Prioritizing Our Core Academic Mission
On January 28, 2026, Memorial University’s Board of Regents convened to discuss significant changes in asset management aimed at aligning with the institution’s academic mission. During a meeting held on January 27, the board approved a proposal to divest from real estate not essential to Memorial’s educational objectives.
Key Real Estate Affected by Divestment
The decision affects several properties, including:
- Signal Hill Campus
- Johnson Geo Centre
- Ingstad building in St. John’s
- Harlow Campus in the U.K.
Strategic Financial Stewardship
Justin Ladha, chair of the Board of Regents, emphasized the importance of financial stewardship. This move aims to direct resources where they will have the most significant impact on enhancing the academic delivery at Memorial University. “By reducing investment in non-core assets, we can protect academic delivery and maintain infrastructure,” Ladha noted.
Maintaining Educational Programs
Dr. Janet Morrison, President and Vice-Chancellor of Memorial University, clarified that the divestment should not be viewed as a reflection on the quality of work conducted at these locations. She stated, “It is an opportunity for Memorial to right-size its physical footprint and focus on what matters most.”
Financial Context and Challenges
Memorial University is currently navigating various financial challenges. These include declining enrollment figures, budget constraints, and the pressures of inflation, as well as broader societal and technological changes affecting higher education in Canada. In May 2025, the university announced a mandatory $20.85 million reduction in its operating budget due to decreased tuition revenue, which saw a drop of approximately $5 million in fall 2025.
Long-term Financial Benefits
The planned divestment is intended to improve financial sustainability, with projections suggesting a recurring annual operating expense reduction of at least $3 million. Additionally, the university anticipates a reduction in deferred maintenance liabilities by an estimated $20 million.
Operational Impacts and Future Plans
The Board has instructed management to devise detailed plans for each affected facility. Here are some critical operational notes:
- Harlow Campus will continue academic programming until August 31, 2026.
- Operations at the Emera Innovation Exchange and related services will proceed as planned.
- If the sale of Harlow Campus is not finalized by April 2027, operations will cease.
- Graduate student housing at Signal Hill Campus will remain operational, with support provided for alternative accommodations.
- Johnson GEO Centre will reopen in April after seasonal closure; if a transfer is not completed by December 2026, it will close.
Conclusion
The university aims to reinvest any net proceeds from property sales to enhance global learning opportunities for students from Newfoundland and Labrador. These decisions reflect a broader commitment to developing a more resilient, research-focused, and student-centered institution.
Dr. Morrison noted the emotional weight of this transition, acknowledging the valuable experiences and connections fostered at these locations. “By making courageous choices now, we are positioning Memorial to be stronger and more focused,” she concluded.
