I am pleased to inform the Humber community that the 2014-15 Annual Report and audited Financial Statements were approved by the Board of Governors this week.

The annual report reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and the strength of the foundational principles upon which Humber's success is built. As we continue to implement the 2013-18 Strategic Plan, we remain committed to our three institutional priorities – Strengthening Our Polytechnic Identity, a Sustained Focus on Teaching and Learning, and Maximizing the Impact of Partnerships – while ensuring that we are investing in the Foundations necessary for success.

Many of the goals we set for ourselves in the strategic plan have been realized and are now part of regular operations. Other goals are in development, with a variety of projects moving into the implementation stage. As we approach the midpoint of the five-year plan, I am pleased that we are in a position to celebrate significant achievements such as the development of an Alumni Relations Strategy, the Integrated Risk Management Plan and the administration of a revitalized Employee Engagement Survey – and we are on track to successfully accomplish the remaining outcomes.

As always, we remain committed to helping our students to thrive, and to helping our employees contribute to that success. As a result of a long history of responsible fiscal management, Humber planned for and was able to post a surplus of $24.5 million for 2014-15. Careful planning has allowed us to earmark funds for required investments in physical and technological infrastructure development and to support future initiatives outlined in the strategic plan.

The annual report has been posted at humber.ca/wearehumber and hard copies will be available in the coming weeks. I invite you to review it when you have the opportunity. The document is a required element of our accountability to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, and while it provides an opportunity to highlight some of our many successes and accomplishments, it is important to acknowledge that much of the innovative, inspiring and exciting activity happening at the college cannot be adequately captured.

We are proud to showcase the efforts of students, faculty and staff by sharing examples of the exemplary work that happens every day at Humber. Your contributions are essential to our success. My thanks to all of you for your commitment to Humber; your professionalism, energy and enthusiasm make all of our success possible.