Taking Dalhousie from Good to Great

Is Dalhousie using information technology to its full advantage? Can work processes be improved for higher efficiency and better results? How can planning enhance career paths?

These are just a few questions to be explored June 21 at the inaugural conference of one of DalÕs largest employee groups, the Dalhousie University Administrators Group (DUAG).

ÒWe have a terrific program lined up,” says outgoing DUAG President Rose Race, the administrator for the School of Human Communication Disorders. ÒAs this is a conference for managers and administrative professionals, the underlying premise is to explore ideas for working together to better serve the university community, in addition to the professional development aspect.”

Bill Black delivers the keynote address.

Nearly 250 DUAG members are registered to attend the day-long event, happening mainly in the Marion McCain Arts and Social Sciences building. Under the theme of ÒTaking Dalhousie from Good to Great,” the day-long program includes opening remarks from President Tom Traves, and a keynote luncheon address by Bill Black, former president and CEO of Maritime Life.

The morning includes interactive sessions on career development, work process improvement, performance and productivity, and IT and computing services. The afternoon involves a panel discussion on moving to an improved service culture, followed by a reception at the University Club.

Formed around 1980, DUAG has grown to include about 440 members, serving almost every Faculty and department throughout the university. The membership represents a range of occupations, from administrators and IT personnel to marketing staff, human resource management and health professionals.

ÒItÕs a diverse and vibrant organization that provides much value added to the university,” says Race. ÒOur members play a key role in the success of Dalhousie, and in the realization of Dalhousie's strategic vision and goals.” 

The conference also marks the launch of the groupÕs new name, the Dalhousie Professional and Managerial Group (DPMG), which will take effect following a vote to amend the constitution. Members voted for the name change in December, to better reflect the groupÕs diverse professional membership.

"As we move into a new era, IÕm confident that with our new energy and focus will also come the solidarity and strength that will enable us, as an integral part of the university team, to indeed take Dalhousie from good to great!” says Race.

The Conference Committee, co-chaired by Lynn Power from the Faculty of Medicine and Krista Olmstead from University Computing and Information Services, has been working all year to plan an informative and interesting program. It has been made possible with generous support from sponsors, including the Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites, Dalhousie Conference Services and Summer Housing, the Faculty of Medicine and the University Club.