The committee that is reviewing on-campus practices and procedures relating to services for students with severe allergies is holding another open consultation session later this month.

The committee invites students, staff, faculty, parents and other interested parties to a meeting on Tuesday Jan. 26, 1-2:30 pm in 401 Gordon Hall.

“We have been hearing from students, families, medical experts and stakeholder organizations with the goal of continuing to improve the services we provide to students with severe allergies,” says Vice-Provost and Dean of Student Affairs Ann Tierney, who is chairing the review committee. “This upcoming meeting is another opportunity to talk with individuals who can provide us with information and advice that will assist us with the report we will be submitting to Principal Daniel Woolf later this term.”

The committee is also looking across the post-secondary education sector to consider model practices at other institutions related to communications, education, awareness programming, health management, outreach, residence and campus-wide food service policies and practices, training and emergency response.

The university has already begun increasing its outreach to all students to encourage those with severe allergies to contact Hospitality Services, if they haven’t done so. More signs have been installed in residence dining halls to further remind students to speak to a chef.

“Many students eat the food served on campus, whether they are in first-year and eating regularly in the dining halls, or are upper-years or graduate students with off-campus meal plans or who may grab a snack on campus,” says Jennifer Pete, Associate Director, Housing & Ancillary Services. “It’s important for all students with severe allergies, as well as faculty and staff, to get the information they need to be safe and healthy when they eat on campus. We are eager to talk to individuals to give them information and advice and make sure they are aware of the services we provide.”

More information about the review is posted to the Division of Student Affairs website.

To request a private meeting with the committee or to provide a written submission, comments or questions, please email vpdean.sa@queensu.ca