This Globe & Mail article highlights some of the issues that colleges and universities are facing currently in Ontario/Canada. Unfortunately, the writer points out (likely correctly) that student service units will likely be an area targeted.
In a recent post I suggested that fundraising is something that Student Affairs needs to get involved in. The fact that PSE institutions in Ontario had to cut budgets last year, when the economy was in good shape, and must make deep cuts this year, when demand is going to increase more then normal, reinforces the need that alternative sources of funding must be sought out.
Taking the initiative now could prevent decision makers from making choices such as contracting out services. To some this may seem like a ridiculous suggestion, but food services, bookstores and residence operations have all been contracted out for quite some time. Employment firms, counselors and health care clinics are well established outside of higher education. It is not inconceivable that one day a President could take a risk and contract out a career centre to Work opolis, a counseling unit to private providers and student health operation to a local health clinic.
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