will share updates regularly as this work progresses.

TRU is striving ahead — strong, brave, caring, and committed to our purpose. We are one university, uniquely located within Secwepemcúl’ecw, serving our region and contributing to global futures.

UniForum Progress

Our future TRU is one in which there are optimal services for our education and research, and our colleagues leading these core activities. We are challenged, however, because we lack a clear understanding of our distribution of administrative services and activities.

We need to identify what we are doing well, where we can improve our services, and what we can learn from other institutions. Having a clearer picture helps us make more informed decisions in service units, faculties, schools, and for our university.

On August 12, we started our first cycle of data collection for UniForum — an internationally validated program that helps universities better understand how support services enable our academic mission. I have read past and recent critiques of the program. From my perspective, this scrutiny is welcome and consistent with our mandate as universities – to apply a critical lens, to be curious, to find and test solutions. Senior leaders, including myself, are available to address questions about this initiative and will do our best to provide answers.

For now, the needed work on the UniForum data collection project is well underway. My sincere thanks go to all who have contributed time and energy to provide the data that will guide future decision-making by TRU. I know this has added extra tasks to already full schedules. Your effort matters. By contributing your knowledge, you are helping TRU gain a clearer understanding of how our services operate, where we excel, and where improvements can be made to support our academic mission in use-inspired research and education.

A New Home for the President’s Office

I so appreciate the good words coming when we see each other around the TRU Kamloops campus, in Williams Lake, and online. Every day, I learn so much from impromptu and planned discussions. Being present and open matters to me as president.

With this in mind, in the coming weeks, the President’s Office will move from its current location in the Clock Tower Building to the House of Learning. The move will also include the provost’s team. My sincere appreciation to Library colleagues and our University Librarian Tania Gottschalk.

Together, we have found a way for the relocation to happen with minimal renovations while retaining an HOL location for all colleagues currently based in the building. This move during the fall term relocates the President’s Office to a more central and accessible location, enhancing its connection to students, faculty, and staff. It also frees up much-needed space in the Clock Tower for other purposes.

In my August TRU Talks time, I invited creative ideas about future possibilities for the Clock Tower to be a place of belonging. That invitation will also be included in the upcoming September 10 TRU Talks session.

Since My Last Update

In the last week, I have been privileged to join discussions about the Indigenous Centre with construction beginning soon (thank you Carmen Love, and all teams), stopped to chat with Ian as he and his team watered plants and lawns, and travelled with our TRU team (TRU Kamloops, TRU Williams Lake) to meet T’exelc and advance partnership agreement discussions.

Yesterday, it was inspiring to meet with incoming international students. More than 320 students from 56 countries and across 65 programs attended the event at the CAC Ballroom. Sincere thanks to all Faculties and Schools, student services, and all members of TRU World.

Best wishes for the weekend ahead everyone.

Kukwstsétselp,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #6September 4, 2025

Welcome back! Weyt-kp. Bonjour. Hello.

Welcome to the fall term at Thompson Rivers University! Thank you to everyone who made the summer term so successful — for redeveloping our facilities and infrastructure, for teaching, for research, and for support services. Thank you to the teams prepping for student registrations and orientation.

I had the privilege of attending TRU Orientation on the Kamloops campus on Tuesday and spoke to an enthusiastic crowd of new students. Thank you to TRU Writer and Storyteller Alicia Ashcroft for facilitating the event and Ted Gottfriedson and Alexis Gottfriedson from Indigenous Education for welcoming us all to Tk'emlupsemcúlecw. Thank you to TRU Williams Lake for the welcome gathering on Day One, with Interim Provost Wagner, Interim VP Research Brian Roy, and TRU WL Dean Pooni attending.

We also begin the year with one of TRU's most anticipated traditions — the annual Back-to-School BBQ on Friday, Sept. 5. Starting at 11 a.m., more than 120 booths will showcase student services, campus clubs and community partners. It is a wonderful way to connect, celebrate and set the tone for the year ahead. And of course, the burgers are free. Thank you to the Student Services team and all teams across campus for making this first week and month so special.

Financial Update: Friday, Sept. 5

As signalled in my Update #5, we now have projections for this fiscal year, based on Q2 reporting. I want to share information as early as possible and in a range of forums so that we can build a shared understanding and be involved in planning.

We have an ambitious goal: to turn the university's unprecedented financial challenges into a strategic transformation, positioning TRU for success for decades to come.

On Friday, I will write to our community with a financial update. Ahead of this, I will host an online live Teams session from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. for all faculty and staff who are able to come. I recognize that this is short notice in such a busy week, and that many of us will already have this time booked. I decided to hold the session, though, because I believe it is important that as president, I am available ‘in person’. The session will be recorded for those who prefer or need to view it at a later time.

The Financial Update event on TRU Connect has information on how to join the session.

We will review TRU’s financial position, planning priorities, and how we are responding to pressures and opportunities in the months ahead. This is an opportunity to stay informed and connected as we navigate decisions that will shape TRU’s long-term sustainability. The financial update will then be circulated via TRU Connect.

Questions are welcome. Please do feel free to raise these during the session and to submit questions using Slido (event code: #TRUBudget). If we are not able to provide immediate replies, we will share them as soon as possible.

There will be further opportunities for discussion:

On Wednesday, Sept. 10, I invite you to take part in TRU Talks with Airini — an informal forum where you can bring forward your budget-related questions and join the conversation. The in-person TRU Talks session will take place from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on the second floor of the OLARA building. An online TRU Talks session will take place the same day at 2:30 p.m.

During September, relevant Senate committees will be briefed, as will the Senate.

We are a university moving forward. In our future, TRU is one of the most innovative universities in Canada, not because of its leadership, but because of its faculty, staff and leaders who are deeply committed to use-inspired research and education to address the needs of Interior B.C. and contribute to global futures. And in our future TRU, we respond to our financial challenges; continuously improving with new advances in teaching, research, and service design. In this future, we live within our means, and we grow our means. This is something of the future we are building together.

Chief of Staff

At this time, as TRU is striving ahead, a key priority is leadership to serve all of TRU. After very careful consideration I have decided to add a position — Chief of Staff to the President and Vice-Chancellor — to the university's executive team.

This is a term appointment. No new budget is required for this appointment, and administrative support is provided by existing members in the President’s Office.

I believe that having a chief of staff in place is vital for the successful co-development and implementation of strategic change, from our first phase through to 2027/28.

I am pleased to announce that Mike Henry, Dean of the Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics, will serve in this inaugural role, effective Sept. 8, 2025.

The chief of staff is a new role for TRU. The role serves as a trusted partner to the president, ensuring that the office operates effectively and that the university’s most critical work progresses with clarity, through due process, and at pace. The role brings together four primary responsibilities:

  • Strategic leadership and institutional alignment
  • People leadership: overseeing the operations of the President’s Office — including staff, communications, government relations, and the university secretariat — and ensuring effective communication and action
  • Institutional leadership: serving as a member of the TRU executive team, liaising with governance bodies, and guiding responses to complex university issues
  • Wellness leadership: modelling well-being, inclusion, and respect in all aspects of leadership, and contributing to a culture of care across the university

Mike is exceptionally well prepared for this role. Since 2015, he has served as dean of the Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics, leading the school through a period of growth in programs, partnerships, and research activity that have benefitted all of TRU. His experience in industry and community relations, governance, administration, and relationship-building, along with his knowledge of TRU’s students and faculty, will be of great value as chief of staff.

Please join me in welcoming Mike as chief of staff to the president and vice-chancellor.

Indigenous Centre ground blessing ceremony

We continue to build, literally. Last week, we gathered at the site of the future Indigenous Centre to acknowledge the land in advance of construction getting underway. The gathering was facilitated by Sharon Gottfriedson, Acting Executive Director, Indigenous Education, with planning help from Interim Capital Projects Director Carmen Love. The Indigenous Centre represents TRU’s commitment to honour Secwépemc values and to create space where all Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, staff and faculty may come together.

Since my last update

I so enjoy walking about campus and visiting online as well. I often perch at Student Street to type there. It’s wonderful when you come up to say hello and share something of your day. Since my last update, my activities have included: Garry Gottfriedson and I met with Sarah Jules and colleagues at Tulo Centre for Indigenous Economics, as well as Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Chief and Council; with friends and colleagues, I attended the farewell gathering for Dean Doug Booth. Katie Klassen and I met to go over plans for the upcoming scholarship awards gathering, and I met with Dr. Vivek Kumar regarding AI and TRU becoming technology fluent.

Most of all this week is about meeting — new students, returning students, staff and faculty fully embracing this new term. Thank you, everyone, for a superb new fall term.

Kukwstsétselp,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #7September 12, 2025

Weytkp. Bonjour. Hello.

Thank you for a superb second week of fall term.

Outage

This week we had a power outage affecting all of our Kamloops campus. Thank you for adapting and your patience during the outage. In a way it was great to see us up and away from computers and connecting in person.

On behalf of us all I wrote to the Facilities team to thank them for responding immediately, working on the technical fault finding, and then creating the solution that got the power on. This response team made it possible for classes, research, operations to continue. Thank you too to our communications team for keeping us informed. Let’s all please upload the TRU Safe app and ensure we go through the steps to be set up to receive messages.

I know we won’t always find a solution right away to these kinds of events, but this week’s incident was a reminder that whatever happens we can be confident that as TRU colleagues we are always giving our best. That’s what we are about at TRU. Thank you to our Facilities colleagues for showing this week how true it is that at TRU we are One University together.

