This message is sent on behalf of Dilson Rassier, Provost, Vice-President, Academic and Chief Budget Officer, and Yabome Gilpin-Jackson,  Vice-President, People, Equity and Inclusion. It has been sent to all faculty and staff. 

Dear Colleagues,

Two years ago, in response to federal and provincial policy changes, SFU and other universities across Canada began introducing necessary measures to address budget pressures. Our actions to-date have made a positive impact on our financial situation, however further measures are still needed to address the budget pressures faced by the changing post-secondary sector. 

As part of our ongoing efforts to align our workforce to support future stability and growth, we are introducing a Voluntary Retirement Program for CUPE, APSA and APEX staff. This program is available to staff who are eligible for unreduced pension as of February 28, 2026. Retirement is a deeply personal and professional journey and SFU is committed to ensuring all employees interested in this option are supported through this process.

The retirement program is entirely voluntary and eligible employees will receive program and financial information that will support them in making their decision. Notice of Intent to Retire Forms will be accepted from October 22 to November 28, 2025, inclusive, with a set retirement date of February 28, 2026. To prioritize the academic mission, faculty positions are not included in this program. PolyParty has been notified and are not included in this program.  

We recognize that with retirements, workload will continue to be a concern, and we continue to work with supervisors to support conversations with their teams about potential changes to service offerings and looking at their operations differently. 

The financial pressures facing the post-secondary sector have been difficult on our teams. We hope and expect that the Voluntary Retirement Program will lessen the need for further restructuring, although that still may be required in select areas. 

Balancing our budget is a requirement and key to ensuring SFU's future. Over the past few years, despite the financial challenges, we have continued to find new ways to move forward and adapt to the changing post-secondary sector. We are confident the changes we have made to support a more efficient long-term operational model will help us move forward on the priorities in the SFU What’s Next strategic plan developed by the community, and the Academic Plan (2025-2030), which ensures our teaching, research, engagement and service activities are well-positioned to achieve our collective goals. 

Thank you for your continued dedication and contributions to SFU.

Sincerely,