Our Community

Your Mount Royal News
Jan. 6, 2023

Announcements

Leaders’ Dialogue Jan. 16

Mount Royal employees are invited to the Bella Concert Hall on Jan.16 from 2 to 4 p.m. for a program that will introduce MRU’s new provost and vice-president, Academic, Chad London, PhD, and celebrate Elizabeth Evans, PhD, who did a remarkable job serving in the interim role. The second hour is reserved for a reception in the Bella lobby. If you cannot attend, you can watch the live stream here.

Learn about new timesheet entry platform

Mount Royal has successfully transitioned to a new bi-weekly pay system. An updated platform for submitting timesheets is part of this change, as well as a revised timetable for submission. Instructions and a video are available at mru.ca/NewPayroll. The page also has links to upcoming online information sessions for employees and approvers.

Canadian University Survey Consortium (CUSC) results for first-year students available online

The Canadian University Survey Consortium’s (CUSC) 2022 Survey of First-year Students provides insight into students’ behaviours and perceptions of Mount Royal. Access summary reports to learn where our students succeeded or struggled during their first year at Mount Royal in 2021/22. Topics include students’ perceptions of Mount Royal’s ongoing response to the pandemic, experiences that exceeded or fell short of expectations and overall satisfaction rates with various aspects of the University.

Complete your required safety training by Jan. 31

The deadline for all employees — including those on contract — to complete their mandatory safety training is Jan. 31. Get started now. Questions? We’ve got answers.

Nominate a graduating student for the Centennial Gold Medal

The Centennial Gold Medal is an award given to eligible students at MRU based on a nomination system. Nominees must be graduating from a diploma or degree program, have a cumulative GPA of 3.7 or higher and demonstrate leadership through involvement in campus and community activities. The deadline is March 15 for nominations.

Looking for TVP literacy tutors

The Transitional Vocational Program (TVP) and the Adult Literacy Tutoring Service is recruiting tutors to assist learners on a one-to-one basis, focusing on numeracy, writing, reading and communication skills. Assisting as a volunteer tutor helps learners with mild disabilities to prepare for employment and independent living. For more information, please contact Hazel Diaz at 403.440.7246 or hdiaz@mtroyal.ca.

mru big smoke - fri. jan. 20, 2023 - 6 p.m. (dusk till dawn)

bringing positivity to campus, students, faculty and staff. guidance sessions for those who wish to participate in the big smoke teachings sessions will take place in the oid office. please see the times and dates on the oid website. those interested in taking part and/or volunteering can contact evangelina natynczyk at enatynczyk@mtroyal.ca. read more about the 2022 big smoke.

Alumni Relations pilots new program: Career and Leadership Growth Group

Are you in touch with any former students who have graduated within the last five years? Alumni Relations is inviting young alumni to participate in Growth Group, a pilot program offering small-group coaching to individuals looking to understand their own skills and interests to intentionally design their personal and professional life. Share this opportunity.

Don't miss your chance to get involved in the Alumni Classroom Takeover

Are you looking for a way to inspire your students and help them prepare for life after graduation? From March 6 to 10, invite alumni into your class to share their post-grad experiences and career success stories with your students. The deadline to sign up for the Alumni Classroom Takeover is Jan. 23. Sign up here.

Secure your spot for winter intramurals

Team and free-agent registration for winter 2023 intramurals is now open. On offer this semester are basketball, dodgeball, futsal, pickleball and volleyball. All students, staff and community members are welcome to join. Register your team by Jan. 18 at noon to ensure your spot. See you on the court!

Kick-start your movement goals with MRU small-group training

MRU small-group training classes are back with brand-new instructors and more scheduled classes for 2023. These classes are a great opportunity to stay consistent, try new exercises and meet new people. Learn more about our small-group training classes, including 55-plus training options.

Jump-start your 2023 wellness journey with MRU personal training

MRU Recreation wants you to feel your best as you move into the new year, and personal training can help you get there. Sign up for personal training in January and earn a chance to win. Fill out the personal training intake form at mrucougars.com/pt, sign up and purchase personal training sessions for between Jan. 1 and 31. After purchasing, your name will be entered into a draw to win four personal training sessions (a $300 value). The lucky winner’s name will be drawn on Feb. 1.

Student Division Open House for faculty — Helping you to help our students

The student division is hosting an open house where faculty have the opportunity to learn about mental-health resources on campus and how you can engage them when your students need help. Join in on Jan. 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Lincoln Park room.

2023 SAMRU Representation Executive Council (REC) election period begins Jan. 4

Please encourage eligible students (those with full-time status and a cumulative GPA above 2.5) to nominate themselves for one of four REC positions. Applications are being accepted until Feb. 22. Campaigning will occur from March 12 to 16 and voting will take place from March 13 at 10 a.m. to March 16 at 5 p.m., online and in person. Elected students will begin their terms in May. Instructions on how to apply can be found at SAMRU.ca/Elections. Questions should be directed to elections@samru.ca.

Applications for SAMRU’s Student Governing Board

Applications for SAMRU’s Student Governing Board are open, with the deadline to apply on Jan. 19 at 4:30 p.m. Please encourage students to join the Board, which oversees all aspects of the students’ association’s operation and representation functions. The campaign period for candidates begins Feb. 7 at 10 a.m., and concludes Feb. 8. Voting will take place at SAMRU’s Annual General Meeting on Feb. 8. Results will be announced at the meeting. Students can access nomination packages here. Questions should be directed to elections@samru.ca.