Mastercard Foundation gift

Earlier this week, we were honoured to share news of a $5-million gift from the Mastercard Foundation. This unexpected award recognizes TRU’s leadership in creating educational pathways for Indigenous learners and supports the next decade of our partnership through the EleV program. With this gift, TRU joins a select group of 30 institutions across the country.

This funding will strengthen initiatives already underway and spark new ones that ensure Indigenous learners have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. At this early stage in planning we envisage flowing about 25 per cent of the fund during the next two to three years, and endowing the balance while a medium- to long-term plan is developed.

We recognize that accepting this gift is a responsibility, and we acknowledge all those who have gone before this time, to build our understanding and practices in truth and reconciliation. We thank the Mastercard Foundation for their trust in TRU and for standing with us in our shared commitment to truth and reconciliation in action.

Financial update

Last Friday, I provided an update to the university community on TRU’s financial outlook. This update and other budget-related information is now also available online. Federal changes to international student visas have accelerated enrolment declines more sharply than expected, and this affects our operating budget. We must take immediate action to live within our means while also undertaking the longer-term work of focusing TRU for our own unique future.

The path forward includes reducing discretionary spending, slowing or cancelling some capital projects, reviewing services, and making changes to our workforce.

Ahead of these times we have had careful work to develop relevant policies, governance responsibilities and collective agreements. Please be assured that we all will be vigilant to ensure due process is followed as we go forward. I am grateful for discussions with the leadership of unions serving colleagues across TRU, as well as colleagues in People and Culture.

The response to budget challenges began in 2024 as understanding of the impact of federal policy changes grew and continues during fall term. The Early Retirement Incentive Program which closed in August 2025 is one example of planned actions underway. Given the new financial update, our available actions as a university will be considered at October's Board meeting. With members of the Senior Leadership Team I will continue to provide information to the university on planning.

I recognize that these are difficult steps, and we will approach them with compassion and care for colleagues whose roles are directly affected.

Our purpose is to balance the budget in the short term, to begin the transformation needed for TRU’s long-term success. Future TRU is about building one university that operates outside generic patterns in the university sector, is academically excellent and accessible, leading in use-inspired research and education for our region and the world, and financially stable.

TRU Talks

On Wednesday of this week, I had the genuine pleasure of meeting many of our colleagues at TRU Talks, both in-person at the OLARA building and online. I am inspired by the honesty and passion I heard for TRU’s mission and by the thoughtful questions raised. These gatherings show the strength of our community: people willing to come together, ask hard questions and contribute ideas for our future. They also confirm the importance of continued discussions — in-person and online. During October, TRU Talks will include an in-person discussion time at TRU Williams Lake as well.

Your feedback is shaping the conversations we are having at the senior leadership level. TRU Talks will continue throughout the year as part of our commitment to open dialogue. Thank you to everyone who participated and to those who will join future sessions.

Outstanding

We’re okay at TRU with standing tall. Here are just two in recent times:

  • TRU secures top spot in sustainability
  • Prof. Courtney Mason receives highest honour from the Royal Society of Canada

Since my last update

Since my last message, I have also had opportunities to connect with students, faculty, and staff in so many settings. Members of the senior executive team and I met with students and faculty who are part of the People's University of Gaza at TRU. We agreed to collaborate on meeting notes which will be forthcoming. It was wonderful to attend WolfPack games on Friday and Saturday evenings. The President’s Office and Provost’s Office visited the House of Learning fourth floor to plan for the move there in late October. My thanks continue to the Library team for this opportunity. In addition I visited with Kukpi7 Casimir as part of our regular times for connecting.

Thank you everyone for a wonderful week. I wish you rest over the weekend ahead, for many here within Secwepemcúl’ecw.

Kukwstsétselp,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #8September 19, 2025

Weytkp. Bonjour. Hello.

Thank you for another exciting week at Thompson Rivers University!

Pride Parade

This week, I had the honour of joining the TRUSU Pride Parade, which marked its 15th year on our campus. The event was a celebration of courage, community and inclusion. Each of us as speakers paid tribute to the leadership of TRUSU initiating the Pride Parade, and to those who have been and are still at the forefront of the struggles for rights.

Walking alongside students, faculty, staff, and alumni, I was reminded of how important it is that universities, and TRU in particular, continue to be places where people feel safe to live, work, and study as their authentic selves. I am thinking still about the speech by Apoorv Chowdhury, TRUSU’s LGBTQ+ representative, who shared their story and described times in which “joy is radical”.

Thank you to the TRUSU Equity Committee and all who organized and participated.

Alumni events

On Wednesday and Thursday, when I was in Vancouver and Victoria, I attended TRU alumni gatherings. Thank you to Andy Do and the team from Advancement who coordinated these special gatherings, and for the theme of sustainability. These events are a chance to connect with graduates whose contributions reach across many fields. They spoke about the value of their TRU education, and how they see a direct line between learning at TRU and their careers.

It was inspiring to hear how our alumni continue to carry TRU’s spirit into their professional and personal lives. We were also so pleased that several donors to TRU and business leaders joined these events. Thank you to everyone who joined.

Government relations

While in Vancouver, I met with senior government leadership in the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. The discussion included our unique and vital contributions to BC through our use-inspired research and education, applied to Interior BC challenges and global futures, as well as Future TRU and deficit mitigation planning. Government relations (regional, provincial, federal) are core business for the president's role — hearing from government leadership about priorities, participating as Team BC in national advocacy, and having the opportunity to speak directly about TRU’s unique strengths and the important contributions we make to the economy and communities.

In addition, while in Victoria, I met with leadership for the Research Universities’ Council of British Columbia. RUCBC works with and on behalf of its members to improve the quality, accessibility and coordination of university education in British Columbia. The Council provides a single voice on behalf of the six major universities on public policy issues, including funding, research, accountability, admissions and transfer. My thanks to Christina Zacharuk, chief executive officer, and Blair Littler, executive director.

Twenty years of intercultural learning

Sept. 19 marks the 20th anniversary of intercultural learning at TRU, and coincides with the retirement of Dr. Kyra Garson, our first intercultural coordinator. Dr. Garson’s scholarship and leadership placed TRU on the national stage in intercultural education, and the event celebrated both her contributions and the ongoing importance of intercultural learning in our future. The Showcase program included dialogues, demonstrations, and a panel asking, “Does Intercultural Learning Really Matter?” followed by an appreciation circle.

Intercultural learning is core to who we are: a university committed to respect, dialogue and global citizenship.

TRU-TRUFA discussion

This week, members of TRU senior leadership and I met with TRUFA leadership and Federation of Post-Secondary Educators of BC leadership for an informal discussion about program-related Board policy (see policy here) and collective agreement articles.

Leadership search: Provost and vice-president academic (PVPA)

The PVPA search committee met on Tuesday. In the first meeting, we reviewed the search process, which follows LoU #2 of the TRU-TRUFA collective agreement, and planned for the process, including confidentiality, managing conflicts of interest, EDI training, and a discussion about the role. We anticipate shortlisted candidates to be interviewed in early December.

As this is an executive-level search, we are supported by McDermott + Bull. Committee members are: faculty representatives Christine Miller and Dr. Monica Sanchez-Flores; senior administrator Matt Milovick; deans Dr. Yasmin Dean and Dr. Mark Wallin; Secwépemc representative Dessa Gottfriedson; and TRUSU representative Arpitha Thippeswamy.

Since my last update

In addition to these highlights, connections with students, faculty, leaders and staff across our campuses continue, and with them, amazing stories of feats in research, education, support services, and helping in our communities.

I joined supporters for a TRU WolfPack soccer game, sat chatting in Student Street, and walked gently past families of deer. I met the dad of a TRU graduate (a millwright) and heard how his son is doing so well in his professional career. And with a humble heart and gratitude, TRU World and I attended the celebration of life for one of our students who passed away this summer. We remain so grateful to Pastor Richard for his continued counsel and support. In all ways, each interaction reminds me that TRU’s greatest strengths lie with people, in all our humanity together.

Kukwstsétselp,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #9September 26, 2025

Weytkp. Bonjour. Hello.

Thank you for the positive comments about these Updates. In this Update #9, I share information about CUPE notifications, the President’s Scholarship Reception, campus renewal, program reviews, the start of Senate meetings, and activities I’ve engaged in since my last update, as well as my thoughts looking ahead to TRC Day.

CUPE notifications

This week, CUPE members received notifications of position reductions. We fully recognize the profound impact this has on colleagues and friends. These decisions impact individuals who have provided valuable professional support services to TRU. The university community is grateful to our colleagues. Please continue to take care of yourselves and each other. We are proceeding with care and respect, carefully following our agreements and policies.

I appreciated the opportunity to meet online with so many of our university on Wednesday, Sept. 24. Thank you also for the many questions, which I responded to along with Vice-President of Administration and Finance Matt Milovick and Associate Vice-President of People and Culture Shayne Olsen. This online gathering was recorded, and a link to the video was shared yesterday on TRU Connect. Additionally, a campus-wide announcement was made, which is posted here.

Over the next few weeks, we will complete the "bumping" process as outlined in the TRU-CUPE collective agreement. Overall, during the notice period (Oct. 1 to Jan. 31, 2026), our university will undertake organizational planning to prepare for a smooth transition in February. The shared goal is to provide optimal support services for students, faculty, researchers, businesses and community members engaging with the university. Some work will be prioritized, and other work might stop. Work redesign will help us operate from a smaller base.

