Year-end update from the Vice President, People, Equity and Inclusion
As 2024 comes to a close, I remain deeply grateful for the SFU community as I look back on all that has taken place within our university and beyond.
Our commitment to a culture of inclusive excellence where all feel welcome, safe, accepted and appreciated remains steadfast.
Each day, I am inspired by the dedication of our People, Equity and Inclusion team and our partners in Faculty Relations. Their work for faculty, staff and students directly supports the advancement of the academic mission while achieving equitable outcomes for all those who work, live, teach and learn at SFU.
I’m pleased to share an overview of those achievements from the past year:
People Plan
In a year marked by budget challenges and difficult decisions, the People Plan continues to provide the blueprint for embedding people-centered practices across the university. The first annual report was released in June, outlining the successfully completed initial actions for the first 18 months of the plan. This included the establishment of a Faculty Working Group to improve academic leadership development, the introduction of a new job evaluation service delivery model and the development of a 5-year technology solutions plan in conjunction with the IT Services team. Work is well underway on the longer-term actions identified for years 2-5, including significant progress towards the development of an employee well-being strategy.
Equity Compass
Now in its second year of implementation, the goals and objectives outlined in the Equity Compass are being realized across the university. The first annual report provided an update on the advancement of key projects including the development of equity-centered resources and the launch of the Demographic and Diversity Data Survey, which will inform future priorities in 2025 and beyond. An overarching report highlight was the establishment of formal structures to support a sense of belonging at SFU through initiatives like the EDI Community of Practice, a 75 member-strong group of faculty and staff who meet monthly during the academic year to collaborate and discuss shared concerns.
Accessibility Plan
The university’s inaugural Accessibility Plan was launched in the fall of 2024, informed by the needs of students, faculty, staff and alumni with disabilities. Building on the foundation created by the Accessibility Committee and the feedback mechanism established in 2023, the plan outlines the systemic changes required to build a more inclusive SFU for all. The plan also ensures compliance with the Accessible British Columbia Act and leaves space to respond to provincial standards and community feedback in the coming years.
Academic and Administrative Leaders Forum
Two in-person Leaders’ Forums were held in April and November this year, bringing together the SFU leadership community and providing space to connect with members of the executive team. Attendees were able to discuss pressing leadership matters and receive updates about the university’s direction. We look forward to continuing the forums on a biannual basis in the coming years.
I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation and thanks for your ongoing efforts towards building an SFU where all can thrive. Each member of our community plays an important role in our path towards becoming a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future.
Wishing all of you a rejuvenating winter break and a peaceful holiday season. I look forward to seeing you in 2025!
Yabome Gilpin-Jackson, PhD
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Vice-President, People, Equity and Inclusion
Simon Fraser University