Broad engagement has been a cornerstone of the Task Force on the Future of Athletics and Recreation, soon to present its report to the President and Senate.
“By bringing together students, faculty, staff, alumni, coaches and community members, McGill is creating a shared vision for the future, one that builds on existing strengths while embracing new opportunities for growth and innovation,” said Provost Angela Campbell, who co-chairs the task force along with Chancellor Pierre Boivin and Associate Provost (Student Life and Learning) Anthony Mittermaier.
Launched by the University in December 2025, the task force was created to develop recommendations to ensure that A&R continues to serve as a catalyst for well-being, research, innovation and community connection, helping to enrich campus life, strengthen Quebec, inspire leadership and bring the McGill community together.
A collaborative process
Five working groups were established to provide recommendations and insights on programming, infrastructure, finance, communications and branding, and the integration of A&R within McGill’s broader mission.
Bringing together a wide range of perspectives, the working groups include students, staff, faculty members, alumni and community representatives. In addition to regular meetings, members participated in three in-person workshops on defining a shared vision, identifying priorities and exploring opportunities to strengthen A&R for future generations.
To ensure all perspectives were heard and considered, a steering committee was established. Working closely with the three co-chairs, the committee has guided the process, supported collaboration across the working groups and helped synthesize the input gathered throughout the consultation process.
Student input has played key role
Student feedback has played a vital role in informing the task force’s work. With the support of Student Life and Learning, a survey was distributed to more than 34,000 degree-seeking students to gather perspectives on the current state and future direction of A&R.
The survey received approximately 2,600 responses, providing valuable insights that reflected the diversity of the student body. The feedback demonstrated students’ interest in seeing A&R continue to evolve in ways that enhance the experience, well-being and sense of belonging of all students.
Consultations with student-athletes and coaches
The task force recognized the importance of taking a dedicated look at McGill’s groups 2-4 varsity sport programs. These varsity programs include golf, badminton, rowing and artistic swimming.
To support this effort, an external consultant with expertise in Canadian university sport was engaged. Student-athletes and coaches were invited to participate in the review process through surveys and virtual consultations.
Dozens of student-athletes and coaches took part in consultation sessions, while a 106 more shared their perspectives through the survey process. Their contributions will help inform the recommendations.
Engaging with stakeholders
As well, an External Advisory Board was established to provide input from alumni, including former student-athletes and other members of the McGill community.
Their perspectives will help ensure that recommendations are informed by both institutional knowledge and a deep understanding of the important role A&R plays in fostering connection, community and student success, said Benoit Gentil, Interim Director Athletics and Recreation.
“The External Advisory Board will bring a perspective that is both personal and invaluable. They know our institution, understand its culture and traditions and care deeply about its future. At the same time, their experience beyond the University allows them to ask thoughtful questions, challenge assumptions, and help shape a vision for Athletics and Recreation that honours its history while looking confidently ahead,” Gentil said.
Building on strong foundations
Campbell said the recommendations emerging from this collaborative effort will help shape the next chapter of A&R at McGill, with a focus on student success, engagement, belonging and well-being. She expressed thanks to all who have contributed to the task force.
“In mid-October the final version of this report will be shared with the President and the Senate, and that will mark the conclusion of the project but also the culmination of months of hard work and dedication,” she said.
“But the end of this project will also mark the beginning of a more vibrant, inclusive and resilient Athletics and Recreation ecosystem for years to come.”