President Bill Flanagan

Message from Bill Flanagan, President and Vice Chancellor

We have an ambitious vision to be known as a university of transformational impact. Across the University of Alberta, we lead with purpose as we drive meaningful and innovative change, understanding that community connections are integral to building a safer, stronger, healthier and more just world.

The University of Alberta’s commitment to deepening and growing our partnerships and collaborations has seen tremendous results. The stories featured in the 2024-25 Report to the Community highlight our collective impact for the benefit of all. I am honoured to share the past year’s incredible accomplishments with you.

Message from Elan MacDonald Vice President, External Relations

I am pleased to share the 2024-25 Report to the Community with you. You’ll read about the profound and diverse ways our remarkable collaborations and partnerships create positive change in our community and worldwide.

The University of Alberta is recognized globally for its far-reaching impact and excellence in education, research and engagement. We are grateful to every individual and organization that helps us make the world a better place. We are dedicated to deepening community ties and actively seeking new avenues for collaboration because, as this report showcases, we can realize incredible possibilities when we work together.

Elan Macdonald

Community Impact

The University of Alberta values its deep and long-standing relationships and partnerships with communities, locally and globally. Community engagement is about the connections between communities and the university, creating the foundations to create mutually beneficial outcomes. We have highlighted a few of the impactful stories that articulate the work we do through research and engagement with and for our diverse communities.

U of A logo

The University of Alberta released its strategic plan, SHAPE, which focuses on research, education and engagement. Our community engagement is exemplified through three areas of global excellence and three areas of research growth.

Explore the Report

Woman holding a cup and man using robot arm

Did you know?...

University of Alberta grads contribute $250B to global economy

Survey shows the impact of U of A grads, including creating 560,000 jobs in Alberta — more than 22 per cent of the province’s total workforce.

U of A in the World

  • U of A ranked among world's Top 'most international' universities
    (THE)

  • University ranks among the world's Top 20 in four subjects including engineering, sport science and nursing.
    (QS Rankings)

  • U of A moves up to #1 in Canada and #6 in the world for sustainability impact
    (THE)

Quick Facts About the U of A

U of A — Community Accolades

Community Connections Awards 2025

Awards

The Community Connections Awards recognize individuals or teams of community members, faculty, staff, students, or post-doctoral fellows who embody the spirit of the University of Alberta's promise, “leading with purpose.”

The awards honour the positive impact of nominees on communities near and far as well as their impact on the university.

Meet the Community Connections Awards 2025 Honourees

Dominique Clement

Community Scholar

Dominique Clément
Professor & Chair, Department of Sociology

Trina Harrison

Community Leader (individual)

Trina Harrison
Program Lead, Indigenous Community & Partner Engagement, Alumni Relations

Energy Explorers

Community Leader (team)

Energy Explorers

Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission Curriculum Development Team.

University Advocate

Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission
Curriculum Development Team