Did you know?

Paban Dhaliwa and Kanakii Mekaisto, recipients of MRU’s 2022 Alumni Achievement Awards, have been named to the Calgary Herald’s annual Compelling Calgarians list. Also recognized were alumnus Sean Crump and honorary degree recipient Murray McCann.

MRU in the Media — In case you missed it

Calgarians treated to hot meals for Christmas

City News Calgary — Mark Keller, staff

Calgary-based Swimco back in business after going bankrupt during pandemic

CBC Calgary website — Neil Brigden, faculty

What are Calgary police doing about high number of shootings in 2022?

Global Calgary — Kelly Sundberg, faculty

Amy won’t let anything stand in her way

Winnipeg Free Press — MRU Cougars, Tatum Amy, Aliya Jomha, Courtney Kollman, students

Mount Royal University, faculty, students and alumni are often featured in the media. To subscribe to the daily MRU Media report, email mediarelations@mtroyal.ca.

Events

The Cybersecurity Roadshow

Wed., Jan. 11 and Thurs., Jan. 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Main Street

Cybersecurity experts will look at an email for you, show you how to enable multi-factor authentication and/or discuss password managers and you can pick up some swag, enter a contest or win a prize. Learn more.

The Mount Royal University Presents the New Orford String Quartet

Wed., Jan. 11 at 7:30 p.m. — Bella Concert Hall

Comprised of four musicians with equally stellar pedigrees, the New Orford String Quartet returns with students of the Academy and Advanced performance programs. Tickets.

FAST Financial Reporting and FOAPs

Thurs., Jan. 12 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. — Google Meet

This introduction to the chart of accounts (FOAP) and hands-on practice with the web-based FAST Reporting Application used at MRU is useful for anyone responsible for monitoring or managing a budget. Register.

Copyright for Instruction

Each Thursday in January from noon to 1 p.m. — Viz Classroom (EL1441)

MRU’s copyright advisor will provide an informative overview of copyright basics, how to navigate the use of third-party works, helpful tips for online instruction and more. Register.

Beginners’ Guide to Transforming Social Connections with VR

Mon., Jan. 16 from 10:30 to 11:20 a.m — Experience Lab (EL1355)

Learn how social virtual reality platforms (including AltspaceVR) work and how you can use them to socialize, learn or teach. Register.

Moving Through Challenging Times with Julie Van Rosendaal

Wed., Jan. 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Lincoln Park Room (J301)

Explore the challenges of affordable living, gain knowledge on maintaining sustainable well-being and promote intergenerational discussion, participation and enjoyment. Register.

Harm Reduction and Naloxone Training

Wed., Jan. 18 from 1 to 3 p.m. — W322

Learn about harm-reduction practices, the current state of the opioid crisis in Alberta, and how to respond to an opioid poisoning. Register.

Protecting Yourself Against Cybercrime

Wed. Jan. 18 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. — TBA
Thurs., Feb. 2 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. — TBA

Gain the tools you need to keep you and yours cyber safe. Register.

Chrome River Training

Wed. Jan. 18 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. — Virtual

Learn how to use the expense management software used by MRU. To register, please contact Wanda Quon at wquon@mtroyal.ca.

Conversations Matter — Share Your Voice

Thurs., Jan. 19 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. — W231

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

Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIP) Act 101 Awareness Training

Thurs., Jan. 19 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. — EA 1054

Learn the ins and outs of FOIP by attending the rapid-fire session on the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Register.

Graphic Design: Convert an Image to be Usable in the Maker Studio

Tues., Jan. 25 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. — Maker Studio (EL1245)

Learn how to use Adobe Illustrator to import and vectorize (create points and lines) an image. Register.

Phoenix Rising Engagement Series Presents: Subjects that Matter — Environmental (De)Evolutions and Recoveries

Wed., Jan. 25 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. — Ideas Lounge (EL1270)

A panel of five MRU Faculty of Arts experts will explore the human-environment impact in the 21st-century. Register.

Beginner’s Guide to 360-Degree Cameras: Storytelling in 360 Degrees with Photos and Videos

Thurs., Jan. 26 from 12:30 to 1:20 p.m. — Experience Lab (EL1355)

Learn about 360-degree cameras and opportunities to create immersive content for education and how to view, display and share your content. Register.

Changemaker Conversation with Melissa Roy, Shane Gauthier and Simon Ross

Thurs., Jan. 26 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. — Virtual

A Right Relations & Racial Equity themed Changemaker Conversation with Melissa Roy + Shane Gauthier (Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary), and Simon Ross (Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity). Register.

tea with oid

thurs., jan. 26 from 2 to 4 p.m. — t123

join the office of Indigenization and decolonization (oid) for tea to get to know each other, share stories, and listen. RSVP.

Menstrual Equity through Cloth Pad Making

Thurs., Jan. 26 from 4 to 6 p.m. — Maker Studio (EL1245)

Learn more about period poverty, menstrual equity and cloth pad making. Register.

An Evening with Corb Lund

Thurs., April 27 at 7:30 p.m. — Bella Concert Hall

Juno and CCMA Award-winning country and western singer-songwriter Corb Lund joins members of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra for an evening of music reminiscent of hometown honky-tonks and blazing city lights. Get tickets.

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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