Journal of Innovation in Polytechnic Education (JIPE) is pleased to announce the publication of “Fostering Support and Community: An Auto-Ethnographic Exploration of a Doctoral Community of Practice for Faculty and Staff—Part One” by Abac, M., Dhanota, A., Kadiyska, R., McCaw, C., Mohamed, S., Musicco, J., Pacini, S., Siddiqui, R., Smith, E., & Thomson, D.

Abstract:

This paper explores the formation and growth of a Doctoral Community of Practice (CoP) that supports faculty and staff at Humber Polytechnic through their doctoral and research journeys. Through monthly informal discussions, the community offers opportunities for knowledge sharing and mutual support among its members. The Doctoral CoP strengthens professional growth and cultivates meaningful engagement across the polytechnic.

The following auto-ethnographic paper presents reflections from members of Humber’s Doctoral CoP, who share how collective learning, encouragement, and peer connection have shaped their doctoral experiences. Through their insights, the significance of belonging, shared knowledge, and emotional support becomes clear. Members describe how the CoP has reduced isolation, strengthened confidence, enhanced research practice, and fostered a sense of motivation and resilience. Across diverse disciplines and stages of study, their voices reveal how collaboration transforms the doctoral experience into one grounded in growth, connection, and continual learning.

Read the article published on JIPE.ca.

About JIPE

Journal of Innovation in Polytechnic Education (JIPE) is an online, open-access journal that mobilizes knowledge and insights generated by the global polytechnic community. JIPE is published by Humber Polytechnic Press and accepts submissions on a rolling basis. To learn more, visit jipe.ca.

As we head into the holiday season, please take note of the adjusted hours for our Fitness Centre and Main Gymnasium at Lakeshore Campus.

Fitness Centre:

• Closing: Tuesday, December 23 at 2 p.m.
• Closed: December 24 to January 2
• Reopening: Saturday, January 3 at 9 a.m.

Main Gymasium:

• Closing: Saturday, December 20
• Closed: December 21 to January 4
• Reopening: Monday, January 5

Thank you for a great semester. We wish you a safe and restful holiday season!

President Vaughan reflects on a transformative 2025 at Humber, achieving the Building Brilliance vision through new academic programs (Master's, Clean Energy, Nursing), top rankings in research and culture, and significant student achievements.

Read more in her latest AMViews blog.

As we move through fiscal year-end planning and in light of revised budgets and increased budget pressures across the institution, ITS is asking all departments to carefully review and prioritize only critical and non-deferrable service asset purchases such as laptops and iPads.

When submitting purchase requests, please consider the following:

• What is critical to your operations this fiscal year and the impact of not proceeding with the request.
• Whether the purchase supports the needs of Humber’s students, faculty, and staff and aligns with the institution’s priorities.
• Whether any devices are reaching an age or condition where replacement is necessary.

Requirements for Large Orders

• Documented responses to the items above 
• Approval from your VP

Timelines

To ensure approved orders can be processed within this fiscal year, please submit purchase requests by Friday, January 16, 2026.

Service asset purchases must be fully received by March 31, 2026 to be charged to the current year’s budget.

If you have any questions or require guidance, please contact Eva Ponce, Associate Director, Technology and Support, at eva.ponce@humber.ca.