TRU, which currently faces a significant deficit, must balance its budget. To achieve this, we must find ways to live within our means. Across the university, we all continue to prioritize every possible option to balance the budget and minimize the impact on our colleagues. Nevertheless, due to the scale of the required change, there may be a need for further workforce reductions. Our academic values and priorities in education and research will continue to lead our university’s decisions, and our budget realities will inform these.

President’s Scholarship Reception

On Thursday, I had the privilege of hosting the President’s Scholarship Reception in the Mountain Room. This annual event celebrates student excellence across entrance, undergraduate and graduate levels.

Every year, more than $1.5 million in scholarships and bursaries are awarded, made possible by the generosity of donors, alumni, foundations and community partners. These awards reduce barriers, open doors, and affirm the potential of our students.

The evening also highlighted the extraordinary achievements of individual recipients, including these students who spoke at the event:

  • Cassie McNutt, who created Cassie’s Charity Drive, raised over $260,000 for the Kamloops Hospice Association and established a fund to support future student leaders.
  • Joseph Kruger, a Syilx Okanagan Nation graduate student and Canadian Armed Forces veteran, whose resilience after losing his family home in the White Rock Lake wildfire has shaped his research on systemic barriers in justice.
  • Courtenay Campbell, a proud member of Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, whose research on wildfire recovery bridges science, Indigenous knowledge, and community service.
  • Angela Achoba-Omajali, an alumna in Nursing, who has been recognized nationally for her advocacy in mental health, equity and anti-racism, and is a continuing leader in healthcare.

All students recognized at the reception embody both achievement and service, demonstrating the impact TRU students make on campus, in their communities, and globally. We have every reason to be excited by the brilliance of potential and ambition held by TRU students.

Campus renewal

Across campus this week, sod crews were hard at work installing new grass. This work follows extensive construction for TRU’s Low-Carbon District Energy System (LCDES), which has been underway across much of the campus. With major underground work now complete, Facilities crews are restoring campus green spaces. These improvements not only repair construction areas but also contribute to the welcoming environment we strive to create for students, faculty, staff and visitors. I really enjoyed talking with the team members who laid the new turf. It is beautiful. My thanks to our Facilities team for their continued dedication.

Programs

Consistent with Board policy, TRU is to "ensure resources are used to meet the needs of students and to efficiently and effectively meet the goals and objectives of our university". We have policy-based guidelines by which the Board of Governors shall decide on the need for reducing or eliminating particular programs.

All decisions will be made with consideration for the missions and values of TRU. The process for program reduction or elimination includes consultations with departments, faculties, or schools. To support this, deans will soon receive data and information about low enrolment credentials. Thank you to deans for leading these initial consultations with departments and faculty on the accuracy and completeness of the data and information.

Thank you also to faculty colleagues for your review of these. Next steps will continue to follow Board policy. I invite us all to read the policy and related articles in the TRU-TRUFA collective agreement. Please be assured that open communication will continue.

Senate

This week marked the first Senate meeting of the fall semester. The meeting welcomed new senators, confirmed Joel Wood as vice-chair by acclamation, and outlined a refreshed format for presidential reports — blending updates for decision-making, progress reporting on strategic goals, and longer-term direction-setting under Future TRU.

Senators approved several new academic developments and received updates on TRU’s financial challenges, as well as the 18- to 20-month transformation process ahead. The Knowledge Makers program was celebrated for its 10th year, and faculty achievements were recognized, including national and international honours.

Looking ahead: Truth and Reconciliation Day

On Monday, Sept. 29, TRU will gather with Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

The programme, open to students, staff, faculty and community members, will include a territorial welcome, survivor testimonies, and reflections on the theme: “Honouring the Children, Survivors, and Families.”

TRU’s commitments to reconciliation are grounded in action. From the Knowledge Makers program, which has supported over 200 Indigenous student researchers, to the Indigenous Centre now under construction, to the Indigenous student awards endowment, we are working to ensure reconciliation is embedded in our teaching, research, and governance.

The Secwépemc principle of Kw’seltktnéws — that we are all related — guides this work. I encourage all of us to participate in Monday’s events, to listen, reflect, and act. For me, on the day itself, Sept. 30, I will return to reports from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the calls to action. I will also return to the poetry by Garry Gottfriedson, the Secwépemc special advisor to the president.

The event will take place at the Campus Commons by the Campus Activity Centre, starting at 11 a.m. View the agenda here.

Since my last update

This week, I really enjoyed listening to the CBC report on Knowledge Makers’ 10th anniversary (here). I have also been working on the itinerary for an upcoming overseas trip to meet with eight universities and establish affiliations for student exchanges, research, and program collaboration, as well as to engage with universities in the UniForum network.

Later today, I meet with TRUSU executive members. I am grateful for their time and insights. Thank you also to Alexis for the Secwepemctsín classes, open to all, which take place on the last Thursday of each month at noon in OLARA. We had a very enjoyable session this week.

This week I also attended my first Finance Committee meeting of the Board, my first (online) meeting with the six presidents in the Research Universities Council of British Columbia, and my first meeting of the TRU Community Corporation.

There were also a number of media interviews, and I greatly appreciated meeting with TRU’s Senior Leadership Team on Monday. And finally, we celebrated a special birthday for one of our cherished team members in the President’s Office.

Best wishes for the weekend ahead, everyone.

Kukwstsétselp,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #10October 3, 2025

Thank you for your continued engagement with these updates. In this Update #10, I share information about TRC Day at TRU, our participation in the provincial recruitment consortium Post-Secondary BC (PSBC), an International Baccalaureate (IB) mini-conference hosted on campus, and meetings with MLAs Peter Milobar and Ward Stamer.

TRC Day at TRU

On Monday, Sept. 29, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., our community gathered in the Campus Commons by the Campus Activity Centre to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The Office of Indigenous Education organized the event. This year’s theme was “Honouring the Children, Survivors, and Families,” with a program that began with the Little Fawn Nursery gifting their singing and dancing of the Welcome Song.

Guest speakers included Elder Evelyn Gottfriedson and Emma Gottfriedson, who offered the gift of opening words. Representatives from Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Council, TRUSU, TRU Research, TRU Indigenous Education, Métis Nation BC, and the Indian Residential Schools Survivors Society also took part. The program concluded with the Survivors' Honour Song, a Friendship Circle, and other songs.

Thank you to the TRU Indigenous Education team for bringing us together. Thank you to everyone who attended in person and to those who joined us through live-streaming. Thank you too to our facilities, sounds, and grounds teams who supported this event.

People and Culture

On Oct. 1, several CUPE colleagues received formal notice of position reductions, eliminations or potential bumping. These are difficult decisions. Our approach is guided by TRU’s values and our collective agreement. Thank you for supporting one another as we work together to restore balance over the next 18 to 20 months, keeping TRU strong for our students and the region.

Board of Governors

The Oct. 3 Board of Governors meeting included the usual in-camera morning session followed by the public session in the afternoon. The agenda and associated links can be found here. I was welcomed to the Board as a new member and presented my first report to the board.

Items and decisions from our September Senate meeting were brought forward, as well as annual reports, including the Implementation of the Sexualized Violence policy, and a notice of motion regarding the policy on the Responsible Use of University Space. There was a presentation on Future TRU and the deficit mitigation plan.

Thompson Rivers University's 15-member Board of Governors is established under the Thompson Rivers University Act. The Board comprises the Chancellor, the President, eight people appointed by the Lieutenant-Governor (two of whom are appointed from among persons nominated by the alumni association), two faculty members elected by faculty, two students elected by students, and one person elected by and from the employees of the university who are not faculty members. We are grateful to each board member for the experience, skills and time that they bring to board duties for TRU.

Post-Secondary BC provincial recruitment consortium

TRU joined colleagues from across the province at the Kamloops Community Post-Secondary Info Evening on Wednesday at the Henry Grube Education Centre. Fourteen universities and colleges were on hand. The event was open to students, parents, caregivers, and supporters.

This consortium work gives prospective learners a clear view of pathways and transfer options. It is also a practical way to gather feedback from families about affordability, program choice and support.

Our Future Students team was on hand to answer questions and connect visitors with next steps to studying at TRU. As I went along the TRU lineup, talking with young people and family members, I heard appreciation for TRU’s focus on use-inspired research and education, as well as our flexible learning options and the way we unify higher education and vocational education.

Mini-conference hosted by the International Baccalaureate (IB) Organization

On Thursday, TRU hosted the “Reaching More IB Learners” mini-conference in the Campus Activity Centre. Many thanks to Mike Bluhm, AVP enrolment services and university registrar, for assisting with this event.

The event highlighted the alignment between TRU and IB, emphasizing global-mindedness, inclusivity and learner agency. In my remarks, I outlined how TRU and IB are aligned and where we can strengthen pathways for IB graduates. As BC’s leading dual-sector research university, TRU is positioned to welcome graduates from both the IB Diploma Program (DP) and the IB Career Program (CP).

Our objective is straightforward — create clear pathways for IB students into TRU programs, with advising that respects both academic rigour and applied learning routes.

Meeting with MLAs Peter Milobar and Ward Stamer

This week, I met with Kamloops-area MLAs Peter Milobar and Ward Stamer. These conversations allow us to talk together about what matters most for our region and our students. I shared how TRU is vital to addressing skills shortages, research, and innovation across Interior BC, and how student success is central to planning. We also discussed the financial realities that universities are facing and the need for stability in provincial policy, so that we can plan responsibly.

