Minister’s remarks harmful, ill-informed

Advanced Education Minister Marlin Schmidt’s public comments about the University of Alberta, its board of directors and its president are inappropriate, harmful and ill-informed. The minister has questioned the integrity, governance competence and independence of the institution and its leadership. I served as a member of the presidential search committee which recommended the hiring of president Turpin in 2014.

The committee interviewed candidates from around the world and we were fortunate to select David Turpin as the best of an exceptional group of candidates.

Dr. Turpin brought an unparalleled list of academic, institutional and community leadership credentials; as well as integrity and passion to the position.

His commitments to students, inclusiveness, excellence and fiscal responsibility have been apparent and proven over his career.

The board of directors are all individuals who serve at the approval and pleasure of our provincial government. All are volunteers, except those serving by position within the university community.

In my experience, all bring passion and commitment to the role and importance of post-secondary education and their duty to serve their legislated responsibility and the best interests of all stakeholders.

Having worked with the minister in past years, I found him highly committed, passionate and thoughtful.

I find his recent remarks out of character and harmful to one of Alberta’s most successful and important institutions.

I know that he has the wisdom and integrity to correct the recent comments and hope that he will take the opportunity to acknowledge and apologize for his statements and move forward to improve post-secondary education for all Albertans.

Ralph B. Young, Chancellor Emeritus, University of Alberta