In photo: Lynda Tarras, the Head of the BC Public Service Agency and Dr. Kathleen Scherf, President and Vice-Chancellor of Thompson Rivers University
Dr. Kathleen Scherf, President and Vice-Chancellor of Thompson Rivers University and Lynda Tarras, the Head of the BC Public Service Agency, have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will highlight career opportunities for TRU students and graduates in the years ahead.
It’s the first such agreement signed with a university in B.C., and sets in motion a number of activities over the next year targeted to increase the number of TRU Co-op students, graduating students and alumni applying for BC Public Service positions. The relationship is also expected to greatly increase awareness among Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students, past and present, of the BC Public Service as an employer of choice.
“This agreement and the relationship it fosters is another significant step forward for the university in the implementation of our own strategic goals” said President Scherf. “From career success, research and scholarship and opportunities for Aboriginal students to the potential for distance delivery to Public Service employees through Open Learning, this relationship is perfectly aligned with the directions we are taking in the years ahead.”
From surveys and focus groups with students and the creation of a formal framework to facilitate expanded communications, to more on campus information and recruitment activities and connections with key contacts within government ministries, initiatives planned for the next several months will lay the groundwork for the ongoing relationship.
Longer term strategic objectives may include input into curriculum development in new program areas, increasing research opportunities for faculty and students, communicating to the BC Public Service of educational opportunities through Open Learning, and new student practicum and service learning opportunities within the Public Service.
Contact: Josh Keller, TRU Director Marketing Communications, (p)250-828-5008, (c)250-851-6843