Partnerships with local representatives strengthen our ability to serve the region and ensure TRU remains a university for the Interior, with impact that reaches here and far beyond.

Since my last update

I really enjoy spending time at Student Street as often as possible. I met with two Indigenous graduate students from Taiwan there who are studying and researching at TRU for five weeks. Thank you, Nero (TRU World), for arranging this.

Together with the search committee for the provost and vice-president academic, we completed EDI training with Keisha this week. Prof. Lesley Cormack (Principal and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of UBCO) and I had a wonderful, open discussion together.

I also sent congratulations to Prof. Bill Owen, who has been appointed Interim President and Vice-Chancellor at UNBC. And finally, I am looking forward to visiting the NASA International Space Apps Challenge — a 48-hour hackathon during the weekend.

Thank you for such a good week at TRU, everyone. All the best for the weekend ahead.

Kukwstsétselp,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #11October 10, 2025

Hello. Bonjour. Weytk,

In this Update #11, I share highlights about our Fall Convocation and International Graduate Reception, the national launch of the Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada (WRCC), recent discussions on AI leadership at TRU, and new developments related to the Mastercard Foundation TRC award.

Fall Convocation 2025

Today, we celebrated the achievements of the TRU Class of 2025 with our Fall Convocation ceremony at the Tournament Capital Centre. The TCC was full with family, friends, supporters and of course all the graduates. I talked with many family and friends in the stands before the event and the stories were so inspiring. This is one of the most joyful occasions in the university year, marking years of dedication by students, faculty, staff, and families. I am so grateful to all the faculty, deans, and senior leaders who joined on stage. Your energy of celebration was palpable. Thank you colleagues. And to Katie and the TRU Events team, thank you sincerely.

We also hosted the International Graduate Reception this afternoon in the Grand Hall, where we recognized more than 230 graduates from over 30 countries. Many began their studies during the uncertainty of the pandemic. Their perseverance and achievement embody resilience and global connection. A memorable highlight: twin siblings from Sri Lanka graduating together from the Bachelor of Tourism Management — a powerful symbol of family and shared success.

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada (WRCC) launch

Earlier this week TRU hosted the inaugural national gathering of the Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada (WRCC). The event brought together wildfire researchers, Indigenous fire stewards, government and industry leaders, and international contributors from Australia and Spain.

The gathering marked the start of a new, national collaboration — a consortium that will move Canada’s wildfire knowledge from research to practice. TRU is proud to be a founding board member and the physical home of this network, anchoring its executive director’s office on our Kamloops campus.

In my welcome words I was thinking about the Secwépemc principle of K’wselktnéws — that resilience grows through relationship — and I shared how TRU’s leadership in wildfire research, education, and training strengthens communities across the country. We have hope.

This launch is a major milestone for TRU’s use-inspired research mission and further establishes Kamloops as a hub for wildfire knowledge and collaboration.

AI leadership at TRU

I’ve been giving thought to AI leadership at TRU and how we can prepare our community for what comes next. This week included conversations with colleagues Leisel Knaack, Brian Roy, and Matt Norton, as well as discussions about language-learning applications with the Indigenous Education and research teams. More on this later.

Additionally, I participated in the NASA International Space Apps 48-hour Hackathon Challenge, all of which affirmed the pace of change and promise of this field. Thank you to the brilliant faculty, staff and leadership who made this possible; to the Faculty of Science and other generous sponsors.

The hackathon happened across Canada all at the same time, based at different universities. TRU had the third largest participant group after University of Toronto and Waterloo (and we had to close off the entries due to limited places). My sense, listening to all the 3- to 4-minute presentations here at TRU on Sunday evening, is that at TRU we are innovators. We can solve challenges across our planet and into space.

Partnerships and recognition

This week also saw developments around the Mastercard Foundation award to TRU ($5M), which supports Indigenous education and student success. Sharon Gottfriedson will be the administrator for this work as we make decisions about the best ways to use this incredible gift, which will deepen TRU’s long-standing commitment to inclusive, community-based learning. Thank you to Sharon as she sets up governance and operations arrangements for the fund. More information will come once the arrangements are in place.

UniForum

An initial report from the data submitted over summer was reviewed by myself and other members of the Executive Team this week. There are some early positive signs, as well as areas where we might aim for excellence. The data help us as TRU to create some hypotheses about future arrangements and inform decisions.

We are not at that stage yet though. What happens next is that a report from this first round is finalized by mid-November. It will then be discussed with the Senior Leadership Team, and there will be some sharing through those units and governance committees as well. Early thinking is that this will happen from November to January. Sincere thanks to all those involved in the data submission. A special thanks to IPE.

Since my last update

I was in Victoria on Thursday to meet with Premier Eby, Hon. Minister Sunner (Post Secondary and Future Skills), Hon. Minister Ravi Kahlon, Deputy Ministers, and Chiefs of Staff. All six members of the Research Universities Council of BC were in attendance. The premier shared about government priorities and we heard from the ministers about priorities in their portfolios.

In the time available TRU’s contribution as BC’s first dual-sector research university (unifying higher education and vocational education) received positive interest, along with sharing about how we can contribute to BC’s economic and social development through our use-inspired research and education applied to challenges in Interior BC and the province.

I am joining the WolfPack supporters this evening at Hillside Stadium.

Thank you to everyone involved in an exceptional week for our TRU — from the WRCC launch to Convocation celebrations. Each event big and small reflects the Future TRU we are building: a university of place, connected to the world; focused; strong, brave, and caring. I am so thankful.

Kukwstsétselp,

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #12October 16, 2025

Hello. Bonjour. Weyt-kp.

This week’s update provides information about a student safety initiative, Open House 2025, TRU receives a national award, an invitation to applied AI discussions, and international engagement underway.

All Seasons. All Students. Safe.

Since its launch in September, this critically important project has brought together colleagues from across the university with one clear purpose — to strengthen seasonal safety for our students.

Led by Sara Wolfe and Reuben Onyango, the All Seasons. All Students. Safe group now comprises 12 members and operates under formal terms of reference. The team is reviewing evidence on student seasonal accidents and fatalities, identifying existing educational efforts, and developing coordinated recommendations to improve awareness of local seasonal risks — from water and hiking safety in summer to cold-weather and road safety in winter.

After meeting weekly in September, the group now meets bi-weekly and will present its recommendations and implementation plan to the Executive Team in December. Thank you so much to Sara and Reuben, who, with the group, are leading a proactive, student-centred initiative that reflects the practical and caring spirit of TRU.

TRU Open House 2025

Excitement builds for this year’s TRU Kamloops Open House. Planning has been underway for many months. Thank you to the Open House team for your energy and passion for TRU’s future students. Thank you to all the faculty and students who will be on hand to share activities and advice.

TRU Kamloops’ Open House is on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Explore our programs with over 100 booths and experiences, take the family out for a day of fun, or simply learn more about our campus — Open House has something to offer everyone. Connect with faculty and students, engage in hands-on activities, and experience what it’s like to live and learn at TRU.

Thank you too to the team that led the successful TRU Williams Lake Open House on Oct. 15.

TRU and City of Kamloops partnership recognized nationally

TRU is a leader in innovation. We were all so pleased to learn of a national award announced last week, recognizing TRU’s ongoing collaboration with the City of Kamloops through our Researcher-in-Residence (RiR) program.

The You Are Here Kamloops Cultural Strategic Plan 2024–2034, developed through the RiR partnership and co-led by Dr. Will Garrett-Petts, received the 2025 Creative City Impact Award in Cultural Planning at the Creative City Network of Canada Summit.

This award celebrates the integration of university research into civic planning. It acknowledges the contributions of TRU faculty, students, and postdoctoral researchers such as Dr. Cheryl Gladu, who worked with City staff and residents to map Kamloops’ cultural identity. Congratulations to the entire team on this national recognition of collaboration. TRU is a leader in use-inspired research and education applied to challenges in Interior BC and contributing to global futures.

MoU Development – TRU/SFU

With thanks to the Provost’s Office and TRU Research, we have developed a Memorandum of Understanding between TRU and SFU to advance collaboration in applied AI education and research. Both I and SFU’s president and vice-chancellor are signatories to the MoU.

TRU Talks with President Airini

We have an ambitious goal: to turn the university's unprecedented financial challenges into a strategic transformation, positioning TRU for success for decades to come. Since August 2025, we have been meeting monthly for TRU Talks with President Airini, an informal and open discussion about building our Future TRU.

This month’s TRU Talks will be held on Friday, Oct. 24:

10 to 11:30 a.m. in person at TRU Kamloops
12 to 1 p.m. online with TRU Williams Lake

As with previous TRU Talks, the aim is to provide a forum for ‘soundings’ related to our strategic transformation. I will begin by welcoming those who can attend and then share information about strategic ideas/initiatives related to TRU’s future.

For October, the ‘soundings’ will be about: Future TRU, evolving as a dual-sector research university; and draft strategic change goals for our university’s first phase of strategic transformation (2025/26 and 2027/28).

Your input and ideas, as well as our conversations at TRU Talks, help us build a shared understanding of our forward momentum and tackle our challenges, positioning TRU for success for decades to come.

Venue and link details for TRU Talks with President Airini on Oct. 24 will be shared soon.

Since My Last Update

I am currently overseas working with universities in New Zealand and Australia. I am grateful to be joined by Garry Gottfriedson (Secwépemc Special Advisor to the President) and Matt Milovick (Vice President of Administration and Finance). The discussions will result in several formal affiliation agreements, which will be finalized after the travel. Actions are intended to contribute to building our Future TRU through partnering with purpose:

Establish/deepen collaborations/affiliations between TRU and universities in NZ and Australia to advance international research, collaborative education models, and student experience; and environmental sustainability leadership (University of Canterbury).

