Quinte News has completed its year-in-review stories with local newsmakers.
This Boxing Day we start our look ahead to 2026.
Earlier this month, Kirkpatrick discussed a number of important steps the college is taking over the next few years to get back to a balanced position.
The college, along with the other 23 community colleges in Ontario, was dealt a huge economic blow when the federal government announced a reduction in international students that could come into the country.
Loyalist will drop from about 7,000 students just over two years ago, to less than 2,500 students in the future.
“Our multi-year plan anticipated these changes and we are hitting the targets we projected. Even in the face of these declines, we are on the right path to stability and sustainability. We will emerge smaller, stronger, and more focused on what we do best.”
Domestic enrolment will be about 85 per cent, international students about 15 per cent.
“The school plans to concentrate on between 65 and 70 programs that are in line with labour market demand. Approximately 40 per cent will focus on allied health and community services, 25 per cent on skilled trades and advanced manufacturing, 20 per cent on applied technology and business and 15 per cent on selective offerings that meet community needs, such as creative industries and applied sciences.”“Applied research, professional learning, and community engagement, are not just add-ons, they are critical pillars of who we are becoming and align with our mandate.”
The sustainability plan revolved around three main priorities. They are: achieving a positive cash flow, generating annual surpluses, and minimizing new debt. Kirkpatrick says the steps are essential to restoring long-term stability.
He says they are looking at revenue diversification through professional learning, applied research, and community partnerships to supplement core funding.
He says this year the college will have a projected $14-million deficit for fiscal 2026, next year about $10 million (2027). For fiscal 2028, the deficit is expected to be under $1 million.
“We are not just planning for survival, we are planning for renewal. Together we will build a college that’s smaller, stronger, and more focused.”
President and CEO of Loyalist College Mark Kirkpatrick.
