Dear Members, Following the release of the investigation’s findings regarding the Redsuits, the McMaster Engineering Society (MES) looks forward to continuing its evolution into a student community that represents and encourages the highest ideals of both McMaster University and the engineering profession. The majority of the report’s conclusions are accurate and reflect the beliefs and goals of the current McMaster Engineering Society Executive (MESE). The current MESE echoes the disappointment of University administration regarding the poor decision-making processes surrounding the organization of some past events, and reaffirms its commitment to ensuring student safety and responsible use of student funds throughout all its endeavours. Within any organization, whether in academia or industry, driving internal change is a long and complicated process. As stated in Robinson Heeney LLP’s report, “An entire report could be written on the work that has been done by students within the Faculty to improve its culture and reputation within the University. It is without question that the students within the Faculty have made strides.” The MESE wholeheartedly agrees with this conclusion, and looks forward to working with the University on the various recommended actions and necessary future steps. As the specifics of these recommendations have yet to be decided, the MESE welcomes the opportunity to ensure that student leaders and University administration work together on these upcoming initiatives. The MESE strongly believes that student voices need to be present in order to successfully integrate any changes into a student-driven culture. The MESE embraces the University’s decision to provide professional development resources to the Society’s leadership, and thoroughly agrees with Provost Wilkinson’s assertion that “Changing culture is a challenging thing, and not something that one can dictate from above in any real way.” Being in a leadership position within an autonomous student group is an experiential learning opportunity that is critical to developing responsible global citizens, especially given the challenges ahead. As such, the MESE remains firmly committed to advocating on behalf of student-run initiatives and events. Given that this investigation was preceded by similar incidents at other Canadian universities, it is clear that these particular challenges are not unique to the McMaster Engineering Society. The MESE hopes that this investigation can be an opportunity for self-reflection and conversation for all students who hold leadership positions in Canadian postsecondary institutions. As always, the McMaster Engineering Society will uphold its Mission Statement to foster the development of well-rounded undergraduate engineering students through accessible support of academics, athletics, and recreational and professional activities. Official Statement: macengsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Redsuit-Investigation-Statement.pdf
Posted on: Thu, 01 May 2014 14:30:55 +0000
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