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Your Mount Royal News
Nov. 9, 2022

50 years of the Lincoln Park campus

MRU's main campus building opened in 1972 and was a modern "mega-structure" that permanently advanced opportunities for higher learning in Calgary.

Immigration benefits everyone

A faculty member and a student each received the prestigious Newcomer Recognition Award in celebration of their outstanding accomplishments.

International experiences broaden horizons

The annual International Education Week showcases MRU's international education programs and commitment to internationalization.

Announcements

Sign up now for Mount Royal’s optional pay advance

Eligible employees can choose to receive an optional pay advance on Jan. 13, 2023, to mitigate the delay in pay when Mount Royal switches to bi-weekly pay on Jan. 1, 2023. Visit mru.ca/NewPayroll to learn more. The deadline to express your interest in the advance is Nov. 18.

Apply for the EDI Opportunity Fund

The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) has recently published phase one of their new website. With publishing the site, Mount Royal can now access and apply for the EDI Opportunity Fund. The next step is to work with the EDIAC on the review process. We will provide clear direction on when and how those who are awarded funds will be communicated with, as well as provide constructive feedback to those who were not.

All employees: Mandatory safety training to be completed by Nov. 30

It's time to update your required health and safety training. All current Mount Royal employees — including those on contracts — must complete the Prevention of Workplace Violence and Harassment module by Nov. 30. The remaining modules must be completed by Jan. 31, 2023. Get started now. Visit the FAQs for answers to your questions.

Work in T-Wing courtyard rescheduled for Nov. 12

The previously announced noisy work scheduled to be carried out in the T-Wing courtyard on Sunday, Nov. 6, has been rescheduled to Saturday, Nov. 12. This pre-construction work will involve drilling and is expected to last all day. A control zone will be set up around the construction area. Contact Keith Marpole at kmarpole@mtroyal.ca with any questions.

See something? Say something

We all contribute to safety on campus. If you see suspicious behaviour, report it to Security via the MRU Now app or by phone. Call in emergencies at 403.440.5900 and non-emergencies at 403.440.6897. If it is an emergency, call 911 first, then Security. Learn more at mru.ca/Security, including details on the SafeWalk service.

The 2022 Alumni Achievement Awards recipient video is ready to watch

This year’s recipients have each made significant contributions to the Mount Royal University community and beyond. See how Doug Dirks, Kanakii Mekaisto, Pabandeep Dhaliwal and Dustin Paisley are driving change and creating hope within their communities. Watch now.

Alumni return to campus to inspire students

The Office of Alumni Relations has teamed up with faculty members across campus to launch a new initiative, the Alumni Classroom Takeover (ACT). From Oct. 24 to 28, professors invited alumni into their classrooms to share how their experiences at Mount Royal have set them up for success in their life, career and further learning. ACT was a success and will run again in the winter term. The intake form will be available in December. Learn more.

Get boosted!

Stay current on your vaccinations and contribute to a healthy campus by getting your COVID-19 booster. Wyckham Pharmacy on campus is offering drop-in services as well as booked appointments. Learn more about COVID-19 and flu vaccinations in Alberta.

Contribute to understanding of sustainability

As part of the University’s commitment to sustainability, the Institute for Environmental Sustainability and the Sustainable MRU Committee is assessing the sustainability literacy and culture of the MRU community. Complete this anonymous survey on sustainability knowledge, behaviours and attitudes by Nov. 30 and be entered into a draw for a $50 gift card from Barrow Coffee Roasters.

Feeling sick? Stay home and access supports if you need them

If you aren’t feeling well, please stay home. If you have symptoms and/or test positive for COVID-19, complete the Employee COVID Self-Isolation Report Form. Please do so even if you are working remotely. Visit Human Resources and COVID-19 for more information.

MRSA Annual General Meeting is Nov. 23

MRSA members are invited to attend the Annual General Meeting in person (J301 Lincoln Park Room) or via live stream on Nov. 23 from 10:45 a.m. to noon. Release time to attend the meeting is provided (Collective Agreement Article 7.6). Learn more.

Faculty: Apply for an Open Educational Resources Grant

The Academic Development Centre (ADC) and the University Library invite applications for the new Open Educational Resources Grant program available to all full-time and contract faculty. Grant recipients can receive up to $2,000 in funding that can be used towards locating, updating and testing open materials, as well as in-kind support from both the Library and ADC. Apply before Nov. 25.

Parking on campus with heavy and hard-packed snow

With heavy snowfall on campus, hard-packed snow in some parking lots is making it difficult to see the lines for each stall. While we are doing our best to remove snow and keep lots clear, please be mindful of how you park with limited visibility and avoid blocking other cars into a space. If you are blocking another vehicle, the Parking & Transportation team may contact you to move your vehicle to ensure optimal traffic flow in and out of campus lots.

Cultures of MRU running throughout November

Cultures of MRU is a month-long program that showcases, highlights and provides education on the many cultures within the MRU campus community. This month also connects BIPOC students with support and resources to help them succeed in their post-secondary journey. See the SAMRU events calendar for specific event details and locations.

