General Faculties Council

What is it?

The General Faculties Council (GFC) is the highest academic decision-making board on campus and is at the same institutional level as the Board of Directors. It makes decisions on issues such as which programs Mount Royal should offer, what their academic polices should contain, and other student and faculty related concerns.

Who sits on GFC?

The council is comprised of approximately 60 members including 10 student members. Two-thirds of the council is faculty while the remaining is university administration such as the President and VP Academic.

What about committees?

GFC has several standing committees that require student representation. The current committees include Academic Program and Policy, Learning Outcomes Advisory Committee, Library Advisory Standing Committee, Research and Scholarship Advisory Committee, Appointments, Promotion and Tenure Committee, and Student Awards Committee. There may also be opportunities for student representation on other university committees as needed.

Why get involved?

In general, being involved on campus is an excellent way to meet people, acquire skills not taught in the classroom, give back to the school, and build your resume. The GFC in particular is an excellent way to engage with the campus. You will provide the student voice and opinion on University decisions as well as get to know faculty and senior administration.

How can students get involved?

The Students Association has an Academic Student Caucus (ASC) that includes the 10 GFC student members. A caucus is an old world term used to describe groups gathering to coordinate member action or to choose group policy. The caucus does this by meeting monthly to discuss the upcoming GFC meeting, committees, and academic initiatives or concerns. The ASC strategizes at these meetings in order to be prepared for the actual GFC meetings and committees. Students who sit on the Academic Student Caucus may also be interested in representing students at academic and non-academic board hearings.

What is the time commitment?

GFC meets on the third Thursday of every month, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, throughout the school year. Student GFC members must also attend Academic Student Caucus, which meets for two hours each month (time and date to be determined). Additional committees and service on board hearings are optional; however, past students have realized a greater benefit with more involvement.

Where can I find more information?

For more information, please visit the MRU GFC page or contact the VP Academic

Contact

Anna Piltingsrud
VP Academic
Phone: (403) 440-6402
Email: vpacademic@samru.ca