University of Alberta president Bill Flanagan says the school is moving away from its diversity, equity, and inclusivity (DEI) objectives, and towards a new model focused on fostering community.
Flanagan made the comments in a Jan. 2, 2025, opinion piece for the Edmonton Journal.
“It is not the university’s role to take ideological positions but rather to create an environment that encourages dialogue, mutual respect, and the pursuit of knowledge,” he wrote.
“As the first major Canadian university to embrace access, community, and belonging, we are leading the way in reimagining how universities can foster excellence, open inquiry and rigorous debate.”
He said the decision came after “extensive consultations” with more than 1,000 community members….