Did you know?

Mount Royal was once in a competition with the Calgary Stampede for the land where our campus currently sits. Find out more with the Archives and Special Collections’ look at 50 years of Lincoln Park.

Events

Blackfoot Lunch & Learn: Pommotsiiysinni

Wed., Nov. 9 from noon to 1 p.m. — EB3013 or Online
Wed., Nov. 23 from noon to 1 p.m. — EB3013 or Online

Oki. Join Hayden Melting Tallow as he shares his knowledge of Blackfoot history, language and worldviews. Learn more and register.

Employee Payroll Change Information Session

Wed., Nov. 9 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. — Online
Tues., Nov. 15 from noon to 1 p.m. — Online

Learn how the new payroll schedule will affect you, including an optional payroll advance for eligible employees to help bridge an extended gap between paydays. Learn more. Nov. 9 meeting link. Nov. 15 meeting link.

Extended Reality (XR) Support Hours

Each Wednesday from Nov. 9 to Dec. 14 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. — Experience Lab (EL1355)

Get answers to your questions about extended realities (XR), the metaverse or 360-degree photography/videography. Check out the schedule.

ETOL Film Night — Adventure Film Festival

Wed., Nov. 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. — Bella Concert Hall

Enjoy films and photos from all outdoor activities and locations presented by fourth-year students. Learn more.

Building Civic Infrastructure for Changemaking

Thurs., Nov. 10 from 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. — Online

This Changemaker Conversation features Dr. Francis Boakye of Action Dignity. Register.

Finishing School

Each Thursday from Nov. 10 to Dec. 22 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. — The Bubble (EL3249)

A weekly drop in where participants bring their own fibre projects to work on in a supportive and social setting. Learn more.

Tea and Bannock Talking Circle

Mon., Nov. 14 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. — Cultural Inclusion Centre (Z203)

Meet new people and enjoy tea and bannock while participating in discussions on a wide variety of Indigenous and international issues impacting various communities.

Conversations Matter — Share Your Voice

Tues., Nov. 15 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. — EA1055

Feel empowered to exchange and speak courageously with your mind and heart as part of MRU's overall strategy for an inclusive community. Register.

Seminar Series: Conducting Scoping and Systematic Reviews

Tues., Nov. 15 from 2 to 3 p.m. — Ideas Lounge (EL1270)

Learn about the best practices for conducting scoping and systematic reviews. Register.

tea with oid

thurs., nov. 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. — t123

join the office of indigenization and decolonization (oid) for tea as a way to get to know each other, share stories and listen. in addition to tea, please enjoy catered bannock. RSVP.

The TCPA Presents Tim Baker & All Hands with Georgia Harmer

Mon., Nov. 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. — Bella Concert Hall

Enjoy an evening of music from JUNO-nominated Tim Baker and Canadian singer-songwriter Georgia Harmer. Get tickets.

Beginner’s Guide to Extended Reality (XR)

Tues., Nov. 22 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. — Online

Learn about virtual reality and augmented reality, explore educational applications, library services and ideas for their integration into classes. Register.

The Cybersecurity Roadshow

Wed., Nov. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Main Street

Our cybersecurity experts are available to answer all of your cybersecurity questions. More info.

Undergraduate Research Panel

Wed., Nov. 23 from 1 to 2 p.m. — Ideas Lounge (EL1270)

Join a panel of of MRU students as they share their undergraduate research journeys. Register.

Cultures of MRU: Journalism’s Racial Reckoning

Thurs., Nov. 24 from noon to 1:30 p.m. — SAMRU Council Chambers

A discussion between MRU broadcast media studies associate professor Dr. Brad Clark and the Justice Advocates Club on the topic of racism in the journalism industry.

Protecting Yourself Against Cybercrime

Thurs., Nov. 24 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. — TBA

Get the tools you need to keep you and yours cyber safe. Learn more and register.

3D Modelling: Tinkercad (Beginner)

Thurs., Nov. 24 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. — Maker Studio (EL1245)

Learn how to create 3D-printed objects using a beginner-level 3D modelling software at the MRU Library Maker Studio. Register.

XR Toolkit Series: Editing 260 Photos and Videos

Tues., Nov. 29 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. — Online

A basic introduction to processing, editing and viewing 360-degree videos and photos. Register.

Have a story, announcement or info to share?

Summit and website stories

We would love to hear about your story! Go to the online story submission tool and guidelines.

MyMRU announcements

Please send announcements for MyMRU's homepage to mymru@mtroyal.ca. Review the guidelines.

Start of semester emails, with option for distribution list
sign-up

As each semester begins (August/September and December/January), areas with ongoing employee activities can send an email to all employees describing their semester activities. Employees can then choose to opt in to that area's distribution list (Google Group) for regular updates. If you would like to send an email and/or set up a Google Group for your area, please contact Marketing and Communications for guidelines.

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