Indigenization: Advance international Indigenous research and education collaborations/affiliations between TRU and universities in NZ (Te Wānanga o Aotearora, Te Wānanga o Raukawa). Invite participation in the opening of the TRU Indigenous Centre (estimated: November 2026) and a year of activities to follow (University of Canterbury, Te Wānanga o Aotearora, Te Wānanga o Raukawa, Wainuiomata High School).

Redefining what it means to be a university: Network with a dual-sector research university to expand understandings of good practice (Victoria University, Melbourne).

One University: Engage with university leaders in the UniForum network to share practices in strategic transformation to optimize student experience and to strengthen support for faculty, staff, and leadership (3 to 4 Australian universities).

We will continue to expand the number and scope of focused, strategic, reciprocal partnerships that address challenges for people and communities in Interior BC, the province, and contribute to better global futures.

In support of open communication, I will provide a report on my international travel on behalf of TRU, including the itinerary, outcomes, and direct expenses, via the president’s webpage. Consistent with our legislated requirements, a summary account of direct travel-related expenditures will also be available annually.

While I am offshore for this work, Dr. Shannon Wagner is acting president and vice-chancellor, per Board policy.

I look forward to returning to campus and conversations about TRU redefining what it means to be a university, being BC’s first dual-sector research university, and leading in use-inspired research and education.

Thank you, everyone, for advancing this important work as valued colleagues at TRU. Whether in Kamloops, Williams Lake, or around the world, our TRU community continues to show what it means to be strong, brave, and caring. That is how we strive ahead at TRU.

Thank you. Merci. Kukwstsétselp.

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #13October 24, 2025

Weytkp. Bonjour. Hello.

This week’s update shares information about today’s TRU Talks, the agenda for next week’s Senate meeting, progress on UniForum and Strategic Change Goals, and upcoming national engagements.

TRU Talks — Building our Future TRU

This morning, I invite you to join TRU Talks with the President — taking place from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at TRU Kamloops in NPH 160, Chappell Family Building for Nursing and Population Health. From 12 to 1 p.m. there will be an online TRU Talks session for TRU Williams Lake.

If you’re reading this later in the day, the sessions will have already taken place — thank you to everyone who joined and contributed to these conversations.

Since August, TRU Talks has offered space for open dialogue. Thompson Rivers University is transforming in the context of a post-secondary sector that is evolving rapidly. The financial pressures facing our university are significant. We are acting quickly to meet these challenges, guided by our core values and our commitment to excellence in use-inspired research and education. We have an ambitious goal: to turn the university's unprecedented financial challenges into a strategic transformation, positioning TRU for success for decades to come.

Today’s discussions will include ‘soundings’ on refreshing the Envision TRU strategic change goals (here). Initially set in 2020, we are half-way through the ten-year visioning period. Draft refreshed strategic change goals (2025/26–2030/31) for the next five years will be shared. As always, advice is very welcome — including on purpose, scope, and tracking progress.

The draft refreshed strategic change goals will be discussed in academic governance meetings and were conceptualized during summer with input from senior leadership team members. Consultations will continue through October and November ahead of advancing refreshed strategic change goals to the Board of Governors later this fall. Each conversation helps shape how we move forward together to build the Future TRU.

Senate — Monday, October 27

The agenda for Monday’s Senate meeting is now available. Highlights include:

  • Approval of program revisions
  • Reports for information: Trades Program Review Deferral and Career and Experiential Learning Program Review.
  • Consultation item: proposed revisions to the Responsible Use of University Space Policy, referred by the Board of Governors for Senate feedback before December.
  • Notice of motion: a proposal to include a regular in-camera session on future Senate agendas.

The meeting takes place Monday, Oct. 27, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in HL190 and will be live-streamed. Find the agenda and livestream link here. The agenda for each Senate includes reports from the president and vice-chancellor and the provost and vice-president academic. As signaled at the September meeting of Senate, my reports will generally cover two areas: information that supports decision-making by Senate, and soundings. This month my report includes an overview of the draft refreshed strategic change goals (2025/26–2030/31), priorities of the president (2025/26-2027/28), and TRU achievements and accolades.

UniForum — Advancing Service Excellence

This month, TRU’s Executive Team reviewed draft early results from the UniForum benchmarking project. The data provides comparative insight into how TRU delivers administrative and academic support services, helping us identify efficiencies and opportunities to strengthen the student, faculty, and staff experience of professional services. A finalized report will be available in November. Sharing and discussions will happen through November and December to inform the translation of findings into further strengthening professional support services at TRU.

RUCBC Presidents Meeting

This morning, I met with colleagues from BC’s research universities at the Research Universities Council of BC (RUCBC) meeting. Topics included debriefs from meetings with the Premier and Ministers, preparation for the BC Industrial Plan, and coordinated advocacy on research and innovation priorities. The session also included joint discussions with vice-presidents research about strengthening federal and provincial collaboration.

Upcoming Engagements — Universities Canada and Alumni in Ottawa

Next week, I will participate in the Universities Canada Fall Membership Meeting in Ottawa (Oct. 28 to 29). Sessions will explore national priorities including post-secondary funding, research partnerships, and financial sustainability.

TRU will also host its first TRU Alumni Night in Ottawa on Oct. 29 — a gathering with alumni in federal public service, NGOs, and education. Guests include distinguished alumni Lori Marchand, Kevin Loring, and Frank Fiorenza. These events strengthen our national connections and highlight TRU’s reach across Canada.

Since My Last Update

TRU’s annual Open House was held with success last weekend. Thank you to all on the organizing team and contributors to information sharing and experiences. A report on my recent international engagement has been drafted for posting onto the president’s website next week. This includes itinerary, outcomes, actions, and costs. I have greatly appreciated working with the IPE team on data and trends as One University. IPE is vital to evidence-informed planning and actions at TRU. An area I explored this week are the ‘Trend Cards’ which offer insights that are helpful as we build our future TRU.

Best wishes for the weekend ahead, everyone.

Kukwstsétselp. Merci.

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #14October 31, 2025

Hello. Bonjour. Weytkp.

This week’s update highlights our alumni gatherings in Toronto and Ottawa, the recent BC Supreme Court ruling on Thompson Rivers University’s Visual Arts programs, October’s TRU Talks discussions in Kamloops and Williams Lake, and this week’s Senate meeting.

Alumni and Open Learners Nights in Toronto and Ottawa

It was wonderful to meet with TRU alumni, TRU Open Learning students, partners, and friends in both cities this week. These evenings showcase the remarkable impact TRU graduates are making across Canada and abroad, and the passion of TRU’s Open Learning students. Our alumni spoke with pride about their TRU experience, their mentors, and how their experience with TRU continues to shape their work and lives. Our current students shared the importance of access to education wherever they might be and how this makes it possible to earn while learning.

There was support for our unique position as a dual-sector research university that unifies higher and vocational education. We were encouraged to continue to grow TRU’s use-inspired research and education, applied to challenges in Interior BC and contributing to Canada’s future. Work-integrated and experiential learning also featured in the discussions. There was spontaneous applause when we shared about our university’s achievements in sustainability.

On Thursday next week, the final alumni visit for this series will be held in Calgary. Thank you to our Advancement and Alumni teams for organizing events that build community and connection. Thank you to our Open Learning colleagues for joining key events. It is always inspiring to meet and hear from those who are empowered to build lives and pursue dreams and careers through TRU. It is an honour to share in the continued enthusiasm for our TRU community, research and education.

Court Decision on Visual Arts Programs

On Oct. 28, the BC Supreme Court found that the Board’s decision to eliminate four Visual Arts programs was reasonable, and that “TRU’s decision-making process in reaching the decision to discontinue the Visual Arts Programs was fulsome, conducted in good faith and essentially in conformity with BD Policy 8-4.”

The review also signalled learning for TRU. The court found that the decision to suspend enrolment was made without first seeking the approval of the Board. I believe the Thompson Rivers University Act and policies provide principles, processes, and precedent for respectful decision-making. We will always strive to be respectful and to follow due process. This principled effort continues in the spirit of respectful decision-making.

The court also found that reversing the decision to suspend enrolment would be moot since the Board ultimately decided to eliminate the programs. This means the Board's decision to suspend enrolments and to close the four TRU Visual Arts programs remains unchanged.

My post to the university community on Oct. 29 on this case can be found here.

TRU Talks – TRU Kamloops and TRU Williams Lake

Thank you to everyone who joined last week’s TRU Talks with President Airini. At TRU Kamloops, colleagues shared thoughtful questions about the draft 2025–2030 change goals, which will guide the next phase of Envision TRU. More information on these refreshed goals will be shared soon.

At TRU Williams Lake, our virtual gathering sparked valuable discussion about how TRU can make practical use of artificial intelligence, and how bench-marking through UniForum can help strengthen support for faculty and students.

These conversations are intended to be open, and please do feel very welcome to attend, so we can continue to shape how we move forward together toward a Future TRU. A number of the items discussed in October will be brought forward to governance discussions and to the Executive Team. The idea of a suggestion box will be actioned this month. Thank you one and all.

The next TRU Talks sessions are on Monday, Nov. 17. Please look for further details on TRU Connect in the coming days.

