YUFA
External
Conference Report
CAUT Women’s Conference: Mobilizing in an Era of Restructuring
16-18 October 2008, Ottawa, ON
by Mitzi Grace Mitchell, School of Nursing, York University
4 Nov 08 – In mid-October, academic university teachers gathered in Ottawa to discuss issues and trends for female faculty members. With over sixty individuals in attendance, the President of CAUT, Dr. Penni Stewart, of York University, and CAUT’s Executive Director, Mr. James Turk, welcomed the audience.
The first keynote address was given by Dr. Rosemary Deem of the University of Bristol in the UK. Dr. Deem explored the rise of “new managerialism” and the outcomes of restructuring in institutional environments. The impact of this new type of managerialism was discussed as it pertains to female faculty.
Dr. Pat Armstrong, of York University, spoke about “Working in a Time of Scarcity”. Underfunding and lack of opportunities were discussed.
The participants were divided into discussion groups to analyze and explore issues affecting female faculty members. Themes arising from these discussions included: part-time work, research allocation funding, workload, stress management, and pay equity.
Next, panelists spoke about their own experiences working in an academic setting. The impact of their work on their personal lives was explored.
On the final day of the conference, panelists discussed various approaches staff could use to obtain equity in the academic setting.
The conference closed with remarks and thanks by Dr. Katy Haralampides, Chair of CAUT’s Women’s Committee.
The conference was informative and stimulating; I would like to thank YUFA for providing me with the opportunity to attend.
Other YUFA Delegates from this Conference:
Lorna Erwin
Janice Newton
Narda Razack