Internal process strives for resolution in economics

Since spring 2015, the dean of the Faculty of Arts Jeffery Taylor and acting department head Steven Lecce have led a process to try and address ongoing differences between faculty members in the department of economics.

“The administration is committed to assisting in finding ways for department members to work productively together,” says Provost and Vice-President (Academic) Joanne Keselman. “The dean and the acting department head have invested a large amount of time with the department of economics over the past few months to see if they can help facilitate a resolution.”

The dean and acting head have met with faculty members individually and in various constituent groups, trying to ensure they are all part of the process. They say that they have been “impressed by the willingness of department members to try and find a workable resolution.”

“Any changes made must be anchored in the collegial governance process, and we are committed to helping faculty members find their own solution and create a better working and learning environment,” adds Taylor.

Lecce says, “The intent is to find a path forward that is acceptable across the department. Obviously, everyone in the department cares deeply about its future.”

Any changes to the Department of Economics Council would also require the approval of Arts Faculty Council and any changes to existing programs requires the approval of Senate.

Lecce adds that enrolments in economics courses are “among the strongest in the Faculty of Arts right now. Demand is very high.”