Review of Dalhousie University Finances
- Click here for DFA's Review of Dalhousie University Finances (March 2022)
- Click here for DFA's Review of Dalhousie University Finances (April 2020)
- Click here for DFA's Review of Dalhousie University Finances (April 2018)
Are budget decisions serving the university’s mission?
Dalhousie has had significant surpluses for the past two decades - a surplus of $48.5m in 2020, followed by a further surplus of $69.5m in 2021. It is a relatively safe bet that such surpluses will continue. But, what to do with a surplus? New buildings, yes, but at what cost? Few would disagree that Dal’s campuses and facilities need improvements. However, when capital improvements come at the expense of fair wage increases, it is reasonable to question central Administration’s priorities. People - not buildings - make a university. Dalhousie paid out $159m (2020) and $150m (2021) in long-term debt on their mortgaged buildings. Current mortgages must be paid, of course, but financial decisions must also prioritize teaching and research so we can continue delivering quality education. If we do not stand up for academic staff and the academic mission of the university, the Board’s clear prioritization of capital projects over people will continue.
A look back through time ...
Click here to listen to a CBC Radio interview with DFA Past President Darren Abramson (2016).
Click here for detailed information and a video about the 2013 Review of Dalhousie University Finances.
Click on the image below to read DFA Past President David Mensink’s article in Halifax Metro (2016).
