Faculty members at the First Nations University of Canada are expressing their refusal to comply with the board of governors’ directive to stay silent following the outcomes of an external probe into the institution’s president. In a statement attributed to unnamed “concerned FNUniv faculty,” it was emphasized that the university’s leadership is expected to uphold ethical standards, financial accountability, a student-centered approach, and robust community accountability, qualities they believe are lacking in the current leadership. The decision not to disclose their identities was influenced by concerns about potential repercussions.
The investigation, conducted by Deloitte Legal on behalf of Deloitte LLP, scrutinized over twenty allegations against the university president, Jacqueline Ottmann, in 2023. The report, recently obtained by CBC, detailed findings of nepotism, financial policy violations, and a disregard for oversight mechanisms by Ottmann. Notably, Ottmann terminated Jason Wong, the university’s VP of finance and administration, a pivotal whistleblower during the investigation process, prompting Deloitte to conclude that his dismissal breached university policies and exhibited retaliatory elements.
Despite the damning reports, a majority of the board of governors opted against dismissing Ottmann and publicly expressed their support for her. However, two board members who advocated for Ottmann’s removal resigned in 2024. These developments have raised concerns among faculty members, who released a statement calling for the suspension of the university’s executive team, dissolution of the current board, and the formation of a new board comprising diverse expertise and national representation.
Moreover, the faculty statement raised alarms about potential attempts to stifle academic freedom and open expression, pointing out the board’s advisory urging staff not to provide additional comments or speculation on the matter. The statement also highlighted the university’s financial challenges, unstable academic leadership, and the marginalization of the elders’ council since Ottmann’s tenure, attributing these setbacks to a lack of accountability and prudent financial management.
Indigenous Services Canada stated that they were unaware of the FSIN’s alterations to the university board’s composition or the findings of the Deloitte investigation. They emphasized their commitment to supporting the First Nations University of Canada financially, without intervening in its governance, in line with the principle of Indigenous control over education. Additionally, FNUniv’s membership in Universities Canada, a non-profit advocating for universities at the federal level, was acknowledged, with the organization indicating adherence to stringent membership criteria and review processes.
In conclusion, the ongoing turmoil within the First Nations University of Canada underscores the critical need for transparent governance, financial integrity, and respect for academic freedom in higher education institutions.