Draft Strategic Change Goals (2025–2030)

In 2020, TRU’s strategic change goals were created to drive the 10-year vision described in the Board-approved Envision TRU (2020–2030). Five years on, TRU is transforming in a rapidly evolving post-secondary sector. At the halfway point for Envision TRU, a refresh of the strategic change goals is underway to respond to our context and future-proof the university.

Having both the Envision TRU strategy and measurable goals is important because together they provide a roadmap for building our future TRU by offering clarity, forward direction, and accountability. A strategy guides long-term decisions, while measurable goals allow us to track progress, sustain focus, and clearly understand what needs to be achieved and what success looks like.

In November, discussions on draft strategic change goals (2025–2030) will take place in several forums. Your input is valued. The Senate will be advised of the views from these discussions and invited to provide advice. The next Board meeting (Dec. 5) will receive a briefing on our strategic change goals (2025–2030).

A briefing paper on this initiative will be posted online shortly, and a link to the document will be shared via TRU Connect. Please do feel fully welcome to contribute through the upcoming meetings.

Senate Meeting Highlights

The Senate met on Monday to discuss academic program updates, policy reviews, and ongoing planning work related to academic sustainability. I am grateful to senators for their leadership in these important deliberations, which help ensure our decisions remain rooted in quality, accessibility, and the success of our learners.

The October Senate agenda papers can be found here and the TRU Connect item on Senate outcomes can be found here.

Since My Last Update

Over the past two weeks, I have continued meeting with colleagues and partners about advancing TRU’s strategic transformation. This includes our distinction as a dual-sector research university and leader in use-inspired research and education applied to challenges in Interior BC and contributing to Canada and global futures.

Thank you for the continued energy and ideas as we build our Future TRU together. Whether on campus or across the province, our efforts together show what it means to be TRU: strong, brave, and caring.

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update from the President #15November 6, 2025

Hello. Bonjour. Weytkp.

This week’s update includes news about a special advisor for AI starting at TRU, reflections on Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, TRU’s response to a planned denialist event, our alumni gathering in Calgary, this month’s TRU Talks sessions, and international recognition for TRU Open Learning.

Future TRU: Charting our progress

We have an ambitious goal: to turn the university's unprecedented financial challenges into a strategic transformation that positions TRU for success for decades to come. This is a university-wide effort, and thank you, everyone, for all the ways in which we are building our future TRU.

This month, there are discussions about refreshing our university’s strategic change goals (attached as a PDF to this message). Please find the information below about this month’s TRU talks with President Airini. These goals will be the core of tracking and reporting on progress during the first 18 to 20-month phase through to 2027/28, and the second phase through to 2030/31. In phase one, we are adjusting to living within our means while making highly strategic investments, and in phase two, we are living within our means and growing our means. The 10 draft strategic change goals span academic excellence, student experience, research, sustainability, internationalization, reconciliation, and more.

The Senate and the Board continue to receive regular updates on progress. We can attend the public sections of these meetings and access agenda papers online (https://www.tru.ca/board/agenda.html; https://www.tru.ca/senate/agendas.html).

Thank you to the provost and vice-president academic, deans and faculty councils for the budget presentations and discussions that have been happening in every faculty and school.

Questions are always welcome, and we do our best to assist: president@tru.ca.

Update on President’s Office and administration roles

I welcomed a recent query about administration/exempt roles at TRU and the president’s office.

Over the past year (November 2024–October 2025) there has been a reduction of 13 to 16 per cent in administration/exempt roles (about 30 FTE). This represents a saving of about $3 million (net). This also represents the departure of valued colleagues, the transition of remaining roles, and identifying what we will prioritize, pause, or stop doing.

In the president’s office, the total number of roles has remained the same; however, several ongoing roles have been replaced with term roles (two special advisors and the chief of staff). Having term positions of about two years each means we have flexibility as well as expertise. We can focus on the first phase for building Future TRU and then review what roles are needed moving forward, looking at the progress we are making. Costs in the president’s budget are tracking at about nine to 10 per cent lower for 2025/26.

Here is a snapshot of the changes to the president’s office (as of November 2024 and November 2025):

TRU strengthens leadership in technology and responsible AI

TRU is moving forward with and through technology. We have significant potential for leadership in responsible applied AI that serves our region and contributes to global futures. We can be so impressed and inspired by students, faculty, staff and leaders across TRU who are integrating technology in ways that strengthen, exceptionally and responsibly, our use-inspired research and education.

We look forward to the launch of the AI network facility here at TRU in 2026 — a partnership between TRU and Bell, the first of its kind, and the flagship in Bell Canada’s new fabric AI project. Kamloops is the site for what has been described as “the digital backbone for Canada, [and] the spine of what will become Sovereign AI in Canada.”

With a view to our further advancing as a leading technology-fluent university, I am pleased to share that Andrea Li has joined Thompson Rivers University as special advisor to the president on artificial intelligence.

This two-year appointment, beginning this week, reports to the president and vice-chancellor and plays a strategic and integrative role in advancing Thompson Rivers University’s leadership in applied artificial intelligence. A key focus will be institution-level guidance that helps prepare our university community and all graduates for a future where humans and technology work together ethically, practically, efficiently, sustainably, and creatively.

The special advisor to the president on artificial intelligence connects with all parts of TRU and provides leadership to the president, TRU executive team and senior leadership team, supporting our ambitions as a dual-sector research university that provides innovative solutions to challenges in Interior BC and Canada’s need to advance with responsible AI adoption.

Andrea brings deep experience in analytics, digital transformation, and strategy. She has advised organizations in education, healthcare, and technology on adopting new tools responsibly — always with people and purpose at the centre.

Since graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, her experience ranges from startups to technology giants (Amazon, Google) across Canada, the United States, and Singapore. Andrea will help us think carefully about how TRU can use AI and related technologies to support our teaching, research, and operations, and to augment human potential.

Andrea will work closely with our leaders in technology at TRU, the senior leadership team, colleagues, and students across the university to identify where AI can make a practical difference — from improving access to information, to supporting learning and research, to helping us use our resources more efficiently. She will also help us build clear ethical and governance frameworks so that we can move forward responsibly and confidently.

From Andrea: “I’m honoured to join TRU at this moment of opportunity. I’m passionate about how technology can spark curiosity, creativity, and impact — empowering students, educators, and communities to thrive in an AI-enabled world. I look forward to shaping what’s possible together.”

The role profile can be viewed here. Please join me in welcoming Andrea to the TRU community.

Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day

As we move through November, we take time together to remember those who have served and sacrificed in times of war and peace. Across Canada and here at Thompson Rivers University, this is a period for reflection, learning, and gratitude.

On Nov. 8, we honour the service and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis veterans. For generations, Indigenous peoples have served with courage in every major conflict, from the War of 1812 to the world wars and beyond, often without equal recognition when they returned home.

Communities across the country gather through drumming, song, and storytelling to remember the resilience of Indigenous soldiers and to honour their families. This is also a time for us to listen, to learn, and to recommit to reconciliation and equity.

On Nov. 11 at 11 a.m., we pause for two minutes of silence to mark the end of the First World War, as well as the sacrifices made by so many Canadians in conflicts and wars. Together, we remember those who served and those who gave their lives.

It is fitting that these commemorations are so close together. They remind us that Canada’s story of service is diverse and deeply interconnected. By recognizing Indigenous Veterans Day alongside Remembrance Day, we strengthen our shared commitment to understanding, gratitude, and peace.

At TRU, we gathered this morning (Thursday, Nov. 6) on Student Street to remember together. For those who can join, TRU will also lay a wreath at the City of Kamloops ceremony on Tuesday.

As we wear our poppy or take a moment of silence, I invite us to reflect on the courage of veterans and the legacy of all who served. Together, we honour their memory through our actions for justice and peace.

Protecting our community

Yesterday I wrote to TRU on a matter that has come to our attention that is contrary to university policy and our commitment to honour truth, reconciliation and rights. The Executive Team of Thompson Rivers University is aware of online posts promoting an unsanctioned gathering at our Kamloops campus on Nov. 12.

This activity is not approved under Thompson Rivers University’s Responsible Use of University Space policy, which requires prior authorization for any organized event or filming. Our focus is on maintaining a safe, respectful environment for study, work, and campus life. The message to TRU can be found here.

Calgary alumni gathering

Thank you to everyone joining this evening’s TRU Alumni and Open Learners Night in Calgary. These gatherings connect TRU’s extended community of graduates, students, and friends across Canada and beyond. Conversations in Calgary will build on the appreciation we are hearing country-wide for TRU’s world-class leadership in sustainability, uniquely redefining what it means to be a university, unifying higher education and vocational education as BC’s first dual-sector research university, and impact in use-inspired research and education applied to challenges in BC and contributing to global futures.

It is always wonderful to hear from alumni who shared how their TRU experience continues to shape their careers and communities. Thank you to the TRU Advancement and Alumni team, and TRU Open Learning, for your collaboration and to TRU alumni and partners for your enthusiasm.

TRU Talks with President Airini

TRU Talks with President Airini is a series of monthly, informal gatherings open to everyone — students, faculty, and staff — to ask questions, share ideas, and connect through conversation. For those on the Kamloops campus, please drop in for the next in-person session:

Monday, Nov. 17, 9:30 – 11 a.m.
Panorama Room, International Building

For those unable to attend in person, an online session will follow:

Monday, Nov. 17, 11:15 a.m. – noon (MS Teams)

We can find the link to the online meeting on TRU Connect. I genuinely look forward to seeing you there and continuing our conversations about how we build our Future TRU together.

