Announcements
Coming soon: New cybersecurity training platform
Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, and you play a key role in keeping Mount Royal safe. To better support you, ITS is launching a new cybersecurity training platform on Monday, March 10. Watch your inbox for more information on this upgraded system that will provide a more personalized, user-friendly experience. If you’d like to complete your training on the current platform, you have until the end of the day on Sunday, March 9.
2024 Employee tax slips
Due to delays related to recent tax compliance updates by our vendor, employee tax slips will be available the week of Feb. 24. You’ll receive a notification in your inbox as soon as they’re ready. The Payroll team appreciates your patience as we ensure accuracy in the records. If you have questions, contact payroll@mtroyal.ca.
Apply for a Open Educational Resources Grant
The Academic Development Centre (ADC) and the University Library invite faculty applications for the Open Educational Resources Grant program. Grant recipients can receive up to $2,000 in funding that can be used toward locating, updating and testing open materials, as well as in-kind support from both the Library and ADC for effectively incorporating open pedagogy and materials into their course. Applications close Feb. 28. Learn more and apply now.
Advancing research assessment: DORA and open access
In the first article of a planned series, the Library’s Francine May and Richard Hayman examine and explore the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment principles, aligning them with MRU's values and providing insight on how they can guide research assessment practices and support open access initiatives. Join us for this critical conversation about the future of research assessment and its impact on our community. Learn more.
New Library space available for booking
A modest meeting room for up to 12 people, EL1355 is equipped with an 86-inch screen with wireless and wired content sharing capability, making it an ideal location for small group meetings and presentations. The space is now available for use and can be booked by all MRU employees. Room bookings are self-serve and can be made now.
Registration for ASSC 2025 is now open
The 2025 Alberta Services for Students Conference is coming to Mount Royal University from May 20 to 23. Visit mru.ca/assc25 for full conference details, including the draft schedule, Theme Night event, accommodations, and our optional evening excursions. There are calls for proposals and award nominations must be completed by Feb. 28. Questions can be directed to assc@mtroyal.ca.
Pink Shirt Day is on Feb. 26
The Cougars Campus Store has limited-edition $20 tees in adult and youth sizes designed by Kadence Lánahmats George, a 13-year-old Indigenous artist from Salilwatat (Tsleil-Waututh Nation). One hundred per cent of proceeds directly support the WITS Programs Foundation, which helps deliver vital programs in Indigenous communities that address bullying and discrimination. Shop online or in-store.
MRU Star Party: Parade of Planets
Dr. Stephen Jeans, PhD, will be hosting a “star party” in the MRU soccer fields on Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. Come and observe Mars, Jupiter, Venus, Uranus and many other space wonders! Learn more.
Apply for a SAMRU Award until Feb. 28
For more than 50 years, SAMRU has given over $40,000 a year to students who have contributed to their campus community in an outstanding way that inspires and enhances the lives of their fellow Mount Royal University students. SAMRU Award applications will be accepted until Feb. 28. Winners will be announced at an in-person event in Wyckham House on April 5. The submission process is simple, and students can complete their submission package within a couple hours. Learn more.
March Employee Wellness events focus on caregiver support
Join Employee Wellness for events focused on supporting caregivers in the month of March. Sara Lapp from Monarch Psychology leads Caring for the Caregiver on March 5 from 2 to 3 p.m. in Y324. A six-week Tai Chi series with Adrian Buczek begins March 6 in U111 from 12:05 to 12:45 p.m. A virtual session, Caregiver Support for Parenting Neurodiverse Children, will be presented by GreenShield Health on March 12 from 10 to 11 a.m. Learn more and register now.
Register for Research and Scholarship Days
Encourage your students to participate in the campus-wide celebration of research by sharing their research on campus. Students can submit their research abstract until March 4. Learn more at mru.ca/ResearchDays.
Nominate a star student for the Centennial Gold Medal by March 15
Do you know someone graduating from a degree program at the upcoming spring Convocation who has a GPA of 3.7 or higher and demonstrates leadership through involvement in campus and community activities? Nominate them for the Centennial Gold Medal by March 15.
A new MRU podcast: Definitely Not the Ivory Tower
Dr. Natalie Meisner, PhD, has launched a new podcast with the support of the Office of Research, Scholarship and Community Engagement. Each episode will feature an MRU employee and discuss their research. Episode One presents Dr. Sonya Jakubec, PhD, RN and University alumna Erika Bloedorn to talk about nature-based and narrative-based healing. Listen here.
Exclusive savings: Dell Tech Days
Employees are invited to shop this special event with incredible savings on top Dell products. From AI-incorporated PCs to brand-new monitors, there’s a deal for everyone. This limited time event ends on Feb. 28. To shop the sale, request an exclusive Member Purchase Program coupon at www.dell.ca/mpp/myroyal then shop online, anytime. Exclusions may apply.