We, the undersigned students, alumni, and community supporters, are coming together to express our deep disappointment and concern regarding the elimination of Kristi Beatty's position at Algonquin College's Pembroke Campus as a result of budget cuts.

We recognize that contracts have been signed and that the decision regarding Kristi's position may no longer be reversible. However, that does not mean the voices of those affected should go unheard.

This petition is about more than one position. It is about recognizing the value of exceptional educators, acknowledging the impact of decisions made within our educational institutions, and ensuring that students have a voice in decisions that directly affect their learning experiences.

While the Environmental Technician program itself is not being cancelled, the loss of Kristi represents something far greater than an administrative change. To countless students, she has been the heart and soul of their educational experience.

Kristi's influence extends far beyond the Environmental Technician program. Through her involvement in Outdoor Adventure and other environmental courses, she has shared her passion for ecology, wildlife, soils, freshwater systems, and environmental stewardship with students across multiple programs and graduating classes.

What makes Kristi exceptional is not simply her knowledge or experience, but her genuine dedication to her students. She creates an environment where students feel supported, encouraged, and inspired to challenge themselves. She helps students recognize their potential, builds their confidence, and makes learning engaging and meaningful.

Her impact does not end when students graduate. The knowledge, encouragement, and confidence she has instilled in countless individuals continue to influence their personal and professional lives.

The decision to eliminate her position has been incredibly disheartening for current students and alumni alike. It has affected morale, created uncertainty, and raised important concerns about how financial decisions are being made and what they mean for the future of education at Algonquin College.

We understand that the college is facing financial challenges and that difficult decisions must sometimes be made. However, we believe that the human impact of these decisions deserves just as much consideration as the financial implications.

Educators like Kristi are not simply employees filling positions. They are mentors, leaders, and the foundation of a positive and successful learning environment.

When institutions lose people who have dedicated themselves to inspiring and educating others, the consequences extend beyond the immediate financial savings. They affect students, faculty, institutional knowledge, community connections, and future generations.

At a time when environmental challenges are becoming increasingly complex, we need passionate educators who inspire the next generation to protect our waterways, forests, wildlife, and natural resources.

The Environmental Technician program may continue, but continuing a program and preserving what makes it exceptional are two very different things.

What We Hope to Achieve:

Although we recognize that the decision regarding Kristi's position may be final, we believe it is important that Algonquin College's leadership understands the full impact of this loss.

Through this petition, we hope to:

    1    Give current students, alumni, and community members a collective voice to express how deeply this decision has affected them.

    2    Formally document the value and lasting influence Kristi Beatty has had on students across multiple programs and graduating classes.

    3    Encourage greater transparency, communication, and student consultation when making decisions that significantly affect the educational experience.

    4    Urge Algonquin College to consider the long-term consequences of eliminating experienced educators and leadership positions, particularly at smaller campuses.

    5    Advocate for the protection of quality education, mentorship, and supportive learning environments for future generations of students.

This petition is not intended to diminish the efforts of the remaining faculty or administration. We recognize and appreciate the dedication of those who continue to support students through these changes.

Rather, it is an opportunity to acknowledge what is being lost and to ensure that the significance of that loss is not overlooked.

We want Algonquin College to understand that the success of an educational institution is not measured solely through budgets, enrolment numbers, or operational efficiency. It is also measured through the lives it changes, the confidence it builds, and the opportunities it creates.

Kristi Beatty has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students. Her dedication, passion, and commitment to education deserve to be recognized.

We may not be able to change the decision that has already been made, but we can ensure that our voices are heard, our experiences are acknowledged, and future decisions consider the people who make Algonquin College what it is.