TRU recognized for leadership in open education

TRU is celebrating international recognition for its leadership in open education, with faculty, students, and collaborators named among the 2025 Open Education Global Awards for Excellence winners and finalists.

The honours highlight TRU’s inclusive and community-driven approach to creating and sharing open learning resources that make education more accessible to all. As Interim Provost Shannon Wagner shared, “These nominations reflect TRU’s commitment to open education as a means of advancing equity, inclusion, and collaboration in learning.”

Congratulations to all who contributed to these outstanding projects and to everyone advancing open learning at TRU.

Since My Last Update

Over the past two weeks, I have continued meeting with colleagues and partners to advance TRU’s strategic transformation and to prepare for upcoming governance discussions at the Senate and the Board on the refreshed 2025–2030 change goals.

I really enjoyed attending the opening of the Kamloops Rock Show at the Kamloops Museum and Archives. The rocks and minerals on display are fascinating and such a terrific learning opportunity. We so appreciate the opportunity to partner with the Kamloops Museum and Archives, City of Kamloops, and Secwépemc Museum in this project. Thank you to Dr. Nancy Van Wagoner, a TRU researcher in geology, and to Dr. Will Garrett-Petts, who leads research at TRU on local community partnerships.

Coming up next week: I look forward to joining the CUPE general meeting for an open discussion and Q&A time. I will meet with the Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills Minister, Jessie Sunner, regarding TRU funding. Preparations are underway for November’s Senate and December’s Board meeting, and we look forward to the TRU Gala (Saturday, Nov. 15).

Thank you for your continued energy and ideas as we build our Future TRU together. Whether on campus or across the province, we show what it means to be TRU: strong, brave, and caring.

Thank you. Merci. Kukwstsétselp.

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Court decision regarding visual artsOctober 29, 2025

Hello colleagues. Weyt-kp.

Yesterday, the Supreme Court of British Columbia released its decision regarding the closure of Thompson Rivers University’s Visual Arts programs. (The written judgment is expected to be posted on the BC Supreme Court website this week.)

The case concerns Thompson Rivers University’s decision to suspend enrolment in its Visual Arts programs and the decision of the university’s Board of Governors to discontinue four Visual Arts programs within the Faculty of Arts:

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual Arts, Major);
  • BA (Visual Arts, Minor);
  • Diploma in Visual Arts; and
  • Visual Arts Studio Certificate.

The court found that the Board’s decision to eliminate the programs was reasonable, and that, “…TRU’s decision-making process in reaching the decision to discontinue the Visual Arts Programs was fulsome, conducted in good faith and essentially in conformity with BD Policy 8-4.”

While the court found that the decision to suspend enrolment was made without first seeking the Board's approval, it also found that reversing this decision would be moot, since the Board ultimately decided to eliminate the programs.

This means the Board's decision to suspend enrolments and to close the four Thompson Rivers University’s Visual Arts programs remains unchanged.

Many students, alumni, faculty, and community members have expressed their deep attachment to the Visual Arts program and to the important role it played in Thompson Rivers University’s creative and cultural life.

Like so many, I too have admired Thompson Rivers University's Fine Arts programs and the creative works of students, and noted the impact of declining enrolments. I acknowledge that some colleagues at Thompson Rivers University have described actions regarding the closure of Fine Arts enrolments as experiences of hurt and frustration. I also acknowledge the extended engagement of the Department and Faculty Council, Senate, the Board, and TRUFA in this process and associated decisions.

As President and Vice-Chancellor, I am sorry for any hurt experienced or frustration caused by this case. I believe all colleagues should feel respected, even in the midst of difficult discussions about change.

Thank you to those who, over the years, have developed university policies in accordance with the Thompson Rivers University Act, and who uphold the importance of following legislation and policy. Our Act and policies provide principles, processes, and precedent for respectful decision-making. We will always strive to be respectful. I am confident that every effort is being made at our university to operate consistently with legislation and policy. This principled effort will continue in the spirit of respectful decision-making.

Finally, thank you and my respect to colleagues who have developed and led Fine Arts programs at Thompson Rivers University.

Thank you, everyone. Merci. Kukwstsétselp.

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

A time for remembranceNovember 5, 2025

Weyt-kp. Bonjour. Hello.

As we move through November, we take time together to remember those who have served and sacrificed in times of war and peace. Across Canada and here at Thompson Rivers University, this is a period for reflection, learning, and gratitude.

On Nov. 8, we honour the service and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis veterans. For generations, Indigenous peoples have served with courage in every major conflict, from the War of 1812 to the world wars and beyond, often without equal recognition when they returned home.

Communities across the country gather through drumming, song, and storytelling to remember the resilience of Indigenous soldiers and to honour their families. This is also a time for us to listen, to learn, and to recommit to reconciliation and equity.

Just days later, on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m., we pause for two minutes of silence to mark the moment the First World War ended. Together, we remember those who served and those who gave their lives. At TRU, we will gather on Thursday, Nov. 6 on Student Street in Old Main from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m., and I invite us to take part on campus or attend an event in our community.

It is fitting that these two commemorations are so close together. They remind us that Canada’s story of service is diverse and deeply interconnected. By recognizing Indigenous Veterans Day alongside Remembrance Day, we strengthen our shared commitment to understanding, gratitude, and peace.

As we wear our poppy or take a moment of silence, I invite us to reflect on the courage of veterans and the legacy of all who served. Together, we honour their memory through our actions for justice and peace.

Thank you. Merci. Kukwstsétselp.

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Update on unsanctioned event at TRUNovember 5, 2025

Hello colleagues. Weyt-kp

While this message may contain new information to some in our university community, I believe it is important that I write on a matter that has come to our attention that is contrary to university policy and our commitment to honour truth, reconciliation and rights.

The Executive Team of Thompson Rivers University is aware of online posts promoting an unsanctioned gathering at our Kamloops campus on November 12. This activity is not approved under Thompson Rivers University’s Responsible Use of University Space policy, which requires prior authorization for organized events or filming outside the core operations of the university.

Our focus is on maintaining a safe, respectful environment for study, work, and campus life. To that end, we have reminded the individuals involved that they do not have permission to hold this activity at Thompson Rivers University and have issued a notice under the B.C. Trespass Act.

Our teams are working together to ensure that the campus remains open, safe, and calm. Thompson Rivers University will respond proportionately and in accordance with policy and law.

Thompson Rivers University stands with survivors, communities and Indigenous students, faculty and staff who continue to live with the impacts of residential schools. We all share in this journey and together continue our work toward truth, respect, and reconciliation.

We appreciate the continued support and cooperation of our students, faculty, staff, and partners. Thank you for helping keep our university a place of belonging, learning, and respect. Please do continue to look after one another and yourself. Professional support is available, as set out below.

Thank you. Merci. Kukwstsétselp.

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor

Indigenous faculty, staff and students

Students

Faculty and staff

Services for faculty and staff are available through TELUS Health One, our employee assistance program (EAP) provider. TELUS Health One offers one-on-one counselling and crisis support, and can be reached by phone at 1-877-207-8833. For more information on these services, visit Workplace Well-Being's EAP page on OneTRU.

Insights from federal budget 2025November 7, 2025

Dear colleagues,

Weyt-kp Bonjour. Hello. I want to take a moment to provide insights about this week’s federal budget and what it means for Thompson Rivers University (TRU).

The 2025 federal budget signals both opportunity and the need to adjust for universities like TRU. It strengthens Canada’s research system through major investments in talent and infrastructure, while continuing to reshape international education and immigration policy.

For TRU, the task is clear — pursue the opportunities, prepare for changes, and keep people at the centre of both. This aligns squarely with Future TRU, our work to build a university that unites research, teaching, and community purpose for the decades ahead.

Budget 2025 brings real opportunities for TRU and sets conditions we will need to manage carefully. It commits new resources to recruit global research talent, modernize infrastructure and expand student work experience, while tightening international student admissions. Our job is to act where gains are apparent and plan for the long term.

On talent, the federal budget creates an accelerated research chairs initiative, matches Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) infrastructure funding, supports the recruitment of top international PhD and postdoctoral candidates, and provides resources to recruit assistant professors.

We will compete for chairs and equipment in priority clusters where TRU can deliver national impact from the Interior — wildfire and climate risk, remote sensing and AI, and health and community resilience, for example. The new federal investment in sovereign AI computing could also help us strengthen wildfire modelling, fuel behaviour prediction, and geospatial analytics in partnership with Kamloops Innovation and regional agencies.

For students, Ottawa proposes 55,000 subsidized work-integrated learning opportunities in 2026–27 through the Student Work Placement Program. Last year, TRU leveraged this program for six funded co-op terms and 455 project-based placements — about $1 million for our students. With the planned expansion, we estimate roughly $200,000 more could flow to TRU learners. IRCC has also signalled plans to remove separate co-op work permit requirements and to introduce a shorter service standard by summer 2026 — changes that would let students take up placements with less red tape.

We also see strong potential to connect our Nursing, Health Care Assistant, and Trades programs with the federal Foreign Credential Recognition Action Fund. By aligning these pathways, TRU can help internationally trained professionals upgrade their credentials and build careers here in the Interior.

