THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF NORTHERN LAKES COLLEGE

The Board of Governors of Northern Lakes College is the governing body responsible for the oversight and management of Northern Lakes College, a public post-secondary institution located in Alberta, Canada. Operating under the authority of the Post-Secondary Learning Act of Alberta, the Board ensures that the college adheres to its academic mandate, financial responsibilities, and social commitments within its extensive service region.

Mandate and Responsibilities

The Board’s primary mandate is to manage and operate Northern Lakes College in accordance with its legislated responsibilities. This includes the establishment of admission requirements, setting tuition and mandatory fees, and overseeing the delivery of programs to ensure accessibility, affordability, and community representation. The Board is charged with providing effective governance structures and processes that support the college’s mission and strategic objectives. As a statutory body, it reports to the Minister of Advanced Education of Alberta.

Composition and Appointment

The Board comprises twelve governors appointed through a combination of governmental and internal nominations as prescribed by Section 44(2) of the Post-Secondary Learning Act:

• Seven public members appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council, including the Chairperson.
• One academic staff member nominated by the academic staff association.
• Two students nominated by the student association.
• One non-academic staff member nominated by the non-academic staff association.
• The President of Northern Lakes College serves as an ex-officio member.

This diverse composition ensures governance reflects a broad range of perspectives from the college community and external stakeholders.

Functions

Key functions of the Board include:

• Setting admission standards and regulations related to enrolment and academic programs.
• Determining tuition fees and other non-instructional fees payable by students.
• Delegating duties and functions under the Post-Secondary Learning Act, except the adoption of bylaws.

The Board also acts as ambassadors for the college, promoting its programs and courses throughout the vast northern Alberta region it serves.

Governance and Meetings

The Board meets regularly to review the college’s performance, approve policies, and guide institutional priorities. Meetings and decisions are conducted with transparency and in alignment with provincial legislation, ensuring accountability to the public and government authorities.

Student Representation

The Northern Lakes College Student Association plays an active role in governance through elected representatives who sit on the Board as voting members. This participation ensures that student interests and voices are incorporated into institutional decision-making processes.

Through its governance, the Board of Governors of Northern Lakes College sustains the institution’s commitment to delivering accessible, high-quality education tailored to the needs of northern Alberta’s communities.