Students are returning home from Bader College and the University is footing the bill.
Following the announcement closing Bader College on Nov. 13, Provost Matthew Evans clarified the situation in the United Kingdom is evolving.
Queen’s is covering all “reasonable expenses” for students evacuating Bader College, including cancellation charges, flights or transportation change fees, and previously scheduled non-refundable flights. Students have been asked to keep all their travel receipts.
“We are committed to ensuring the University’s decision to suspend activities in the castle building will not financially disadvantage students and families,” Evans said in a statement to The Journal.
For the remainder of the fall term, Bader students will complete their studies online. Spaces will be made for students in courses being held on main campus in Kingston for the winter term.
Bader students will receive a 50 per cent credit of their fall term room and board fees and a full refund of the Fall Bader College Field Studies fee, but not fall tuition because their instruction will continue in a revised format.
Every Bader student will receive what Evans called a “disruption payment” from the University. He didn’t specify the amount to The Journal.
Queen’s identified over 110 residence spaces of various room types which will be made available to Bader students. Bader students who want to live off campus in the winter can work with the Off-Campus Living Advisor Adam King to locate sublets or other housing options.
“We’re working hard to maximize residence capacity, and between residence rooms and off-campus housing options, we will ensure all students have a place to live for the winter term,” Evans said.
There’s a Kingston team planning to welcome Bader students in January. Many former Bader students will connect with newly arrived Bader students through Queen’s Bader College Transition Program.
“Activities will include social connections, access to clubs, intramurals, and other extra-curriculars, and for finding on-campus jobs,” Evans added.
No decisions have been made about the status of staff and faculty employed by Bader College in the United Kingdom. A full survey of the castle will be conducted in early 2024, at which point the University will have more information on when they can resume in-person operations.
Evans acknowledged the sudden closure is difficult for Bader students and their families.
“Staff in Student Affairs, and the faculties, as well as the team at Bader College, are working hard to ensure a smooth transition for students, and we will continue to provide updates to students and their families as more information becomes available,” Evans said.
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