Faculty members at the First Nations University of Canada are expressing their refusal to comply with the board of governors’ directive to remain silent following the outcomes of an external investigation into the university’s president.
In a statement signed by concerned faculty members and shared with CBC News, the group emphasized the importance of university leadership being ethical, financially accountable, student-focused, and transparent to the communities it serves. The unnamed faculty members cited concerns about potential repercussions as the reason for not disclosing their identities in the statement.
The investigation, carried out by Deloitte Legal on behalf of the board of governors, scrutinized over two dozen allegations against university president Jacqueline Ottmann in 2023. The report, obtained by CBC News this summer, revealed instances of nepotism, financial policy violations, and a disregard for oversight and control mechanisms by Ottmann.
Amidst the investigation, Ottmann terminated the principal whistleblower, Jason Wong, the university’s VP of finance and administration. Deloitte’s preliminary findings indicated that Wong’s dismissal breached university policies and appeared to be retaliatory.
Despite the Deloitte reports, a majority of the board of governors opted against dismissing Ottmann, asserting their support for her. However, two board members resigned in 2024 due to their differing stance on the matter.
The faculty’s recent statement raised concerns regarding the board’s instructions on responding to inquiries about the situation, suggesting that it could be interpreted as an attempt to stifle academic freedom and open dialogue.
The faculty statement called for the suspension of the university’s executive team, including Ottmann, and the dissolution of the current board of governors. It urged the establishment of a new board with diverse expertise and national representation, free from political interference.
The governance structure at the university, outlined in legislation by the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations, has faced criticism, particularly concerning the composition of the board. Changes in the composition of the board over the years have sparked discontent among faculty members.
The statement from faculty members highlighted concerns over the university’s financial deficit, unstable academic leadership, and the marginalization of the elders’ council since Ottmann assumed office.
Indigenous Services Canada stated that they were not informed of the changes in the board’s composition or the investigation findings. The department emphasized the principle of Indigenous control over Indigenous education and reiterated its commitment to supporting the university financially.
First Nations University of Canada is affiliated with Universities Canada, an organization that represents universities at the federal level. In response to the developments, Universities Canada assured adherence to membership criteria and outlined procedures for addressing concerns.
Overall, the faculty members’ statement underscores the ongoing challenges at the university and the need for transparent and accountable leadership to ensure its success and reputation restoration.
