July 4, 2023

To be the university the world needs is a bold ambition. 

In 2018, the University of Saskatchewan approved a University Plan that was rooted in our mission, vision, and values, and connected to our bright future. By weaving together our commitments, goals, principles, and regions of impact, the plan continues to frame our activities and actions until 2025. In a period marked by significant change, it requires us to be very disciplined about tracking our progress.  

Over the past decade, USask has invested substantially in creating the conditions for collaboration on campus: We have developed dynamic spaces for interdisciplinary interaction. Our research and innovation enterprises are increasingly focused on providing services that accelerate partnerships. Our Shared Services model has been implemented to improve services related to finance, human resources, information technology, and facilities management. However, there is still more work to do to align structures, modernize our institutional practices, and better integrate our supports and services across campus to ensure that academic, administrative, and physical infrastructure enable collaborative opportunities for all students, faculty, and staff. 

Thanks to the investment from the Government of Saskatchewan, we have an opportunity to consider our path forward and strengthen our administrative alignment. Ensuring we are effectively and efficiently providing administrative services across campus is one of the ways we can work toward a more sustainable future. 

As outlined in our University Plan 2025, we have a responsibility and an opportunity to lead with respect: nīkānītān manācihitowinihk. ni manachīhitoonaan. Working in collaboration with deans, executive directors, and senior leaders on campus, the ASR Initiative is co-designing a new way forward for administrative professionals to work—and to work together—at USask. 

Through the ASR Initiative, we can break down silos and align structures to support collaboration. We can reduce the administrative burden on faculty, while uplifting our administrative professionals by providing them with a community of practice and a network of colleagues across the institution. We can also nurture their career development, help build their capacity and create an environment where they will continue helping USask excel in teaching, learning, research, and community engagement. 

By working together, we can be what the world needs.