Senate

The Senate is one of the three governing bodies of the University, together with the Board of Trustees and the University Council, all of which are administered by the University Secretariat.

The Senate is responsible for determining all matters of academic character affecting the University as a whole. It shares responsibility with the Board of Trustees for appointing the Principal and Vice-Chancellor.

The Senate has 68 members: 12 ex-officio and 56 elected.

The Senate functions through a standing committee structure consisting of 11 committees.

Orientation 

All Senators are encouraged to complete this self-guided orientation module, designed to provide information on the purpose and functions of Senate, an overview of the governance structure at Queen's, and much more.  It is not necessary to complete this in one sitting, you may return to the content at any time. If you would like more information, please contact our office at senate@queensu.ca and we will be pleased to assist. 

 

Tehontatenentsonterontahkhwa - The Queen's Friendship Wampum

Skén:nen Atenro’será:kon tánon Ka’nikonhrí:io

Wa’kón:ion ne Queen’s University tsi iohétstha ne kaianerénhsera ne Kaswéntha Atenro’será:kon atia’táhnha, né ne Konti’tarí:sere Ka’nisténhsera takóntka’we Tyendinaga nitioné:non tánon ne Kahsóhtshera Iotitióhkwaien ne Kingston kí 7 shískare Enniskó:wa 2017.

Kí kakweniénston ate’nienténhtshera tiókonte e’tho káien nó:nen enhontkenní:sa ne ratiianerenhserón:nis, ne wathró:ris tsi enká:take tsi waterihwahserón:ni ne Skén:en tánon Atenro’será:kon.

Peace, Friendship and Good Minds

The friendship wampum belt was presented to Queen's University Senate by the Clan Mothers at Tyendinaga, and the Grandmothers' Council of Katarokwi, on March 7, 2017. 

As members of Queen’s Senate, we acknowledge that we are on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee people. This cherished symbol is present at all Senate meetings, to represent the lasting covenant of peace and friendship.

Learn about the Friendship Wampum Belt

History of the Senate

The Queen's University Senate Evolution of Composition and Function 1842 -1995.
This document, written by Margaret Hooey in March 1996, traces functional and compositional changes to the Senate through its history. It is based on a reading of Senate minutes since 1842 which has yielded a vivid account of the evolution of the University, and other available documents relating to constitutional matters. Some personal views and questions which have arisen out of this review are included in the final section of the report.

Historical Development of the Senate
Covers statues, enactments, and reports over the years

About the Senate Seal

Reports Received by the Senate


Link to the Governance Portal