The outlook around international education, however, continues to shift. The government’s 2026–2028 Immigration Levels Plan targets 155,000 new student arrivals in 2026, a sharp reduction from 291,000 this year. (Continuing students are not counted in the 155,000 cap, which helps current learners complete their programs.) Graduate students at public universities will again be exempt from provincial attestation letters starting in 2026, and doctoral study permit applications made outside Canada will be processed within 14 days. TRU does not offer doctoral programs, but faster, clearer service standards matter across the sector. We will focus our efforts where we can most likely move the needle, including:

  • Developing graduate options,
  • Removing TRU-based barriers to international student admissions,
  • Expanding transnational education partnerships.

Lastly, the 10-year Build Communities Strong Fund — open to colleges and universities — provides a path to co-invest with the province in campus facilities and infrastructure, which will improve our campuses and support our local workforce.

For TRU, Budget 2025 is a reminder that universities thrive when they adapt and lead. We will strive to find new opportunities for use-inspired research, innovation, and student learning while working carefully and strategically to manage the realities — all with care, collaboration, and a steady focus on our vision and mission.

Airini
Professor of Education
President and Vice-Chancellor
 > TRU Home > The Office of the President and Vice-Chancellor

“I come to this role with deep gratitude and a simple intention: to listen well, to serve wisely, and to work beside you to shape the future of TRU.” — Dr. Airini
President and Vice-Chancellor TRU

About Dr. Airini Deeply Committed to Education

Dr. Airini brings a deep commitment to inclusive education, academic excellence, and community service. She came to Canada as an international student, is a national award-winning educator and researcher, Fulbright Scholar, and a leader with experience across academic, government, and global agencies.

Academic and Professional Background
Dr. Airini

Presidential Installation of Dr. Airini

In an emotion-filled ceremony recognizing culture, tradition and the future, Dr. Airini was formally installed as Thompson Rivers University’s fifth president and vice-chancellor.

Read more about the installation Watch the full installation

At the core of Airini’s vision

People

Recognizing the contributions and potential of students, faculty, staff and community partners.

Purpose

Ensuring TRU remains a place where education transforms lives, where ideas grow and where everyone belongs.

Possibility

Leading TRU into its next chapter with openness to change, confidence in its identity and respect for its roots in Secwépemcúl’ecw.

Executive team

Dr. Shannon Wagner Interim Provost & Vice President Academic (interim)

Leads TRU’s academic operations and sets the university’s academic strategy. A search is underway to recruit the next PVPA; details can be found on our executive search page.

Dr. Shannon Wagner is serving as interim provost and vice president academic while TRU conducts a search for a permanent chief academic officer. A registered psychologist, she joined TRU in 2021 as associate vice president academic and, in 2023, became the university’s inaugural vice president research. Her research has focused on workplace traumatic stress and occupational and organizational mental health, and she has taught psychological assessment, epidemiology and research methods. Prior to TRU she served as inaugural dean and later interim dean of the Faculty of Human and Health Sciences at the University of Northern British Columbia, where she also held administrative positions in graduate studies and health sciences. Wagner holds a PhD in clinical psychology and has dedicated her career to supporting emergency responders and other workers who experience traumatic stress.

Matt Milovick Vice-President Administration & Finance

Matt Milovick has been TRU’s vice president administration and finance since 2013 and leads the university’s administrative operations. Before joining TRU he was vice president finance and administration at the Ontario College of Art and Design University; he also served as interim chief financial officer and vice president operations and strategic development at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT). Earlier roles included senior financial positions at Saint John College (University of New Brunswick Saint John) and York University. Milovick holds bachelor’s degrees in science (University of Guelph) and administrative studies (York University), an MEd from Memorial University of Newfoundland and is a Certified Management Accountant. He currently chairs the BCNET board of directors.

Baihua Chadwick Vice-President International

Born and raised in China, Baihua Chadwick studied in Germany before immigrating to Canada in the late 1980s. She holds a master’s degree in international management and has worked in British Columbia’s post-secondary sector for more than two decades. After joining TRU in 1993 as an international student adviser, she established and led the university’s Transnational Education Unit and now oversees one of Canada’s largest international education programs. Under her leadership, TRU hosts more than 3,500 international students from over 100 countries on campus and delivers programs offshore in China, India and Iceland. Chadwick has extensive experience negotiating global partnerships and is recognized for championing international student support services and intercultural understanding. She serves on the Canadian Bureau for International Education board of directors, IDP Education’s Canadian strategic advisory board and the international advisory committee for Colleges and Institutes Canada. Her own experience immigrating to Canada informs her philosophy of individualized support for international students.

Dr. Brian Roy Acting Vice President Research

Dr. Brian Roy joined TRU in July 2025 as associate vice president, graduate studies and research and simultaneously assumed temporary responsibility as acting vice president of research. In this role, he guides the university’s research strategy, develops partnerships with other universities, institutes and foundations, and supports graduate education. Roy came to TRU from Brock University, where he served as associate dean of graduate studies and postdoctoral affairs and previously chaired the Department of Kinesiology and directed the Centre for Bone and Muscle Health. A nationally recognized researcher in sports and clinical science, his work focuses on muscle metabolism, physical activity and injury prevention.

Dr. Mike Henry Chief of Staff (term appointment)

Serves as a trusted partner to the president and coordinates the operations of the President’s Office. Responsibilities include strategic leadership, oversight of communications and government relations, liaison with governance bodies and modelling well being across the university.

Mike Henry, chief of staff to the president, previously served as dean of TRU’s Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics. His career has spanned the non profit, private and public sectors and includes service as a provincial elected official, small business owner and consultant. He has led non profit boards and currently sits on the boards of the Kamloops Innovation Council, the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce and the Uptown Business Association. Henry is past president of the Administrative Sciences Association of Canada and is president elect of the Canadian Council for Small Business and Entrepreneurship; he also serves as treasurer of the Canadian Federation of Business School Deans. Henry holds an MBA from the University of Alberta and a Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Southern Queensland.

Dr. Garry Gottfriedson (h.c.) Secwépemc Special Advisor to the President

Dr. Garry Gottfriedson, a member of the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, was appointed the university’s first Secwépemc special advisor to the president in August 2025. He previously served as TRU’s Secwépemc cultural advisor in the Faculty of Education and Social Work and later provided university-wide leadership through Indigenous Education. Gottfriedson is an accomplished Indigenous poet and author of fifteen books and the lead author of the Secwépemc Nation Research Ethics Guidelines. He has taught at Cariboo College, served as a councillor and consultant for the Kamloops Indian Band and worked in education for more than fifty years. A rancher and professional breeder of horses, he earned an MFA in creative writing from the Naropa Institute (where he studied after receiving the Gerald Red Elk Creative Writing Scholarship) and a master’s degree in education from Simon Fraser University. Gottfriedson is a passionate advocate for Secwépemc language preservation and community well-being.

Andrea Li Special Advisor to the President

Andrea Li is TRU’s Special Advisor to the President on Artificial Intelligence, responsible for guiding the university’s strategy for AI and emerging technologies across teaching, research, and operations.

She brings deep experience in technology, strategy, and cross-sector innovation, having led organizations in education, healthcare, and finance to transform operations, launch new products, and deliver breakthrough outcomes - always with people and purpose at the centre. Before joining TRU, Andrea held leadership roles at Amazon, Google, and rapidly scaling technology companies, driving major initiatives and transformative change across global teams.

At TRU, she partners with the executive team and colleagues across the university to identify practical applications of AI, enhance access to knowledge, and establish ethical and governance frameworks that ensure responsible innovation.

Andrea holds a degree from the University of Pennsylvania with a minor from The Wharton School.

Executive searches

Procedures

Executive searches at TRU follow transparent procedures that include establishing a search committee and engaging stakeholders. Diversity and equity principles guide all recruitments.

Current Searches

Provost & Vice President Academic: TRU has engaged McDermott + Bull to recruit a new PVPA. The successful candidate will guide academic strategy and champion inclusive leadershipmbexec.com. More about the search.

Contact

Send questions about executive searches to the search committee at president@tru.ca or through the executive search web page.

Aerial shot of TRU

From the President's desk

Insights from federal budget 2025 November 7, 2025

President Airini shares thoughts related to opportunites and challenges emerging from this week's federal budget.

Read More

Update on unsanctioned event at TRU November 5, 2025

President Aiirini provides an update and shares supports related to an upcoming unsanctioned event on campus.

Read More

A time for remembrance November 5, 2025

President Airini invites us to take time together to remember, learn and reflect this November.

Read More

Court decision regarding visual arts October 29, 2025

President Airini delivers an update on the BC Supreme Court decision regarding the closure of visual arts programs.

Read More

Updates from the President

November 2025 Updates
October 2025 Updates
September 2025 Updates
August 2025 Updates
July 2025 Updates

President's reports

The President’s Report provides an update on executive priorities, delivered to the Board of Governors during its regularly scheduled meetings and shared on this site for the TRU community and public.

2025 Reports
2024 Reports
2023 Reports
2022 Reports
2021 Reports
2020 Reports
Other Reports

Statement on Academic Freedom

Academic freedom is fundamental to teaching, learning and inquiry at a university. It permits scholars, and hence universities, to pursue and advance knowledge, which serves society. At TRU, academic freedom is protected and practised every day, guided by academia's principles and ethics, which are given concrete form in agreements between TRU and its faculty.

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Future Student Ambassadors

Thompson Rivers University campuses are on the ancestral lands of the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc (Kamloops campus) and the T’exelc (Williams Lake campus) within Secwepemcúl̓ecw, the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépemc. The region TRU serves also extends into the territories of the St’át’imc, Nlaka’pamux, Nuxalk, Tŝilhqot'in, Dakelh, and Syilx peoples.

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