Vaughan explains stance on in-camera meetings after governors’ resignations
Humber Polytechnic president Ann Marie Vaughan defended herself against allegations that she opposed in-camera meetings and restricted board members from speaking in her absence, but put very specific lines around when in-camera discussions could occur and discouraged what she called “parking lot meetings.”
Half of Humber’s board of governors resigned en masse in January, and while most would not reveal the reason for their leaving, allegations reported in the media indicated they felt they were unable to adequately do their job under the then-current board.
Humber Et Cetera asked Vaughan to respond to allegations reported by the Toronto Star by an unnamed source that board members felt unduly restricted from meeting in camera. Vaughan said in an email that she did not oppose in-camera sessions or board members speaking when she was not present. She said boards can hold in-camera meetings as long as they do not “unnecessarily” exclude any members.
“Members may remove themselves from meetings for a conflict of interest, however, all 17 members of the board have the same fiduciary responsibility, and all should be involved in all meetings of the board where any decisions are made,” Vaughan said.